HCSO Newsletter #81 — Supporting Our Friends in Louisiana
Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Thank you for helping us fill trailers and truckloads of nonperishable food and high-demand supplies for first responders and their families in Louisiana hit hard by Hurricane Laura. The outpouring of support from across the county was seen as an act of gratitude to our neighbors in Louisiana that rushed to our aid and worked shoulder-to-shoulder with our agency and other public safety partners three years ago following Hurricane Harvey’s devastating blow to our region. We’re on our way to make our initial delivery to those in need.

We know first-hand about what hurricanes can do and what those affected need. We also know that first responders work around-the-clock during disasters and are not able to take time off to care for their own families. The first phase of our Hurricane Laura relief efforts focused on supporting those on the front lines.

When a resident from Richmond, Texas, heard about our Hurricane Laura Relief effort, he decided to drop off his own groceries. This is a testament to who we are as Texans, our community spirit, and generosity.

Since last week, our deputies stepped in to help those impacted by Hurricane Laura by coordinating with the Houston Food Bank, escorting food and pharmaceutical convoys, transporting supplies in high demand, and setting up donation collection supplies.
Our friends in Louisiana helped us during Harvey. Now it’s time to help them on their road to recovery.

Make a Plan: Don’t Drink and Drive 
As we reflect on our daily dedication and commitment to our work this Labor Day weekend, let’s celebrate this special holiday responsibly.

Before the festivities begin, do your part to ensure everyone’s safety on our roads.
  • Don’t wait until after you have started drinking to make a plan. Alcohol impairs your judgment and you may think you’re okay to drive when you are not.
  • Designate a sober driver or arrange for someone you trust to pick you up.
  • Call or text a sober friend or family member.
  • Call a taxi or rideshare service, such as Uber or Lyft.
  • Use public transit, such as the METRORail, to get home safely.
  • You can visit SoberRides.org to map out your night.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety are joining forces ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend to crack down on drunk drivers across the county.

Harris County has had one of the highest DWI fatality crash rates in the country for several years. The multi-agency impaired driver task force will focus on preventing alcohol and drug-related traffic incidents and saving lives. Dozens of deputies and state troopers will be out in full force to identify and arrest motorists that make the choice to get behind the wheel while under the influence.

Every single injury and death caused by drunk driving is preventable. If you're drinking, don't take a chance on being arrested or hurting yourself or someone else. 

Have a fun-filled and safe Labor Day weekend with your loved ones. Enjoy a day of rest and be proud of your contributions to our communities.

God bless you, and may God bless the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. 
HCSO in the News
"Harris County is rallying to help our neighbors to the east. Donations are being sent to help families still feeling the impact of Hurricane Laura. It’s a small way to repay the help sent not too long ago when Southeast Texas was devastated by Hurricane Harvey.

“We’re not going to turn away anybody. We’re going to go out there, see what the need is for somebody. We’re going to share it with them,” says Sheriff Gonzalez."
“If you’re on the scene, and your car is being towed, from Tow and Go, you should not be signing anything other than a citation. Otherwise, that signature may authorize a tow company or body shop to start work on your vehicle, unbeknownst to you and your insurance company which can cost you lots of money in the end,” according to Lieutenant Cedric Collier with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
"Denise O’Leary, a missing person investigator with the Harris County Sheriff Office, said that many cases could be solved if more people would come forward with reports and tips."

“We would love for the public to share any information with us by calling (713) 755-7427, no matter how small they think it is; anything could be helpful.”
"Harris County District 3 Deputy Garcia responded to the call that came in towards the end of this shift.

For Riedel, the simple conversation with Deputy Garcia helped him put his life back into focus. He attributes still being alive to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office."
"Harris County’s newly revamped system for processing arrestees on minor offenses is working well, according to the first official report: It is preventing needless jailing of poor people without risking more crime."
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