Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Let’s look out for one another and make this Halloween both fun and safe:

• 👻 Plan your route and know your neighborhood. Check trusted resources like the Texas Department of Public Safety's website to stay informed before you head out.
• 🎒 Keep kids close and visible. An adult should accompany children under 12. Choose bright costumes or add reflective tape and glow sticks to make everyone easy to see.
• 🚸 Walk smart, drive slow. Trick-or-treaters—use crosswalks and look both ways. Drivers—go extra slow and stay alert in residential areas.
• 🏡 Make your home welcoming and safe. Turn on lights, clear walkways, and secure pets indoors so everyone can enjoy the evening without worry.
• 🍬 Inspect before you enjoy. Parents, take a moment to check candy and treats before little ones dig in.

If you see something, say something. Report suspicious behavior — for emergencies, call 911; for non-emergencies, call 713-221-6000.

Halloween is brighter when we look out for each other. From all of us at HCSO — thank you for making safety part of the fun!

WATCH: Stay Safe This Halloween: Tips From HCSO

Safe Neighborhoods Start with Connected Communities

October is Crime Prevention Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly celebrates the power of partnership — because safety starts with all of us.

Every light left on, every locked door, and every watchful neighbor helps build a stronger, safer community. Crime prevention isn’t just law enforcement’s job — it’s a shared effort between residents, families, and local organizations.

Here are simple, impactful ways to get involved:

• Stay Alert: Notice what’s happening around you. Report suspicious behavior to local authorities.
• Lock It Up: Keep homes, vehicles, and valuables secure — even if you’re stepping away for a moment.
• Get Involved: Join or start a Neighborhood Watch. Community connection is one of our strongest defenses.
• Light It Up: Keep entryways and driveways well-lit to discourage unwanted activity.
• Educate & Empower: Talk to your family about safety awareness and the importance of looking out for one another.

When you travel, HCSO’s Vacation Watch Program can help protect your property. And by joining Nextdoor, you can stay in touch with neighbors and receive updates directly from our office.

Let’s use this month to reconnect, reengage, and recommit to a safer Harris County. If you see something, say something — contact the HCSO Community Engagement Division at 346-286-3328, or visit the National Crime Prevention Council.

Together, we make a difference — one neighborhood at a time.

KATY, Texas (Covering Katy) — The Harris County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in finding a Katy-area woman who has been missing for more than a year.

Amarillyz "Amy" Estevez, 23, was last seen Aug. 12, 2024, at her home on North Piper Grove Drive near Greenhouse Road.



Her mother, Nora Trevino, said Estevez went outside to speak briefly with her boyfriend and never returned. Her phone was found inside the house.

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — The U.S. Marshals Service apprehended the last remaining suspect in a 2021 Harris County murder case, bringing an end to a years-long manhunt for a man accused of ambushing and killing his neighbor.

Luis Argueta, 49, was arrested in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, and booked into the Webb County Jail pending extradition to Harris County, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. 

Teammates of the Week

Harris County Sheriff's Office Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the HCSO highlight exceptional teammates who serve others above and beyond their duties. We regularly receive positive emails, thank you notes, and phone calls from the community.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Deputy Shawn Denning

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Shawn Denning as this week’s HCSO Teammate of the Week!

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“Deputy Denning pulled me over at the intersection of Westgreen and Highland Knolls in Katy. Deputy Denning displayed the utmost professionalism, courtesy, and respect during the traffic stop. When law enforcement officers do their job the wrong way, they should be held accountable — and when they do it the right way, they should be recognized. Deputy Denning showed an example of the right way to police… Too many families and communities are devastated when a traffic stop goes bad. If this interaction between Deputy Denning and me serves as a lesson to the public and law enforcement on how drivers should behave, hopefully, it can save someone’s life. Good job, Deputy Denning.”

Deputy Denning has proudly served with HCSO for 19 years. He began his career as a Detention Officer in 2006, was sworn in as Deputy in 2015, and now serves as a Bailiff in the Court Division.

Thank you, Deputy Denning, for your professionalism, respect, and commitment to community trust. You embody the values of integrity and service that define HCSO.

HCSO Teammates of the Week: Deputy Todd Piper & Deputy Naresse Byrd  

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputies Todd Piper and Naresse Byrd for their compassion, teamwork, and dedication to service.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I want to give my complete and utter gratitude to Deputy Piper and Deputy Byrd, as they both went above and beyond the scope of their duties. I had to administer CPR to my child, and my mom ran to find someone to help, as I was upset. Deputy Piper was off duty at the time, and he volunteered. Deputy Piper coached me through administering CPR to my child, helping me stay calm and focused. If it wasn't for him, I don't think I would've been able to keep my cool and focus on saving my baby. Deputy Byrd was the primary officer, and she talked to my mom and helped her calm down, accompanied us to the hospital, and stayed until she knew my baby was alright. I appreciate their empathy and kindness.”

Deputy Piper and Deputy Byrd exemplify what it means to serve with heart — showing courage, composure, and compassion in the face of crisis.

Please join us in thanking Deputies Piper and Byrd for their dedication to protecting and uplifting our community.

One Year Later: The Search Continues for Amarillyz “Amy” Estevez

It has been just over a year since 23-year-old Amarillyz “Amy” Estevez was last seen in Katy. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is renewing its call for community assistance in the search for Amy.

Detectives stress that even the smallest piece of information could help bring Amy home. Tips can be shared without fear of retaliation.

If you have information, please contact the HCSO Missing Persons Unit at 713-274-9270 or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).

Together, we can help bring Amy home.

Break the Chains of Silence: Support Domestic Violence Survivors

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office stands with survivors — reminding every person in our community that help is here, hope is real, and you are not alone.

Our Victim Assistance Unit and community partners are here to listen, support, and act. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please reach out — your safety matters.

🟣 In an emergency, call 911

🟣 HCSO Victim Assistance Unit: 713-274-9369

🟣 Houston Area Women’s Center: 713-528-2121

🟣 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

🟣 Chat online: thehotline.org

🟣 Text “START” to 88788

Domestic violence thrives in silence — and silence ends when we speak up, listen, and support each other. Together, let’s break the cycle and build a safer, kinder community.

Towed in Harris County? Find Your Car in Minutes

Need to find your towed car? We’ve made it easier! Starting Monday, November 3, 2025, every vehicle towed in unincorporated Harris County will be searchable at FindMyTowedCar.org.

Simply enter your license plate, VIN, or location and time of tow to see:

• Where your car is being stored
• Storage company contact info
• Approximate fees

The site is available 24/7. Please allow about two hours after your vehicle is towed for the details to appear. We're putting information at your fingertips to better serve Harris County.

Welcome to the HCSO Family! Honoring Our 17 New Lateral Deputies

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly welcomed our 17 newly lateral deputies to the HCSO family! Your dedication, experience, and commitment to public service have prepared you to take on this important role in keeping our communities safe. We’re honored to have you on our team.

Ready to make a difference? Apply today at HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.

Celebrating Healing, Opportunity, and Hope at the R.I.S.E. Empowerment Center

HCSO joined community partners at the R.I.S.E. Empowerment Center for the unveiling of a powerful new mural celebrating healing, opportunity, and hope.

Lt. Jose Gomez spoke about how partnerships like ours with Commissioner Rodney Ellis’ Office, Harris County Public Health, and programs like R.I.S.E. strengthen neighborhoods, prevent violence, and build trust across communities.

Together, we’re creating a safer, more connected Harris County.

October is National Slow Down, Move Over Month

Every time you see flashing lights on the road, slow down and move over. Whether it’s law enforcement, firefighters, tow operators, or road crews, your caution saves lives. If you ever need emergency roadside assistance, call 713-CALL-MAP. Learn more: bit.ly/3RQtP3R.

Visit the Intranet and stay informed

Happy Trails: HCSO Retirees

To all retirees, we thank you for your years of service to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Congratulations on your retirement, and best of luck on the next chapter in your life.

HCSO 2026 Awards in Excellence – Nominations Now Open

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Awards in Excellence, a tradition that celebrates the outstanding service of our teammates and the vital contributions of our community partners.

About the Awards

• 17 awards in total: 16 for HCSO personnel and 1 for a community member.
• Categories include Peace Officer, Detention, Support Staff, Reserve Personnel, and Specialized Awards such as: 
•  Sandeep Dhaliwal Community Impact Award

Joseph Trapolino Mental Health Professional of the Year

 Lifetime Achievement Award (recognizing 20+ years of distinguished service).

How to Nominate

• Submit nominations via the Awards in Excellence Portal (live through mid-January 2026).
• Summaries must be 200–750 words, clearly describing how the nominee meets award criteria.
• Supporting evidence (reports, incident numbers, body-worn or dash camera footage, articles, etc.) is strongly encouraged.
• Any HCSO employee may submit nominations. Community members may also be nominated.
• Self-nominations are not accepted.
• Eligible actions or services must have taken place in calendar year 2025.

Selection Process

An Awards Committee made up of five to seven peers from mixed ranks and the Professional Staff carefully reviews all submitted nominations. From this group, three to five candidates are selected to move forward. 

In the second phase, under the supervision of an Assistant Chief, five Majors review the shortlisted candidates and select one to two finalists.

The final decision is made by Chief Deputy Diaz and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

This is your chance to help shine a light on the dedication, professionalism, and community spirit that make HCSO exceptional.

2026 Open Enrollment

Open Enrollment is October 20 - 31, 2025

You serve Harris County, and Harris County is here to serve you with great benefits. Make sure you’re taking full advantage of the many benefits available to you. During the October 20 - 31, 2025 open enrollment period, you can:

• Change your medical plan option
• Add or drop covered dependents*
• Enroll or unenroll in dependent care and/or health FSAs to make your 2026 contributions
• Purchase or discontinue optional life insurance or optional long-term disability

Click HERE for more information.