On Wednesday, March 4, 2009, Deputy’s Tarzis Lobos, unit 43E37, and Benjamin Luce, 43E35, responded to a male not breathing in the 2000 block of Heritage Bend (Case # 09-31905).

When Deputies arrived, they were directed inside the house by a frantic mother who told them she needed help, that her son was not breathing. They found a 27 year old male, on the floor inside the house that was unconscious and turning blue from not breathing. Deputy Lobos and Deputy Luce began Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Deputy Lobos administered unprotected breathes while Deputy Luce administered chest compressions. They continued this until paramedics from the Clear Lake Emergency Medical Services arrived a short time later. By then the man had already regained consciousness and was breathing on his own.

In a day and time when people are afraid of coming into contact with life threatening diseases, they set this aside and acted unselfishly to save the life of another human being. Due to the actions of Deputy Lobos and Deputy Luce, the 27-year-old regained consciousness, saving his life. It was reported that he had no medical history and was transported to Southeast Memorial Hermann Hospital for precautionary reasons.

Deputies Lobos and Luce are hardworking deputies who take their work seriously. They reacted to a serious matter and relied on their training to save this mans life. Their actions are to be commended.


Respectfully Submitted,


S.M. Gill, Sergeant
***********************************

On March 17, 2009, Deputy Lobos was honored for this heroic act by Heritage Park Sub-division and Clear Lake EMS. Attached is a photo of Deputy Lobos receiving these distinguished awards.

While preparing for Hurricane Ike, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by Heritage Park Baptist Church (2732 FM 528, Webster, Texas) offering their facilities to District III Patrol. District Commander, Captain Mike Talton, accepted the offer and immediately arranged for a section of the church to function as a Sheriff’s Office Command Post..

The area surrounding the church was under mandatory evacuation which included zip codes 77598 and 77546. Although the residents had to leave for their own safety, they were comforted in knowing that Deputies would be a constant security-force in the area while they were gone. The church lost power at approximately 6:00 p.m. (Friday, September 12, 2008) but continued functioning on generators. Roll Call was held in the Sanctuary and the Sunday school rooms were transformed into sleeping quarters for the troops. Sergeant Manning advised at one point there were as many as 65-70 Sheriff’s personnel (deputies, investigators and supervisors) on hand.

All Field Operations personnel were placed on 12-hour shifts (6am-6pm or 6pm-6am) to ensure adequate law enforcement coverage. After working the long hours, many returned to their homes realizing they too were victims, finding extensive damage and no electricity. Several deputies’ homes were found to be unlivable, but thankfully Heritage Park Baptist Church was available to serve as a temporary shelter to them and their families. Still, their own problems would have to wait as they worked their long hours safe-guarding the community.

As a testament to Heritage Park’s community values, many citizens stepped in to assist those who are usually on the giving end. High School and College age youth of the church went to several deputies’ homes that lived in the area and cleaned up their yards; cutting trees, bundling branches and raking leaves.

Sheriff Tommy Thomas and the entire Sheriff’s Office family are extremely grateful to Pastor Trent Henderson and the congregation of Heritage Park Baptist Church. These efforts prove that when faced with tragedy and destruction, police and community working together can overcome the most trying of circumstances.



Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

Deputy Hernandez began his career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in November of 1994. He attended the Basic Peace Officer’s class #B1-97 at the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy and graduated in December of 1997. John holds an Advanced Peace Officer Certificate.

Deputy Hernandez was first assigned to the Harris County Emergency Dispatch Center as a 911 call taker and radio operator in November 1994. In March of 1997, he transferred to the 1301 Jail facility and later served at the 701 Jail facility and the Inmate Processing Center. In April 2000, John transferred to the patrol bureau – District IV. John is currently assigned to District III.

Deputy Hernandez and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Crosby. John has two children, Christopher, 13, and Charissa, 10. He enjoys fishing, golfing, and spending time with his family.

Congratulations to Deputy Hernandez on his promotion to Sergeant.

Deputy Gordon A. Trott

Deputy Trott began his career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in January of 1991. He attended Basic Peace Officer’s class #B1-92 at the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy and graduated in March of 1992. He holds an Advanced Peace Officer Certificate.

Deputy Trott was first assigned to the Detention Center on Atascocita Road and later worked at the 301 Jail. In 1996, Gordon transferred to the Patrol Bureau – District III where he is currently assigned.

Gordon is a member of the National Rifle Association and is a platinum member of the Disabled Veterens Association. In 2006, he was recognized as the “Outstanding Deputy” of the year by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce for his exceptional performance in the community.

Deputy Trott and his wife, Kim, have two sons, Trey and Dominic, and two daughters, Kelly and Emily. He enjoys collecting antique and military firearms, deer hunting, camping, reading history books and spending time with his family.

Congratulations to Deputy Trott on his promotion to Sergeant.

Sergeant McCall began his career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in July of 1985. He attended the Basic Peace Officer’s class #B1-87 at the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy and graduated in March of 1987. Don holds a Master Peace Officer Certificate, and a Master Jailer’s License. Don continued to seek further education by that assist his endeavors to provide the best that this department has to offer. Don attended courses such as the standardized field sobriety testing, Intoxilyzer 5000, Air, Search & Recovery and kinesic interview and interrogation.

Sergeant McCall was first assigned to the 1301 Jail facility where he has worked in the Detention Bureau. In 1989, he transferred to the Patrol Bureau where he worked in Districts III & IV, Hot Spots and the Traffic Division.

Don is a member of the Parkway United Methodist Church in Sugar Land and Texas Municipal Police Association. He was also the recipient of the 2003 100 Club Officer of the Year as well as the 2005 Pasadena Rotary Club Officer of the Year.

Sergeant McCall and his wife, Christina, have two Sons, D.J. and Andrew and one daughter, Megan. He enjoys deer hunting, fishing, any outdoor sports and an occasional trip to Las Vegas.

Congratulations to Don McCall on his promotion to Sergeant.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving have attended roll calls on every shift in all five districts this week to show their appreciation of the deputies. M.A.D.D. explained that they understand the first priority of patrolmen is to answer calls but are very pleased at the number of proactive traffic stops that result in the removal of drunk drivers from our streets. Statistics were shared that compared drunk driving related deaths to that of terrorism. Although, over 7,000 deaths have been attributed to terrorism in the United States, an alarming 102,000+ deaths have been attributed to drunken driving related accidents since September 11, 2001 thru April 2008.

Since 1980, M.A.D.D. has grown into one the nation’s most widely respected non-profit organizations. The mission of M.A.D.D. is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. M.A.D.D. is credited with implementing the “Open Container” law and “No Refusal Night”. They are also hopeful that a new “Checkpoint” law will be passed during the next legislature. Literature and cards were passed out to the deputies to distribute to victims of drunken driving related accidents. M.A.D.D. will aid the families of such victims by offering burial assistance, grief counseling and will assign someone to attend hearings with them.



Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

Sheriff Tommy Thomas would like to thank all those individuals for their effort in combating Identity Theft by participating in the Shred-It Campaign of 2008 on May 17th. The Harris County Annex parking lot at 10851 Scarsdale was the host location that tallied a total of 117 vehicles and 1.75 tons of paper in the 3-hour period. It is evident that residents are taking action and want to put a stop to the thieves that steal their identity through innovative methods. The participation at this event is truly a step in the right direction. Citizen Police Academy graduates assisted by passing out Identity Theft pamphlets geared toward the prevention of the crime.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with the company “Shred-It”, which provides free shredding services to all, with the exception of businesses. If you’ve missed other dates, there are still two more opportunities remaining. The following upcoming dates are scheduled for shredding:

August 16, 2008 District IV – George Bush Park, 16756 Westheimer Pkwy, Houston, Texas 77082.

October 18, 2008 District I Sub-station – 6831 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, Texas 77379.

All Shred-It services will be provided at the above scheduled locations from 9am-12pm.

For more information, contact Community Services at 713-759-9454

Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

Pictured: Crime Prevention Specialist Deputy G. Luna with Shred-It Representative Byron Chambers

With just over 25 years of service, Deputy Victor “Ziggy” Zigmont calls it quits with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Twenty-one of those years he spent patrolling the streets of District III. Although Ziggy will be missed by all, some will show a slight delight in moving up the District 3 Seniority List as the #4 slot holder hangs up his hat.

The district hosted a retirement party for Ziggy on Friday, May 23rd, allowing the old and new to bid him farewell. Captain Talton presented Ziggy with a plaque pointing out that he was driven to the end, recently pursuing a robbery suspect in his POV while working an extra-job. Deputy Zigmont communicated to dispatch of their location as on-duty patrolmen zeroed in on the suspect vehicle.

Congratulations Deputy Zigmont, you will truly be missed by the entire gang.



Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

Sheriff Tommy Thomas proudly announces the successful completion of yet another Citizen’s Police Academy Class (CPA). The graduation ceremony for Class 25 was held on Thursday night, May 15, 2008, at the Sagemont Church on Hughes Road. The guest speaker for the ceremony was Judge Jo Ann Delgado, Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2, Position 1.

The thirteen week course included instruction on Patrol Procedures, Penal Code, Tasers, Gang Awareness, K-9 Unit and the ever growing Identity Theft, just to name a few. The thirty-one students were also taken on a field trip where they toured the downtown jail facilities and the Houston Transtar building. A night was also set aside for the students to participate in true to life scenarios. The students got a chance to act as police, making traffic stops, and responding to domestic disturbance calls. Past CPA graduates assisted as actors, making these scenarios very realistic.

Congratulations to the following Citizen’s Police Academy, Class 25 Graduates:

William Appel
Silvia Barriento
Rosita Boening
Robert Burkey
Mary Caldwell
Jose Cardenas
Juana Cardenas
John Carter
Viola Davis
Stephen Dobbs
Kenneth Dyer
Hector Figueroa
Suzanne Garcia
Duane Greer
Nicholas Hoffman
Rosa Leyva
James Mann
Scott Meadows
Todd Meadows
Jeanette Milburn
Karen Prince
Tommy Prince
Ralph Robbins
Debra Robinson
Ramona Ryle
Albert Shafer
Nancy Shafer
Thomas Shellshear
Ronald Smith
David Wasson
Jerry Wenner


Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

On Monday, February 25, 2008, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a burglary in-progress in the 5100 block of Barbers Hill. The observant witness stayed on the phone with the dispatcher, while giving a detailed account of what the three suspects were doing. The caller advised he first noticed them just before noon, when the suspects pulled up to a neighbor’s perimeter gate in a U-Haul truck. The two-man, one-woman crew broke into the residence and proceeded to quickly fill the truck with stolen property from the home. Dispatch was able to relay to responding units when the U-Haul truck was on the move. Following at a safe distance, the caller gave turn-by-turn updates. Deputies first spotted the truck at the intersection of FM 2100 and Highway 90. With lights and sirens blaring on the patrol cars, the driver of the truck refused to stop and fled westbound on Highway 90 in excess of 80 mph. One of the Deputies pulled to the left of the U-Haul and made eye contact with the driver, before the suspect swerved several times in an attempt to run the Deputy off the road and into an approaching guardrail. After turning onto Beltway 8 and exiting at Uvalde, the U-Haul suddenly stopped in the 7500 block of Uvalde. All three suspects bailed out and ran into a wooded area.

After a brief foot chase, two of the suspects were apprehended. Russell White, age 29, of Baytown, was identified as the driver. White was charged with burglary of a habitation, aggravated assault against a public servant and evading arrest with a motor vehicle. The female was also caught and identified as 37-year-old Stacy Morris, of Baytown. Morris was charged with burglary of a habitation and evading detention. During a thorough investigation, the third and final suspect was identified as 44-year-old Wade Hockett. Although Hockett got away that day, he has since been arrested and charged with burglary of a habitation and evading detention. All three suspects are currently in the Harris County Jail, awaiting March 2008 court appearances.

The owner of the burglarized residence was contacted and informed of the incident and of the recovered property. The property, valued at over $3,700, was later released to the grateful owner.

Great Job District 3!

Pictured in photo with U-Haul (L to R): Deputy J. Guthrie, Deputy A. Frazier, Deputy L. Barr and Deputy S. Keller




Case #: HC-08-22560

Approved By: Sergeant S. Theis
Patrol District III Supervisor

Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

On Friday, February 8, 2008, an interagency press conference was held by the Houston Police Department at Blueridge Park (5900 Court Road) announcing burglary reduction in south Harris County, south Houston and Fort Bend. The Harris County Sheriff's Office, Constables Precinct 7 and Fort Bend Sheriff's Office were recognized for their part in making arrests that significantly made a difference in that areas crime rate. Since crooks have no boundaries, it is not unusual for different agencies to seek out the same suspects. This is why better communication and cooperation by all has led to a decrease in shared crimes.

Sheriff Tommy Thomas' Patrol District III played a significant role in that deduction with the arrest of two burglary suspects.

On October 23, 2007, Deputy B. Barriere was patrolling the MUD #89 contract when he noticed a silver Cadillac parked in the driveway of a home in the 4000 block of Bealey. The engine was running on the Cadillac and as he slowed to pass, he could see someone peeping through the blinds of the home. Deputy Barriere states that the wind blew the front door open and he could then see damage to the door frame consistent with being kicked in during a burglary. The Deputy called for back-up units and upon checking the residence found that the suspects had escaped by jumping a back fence. A perimeter was put in place but the suspects were not found.

A thorough investigation by Deputy G. Billingsley of the B.A.R.S. unit led to the arrest of the suspects. The suspect left his Texas driver's license in his Cadillac that he left behind, identifying him as 22-year-old, Adrien Stevens. A witness showed up stating that he may have given the two suspects a ride to a nearby gas station and was sure he could identify them in a line-up. Investigators retrieved a surveillance tape from the gas station showing Stevens inside the store with the other unidentified suspect. Investigators spoke to the car lot where Stevens bought the Cadillac and was told that a friend of Stevens also bought a car the same day. Information and photo obtained on the friend revealed him to be the unknown suspect. He was identified as 20-year-old Donnell Williams

Thanks to the keen and inquisitive eye of Deputy Barriere and the investigative skills of Deputy Billingsley, these two burglars have been taken off the steets of Harris County.

Pictured left to right:
Deputy G. Billingsley, Captain M. Talton, Sergeant R. Manning and Deputy B. Barriere.

Case# 07-117440

Approved By: Sergeant R. Manning
District III B.A.R.S. Supervisor

Prepared By: Deputy K. Miller
Media Liaison

The Mexican American Sheriff's Organization held it's Annual Hispanic Awards Banquet on Saturday, October 13, 2007, at the Holiday Inn on John F. Kennedy Blvd. Deputy Londa Barr, of Patrol District III, was awarded for her heroism on July 3, 2007.

On that fateful day, Deputy Barr received a call that a knife-wielding suspect was holding a woman and her 1-year-old daughter in a home, in Crosby. When Deputy Barr arrived, she observed the woman screaming hysterically for help, in an upstairs window. The Deputy knew she had to act quickly and smashed a glass next to the front door, to gain access. She reached in to unlock the deadbolt, cutting her arm and head in the process. Deputy Barr hurriedly located the female suspect and removed her from the residence before anyone was hurt.

Deputy Barr has been employed with the Harris County Sheriff's Office for 19 years. She was first transferred to Patrol in 1991 and has been assigned in District III since 1996.

Deputy Londa Barr has proven to be a courageous and irreplaceable asset to the Sheriff's Office and especially to District III. Congratulations!

Prepared By: Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

On Tuesday, September 18, 2007, Harris County Sheriff's Criminal Warrant Division detectives assigned to the Gulf Coast Violent Offender's Task Force arrested Isaiah Allen b/m 07-02-83. Isaiah, along with his brother, Eric Allen b/m 08-06-88, were wanted for Aggravated Robbery. The two brothers allegedly shot another male during a confrontation and then stole his wallet and watch.

Task Force members located a possible address for Isaiah in the 2000 block of Wheat in McNair. Surveillance was conducted and Isaiah was observed walking in and out of the residence. Several other males as well as a female were also observed entering and exiting the residence.

Task Force members along with marked Sheriff's Patrol units converged on the residence. Isaiah attempted to flee, but was captured. Three additional males attempted to flee but were captured and detained.

While securing the residence, Task Force members observed what appeared to be drugs and weapons just inside the door of the residence. A search warrant was obtained and executed resulting in the following seizure: 31 ounces of powder cocaine, 9 ounces of crack cocaine, 2 gallons of codeine, 1 ballistic vest, 3 rifles, 2 shotguns, 1 sawed off shotgun, 4 handguns, over 400 rounds of ammunition, and $10,567.00 in cash. The street value of the drugs is estimated to be around $200,000.00.

Isaiah was booked on the Robbery charge with additional weapons and drug charges pending. The three males detained at the scene were charged with evading and booked into the Harris County Jail. Additional drug and weapon charges are pending on a male and a female observed fleeing the scene.

Eric Allen was arrested by Baytown officers and transported to the Harris County Jail.

Both Eric and Isaiah have a criminal history that involves Assault and Narcotics charges.

Every year, The Highlands & Lynchburg Chamber of Commerce recognizes an Outstanding Harris County Deputy Sheriff for the previous year. The recipient of this prestigious award was presented to Deputy Gordon Trott at the Highlands Chamber Luncheon on September 13th, 2007. Captain M. H. Talton, Patrol Commander of District III, nominated Deputy Trott and was on hand at the luncheon to read the following letter that he submitted during the nomination process.

"Deputy Gordon Trott joined the Harris County Sheriff's Office in January of 1991. He came to the Patrol Bureau in October of 1996 and was assigned to District III. He has been assigned to patrol the Highlands area continuously since then. Deputy Trott has been a decided asset to the Highlands community. He is well known to a large segment of the population and has taken the Community Oriented Policing concept to heart. In the last twelve months, Deputy Trott has answered over 1,500 calls for service. He has filed 221 reports, written 271 citations, and made 79 arrests, both felony and misdemeanor. In addition, he has investigated 70 motor vehicle accidents and filed an additional 29 criminal charges.

Most recently, in July, Deputy Trot responded to a call of a suicidal male in the Highlands area. Deputy Trott arrived on the scene to find the male had left before his arrival. Deputy Trott then spent a significant amount of time in the area looking for the subject's vehicle. He located the vehicle near the Highlands reservoir. He approached the vehicle and discovered the despondent male seated in his vehicle with a loaded rifle to his head. Tense moments followed as Deputy Trott attempted to talk the male out of committing suicide. He finally succeeded in talking the male out of the rifle and into seeking medical assistance for his depression.

Deputy Trott continues to be a decided asset to the Law Enforcement vocation and to his community that he serves so diligently. He is worthy of recognition."

During the presentation, Captain Talton pointed out that Gordon came from a lineage worthy of praise. Also in attendance was Gordon Trott, Sr. The Captain acknowledged that the elder Trott served in the United States Marine Corp, 5th Marine Division and is a survivor of the Battle of Iwo Jima. This was one of the major battles of World War II. After the Captain gave a brief and profound acclamation of the battle and its casualties, Gordon Trott, Sr was honored with a standing ovation.

Congratulations to both Deputy Gordon Trott and his father for serving our country as well as our community.

Posted By: Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

Sheriff Tommy Thomas would like to thank all those individuals for their effort in combating Identity Theft by participating in the Shred-It Campaign of 2007 on May 19th. The Harris County Sheriff's Office parking lot at 14350 Wallisville Road was the host location that tallied a total of 95 cars and 4 tons of shredded paper in the 3-hour period. Citizen Police Academy graduates assisted by passing out Identity Theft pamphlets geared toward the prevention of the crime. It is evident that our community wants to put a stop to the thieves that steal the identity of others through innovative methods and the success of this event is truly a step in the right direction.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office has partnered with the company, Shred-It and the following two dates are scheduled for shredding:

August 18, 2007 District IV - 16715 Clay Rd.
Katy, Texas 77084

October 27, 2007 District I - 6831 Cypresswood Dr.
Spring, Texas 77379

All Shred-It services will be provided at the above scheduled locations from 9am-12pm.

Prepared By: Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

Quick thinking and immediate actions saved the life of a 20-year-old woman on the afternoon of Sunday, April 15, 2007.

Deputy B.J. Taylor responded to a disturbance call at the Timberwood Condominiums on South Thorntree Drive, where the events rapidly unfolded. As the deputy was walking up the stairs to the condo, the door quickly opened and a woman ran out screaming. The deputy then observed a tall black male running behind the female with a large knife. Deputy Taylor quickly drew his handgun and ordered the male to stop. The 23-year-old man complied by dropping the knife to the ground, and he was placed on the ground and handcuffed.

The victim advised that she and her live-in boyfriend were in the process of breaking up. His stuff was packed and he was waiting for his mother to pick him up when he became very angry, grabbed a large kitchen knife and "went crazy" making cuts on his own arm. The suspect told the woman that if he could not have, no one could. He then put the knife to her throat and told her he would kill her. At that moment, they heard footsteps coming up the stairs. The man thought it was one of her male friends, and when he turned to walk towards the front door, the woman ran past him and escaped. The footsteps they heard coming up the stairs were that of Deputy Taylor.

The assailant identified as James Mitchell was charged with Aggravated Assault on a Family Member and is being held in Harris County Jail on a $60,000 bond. Mitchell has been ordered to have no contact with the victim and an emergency protection order was granted on her behalf.

Timing is everything, and it was the timing of Deputy Taylor's arrival that possibly saved a woman's life that day. Without hesitation, the deputy quickly defused a deadly situation and brought to an end a life-threatening ordeal.

Case# HC-07-33330

Approved By: Sergeant M. Alvarado
District III Supervisor

Prepared By: Deputy K. Jordan
District 3 Media Liaison

Sheriff Tommy Thomas is dedicated to the success of Junior Achievement (JA), and for 10 years running, he has made deputies available to teach the JA curriculum countywide.

Deputy G. Luna recently taught JA to 27 Third Grade students at Cloverleaf Elementary. JA is a curriculum-based program that helps to educate and inspire youth about free enterprise, business and economics. The third graders from Ms. Mantilla's and Ms. Correa's class received instruction from the "Our City" packet, which highlighted entrepreneurship, city planning/zoning and banking procedures. Deputy Luna said the students really got a kick out of writing checks and role-playing. On April 30, 2007, the students received Certificates of Completion at the end of the 5-day program.

Prepared By:
Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

A white Isuzu utility box truck bearing an Alabama license plate was found to contain about 1,085 pounds of marijuana and over $36,000 in cash.

On Saturday, March 10, 2007, Deputies C. Kowis and J. O'Brien were working drug interdiction along the east IH-10 corridor. The deputies stopped a truck after observing it make several unsafe lane changes without signaling and nearly striking another motorist when doing so. As the deputies neared the rear of the truck, they immediately smelled a pungent odor of fresh marijuana around the cargo area. The driver was identified as 34-year-old Phillip Farley of Quinton, Alabama and the passenger was 45-year-old Doroty Lewis of Beaumont, Texas. Both seemed extremely nervous and gave conflicting accounts as to why they were in the Houston area.

Deputy Hoyt arrived on the scene with his canine partner "Rocco". The certified narcotic detecting dog displayed two positive alerts at the rear cargo door of the vehicle to his handler. Upon opening the cargo door, deputies discovered 14 cardboard boxes containing 58 bundles of marijuana, along with the large sum of money. Narcotic investigators estimate the street value of the marijuana to exceed $2.6 million. Both Farley and Lewis are each being held in the Harris County Jail on $5 million bonds awaiting trial.

The professional experience of both, Deputies Kowis and O'Brien, prevented the distribution of the marijuana to our Harris County streets. Kudos to both on a job well done!

Case# 07-17861

Approved By: Sergeant R. Groves,
Patrol District III Supervisor

Prepared By: Deputy K. Jordan,
Media Liaison

Pictured standing in front of the marijuana is Deputy Kowis and Deputy O'Brien holding the bags of cash.
Kneeling in the foreground is Deputy Hoyt and his canine partner "Rocco".

Deputy B.J. Taylor responded to a call for loud music at the Highlands Apartments located at 410 South Main and was backed by Deputy S. Keller. The deputies observed an unoccupied green S-10 pickup running, with the windows down and loud rap music bursting from the speakers. Several people were outside and told deputies which apartment the driver of the truck was visiting. Just as the deputies were about to knock, a Hispanic male opened the door to exit the apartment and two other Hispanic males were seated just inside the door. A very strong odor of burning marijuana was coming from the apartment and sitting on the coffee table in plain view was a clear plastic storage bag containing marijuana.

All three men were quickly detained and the apartment was searched for other occupants. It was clear that the drugs were being prepared for distribution because deputies found a laundry basket full of individual storage bags containing marijuana and cocaine. All in all, deputies recovered 26.2 pounds of marijuana that has a street value of over $12,000 and 481 grams of cocaine with a street value of about $24,000. All three men were arrested. They are Luis Esparza (18) the apartment resident and visitors Cesar Escobar (25) of Houston and Jose Puntes (19) of Crosby. Escobar and Puntes have already been sentenced to 180 days in the Harris County Jail for Possession of Marijuana. Esparza is being held on no bonds on charges of Possession of Marijuana and Manufacture and Delivery of a Controlled Substance. His next court date is set for January 2007.

Deputy B.J. Taylor is pictured with the confiscated drugs.

Approved By: Sergeant M. Alvarado
Patrol District III
Prepared By: Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

At approximately, 8:11 a.m., on Thursday, November 30, 2006, a Harris County Sheriff's Deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 14700 block of Woodforest Blvd. at the East Sam Houston Pkwy for an Unsafe Lane Change. Once Deputy B. McNabb made contact with the driver, the driver became uncooperative as far as providing a valid TDL or ID, and fled the scene in the vehicle. Deputy McNabb gave chase and the pursuit ended on Fargo Wood Circle. The suspect fled the scene on foot with a handgun in hand, but was apprehended after dropping the gun while attempting to scale a fence.

The suspect was transported to the Wallisville Substation where he was fingerprinted and identified as Noe Vences, dob 11/14/87 using the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). AFIS revealed that Vences was wanted by HPD for a murder he allegedly committed in February 2006. The registered owner of the vehicle that Vences was driving during the traffic stop/pursuit was contacted, and the owner advised that Vences car-jacked him on Old Spanish Trail approximately 45 minutes before Vences was apprehended. The Harris County Sheriff's Office charged Vences with Felony Evading, Unauthorized Carrying of a Weapon, and other charges are pending. Vences also has several charges pending regarding a crime spree that took place within the City of Houston prior to his arrest. Vences has admitted to being in the United States illegally.

Deputy McNabb is to be commended for safely taking this Murder suspect off the streets of Harris County and ending a crime spree.

Harris County Precinct One Commissioner El Franco Lee hosted his 14th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Senior Citizens at the Reliant Center on November 16, 2006. Precinct One employees and volunteers helped prepare trays catered by Pappa's Bar-B-Q. Sheriff Tommy Thomas of the Harris County Sheriff's Office showed his support of the event by providing deputies for the event, offering their services to the 2,200+ participating seniors. Some deputies assisted the seniors with safety maneuvering around the buses outside, while others helped with the doors and general information.

Pictured are Deputies L. Evans, M. Anderson and J. McGowen at the event.

Prepared By: Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison
Districts II & III

Deputy Cook began his career with the Harris County Sheriff's Office in December of 1992. He attended the University of Houston Basic Peace Officer Academy and graduated in December of 1993. Jimmie holds an Advanced Peace Officer certificate, TCLEOSE Instructor's License, is a certified Field Training Officer, and is an ALERRT Instructor.

Deputy Cook was first assigned to the 1301 Franklin jail facility and worked various floors prior to transferring to the Inmate Processing Center in 1994. Jimmie worked at IPC until September of 1995 and was transferred to Patrol and worked in District III. In August of 2001, Jimmie transferred to this current assignment in Central Patrol to the Hot Spot unit, which is now called the Crime Control Division. Jimmie was also a member of the Harris County Sheriff's Office Honor Guard from 1993 to 1996. Jimmie is currently assigned to the 701 Detention Facility on evening shift.

Jimmie received the Pasadena Area Rotary Club Award for Outstanding Service to the community and a Unit Citation from the Sheriff's Office while assigned to the Harris County Sheriff's Honor Guard.

Deputy Cook and his wife, Vanessa, have a son and a daughter, Justin, 8, and Hannah, 4. He enjoys spending time with his family, which includes golfing and traveling.

Congratulations to Deputy Cook on his promotion to Sergeant.

Posted By: Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

On October 7, 2006, the Greater Highlands and Lynchburg Chamber of Commerce awarded Deputy John K. Guthrie as Officer of the Year. Deputy Guthrie has been employed with the Harris County Sheriff's Office since 1991 and has been assigned to the District 3 Burglary Apprehension Response Squad since 2002.

Deputy Guthrie was nominated, by District 3 Commander Captain Mike Talton, for his role in solving a burglary spree. Between August and November 2005, the Meadow Lake Subdivision and Highlands area were victimized by a series of over 20 residential burglaries.

Deputy John Guthrie was assigned as the lead investigator for these cases. Deputy Guthrie detected similarities in each of these cases and began investigating it as possibly the work of one serial suspect. Deputy Guthrie's analysis proved to be correct when physical evidence in the form of fingerprints came back to one suspect. With this suspect identified by fingerprints, he was able to put together a series of photographic lineups and witnesses were able to identify the suspect. After securing an arrest warrant for the suspect, Deputy Guthrie had Crime Stopper Posters printed and distributed in the Meadow Lake and Highlands area. His hard work resulted in the arrest of the suspect on November 13, 2005. As to be expected, the burglary rate for the effected area plummeted.

On September 11, 2006, faced with the possibility of a 99-year sentence, the suspect plead guilty to the burglaries in exchange for a 30-year sentence.

Deputy John Guthrie is a decided asset to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. His dedication and diligence render him worthy of recognition. The citizens of the Highlands area can rest easier knowing that Deputy Guthrie is on the job.

Captain Talton is pictured congratulating Deputy Guthrie after receiving his Officer of the Year Award.

Prepared By: Captain M. Talton, District 3 Commander
Deputy K. Jordan, Media Liaison

The residents of the Meadowlake Village Subdivision can rest peacefully again, knowing that the man that wreaked havoc in their subdivision in 2005 is behind bars for awhile. Harold Floyd Cohen was sentenced to 30 years on September 11th, in the 180th Criminal District Court.

Harold Cohen was linked to 20 burglaries in and around Meadowlake Village from March to November of 2005. The Harris County Sheriff's Office Burglary Apprehension Response Squad (BARS) of District III worked vigorously at solving this series of residential burglaries.

Several breaks in the case occurred when fingerprints were lifted at the scene of two burglaries. Latent lab results indicated that the prints belonged to Harold Cohen. Another case was solved when the homeowner identified him in a photos spread.

Crime Stopper fliers led deputies to Cohen and he was arrested without incident.

All of the incriminating evidence was compiled and presented to the Harris County Assistant District Attorney. With the array of evidence before him, Harold Floyd Cohen opted not to go to trial and struck a deal with prosecutors. On September 11, 2006, Cohen pled guilty and accepted a 30 year sentence for the burglaries.

The collaborative efforts of the District III BARS Unit, Patrol Deputies, Crime Analyst and Crime Stoppers led to justice being served on Harold Cohen. This was truly a job well done by all.

Pictured left to right are the Sheriff's personnel that brought this case to justice. Deputies A. Frazier, D. McCool, Sgt. R. Manning, Deputies K. Sims, J. Lewis, Richard Dorman (Crime Analyst) and Deputy J. Guthrie.

Not Pictured are Deputies R. Rincon and B. Zigmont.

Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison
District III

Harris County Sheriff Tommy Thomas' Community Services Division participated in the Pasadena Senior Health and Fitness Fair on August 23, 2006 at the Pasadena Convention Center. Approximately 800 senior citizens from all over Harris County and surrounding areas were on hand for the annual event, sponsored by the City of Pasadena Parks & Recreation Department. Deputy R. Dennis and Deputy D. Brown manned the sheriff's booth with plenty of giveaways. The senior citizen's were pleased to receive safety information, gun locks, magnetic labels with emergency numbers, coin purses, compact mirrors, and pens, just to name a few, all inscribed with Sheriff's Office or 9-1-1 insignia. The seniors were also given stickers and coloring books to pass on to their grandchildren.

The event afforded several of the seniors an opportunity to ask the deputies questions they might never have gotten a chance to ask. The occassion was very informative and fun-filled for all in attendance and Deputies Dennis and Brown look forward to participating next year.

Pictured: Deputy Dennis (standing) and Deputy Brown talk with members of the Armco Retirees Social Club # 2708.

Prepared By:
Deputy K. Jordan
Media Liaison

June 27th proved to be a busy day at the Crosby Community Center located at 409 Hare Road for Deputy T. Douthit and Deputy G. Luna of the Sheriff's Office Highlands Storefront. The deputies graduated two RAD Kids classes.

RAD Kids is a program that was developed to teach kids how to get away from an abductor. They are taught three basic principles.

HIT HARD! YELL LOUD! RUN FAST!

The dynamic and exciting program provides children the opportunity to learn about safety awareness and physical defense. Some of the topics include school, home and vehicle safety, along with strangers, dog defense and public areas. Students are also taught how to distinguish between good, bad, and uncomfortable touches.

Deputy P. Roy of the Aldine Community Storefront portrayed "the bad guy" giving students a chance to practive the physical techniques that were taught in the class.

Sheriff Tommy Thomas is a strong supported of this program and offers the class free of charge. He is dedicated to keeping the kids of Harris County safe from child predators.

Pictured is the 8-11 year-old graduates Johnathon McMullen, Tabitha McMullen, Brian McMullen, Krista Fails, Clayton Jones, Marshall Jones, Ashton Walker, Daniel Bowles, Ewurama Quausah, David Feather, Jordan Powell, Taylor Keene, and Sheree Fails, along with Deputies Douthit, Roy and Luna.

June 27th proved to be a busy day at the Crosy Community Center located at 409 Hare Road for Deputy T. Douthit and Deputy G. Luna of the Sheriff's Office Highlands Storefront. The deputies graduated two RAD Kids classes.

RAD Kids is a program that was developed to teach kids how to get away from an abductor. They are taught three basic principles.

HIT HARD! YELL LOUD! RUN FAST!

The dynamic and exciting program provides children the opportunity to learn about safety awareness and physical defense. Some of the topics include school, home and vehicle safety, along with strangers, dog defense and public areas. Students are also taught how to distinquish between good, bad, and uncomfortable touches.

Deputy P. Roy of the Aldine Community Storefront portrayed "the bad guy" giving students a chance to practice the physical techniques that were taught in the class.

Sheriff Tommy Thomas is a strong supporter of this program and offers the class free of charge. He is dedicated to keeping the kids of Harris County safe from child predators.

Pictured is the 5-7 year-old graduates Clay Weaver, Hannah Weaver, Darian Aulds, Branden Keene, Megan Remkes, Michaela Smith and Drayton Sherill, along with Deputies Douthit, Roy and Luna.

The Cooley Multilingual Education Center held a Health Fair in the Heights on June 15, 2006. Deputy G. Luna, from the Highlands Storefront, manned a table that featured informative handouts on such topics as Juvenile Curfew Ordinances, Identity Theft, Carjacking, and Crime Prevention. Cooley is a Houston Independent School District Campus specializing in Elementary and Middle School migrant education.

Captain M. Talton and all of District III would like to thank all those that made the fundraising benefit for Deputy Keith Thornton a huge success.

After suffering a stroke and having had open heart surgery, Deputy Thornton was able to return to work on light duty. However, the stroke he suffered on New Year's Day 2006 was not so kind. Deputy Thornton was forced to take a Medical Retirement. During the last couple of months, he has been on unpaid medical leave until his retirement kicks in.

The HCSO Citizen's Police Academy and the Deer Park Masonic Lodge #1362 co-hosted fundraising benefits in May, honoring Keith. On June 8th, Keith and his wife Jennifer was presented with a check for $7,501.49 raised at the benefits. The money was raised through brisket sales, BBQ dinners and a silent auction. On hand for the presentation were Keith and Jennifer Thornton, Lieutenant Moneyhun, Sergeant Manning, Deputy John Guthrie, Sally Jo Harrington and Dennis Cude.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office Citizen's Police Academy Alumni Association recently celebrated being in existence for 10 glorious years. Since its inception, 21 classes have been completed with over 600 graduates countywide. A celebratory Banquet was held at the Spaghetti Warehouse, in downtown Houston, marking this festive occasion. President Ralph Storemski showed the organizations gratitude by presenting an award for their Appreciation and 10 Years of Outstanding Service to Sheriff Tommy Thomas. Chief Deputy Danny Billingsley accepted the award on behalf of the Sheriff. Chief Billingsley in turn presented to Mr. Storemski a certificate making him an Honorary Deputy Sheriff. Others in attendance included Major Van Pelt, Captains Hitchcock, Cordova, Talton and Hughes, and Lieutenant Casteel, all assigned to the Patrol Bureau, along with many deputies that have so diligently worked side-by-side with the CPA's.

Jacque Vickers, wife of the late Reserve Chief Ray Vickers, was honored as a HCSO/CPAAA LIfe Member. Deputy Daniel McCool was made an Honorary Life Member.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office Citizen's Police Academy was begun to provide citizens information to develop a realistic view of the activities and responsibilities of a deputy sheriff. It is expected that graduates of this Academy share this information to help the effectiveness of law enforcement in their neighborhoods. An expert in a specific topic teaches each block of instruction. Training includes patrol procedures, emergency communications, crime prevention, homicide, shoot-don't-shoot, patrol driving skills, gang recognition, domestic violence, jail operations, AFIS, vice narcotics, ERT and many other topics including the Ride-Along Program.

Anyone interested in participating in an upcoming Academy should pick-up an application at any nearby Sheriff's Sub-station or Storefront.

Sheriff Tommy Thomas is committed to keeping the kids of Harris County safe. One way of accomplishing this task is educating parents on the importance of properly using child safety seats. Did you know that 4 out of 5 car seats are used wrong?

Deputies certified as car seat technicians, recently assisted in a car seat check held at the Ripley House, near downtown. The event was sponsored by State Farm, Safe Kids, Texas Children's Hopital and the Harris County Sheriff's Office. 117 vehicles were inspected and 50 seats were deemed unusable and confiscated for destruction. They were replaced and 77 new seats were given out.

When a parent/guardian comes to an inspection, several things take place. Technicians make sure that the seat currently being used is the proper type for that child. The seat is checked for recalls and they make sure the seat has never been involved in a crash. Finally, the parent/guardian are taught how to properly install the seat.

Deputy Luna and Deputy Roy are shown going over details with a parent.

The East End Chamber of Commerce / Saluda Law Enforcement invited all area law enforcement to attend their special event held at Gulfgate Center. The Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit passed out safety literature to adults and children. Recruiting was also present, looking for qualified applicants.

Deputy Ed Aldridge is pictured deputizing a small child with a badge sticker.

Tuesday, April 18, was District 3's turn to assist a fellow deputy. As you may have heard, Deputy Fernando Mireles of District I Patrol is in need of a Bone Marrow transplant. A Bone Marrow Registry representative came out to the Wallisville Sub-Station and explained the process during the day shift roll call. D3 was pleased to find out the procedure was simplified, since being done in District 2 the previous week. The deputies were allowed to "swab" their month for DNA. NO NEEDLE PRICKS!

All in all, a total of 18 registered on this day. Regretfully, the BMR rep had to leave before 2nd shift arrived but plans to come back on Thursday, April 27th.

Mikeal Smith joined the Harris County Sheriff's Reserve in January 1977 and rode patrol in District III. He hired on full time in May of 1981 and was assigned to the 301 Jail, where he booked and released. He then transferred to District III Patrol in June of 1983 and was honored by the 100 Club as Rookie of the Year. Mike also recieved commendations from Sheriff's Heard and Klevenhagen.

He and wife Debbie have been married for 10 years. He has two children, Angela (27), Justin (22) and a 7 year old grand-daughter, Briana.

Mike is an advanced Scuba diver and his hobbies include riding motorcycles and fishing. He owns his own construction company and when asked what he was going to do in retirement, he responded, "Make some serious money!"

Mike is pictured showing off his knife that was presented to him by Captain Talton on behalf of Dist. 3.

Police Officers touch and make an impact on other peoples lives sometimes without even knowing. Deputy John Guthrie came to know a female witness during the course of an investigation. However, her life took a turn and a judge ordered her to wear an ankle monitor. Being confined to her residence during the Christmas holidays, made a revolutionary impact on her life. She knew in her heart this would be the last time she would have to go before a judge. Although, she had fallen on hard times, she wanted to salvage Christmas for her two grandchildren that she was raising. The only person she knew to call on was Deputy Guthrie. In the midst of him about to leave for a hunting trip, Deputy Guthrie telephoned a friend of his that works at Enterprise Bank on the North Loop West. She spoke with her bank President M. Dale McGill who quickly committed himself to the mission. Enterprise Bank and its employees collected enough money to purchase two bicycles for the family. Thanks to Deputy Guthrie and Enterprise Bank, this family will recall fond memories of Christmas 2005.

Prepared By:
Deputy Karen Jordan
Media Liaison

Deputy Kroeger began his career with the Sheriff's Office in October of 1991, after returning from Operation Desert Storm, with the U.S. Army. He graduated from the Sheriff's Academy in April 1994. Kroeger is a Nationally Registered E.M.T., a Master Peace Officer, a TCLEOSE Instructor, TCLEOSE Firearms Instructor, ALERRT Instructor, and is a graduate of several S.W.A.T. Schools.
Kroeger's assignments have included the 1301 Jail, 701 Jail, Adult Boot Camp (Drill Instructor), Patrol, O.C. and Narcotics Task Force (uniformed), Hot Spot, K-9, and was an original member of the Emergency Response Team. At the time of his promotion, Kroeger was assigned to the Crime Control Division.
Sergeant Kroeger and wife Crystal have been married for 5 years. He is the proud father of two daughters, Courtney 14, and Erin 4. He enjoys hunting, shooting, tactical training, and spending time with his family.

On June 24, 2005, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Harris County Sheriff's Deputies Greg Nason and James Lewis responded to a house fire in the 100 block of Del Monte. Initial reports indicated that a woman was trapped inside the burning residence.

Upon arrival, the Deputies could see the woman through a window on the east side of the house, which was already engulfed in flames. Without regard for his own safety, Deputy Nason broke out the window nearest the woman with his bare hands, suffering cuts and abrasions. Deputy Lewis helped Deputy Nason lift the woman out of the window, mere seconds before a flash fire erupted in the room in which she was standing. Overcome by smoke, the woman collapsed just after being carried to safety. She was later transported by Life Flight to Hermann Memorial Hospital, where she made a full recovery.

Deputies Nason and Lewis are credited with saving a woman's life that day and are commended for their heroic actions.

John L. Morrison began his career with the Harris County Sheriff's Office in July of 1990. He holds a Master Peace Officer certificate and a T.C.L.E.O.S.E. Instructor's License. John is currently attending the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas' Leadership Command College.

As a deputy, he was assigned to the 1301 Jail facility and transferred to the Patrol Bureau in 1992. Morrison was promoted to Sergeant in February of 1999. As a Sergeant, his assignments have included 1301 Jail, Fire Suppression Supervisor, and Emergency Response Team Supervisor. At the time of his promotion, Sergeant Morrison was assigned to the Patrol Bureau as a District III day shift field supervisor.

Sergeant Morrison and his wife Shirley have a daughter Kaitlyn, age 10 and a son Duncan, age 3.

After 26 years of faithful service, Deputy Charles "Chuck" Whitsey calls it quits.

Deputy Whitsey began his Law Enforcement career with the Harris County Sheriff's Department on December 26, 1979. He worked at the old Rehab until January 1982, when he accepted a transfer to District 3 Patrol. In September of 1991, he transferred to "Hot Spot", a uniformed street level Narcotic Unit. Then, in January 1994 he moved to the Organized Crime Narcotic Task Force of the Detective Bureau where he performed "undercover" narcotic investigations. In January 1997, Whitsey transferred back to his District 3 home. He was then assigned to B.A.R.S.(Burglary Apprehension Response Squad). In September 2002, he transferred to Central Patrol (Community Service Bureau) where he was assigned to the District 3 Highlands Storefront. Deputy Whitsey retired from the Sheriff's Office in January 2006.

Chuck will be greatly missed!

Deputy Wolfe began her career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in October of 1991. She attended the Basic Peace Officer’s Academy Class #114 at the University of Houston-Downtown and graduated in June of 1994. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Radio and TV, Communications and a Minor in Journalism from the University of Houston Central in December of 1990. Deputy Wolfe also holds a Master Peace Officer’s License, is a Crime Prevention Specialist, a licensed TCLEOSE instructor, a certified R.A.D Instructor, and is also a certified Child Passenger Safety Seat Technician.

At the time of her promotion, Deputy Wolfe was assigned as the Media Liaison for Districts II & III.

Congratulations to Deputy Wolfe on her promotion to Sergeant.

Photo from l-r: A.J. Harris (Wolfe's father),Jailer A.
Harris(Wolfe's brother), Sgt. D.M. Wolfe & Sheriff Tommy
Thomas
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On June 24, 2005, at approximately 8:42 p.m., Harris County Sheriff’s Deputies Greg Nason and James Lewis responded to house fire located at 107 Del Monte in Highlands in which they rescued a female that was trapped inside.

Deputies Nason and Lewis entered the burning residence and physically removed Mrs. Diana Whisenhant. The deputies exited the house with Whisenhant right before a flash fire occurred. Because Whisenhant was overcome by smoke, she collapsed right after being carried out of her burning home by Deputies Nason and Lewis.

Whisenahant was transported to Hermann Memorial Hospital by Life Flight and was later released on June 26, 2005.
Deputy Nason was treated for minor cuts to both of his hands.

Congratulations to Deputy Nason and Lewis for a job well done.

(Photo l-r: Lt. Clay, Deputy Nason, & Sgt. W. Hogue
Deputy Lewis as unavailable for photo.)

On June 9, 2005, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce hosted a luncheon to honor Peace Officers and Fire Fighter of the Year. Harris County Sheriff’s Deputy T. Faughtenbery was an award recipient for his consistent quality of service to the citizens of the Highlands community.

On March 30, 2005, Deputy Faughtenbery responded to a call for service regarding an aggravated assault. A citizen was seriously injured when he was shot by the suspect. The deputy summoned assistance for the injured citizen and was able to obtain suspect information. Deputy Faughtenbery searched for the suspect who fled the scene in a vehicle. The suspect’s vehicle was located and a pursuit ensued. The deputy quickly and effectively notified additional officers of the pursuit for added assistance. The suspect was apprehended without further incident and the weapon used in the assault was recovered.
*Photo from left to right:
Deputy Faughtenbery, Lt. Moneyhun, & Judge Mike Parrott

On March 26, 2004, at approximately 9:15 p.m., Harris County Sheriff’s Deputy J. Spanos, who is assigned to District III, was traveling in the 15700 block of Highway 249 when he observed a 15-year-old male juvenile attempting to jump from the concrete retaining wall of the overpass on Gessner located in far northwest Harris County.

Deputy Spanos had observed that a crowd had gathered at the bottom of the overpass and were pleading for the young man not to jump. Deputy Spanos also began a dialogue with the teen for him not to jump, but the teen was unresponsive.

While the juvenile was distracted by the pleads from the crowd, Deputy Spanos grabbed the juvenile’s arm and neck and pulled him from the railing and secured the teen in handcuffs.

After the incident, Deputy Spanos was able to contact the teen’s parents and also transported him to the Ben Taub Neuro-Psychiatric Center for evaluation and treatment.

The South Pasadena Rotary Club presented the “Officer of the Year Awards” to Deputies Thomas Smith and Don McCall.

On November 21, 2004, Mrs. Latanya Zilton had reported her 12-year-old daughter as a runaway to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. On November 25, deputies Smith and McCall received information regarding the whereabouts of the juvenile.

The juvenile had been in the company of 33-year-old Lonnie Hilson who was later charged with aggravated sexaul assault of a child. On April 22, 2005, Hilson plead guilty and is currently serving a 12-year sentence.

(Photographed from left to right Deputy Don McCall, Thomas Smith, and Captain Michael J. O'Brien)

Lieutenant Radabaugh began his career with the Harris County Sheriff's Office on September 1, 1984. He had previously served with another local law enforcement agency and attended Basic Peace Officer Class #449 at the Harris County Sheriff's Academy and graduated in July of 1982. Kevin received his Bachelor of Arts in Law Enforcement and Police Science in 1981 from Sam Houston State University. In 1987, he completed the Master of Science program in Criminal Justice Management, also at Sam Houston State. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and holds a Master Peace Officer Certificate as well as an Instructor and Mental Health Officer licenses.

Kevin has five children: two daughters, Ashley and Lyndsay, and three sons, Sean, Taylor and Evann. Kevin enjoys riding his motorcycle, camping and playing the trumpet in his spare time.

Congratulations to Lieutenant Radabaugh on his promotion to Captain.

Deputy Trejo began his career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in January of 1991. He attended the Basic Peace Officer’s Academy at the Lower Rio Grande Valley Regional Police Academy in Cameron County, the Basic 49th and graduated in June of 1985. Adan holds a Master Peace Officer Certification, and is a TCLEOSE licensed instructor.

Adan is a member of the Mexican American Sheriff’s Organization. His peers at the Office of the Attorney General nominated him as “Officer of the Year” in September of 1990. He was a recipient of a safe driving and perfect attendance service award in March of 2004.

Deputy Trejo and his wife Gracie have two children, daughter Desiree (20) and Adan, III (4). He enjoys collecting old coins, the outdoors and spending time with his family.

Congratulations to Deputy Trejo on his promotion to Sergeant.

On Thursday, February 24, 2005, Pct. #2 Commissioner Sylvia Garcia presented letters of appreciation to District III supervisors and deputies for the selfless acts of kindness they all displayed in regards to a fire at the Gentry Apartments on Christmas Eve 2004.

The deputies, supervisors, and other members of the
community went "that extra mile" to help the families that had been displaced by the fire. Some personnel that responded to the emergency were scheduled to be off that evening, but took time to help the displaced families by assisting them with food, temporary shelter, and clothing. The families were also provided with Christmas presents.


The following District III personnel that was recognized included Lt. Randall Casteel, Sgt. Richard Manning, Deputies Lee Bumpers, Brian McNabb, Daniel McCool, Donald Tipps, Tommy Wilks, Kathy Wilson, and Scott Talbott.

(Lt. Casteel & Commissioner Garcia)

Sgt. Richard Manning was recognized by Commissioner Garcia for assisting the displaced families on Christmas Eve 2004.

Deputy Lee Bumpers was one of the many deputies who went "that extra mile" to assist the families that were displaced as a result of the fire at the Gentry Apartments on Christmas Eve 2004.

(The other deputies' photos were unavailable.)

Ronald Groves began his career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in December of 1989. He attended the Basic Peace Officer’s class # B4-90 at the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy and graduated in December of 1990. Groves holds an Advanced Peace Officer Certificate.

Groves was first assigned to the 1301 Jail facility. He was assigned to the Master Control Center, the Clinic, Night Court, and Recreation during his tenure in the Housing Bureau. In February 1995, he transferred to the Patrol Bureau where he was assigned to District III as a patrolman at the time of his promotion.

Groves has been married to his wife Shannon, who works as a Communications Officer with the Harris County Sheriff's Office for six years. In his spare time, Groves enjoys weightlifting, traveling and spending time with his family.

Congratulations to Ron Groves on his promotion to Sergeant.

On August 5, Deputy Christopher Montemayor was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Montemayor began his career with Harris County Sheriff’s Office in June 1991. He attended the Basic Peace Officer’s Class of B3-93 at the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy and graduated in August 1993.

Montemayor was assigned to the old 1301 jail facility and assisted in the opening of the 701 jail facility, where he was assigned to the Visitor Control Center. While assigned to the Detention Bureau, Montemayor was a member of the newly formed Emergency Response Team.

In 1995, Montemayor transferred to the Patrol Bureau where he was assigned to District III. While in District III as a patrolman, Montemayor has worked in different positions including Field Training Officer, an investigator with the Burglary Apprehension Response Unit, and lastly, served as a contract deputy for the Heritage Park Subdivision located near Friendswood.

Montmayor is a member of the Mexican American Sheriff’s Organization, and in December of 1997 received a Harris County Unit Commendation for the cases that were cleared while he was a part of the Burglary Apprehension Response Unit. Montemayor also achieved a First Degree Black Belt with the American Karate Association.

Off duty, Montemayor enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He also enjoys sports and being in the great outdoors.

Congratulations to Montemayor on his promotion to sergeant.

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