LETTER FROM THE SHERIFF Greetings,
On behalf of the entire Harris County Sheriff’s Office, I am proud to share with you the incredible progress, dedication and professionalism of Harris County’s leading law enforcement agency. The five tenants of the Harris County Sheriff’s Core Values read: Merit and maintain the public’s trust; embrace and deliver professional service; protect our citizens with honor and courage; exemplify ethical conduct at all times; and develop, encourage and care for our Sheriff’s Office family. The report in your hands is evidence that those Core Values are being met every day across the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. As we continue to serve the citizens of the country’s most diverse community, maintaining and building upon those values is of top priority.
They resonate throughout the agency as we move forward in our sacred duty to protect the men and women that call Harris County home. I am indebted to the men and women in service to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office; their daily acts of bravery and courage are the inspiration for our growth. The progress of 2013 will be continued in 2014 and in the many years to come. Thank you for sharing in the mission of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, as we look forward into the future. Sincerely,
Sheriff Adrian Garcia
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2013 HARRIS COUNT Y SHERIFF’S OFFICE ANNUAL REPORT
SECTION
PAGE
Accomplishments
1
Organizational Chart
2
Finance and HR
3
Patrol Bureau
4
Criminal Investigations Bureau
8
Homeland Security Bureau
12
Office of Inspector General (OIG)
15
Systems Intelligence and Strategic Analysis Bureau
16
Special Operations and Crime Preventions Bureau
19
Justice Housing
22
Justice Management
25
Sheriff’s Academy
28
Reserve Command
30
Sheriff’s Office Exploring Program
31
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
In 2013 Sheriff Garcia and the HCSO:
Law Enforcement
Came in under budget for the second consecutive year.
Replenished the crime-fighter ranks.
Expanded the diversity of the Command Staff.
Doubled the number of Crisis Intervention Response Teams.
Was one of the key leaders who convinced the Legislature to restore
Acquired a helicopter for a variety of crime-fighting uses.
funding for public mental health programs aimed at helping people with mental illness avoid criminal behavior. Instituted programs to use statistical analysis and other tech-based strategies to fight crime.
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) recertification approved. Patrol Bureau established policies and procedures to authorize patrol deputies to assist the Sheriff’s Office Sex Offender Registration and
Instituted strategic planning for the long-term development of the HCSO as the population of the unincorporated areas of Harris County continued to boom.
Tracking Unit by conducting Sex Offender Verifications in unincorporated Harris County. The Patrol Bureau DWI SOBER Court Unit became an active unit.
Managed budget that allowed first across the board pay raise for
Formed Game Room and Sexually Oriented Business regulatory units.
employees in several years. Expanded recruitment by emphasizing hiring of veterans such as “wounded warriors”.
Jail
Community
Convinced Commissioners Court that jail privatization should be rejected.
Educated the public about human trafficking.
Mental Health and Medical Security units were named “Program of the
Created an annual Sheriff For The Day to highlight youth activities in the
Year” by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care. Earned a full compliance rating from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards for the fourth consecutive year. Implemented body scanners as part of inmate intake process.
HCSO’s Explorers program. Prevented rise in overall violent crime even as population rose. Teamed with school districts on iWatchHarrisCounty mobile app expansion.
Adopted one of nation’s most comprehensive LGBTI policies.
HCSO Explorers rated top program in state.
Won passage of bond issue for Joint Processing Center.
Began registration and enforcement for Sexually Oriented Businesses.
1
SHERIFF’S OFFICE ORGANIZATION
2
FINANCE AND HR
One of the sheriff’s primary means of expense control is a continuous focus on reduction of overtime spending. A downward trend that began in FY10 continued in FY14 as overtime spending reached a 6 year low! In 2013, a hiring freeze was lifted, allowing for more positions to be filled, lowering overtime spending.
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Total Filled Position Staffing by Type for Fiscal Years 2012 - 2013 ( March )
2012
2013
Civilian
669
729
Jailer
997
1,224
Sworn
2,214
2,158
Total Filled Positions
3,880
4,111
Fiscal Year 2014 (Mar 1, 2013 - Feb 28, 2014) marked a third consecutive year where the Sheriff’s Office operated within its allocated budget. This accomplishment is even more remarkable given that STEP increases and an overall pay increase were implemented during the year. Budget vs. Actual $450 $425 $407
$413
$407
$389
$400
$393 $400
$372
$349
$350
$350
$376
$393
$373
ACTUAL BUDGET
$300
$302
$299 $272 $250
3
FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14
PATROL BUREAU
The Patrol Bureau is home to the first responders for the Sheriff’s Office. Under the leadership of Sheriff Garcia, the Patrol Bureau has been progressively moving away from random, reactive patrols, toward vigorously proactive and cutting-edge community based law enforcement techniques. The Bureau places a greater emphasis on saturation operations, uniformed interdiction teams, K-9 units, and other enforcement specialties.
Category
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Total Calls for Service
168,855 157,892 177,001 170,076 178,856 152,744 172,389 171,980 167,785 174,908 162,977 171,858 2,027,321
Sheriff
153,287 142,825 159,982 153,450 161,228 138,715 155,591 155,341 151,492 158,178 146,310 155,073 1,831,472
Total Dispatched 101,360 Calls
92,855
103,110
99,746
103,208
79,926
92,853
92,091
91,030
98,516
93,392
98,964 1,147,051
North District
19,492
17,082
19,336
17,778
18,904
15,854
18,172
16,548
17,183
19,292
18,415
19,101
217,157
East District
12,525
11,701
13,971
14,347
14,851
12,276
14,397
14,923
14,273
14,896
14,060
14,203
166,423
South District
10,590
9,642
10,620
10,569
11,774
11,256
16,510
16,939
16,337
16,498
16,107
17,258
164,100
West District
28,996
27,119
30,288
28,502
28,768
20,550
24,582
25,239
24,716
26,428
24,912
26,407
316,507
NW District
17,999
16,545
16,989
17,737
17,446
13,503
15,280
14,585
13,935
16,408
15,030
17,277
192,734
Central
11,360
10,259
11,383
10,404
11,017
6,026
2,530
2,313
3,073
3,530
2,928
2,954
77,777
Other Agencies
398
507
523
409
448
461
1,382
1,544
1,513
1,464
1,940
1,764
12,353
4
PATROL BUREAU
Mobile SkyWatch Observation Tower: The Patrol Bureau acquired two Mobile SkyWatch Observation Towers, one in May of 2012 and another in February 2013, available for use for a variety of law enforcement operations. The SkyWatch Towers are self-contained observation platforms that provide high level surveillance at a 30 foot aerial vantage point. The portable towers are equipped with a 360 degree zoom camera with Forward Looking Infrared Radiometer (FLIR) night vision capability. The towers are cooled and heated for any condition and have a public address system, siren, flashing police lights and spot lights. Special Response Group (SRG) Unit: The Special Response Group (SRG) unit became operational in early 2013, and was established to ensure the Sheriff’s Office could provide a large number of deputies trained and equipped for the response to special events. In 2012, the Sheriff’s Office entered into a mentoring program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – FEMA. This program allows the Sheriff’s Office to teach Field Force Operations, a basic (SRG) training course through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – FEMA. In early 2013, the Sheriff’s Office achieved the original goal of training and equipping approximately 200 deputies/supervisors. Patrol Bureau Sex Offender Verification Project: In 2013, the Patrol Bureau established policies and procedures to authorize patrol deputies to assist the Sheriff’s Office Sex Offender Registration and Tracking Unit by conducting Sex Offender Verifications in unincorporated Harris County. Numerous contract and district units assigned to day and evening shifts were trained in the use of the Offender Watch program; and from September 2013 through December 2013, this project resulted in an additional 461 compliance checks, ensuring registered sex offender are in compliance with state law. Crisis Intervention Response Unit: The Crisis Intervention Response Unit, formed in 2011, consists of a Mental Health Peace Officer (Deputy Sheriff ) and a licensed MHMRA psychologist working together as partners assigned to the Patrol Bureau. The CIRT teams respond to in-progress scenes which involve persons in a mental health crisis. Due to the extremely positive impact and effectiveness of this program, the CIRT Unit expanded in September 2013 with the addition of a sergeant, clerk and three additional teams.
5
PATROL BUREAU Nuisance Abatement Unit: The Patrol Bureau established the Nuisance Abatement Enforcement Program with the goal of assisting the community in identifying public nuisances within unincorporated Harris County. To accomplish this goal, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will respond to all complaints received regarding nuisance abatement concerns and take the appropriate actions which include assisting the Harris County Public Health & Environmental Service and/or the Harris County Attorney’s Office. Examples of nuisance abatement concerns include abandoned motor vehicles, junked vehicles on private property, abandoned/dilapidated buildings and other common nuisances. Common nuisances include illegal massage parlors and game rooms. Since that time over 240 patrol deputies have been trained in the procedures for handling nuisance abatement cases. In 2013, the Nuisance Abatement Unit, along with patrol deputies, responded and addressed over 2,400 nuisance abatement calls for service. DWI SOBER Court (Saving Ourselves By Education and Recovery): The Patrol Bureau’s DWI SOBER Court Unit became an active unit on November 16, 2013. At that time, 116 probationers were assigned to the initial pilot program. The patrol deputies role on the team consist of visiting the probationers at their place of residence, conducting home inspections to ensure that the probationer is living in an alcohol-free environment, ensuring any required interlock devices on the vehicles are installed and working, and attending SOBER Court team meetings to discuss their observations while conducting the a forementioned inspections. From November 16, 2013 thru December 31, 2013, the Unit conducted over 320 home visits, making successful contact with over 197 probationers and/or family members. Crime Control Division (CCD):
CCD Statistical Data for 2013 Arrests
Warrants Cleared
CFS
Traffic Weapons Stops
2058
448
5215
3603
Cocaine Marijuana Meth (gr) (lbs) (lbs)
20
946
54
360
Assets
12
Traffic Stops
Weapons
4
370
2
Bureau Special Operations Division which includes the K9 Division, Patrol Training, and the administration CCD
is comprised of a group of highly motivated sheriff’s
Interdiction Statistical for 2013 Warrants Cleared
restructured and assigned to the newly formed Patrol
of the Special Response Group (SRG) program.
$268,209.00
Arrests
In 2013, the Crime Control Division (CCD) was
deputies, whose mission is multi-functional depending
Cocaine (gr)
Marijuana (lbs)
Meth (lbs)
on a variety of factors which include, but are not limited
0
33.5
206
areas, reaction to crime patterns based on data analysis,
to: citizen complaints, proactive patrol of high crime
Assets
working with investigative units targeting narcotics
$322,596.00
distributors, highway interdiction, SRG first responders, training programs, and special projects assigned by the
sheriff and Patrol Bureau major. Additionally, in late June 2013, CCD expanded operations and established a Narcotics Interdiction Team comprised of two deputies and one canine.
6
PATROL BUREAU
K-9 Division: The K9 Division is comprised of 24 teams. Each team consists of a deputy and a K-9, working as partners. In 2013, the Sheriff’s Office K-9 Division began adding cutting-edge technology. Three of the K-9s where implanted with a device that allows the handler to monitor the biometrics of the K-9 during operations. Alarms are sent to a cell phone carried by the handler, if the K-9 comes under distress during an operation due to heat or other physical ailments that may affect the overall health of the K-9. In addition, the division purchased new software designed to monitor the individual K-9 activities and training.
The K-9 Teams have partnered with the following agencies/task forces to assist with their investigations: HCSO Homicide, HCSO Narcotics, HCSO Child Abuse, HCSO HROU, FBI Gang Task Force, Houston HIDTA Major Drug Squads, DEA OCDETF Strike Force, United States Coast Guard, and bomb sweeps of a number of special events.
7
K9 statistical data since January 2013:
Area Searches / Perimeter Suspects Located Area Searches / No perimeter Suspects Located Building Searches Suspects Located Lost Persons Searches Lost Persons Located Felony Arrests Misdemeanor Arrests Felony Warrants Cleared Misdemeanor Warrants Cleared K9 Assisted Felony Arrests K9 Assisted Misdemeanor Arrests Marijuana (Kilograms) Cocaine (Kilograms) Heroine (Grams) Methamphetamine (Grams) Firearms Cash Explosive Searches Explosive Finds Public Demonstrations
174 67 102 13 83 17 17 2 42 59 12 29 147 27 6191.1785 31.619 .02 2632.38 32 $505,527.88 205 0 89
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS BUREAU
The Criminal Investigations Bureau (CIB) is
one supervisor and four investigators to each scene.
responsible for investigating criminal offenses
This allows investigators to run leads before suspects
committed within The Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction.
can destroy evidence or fabricate alibis. In 2013, the
The CIB is made up of the following three separate
Homicide Unit investigated 81 murders, and cleared 53
divisions:
General
Investigations,
Special
murders. Additionally, the Homicide Unit investigates
Investigations and Criminal Warrants.
kidnappings, death in custody cases, and officer-
Each of these divisions is divided into sections and
involved shootings (to include those where no fatality is
each section is then further divided into units.
involved). In 2013, the Homicide Unit received a total of 366 cases and cleared 240 cases.
The General Investigations Division is divided into the Homicide Section, the Burglary and Theft
The Cold Case Unit was reactivated on March 1, 2009 at
Section, and the Special Victims Section.
the direction of Sheriff Adrian Garcia. The unit houses approximately 564 open cases, ranging from 1971 to
The Homicide Section includes the Cold Case Unit,
2010. The case load in the unit continues to change. In
the Assault Unit, the Robbery Unit, and the Missing
2013, the Cold Case Unit filed 2 capital murder charges,
Persons/Runaways Unit.
and 2 murder charges. *Murder totals/clearance rates were updated due to some
The Burglary & Theft Section includes the Financial
of the Cold Case murders being included.
Crimes Unit, the Safe Home Task Force Unit, the Burglaries and Thefts Unit, and the Pawn Shop Detail
The Assault Unit investigates both major and minor
Unit.
assaults resulting in an injury to the victim. These crimes can range from a simple punch to shootings where the
The Special Victims Section includes the Domestic
victim survives. In addition to assaults, the unit also
Violence Unit, the Sexual Assault Unit, Crime Victims
investigates terrorist threats, phone harassment, and
Assistance Unit, the Sex Offenders Registration
acts of retaliation. In 2013, 6,421 assaults were reported
and Tracking (SORT) Unit, and the Crimes Against
to the Sheriff’s Office Assault Unit and 4,948 cases were
Children Unit.
cleared.
Homicide Unit
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Murders Investigated
87
65
62
65
81
Murders Cleared
77%
80%
73%
77%
65%
The Robbery Unit investigates crimes that involve property that has been taken by threat or force.
In
2013, the Robbery Section investigated 3,037 robberies and cleared 456 robbery cases. The Sheriff’s Office is a member of the Bank Robbery Task Force, based out of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Houston office. This
The Homicide Section utilizes a team concept for
multi-jurisdictional group responds to the scene of all
homicide investigations, initially dispatching at least
bank robberies in Harris County.
8
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS BUREAU
The Missing Persons/Runaways Unit investigates
The Financial Crimes Unit investigated 4,252 cases in
cases involving missing persons, runaways, and child
2013 and cleared 139 cases.
custody. Although, Homicide investigates cases of missing
The Pawn Shop Detail Unit is responsible for collecting
children 12 and under, some cases of missing children
pawn tickets, recovering, receiving, shipping and
age 12 may be referred back to the Missing Persons/
returning property to its rightful owner; and assisting
Runaways Unit. In 2013, this unit received 3,131
detectives/investigators in all types of investigations.
missing persons/runaways/child custody cases
The Pawn Shop Detail Unit processed 303,931 pawn
and cleared 2,916 cases.
tickets in 2013.
On November 6, 2012, the HCSO’s Been Missing The Been Missing
In July 2010, CopLogic was implemented. This is an
technology allows the public to help investigators by
on-line reporting system designed to allow the public
viewing photos and personal information of persons
to report low priority crimes that do not require a
missing from Harris County, and to report sightings
patrol response. The Burglary & Theft Unit processes
directly to the HCSO.
and investigates all online reports. In 2013, CopLogic
The Burglary & Theft Section is responsible for
received 7,365 reports.
conducting criminal investigations of
In mid-2009, under Sheriff Garcia’s command,
website was established.
burglaries,
the
thefts, forgeries, credit and debit card crimes, identity
Safe Home Task Force (S.H.T.F.) was established.
theft, and all related property crimes.
This reallocated the Burglary Apprehension Response Squad (B.A.R.S.) unit and tasked S.H.T.F. with Burglary of Residences and Home Invasions. In 2013, the Safe
Burglary & Theft Section
2010
2011
Burglary and Theft Cases Investigated
29,971
28,608 29,695 27,950
4,894
4,974
Financial Crimes investigated Safe Home Cases Investigated Pawnshop Tickets Precessed
2012
4,405
2013
4,252
Home Task Force Unit investigated 7,213 cases and cleared 169 cases. The Burglary and Theft Section contains a Metal Theft Unit, responsible for ensuring compliance and
8477
8159
7792
7213
499,957 526,850 644,852 303,931
enforcement of the metal recycling entities within unincorporated Harris County set forth by the Texas Local Government Code. This unit accomplished this effort by conducting annual inspections on scrapyards
The Burglary & Theft Unit investigates cases which
within the designated jurisdiction. Since its inception
include Burglary of Commercial Business/Other
in 2013, the unit has recovered a property value of over
Building, Criminal Mischief, Property Lost/Found and
$145,272.
Theft. In 2013, the Burglary & Theft Unit investigated
The Burglary & Theft Section recovered $2,216,078
27,950 cases and cleared 1,607 cases.
worth of stolen property in 2013. The Burglary & Theft Section has personnel assigned
9
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS BUREAU
Sex
Offender
Registration
and Tracking
to the Social Security Fraud Task Force, the Houston
The
Area Fraud Task Force, and the Multi-Agency Gang
(SORT) Unit registers any person with a reportable
Task Force in which criminal enterprises are targeted.
conviction occurring on or after September 1, 1970 for 10 years since the conviction or a lifetime residing in
The Special Victims Section is comprised of many
unincorporated Harris County. This includes offenders
individual units responsible for the investigation of
convicted for a non-Texas offense that contains elements
crimes against victims such as children, women and
that are substantially similar to an offense that requires
their family members.
registration in Texas. In addition, the SORT Unit monitors sex offenders for compliance with statutorily required
The Crimes Against Children Unit investigates cases
registration procedures, publishes sex offender notices,
involving the physical and sexual abuse of children.
and takes appropriate enforcement action, including
In 2013, the unit investigated 1,844 reported child
the filing of criminal charges for failure to comply with
abuse cases and received 10,500 referrals from
mandated offender registration. In 2013, the SORT Unit
Children’s Protective Services. This unit cleared 1,317
registered 4,687 registrants, conducted 876 field visits,
cases in 2013.
and filed 77 charges for non-compliance.
Crimes Against Children
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Cases Investigated
2,225
2,039
2,154 1,925 1,844
Referrals from CPS
7,792
9,294
7,950 7,926 10,500
The Crime Victims Assistance Unit provide services such as Criminal Justice Support, assistance in applying for Crime Victims’ Compensation, referrals for counseling, legal aid, financial assistance, Crime Victims’ Rights information, explanation of law enforcement and legal procedures, assistance with V.I.N.E. (Victim Information
The Domestic Violence Unit investigates cases
and Notification Everyday), and community education
involving physical violence, threats and harassment
and awareness.
involving family members, or current, former, or
Unit investigated 1,327 medical billing claims, received
estranged domestic partners. Evidence indicates
2101 Crime Victims Assistance claims, and logged 5,424
that early intervention may prevent violence from
contacts that did not necessarily fall under the CVA.
In 2013, the Crime Victims Assistance
escalating and decreases the likelihood of recurrence. In 2013, the unit investigated 12,558 domestic
Fugitive Warrants Section
violence cases and filed approximately 3,571 charges.
The Fugitive Warrants Section is responsible for ensuring defendants wanted for criminal prosecution by the
The Sexual Assault Unit investigates Adult Sex
District Attorney’s Office are extradited in accordance
Crimes to include Sexual Assault and Indecent
with the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Exposure cases. In 2013, the unit investigated 563
assigned to this section travel to pick up wanted
Adult Sex Crimes cases and cleared 349 cases.
individuals and safeguard detained defendants until
Investigators
they are booked into the custody of the Harris County
10
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS BUREAU
jail on valid warrants and bench warrants. The following is a synopsis of the Fugitive Warrants 2013 year-end performance statistics: Local Warrants Section The Local Warrants Section is responsible for attempting to locate and arrest defendants wanted for criminal prosecution within Harris County and in accordance with the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. The following is a synopsis of the Local Warrants Section 2013 year-end performance statistics:
Overall Warrant Survey Issued by County District Courts Returned Executed by HC Returned Unexecuted by HC County Courts (002 / MISD) Received Executed Unexecuted District Courts (003 / Felony) Received Executed Unexecuted Criminal Warrants Activity Total Service Attempts Total Warrants Attempted Facility Arrests ICE Arrests Probation Arrests Warrants Cleared Total Arrests TCIC / NCIC Activity Cancellations Validations Felony Entries Fugitive Travel Hours
11
YTD 40,140 33,199 3,770 19,715 16,156 22,480 20,425 17,043 1,672 9,457 9,154 2,104 208 301 3,501 2,609 27,300 20,440 13,581 638
Out of County Trips Number of Trips Number of Trips / Reserves Expenditures Mileage Mileage / Reserves Defendants Defendants / Reserves Out of State Trips Number of Trips Number of Trips / Reserves Expenditures Mileage Mileage / Reserves Defendants Defendants / Reserves Expenditures Warrant Division PTS Defendants Transported PTS Expenditures Travel Reimbursement Detainers Placed District Courts Out of County District Courts Out of State County Courts Out of County County Courts Out of State Bench Warrants (TX) Transformers from Transfers to Warrants via Mail Warrants via Teletype
YTD 1189 70 $73,616.38 216,304 6,235 1,844 167 175 0 $317,255.84 346,268 11 177 2 $364,239.03 600 $355,356.84 $34,797.66 1619 505 930 168 747 152 462 899
HOMELAND SECURIT Y BUREAU
The Homeland Security Bureau (HSB) assigns personnel to regional task forces to investigate large-scale criminal activity in the region. HSB divides its responsibilities among two (2) interdependent divisions: the Task Force Division and the Field Operations Division. The Task Force Division assigns personnel to several different federal task forces including: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Units Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Unit Immigrations & Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI)Unit Federal Bureau of Investigations - Joint Terrorism Task Force (FBI-JTTF) Unit Federal Bureau of Investigations - Multi-Agency Gang Task Force (FBI-MAGTF) Unit Gulf Coast Violent Offender Fugitive Task Force (USMS-GCVOFTF) Unit Additionally, this division houses one local (non-federal) operational unit — the Criminal Intelligence Section. During 2013, the Task Force Division made 440 arrests and seized the following: 125 weapons
998 grams of codeine
$17,206,983.44 U.S. currency
1,660 dosages of assorted pharmaceuticals
43 vehicles
.32 grams of anabolic steroids
8 airplanes
8,210.95 kilos of synthetic marijuana
$79,480 in assorted jewelry,
5 pints of liquid codeine
11 Real Properties
262 grams of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB),
22,438.3 kilograms of marijuana
which is also known as the date rape drug
743.7 kilograms of cocaine
1,039 dosages of xanax
3,444,000 hydroponic marijuana plants
2 kilos of counterfeit cocaine
10.38 kilograms of heroin
6.8 kilos of synthetic cathinone (bath salt)
77.85 kilograms of methamphetamine
.058 kilos of hashish
10,013 doses of MDMA
and 71 clandestine laboratories.
1,631 dosage of hydrocodone
12
HOMELAND SECURIT Y BUREAU
In July 2013, the Gulf Coast Violent Offender and
gathering, developing and sharing intelligence into the
Fugitive Task Force (GCVOFTF) unit was transferred
capabilities, intentions, and actions of terrorist groups
from the Criminal Investigations Bureau to the
and individuals which pose a threat to our populace and
Homeland Security Bureau Task Force Division.
region.
In 2013, the GCVOFTF arrested and cleared 2,963 warrants by arrests, which include local warrants,
The iWatchHarrisCounty App is a virtual crime watch
parole violators, collaterals, and federal warrants.
program that empowers citizens across the county to report suspicious behaviors or activities by turning in
In July 2013, the Criminal Intelligence Section was
tips as text messages and emails with image and video
created. The Criminal Intelligence Section consists of
attachments, and phone calls directly to the HCSO from
three units; the Gang Intelligence Unit (GIU), the Jail
almost any smartphone or computer. Citizens can remain
Intelligence Unit (JIU), and the Intelligence Analytical
anonymous or may choose to disclose their identity. The
Unit (IAU).
Intelligence Analytical Unit processes the iWatch tips. In 2013, iWatch received a total of 1,508 tips; 30 tips
The Gang Intelligence Unit’s main mission is to
cleared arrest.
disrupt and dismantle organized street gangs and “clicks.”
The Field Operations Division is a uniformed division providing a variety of specialized services with funding
The Jail Intelligence Unit (JIU) oversees the inmate
assistance through Homeland Security grants and has
phone and mail watch operation. Its basic purpose
implemented plans used for integrated surveillance
and focus is the documentation of street gang
technologies, as well as marine and landside law
members within the county jail system. Additionally,
enforcement patrols, to enhance security protocols and
JIU personnel are tasked, and responsible for, the
deterrence mechanisms in and around the Houston Ship
implementation and development of the Inmate Tip
Channel.
Line. The Field Operations Division consists of six (6) The Intelligence Analytical Unit (IAU) is tasked with
separate units including:
receiving, vetting, and disseminating intelligence
The Emergency Management Unit,
for the HCSO and surrounding law enforcement
Security Monitoring & Assessment Group (SMAG),
agencies upon request. The sergeant assigned to
Marine Unit,
IAU is responsible for the iWatchHarrisCounty mobile
Air Support Unit,
app, which is a successful tool allowing the citizens of
Bomb Unit, and High Risk Operations Unit.
Harris County to get involved in their community by
Should a man-made or natural catastrophic event
reporting crimes anonymously. The Houston Regional
occur requiring a law enforcement response, the
Intelligence Service Center (HRISC), which is a part of
Sheriff of Harris County is charged with directing and
the IAU, provides continuous security to the region by
coordinating all county law enforcement resources.
13
HOMELAND SECURIT Y BUREAU The Emergency Management Unit based at the
In 2013, the Air Support Unit received a helicopter that
Houston TranStar office, combined with Harris
was donated by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency
In 2013, the Air Support Unit responded to :
Management, would assume incident command and
113 calls for service,
implement critical incident plans using all available
Assisted in 113 calls
law enforcement assets to the conclusion of the
On-viewed 9 incidents
event. The Emergency Management Unit works in
Responded to 5 in-progress calls
conjunction with federal and local jurisdictions in
Conducted 6,024 infrastructure checks
identifying vulnerabilities and security deficiencies
Recovered $10,945,000 in drugs
involving key assets and critical infrastructure. In
Seized $694,165 in currency
2013, the Emergency Management Unit had a total
Recovered $8,300 in seized property
of 14 activations, 7 related to natural disasters and 7
Recovered $662,000 in stolen vehicles
related to man-made events.
Assisted with 100 arrests The Air Support Unit logged over 582 hours of flight
The Security Monitoring and Assessment Group
time in 2013.
(SMAG) was established in 2012. It utilizes state of
In 2013, the Bomb Unit responded to:
the art technology to monitor and report changes in
28 callouts
conditions of the Port of Houston and Houston Ship
Conducted 270 hours of explosives training
Channel, along with providing visual support to the
Participated in 1,477 hours of training
Marine Unit, the United States Coast Guard, and the
Had 308 total hours of interaction within the Sheriff’s
Port of Authority. SMAG is staffed 24 hours a day and
Office and other agencies/companies.
is the point of contact for any incidents which occur within the Houston Ship Channel for the Marine Unit.
The High Risk Operation Unit (HROU) is a team of Harris
SMAG is currently preparing to make a logistical move
County Sheriff’s Office deputies whose members were
to a new facility at the United States Coast Guard
recruited, selected, trained, and equipped to resolve
(USCG) facility.
critical incidents involving a threat to public safety that would otherwise exceed the capabilities of traditional
The Marine Unit works in tandem with the United
law enforcement first responders and/or investigative
States Coast Guard (USCG) to secure the waterways
units. HROU’s primary incident types include: Active
of the Houston Ship Channel. In 2013, the Marine
Shooters, Hostage Situations, Barricaded Subjects, High
Unit conducted: 346 waterside patrols, 241 landside
Risk Apprehensions/Search Warrants, Terrorist Incidents,
patrols, 73 traffic/marine stops, 87 callouts/missions/
and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive
calls for services, assisted in criminal investigations,
(CBRNE) situations.
completed 8 reports, issued 2 citations, made 1 arrest,
deployments.
and conducted 10,198 infrastructure checks.
In 2013, HROU completed 53
NOTE: The statistics are based on data reported from January 2013-December 2013 unless indicated within report.
14
OFFICE OF INSPEC TOR GENERAL (OIG)
The OIG operates as the investigative arm of the sheriff, identifying and documenting alleged employee misconduct and behavior that tends to bring discredit upon the Office and/or violate established policies, procedures, practices and/or laws. The OIG assists the sheriff in maintaining his commitment to the citizens of Harris County, ensuring that fairness and respect is afforded to both citizens and employees in the professional and expeditious conduct of investigations. The intent of the OIG mission is to accomplish three objectives: Protection Of The Public: Investigate allegations of Sheriff’s Office employee misconduct, affect appropriate corrective action as necessary, and continuously evaluate and improve upon procedures that may be determined to have negative affect on the quality of life of Harris County citizens. Protection Of The Sheriff’s Office: Conduct independent, impartial investigations and initiate appropriate action in response to reports of employee misconduct in a concerted effort to ensure the actions of a few do not detract from the overall integrity and professional reputation of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Protection Of The Employee: Ensure thorough and timely investigations are being conducted and thus preventing the promulgation of false and/or malicious allegations of employee misconduct.
New Case Investigations
287
Administratively Closed Information Only Cases
83
Bureau Administrative Investigations
177
In Fiscal Year 2013, the
Completed IAD Investigations
199
OIG worked a combined
Deputy Involved Shooting Incidents
12
total of 1,713.3 hours
Detention Bureau Incidents Reviewed
281
Taser Deployments Incidents Reviewed
320
Inmate Death Review Cases
13
Completed Investigations Sent to HCDOA for Review
16
Active Investigations (as of Dec. 31, 2013)
154
Open Bureau Cases Pending Completion
83
of overtime without incurring any PAID overtime wages.
15
SYSTEMS INTELLIGENCE AND STRATEGIC ANALYSIS BUREAU The Systems Intelligence & Strategic Analysis Bureau was established in May of 2013 to consolidate the HCSO’s various technologies and technology experts under one command to better accomplish continued development of extremely effective, reliable, secure, and innovative solutions necessary for maintaining the highest quality of law enforcement. The Bureau contains the Systems Administration Division, Server & Support Administration Division, Applications & Data Administration Division, and the Real Time Crime Center for the collective provision of a wide range of comprehensive solutions and advanced technological services. Systems Administration Division: The Systems Administration Division consists of three (3) areas of operation: the Jail Support Section, the Fingerprints Section, and the Crime Report Section. The JIMS (Justice Information Management System) Support Section provides Legacy support for the
Categories
Sheriff’s Office. The Section is responsible for submitting
2013 Year Totals
work requests for the JIMS Legacy System; managing
Data Corrections
5,396
user security in JIMS; managing electronic data
CJIS Error Resolution Letters
421
CJIS Reports (Submitted to DPS)
161
Criminal History (CCH) Research
2448
Expunction Letters
2054
Expunctions Performed
1872
Expunctions Processed
2171
Expunctions Scanning / Updating Documents
52,030
correction requests; managing acquittal record orders; managing for all expunction orders; administrating V.I.N.E. (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) and social security submissions; and ensuring criminal history reports are submitted accurately and correctly to DPS and the FBI.
Accomplishments in 2013:
JIMS Class (Scheduling / Cancellations)
302
JIMS Error Exception Reports (Researched)
12,497
JIMS Error Exception Reports (Corrections)
14,042
Omnix Password Resets
872
JIMS Transaction Clearances
17,894
Phone Calls
16,892
Vine Project Entries
1,139
Created www.hcsojobs.com
ARS Originals Transferred
7,948
Deployed SIRS (Sheriff’s Information Resource
ARS Supplemental Matching
935
ARS Supplemental Entered
730
ARS Supplemental Transfered
4,174
Created and deployed the HCSO’s Memorial Website for HCSO fallen deputies
System). Built Intelligence Data Center application for crime analysis and investigation.
16
SYSTEMS INTELLIGENCE AND STRATEGIC ANALYSIS BUREAU The HCSO’s AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) Section works with HPD, DPS, JIMS, DIMS, Sheriff’s Office system operations, and other agencies as they pertain to AFIS operations. Performing in an automated computer environment, the AFIS Section accomplishes fingerprint classifications and fingerprint identification with 100% accuracy. The AFIS Section additionally performs some tasks related to maintaining computers and servers.
Fingerprint System Accomplishments in 2013: 220,203 LiveScan (Tenprint) Transactions processed 128,488 CJIS Transactions Prints/Charge Information/Mugshots submitted to Texas DPS 1,458,327 AFIS System Person records 3,091,901 Incident records 36,846 Latent records (Unsolved Latent File) AFIS Records/CJIS Corrections in 2013: 2,003 Court Ordered Expunctions of AFIS records expunged. 1,163 Consolidations/Corrections processed 6,002 Manual CJIS Submissions 1,967 CJIS corrections processed *The mobile AFIS project went live in June of 2013. A total of 46 units from various local agencies participated, of which 19 (distributed throughout patrol) were owned by the Sheriff’s Office. Trans Device Year
Jan
Feb
Mar
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
YTD Totals
2013
1
Crime Scene Unit - ID
80
56
73
79
97
110
72
79
71
110
105
92
1,024
2013
2
Bonding
583
507
559
520
517
544
514
580
511
479
444
424
6,182
2013
4
Humble District 2 183
158
164
166
229
146
118
178
142
155
167
157
1,963
2013
5
94
123
114
137
147
84
111
136
80
113
107
94
1,340
2013
6
120
146
126
115
146
107
105
100
174
166
174
127
1,606
2013
7
249
179
181
205
152
102
103
113
142
151
116
125
1,818
2013
14
Detective
100
98
73
85
89
65
96
98
113
111
49
126
1,103
2013
83
HCSO CJC New Arrest
45
38
46
76
85
69
70
78
12
0
7
43
569
Totals
17
Location
Wallisville, District 3 Cypresswood, District 1 Clay Road, District 4
Monthly Total
1,454 1,305 1,336 1,383 1,462 1,227 1,189 1,362 1,245 1,285 1,169 1,188
15,605
SYSTEMS INTELLIGENCE AND STRATEGIC ANALYSIS BUREAU The UCR Report Section (Unified Crime Reports) maintains and administrates all HCSO user security profiles; transfers and freezes over 300,000 reports per month for UCR reporting; accumulates and interprets the entirety of UCR data for the county. UCR Report Section Accomplishments in 2013: Coordinated training for the HCSO’s Communications and Patrol MDS users before and during the new Tiburon upgrade. Set up a 24/7 helpdesk for users with password and/or other issues during Tiburon upgrade. Assisted Patrol with all MDT issues during Tiburon upgrade. Assisted in the inventory and evaluation to bring all pieces of equipment to highest state of technology. Created an MDT Committee with Patrol Field Officers for evaluating the functionality and interaction of MobileCom after the upgrade. The Server and Support Administration Division has three (3) functional operational areas comprised of the Server Operations Section, the Video Support Section, and the Helpdesk Section. The Division is responsible for all server hardware maintenance, management and monitoring. Server “Ops” ensures IT resources on the HCSO network are available 24/7 to include all files, databases, email, printing, etc. The Video Administration Section was created in 2013 to manage acquisition, operability, and inventorying of all video systems throughout all HCSO facilities and affiliates (i.e. HCSO SecureWatch program participants). The section has deployed over 100 HD cameras within and outside the Inmate Processing Center. In-car video servers have been upgraded to support future HD in car cameras. The Helpdesk Section troubleshoots technology issues via telephone providing 24/7 guidance to all HCSO personnel in reference to computers, printers, scanners, electrical equipment, and software. Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) In September of 2013, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office began the initial steps of developing a state-of-the-art Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) for the purpose of centrally locating and integrating a diverse arsenal of sophisticated analytical and surveillance technologies, trained analysts, and law enforcement professionals to facilitate rapid transmissions of actionable intelligence during real-time field operations and provide residual analytical work products for ongoing criminal investigations, strategic planning and administrative decision-making. As has been proven by the operation of other RTCC’s throughout the country, and with the HCSO’s intent to soon have one of the best among them, the HCSO RTCC will undoubtedly provide tremendous benefits to Harris County by way of enhanced citizen and officer safety, crime prevention, criminal apprehensions and prosecutions.
18
SPECIAL OPERATIONS AND CRIME PREVENTION BUREAU The Special Operations and Crime Prevention Bureau is comprised of three divisions: the Traffic Enforcement Division, the Community Services Division, and the Communications Division. Traffic Enforcement Division The Traffic Enforcement Division oversees operations of five sections: Motor Vehicle Crash Section - The Hit and Run Unit within the Crash Investigation Section is responsible for the subsequent follow-up investigation of all FSGI/FSRA crashes initially investigated by the Patrol Bureau. Towing and Storage Section - Responsible for regulating and permitting on average more than eighty (80) vehicle storage facilities and eight hundred (800) tow trucks every year. Commercial Vehicle Enforcement - Proactively inspects thousands of CMVs each year in an effort to ensure the CMVs on the roads are operating safely. Motorcycle Patrol - Deputies trained in crash investigations who participate in traffic enforcement as well as special assignment escorts. Parks Section - Provides visibility and quality law enforcement services for the growing number of citizens visiting the numerous parks throughout Harris County by patrolling the area on foot, bicycles, horseback, in motor vehicles, ATVs, and by way of watercraft. Community Services Division The Community Services Division encompasses the operations of thirteen distinct units: Crime Prevention - Conducts hundreds of community and safety oriented programs each year by deputies who are are certified Crime Prevention Specialists. Programs include Personal Safety Programs, Crimes Against Senior Citizens, Home Safety and Security, Security Reviews, Children’s Programs, and the popular Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA). Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program (JJAEP) - Program developed to rehabilitate at-risk students to the point that they can be placed back in their home school districts with a good chance of academic success. The deputy follows up on any absent students under his charge, and state mandatory attendance laws are strictly enforced. Storefront Units - Operate in all five patrol districts and provide programs such as assault prevention, senior citizen crime prevention and awareness, property protection, home inspections and children’s programs. Motorist Assistance Program (M.A.P.) - Designed to assist stranded motorists on all Harris County area freeways. M.A.P. maintains a fleet of 18 vehicles, operating 16 hours each day (excluding weekends and holidays) along Harris County’s vital transportation corridors. Incident Management Unit (IMU) - Newly formed unit working in conjunction with the Motor Assistance Program and the Office of Emergency Management to effectively reduce the duration and impact of traffic incidents, and improve the safety of motorists, crash victims and emergency responders. Community Outreach - Seeks to gain cultural insight into the various ethnic communities we serve and use that
19
SPECIAL OPERATIONS AND CRIME PREVENTION BUREAU information to foster improved interactions with those communities to establish a direct dialogue between the Sheriff’s Office and the various multi-cultural communities. Alarm Detail - Regulates all residential and business alarm systems within unincorporated Harris County. In 2013, the Alarm Detail processed approximately 17,028 new alarm permits, 89,961 permit renewals, conducted approximately 2,503 alarm site investigations, and collected in excess of $ 2.75 million in alarm related collections. Investigators issued approximately 2,042 citations for “No Alarm Permit.” Livestock - Responsible for the handling of abused, neglected, injured animals and must also provide adequate care for livestock while they are in the Sheriff’s custody. During 2013, livestock deputies responded to 1,773 calls for service, generated 739 reports, impounded 531 animals, transported 291 animals to auction, and collected over $53,700 in impound fees and auction revenues. Property/Evidence Detail - Charged with the exclusive care, custody and control of all found property and evidence submitted for safe storage by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Property Room receives over 35,000 articles annually and removes (releases/destroys) approximately 16,000 items annually. CALEA Accreditation and Planning Unit - Ensures that compliance standards continue to be maintained. Inmate Education - Works in cooperation with the Houston Community College System to provide classes for eligible inmates. Classes include GED/ABE and ESL courses, in addition to a variety of vocational classes such as welding, auto paint and body, heating and refrigeration, basic carpentry, and culinary arts. The HCSO was the first to have a nationally certified Inmate Education program within a jail facility. Inmate Education was able to provide over 25 bicycles, new and refurbished, for the HCSO annual Christmas Party for selected female inmates. Chaplaincy - Provides inmates with access to religious leaders and services consistent with their individual faiths during their incarceration. Reentry - Prepares inmates for their eventual reintegration into society, with a mission to help them become responsible, productive citizens, and reduce recidivism. There were three Reentry programs in 2013: We’ve Been There Done That: In 2013, approximately 160 incarcerated males and females sentenced by the court with prostitution, drug abuse, theft, and sex trafficking charges were enrolled in the program. These individuals were counseled and were offered information on safe housing, substance abuse treatment, therapy groups, job skills training, workforce development, GED, peer mentoring, recovery coaching, life skills, spiritual support, financial planning, family unification and education, case advocacy, transportation, business attire, and trauma support. Mentoring Moms: In 2013, 24 incarcerated females who were pregnant or post-partum up to 18 months, and women with children under 3 years old, were offered counseling and were provided information on housing assistance, substance abuse treatment, therapy, life skills, spiritual support, GED, Financial planning, parenting classes, peer mentoring, intensive case management, and service for non-substance abuse clients, family unification, education,
20
SPECIAL OPERATIONS AND CRIME PREVENTION BUREAU case advocacy, and business attire. Referrals and Resources: This program is offered to the general jail population. In 2013, 134 were enrolled in the program through which community resources and services that are particular to the individual needs of the inmate were provided. Communications Division The Communications Division involves many unique functions that include: Emergency Dispatch Center (EDC) - Receives and processes all incoming 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for service reported within unincorporated Harris County. The EDC received and processed approximately 940,000 emergency calls in 2013 and 497,000 non-emergency telephone inquiries during that same time period. The Sheriff’s Emergency Dispatch Center is responsible for radio dispatching sheriff’s deputies to calls for law enforcement service originating from within five patrol districts. The EDC dispatched in excess of 2 million calls in 2013. Mobile Command Post Operations - Maintains the sheriff’s fleet of emergency Mobile Command Posts. In 2013, it was deployed 58 times. Message Center - Tasked with maintaining records of reported stolen, towed and/or repossessed vehicles and generating, receiving and disseminating teletype messages. Processed over 46,000 reports and messages in 2013. Desk Cop - This function was transferred to the division in 2013 and handled 4,600 calls for service and generated 600 written reports during the year. The Communications Division serves as the 9-1-1 Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for unincorporated Harris County and is located within the Sheriff’s Emergency Dispatch Center.
Special accomplishments for 2013 include: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Unit Citation was issued for the commitment to the HCSO and citizens of Harris County for the professionalism on display during the Lone Star College stabbing incident that occurred on April 9, 2013. Texas Chapter of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) awarded a unit citation (16 individuals) for the handling of the Lone Star Community College stabbing incident that occurred on April 9, 2013. Texas Chapter of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) awarded a Silent Hero award to Communications Officer M. Shamlin for her professionalism, commitment, and dedication to duty.
21
JUSTICE HOUSING
Justice Housing Bureau
Staffing In 2013, the HCSO continued to recruit, hire, and train
The Justice Housing Bureau (JHB) is the largest of
more than 400 detention officer personnel. Moreover,
all Harris County Sheriff’s Office commands and is
the HCSO expanded the career path for detention
the third largest jail in the United States. The JHB is
officers and detention sergeants to include the rank of
divided into four distinct divisions: 1200 Jail; 701 Jail;
Detention Lieutenant .
Administrative Services; and Health Services. The 1200 and 701 Jail divisions are dedicated solely to the
Technology
housing of inmates, while the Administrative Services
The JHB introduced enhanced technology in the
and Health Services divisions serve to support this
cellblocks in 2013. Inmates are now able to call the Crime
function. The 701 and 1200 divisions represent four
Tip Line to report crimes, report violations under the
jails.
Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), and an initiative was launched focusing on inmate television programming.
Collectively, the Justice Housing Bureau is responsible for safeguarding, feeding, clothing, and providing
Administrative Services-Criminal Justice Command
medical care to an inmate population that in 2013,
Administrative Services consist of several sections which
exceeded an average daily jail population of 9,000
primarily serve to support the Housing Divisions. These
inmates. Additionally, the Criminal Justice Command
sections include Compliance & Inspections, Criminal
encompasses the Administrative and Health Services
Justice Command Training, Disciplinary and Grievance,
Divisions.
Food Services Section, Laundry Services, Inmate Commissary, Inmate Law Library, and Mail Room.
1200 Jail l
1200 Baker Street, Houston, Tx. 77002
1307 Jail
1307 Baker Street, Houston, Tx. 77002
701 Jail
701 N. San Jacinto, Houston, Tx. 77002
711 Jail
711 N. San Jacinto, Houston, Tx. 77002
The Inmate Disciplinary and Grievance Section ensures fair, consistent, and impartial application of the rules and regulations governing inmate conduct. The Grievance Board is an administrative processing center responsible for the resolution of inmate grievances. In 2013, the Disciplinary and Grievance Section processed more than 6,000 disciplinary infractions. Compliance & Inspections Section The Compliance & Inspections Section is charged with overseeing the 2,500 employees assigned to the Criminal Justice Command, as well as ensuring bureau policy and standards are being adhered and followed. This section also encompasses an environmental
22
JUSTICE HOUSING
element designed to monitor and ensure inmate living and working conditions are within parameters established by policy, code, and law. In addition, the Fire & Life Safety Section ensures safety training devices and inspections are current and up-to-date. As a matter of law, employees assigned to roles requiring inmate management are mandated to receive fire and life safety training immediately upon employment. Criminal Justice Command Training The Criminal Justice Command Training Section is responsible for the “on-the-job-training� of all newly employed Criminal Justice Command detention officers. The primary focus of this training curriculum is to establish a strong operational foundation in detention operations with an emphasis on officer safety. The Training Section also facilitates the training of newly promoted employees, provides in-service training, and corrects training deficiencies as identified via administrative investigations and/or reviews. In 2013, the Criminal Justice Command Training Section trained more than 400 new detention officers. Health Services Section The Health Services section provides a full compliment of medical and mental health services. All detainees, prior to housing are screened and interviewed by a health care professional to identify problems that require immediate attention, and perform screening to identify active tuberculosis disease. The 1200 Baker Street Facility houses the main medical
2013 EMR Inititative
QTY
unit, mental health and support service sites, as well as
Intake Screening
100,051
an infirmary, mental health specialty units, and isolation
Health Assestments
39,132
areas. Physician and nursing services are provided 24
Nursing Triage
43,381
hours a day.
Blood Pressure Checks
18,306
Fingerstick Blood Sugar Checks
3,096
Wound Care Treatments
22,162
Lab Reports Received
59,771
Blood Pressure Clinic Visits
1,867
On-site clinical care is also provided in various specialty areas. Support services include radiology, laboratory, pharmacy, dietary, infectious disease, dental, mental
Chronic Care Clinic Visits
4,734
health and substance abuse counseling. On-site specialty
EKG
1,465
clinics meet regularly: infectious disease, orthopedics,
MHMRA MD Initial Evaluation
1,559
general surgery, OB/Gyn, chronic care and dialysis. In
MHMRA LPHA Admin Separation Evaluation
25,888
2013, Health Services began implementation of an electronic medical record (EMR) platform. In addition, Health Services now uses the palm vein scan as a biometric identifier during intake health screening, allowing the HCSO to interface with other stakeholders (Hospital District, Fuji Digital Xx-ray System, etc.). In addition, Health Services is working to interface the EMR with GE Pharmacy, thereby facilitating physician prescription orders without manual data entry.
23
JUSTICE HOUSING
Mental Health Care
Joint Processing Center
The Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority
In 2013, the voters of Harris County approved the
(MHMRA) of Harris County is dedicated to providing
issuance of $70 million in bonds to finance some of
humane and professional treatment for the mentally
the costs of building a Joint Processing Center across
ill. MHMRA staff offers evaluation and treatment
the street from the county jail complex in downtown
services 24 hours a day on premises. Detainees
Houston. Anticipated completion date is mid-year 2017.
requiring
intensive
psychiatric
treatment
are
transferred to the in-house specialty units or the inpatient unit at Harris County Psychiatric Center (HCPC). In 2013, the National Commission on Correctional Health recognized the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Jail Mental Health and Medical Security Unit as Program of the Year. The award recognizes programs of excellence among the thousands provided by accredited prisons, jails and juvenile facilities.
24
JUSTICE MANAGEMENT
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office’s Justice Management Bureau is comprised of seven divisions and is currently staffed by 649 employees. The seven divisions are Courts, Classification, Hospital Security, Outlying Jails, Processing, Inmate Records, and Transportation. During the calendar year 2013, the Justice Management Bureau processed, transported and/or guarded over 554,109 inmates. The bureau was also responsible for collecting $6,364,105.95 in fines, fees and bonds. Justice Management Bureau 2013 Location
Jan
Feb
Mar
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Totals
Charges Received
10,431 10,168 11,137 10,598 11,729 10,430 10,320 10,669 10,105 10,622
9,189
8,911
124,309
Prisoners Received
7,889
8,957
8,766
9,028
9,180
9,783
8,560
8,788
5,854
9,978
8,434
8,278
103,495
Prisoners Booked
8,422
8,654
8,441
8,407
8,787
9,255
8,292
8,488
5,502
8,818
7,949
7,373
98,388
Prisoners Released
8,492
9,012
9,523
8,910
9,160
9,654
9,241
9,101
5,848
11,117
8,755
8,595
107,408
Prisoners AFIS’ ed
67
536
503
609
688
455
431
510
495
890
1,052
936
7,172
Total JMB Contacts
24,870 27,159 27,233 26,954 27,815 29,147 26,524 26,887 17,699 30,803 26,190 25,182
316,463
Court Prisoners
14,935 13,872 13,216 15,268 16,032 13,723 14,278 14,195 13,653 15,403 12,147 11,786
168,508
Prisoners Transported
5,561
5,964
5,677
7,003
6,663
5,398
4,256
3,573
4,738
5,315
3,807
2,934
60,889
Medical Prisoners
591
524
678
662
839
755
766
715
569
706
697
747
8,249
Total JMB Contacts
21,087 20,360 19,571 22,933 23,534 19,876 19,300 18,483 18,960 21,424 16,651 15,467
237,646
Use of Force Stats The Justice Management Bureau only had 43 “use of force” incidents in calendar year 2013. A small number considering that the division handled more than half a million inmates during that time period. The Use of Force incidents involved 49 subjects and 96 staff members. Court Division The Court Division is responsible for the safety and security of all persons attending court proceedings in Harris County. The HCSO Courts Division staffs 87 courts in 4 buildings. Courts Division 2013
25
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Prisoners Scheduled
14,935
13,872
13,216
15,268
16,032
13,723
14,278
14,195
13,653
15,403
12,147
11,786 168,508
Prisoners Seen By Judge
6,748
6,722
6,424
7,650
7,544
6,612
6,896
6,860
6,803
7,491
5,909
5,547
81,206
Prisoners Not Seen
7,187
7,150
6,792
7,618
10,753
7,117
7,369
7,310
6,830
7,896
6,220
6,234
88,476
Prisoners Arrested
668
601
618
777
808
643
702
652
592
710
533
495
7,799
Prisoners in Trials
81
114
104
167
141
83
93
103
115
109
69
33
1,212
Bond Trials
89
125
80
100
105
93
83
74
83
754
72
67
1,125
JUSTICE MANAGEMENT
Classification Division The Inmate Classification Division is charged with the responsibility of properly classifying individuals incarcerated in the Harris County jail system. This function is perhaps the most critical housing function for maintaining harmony, to the extent possible, among the closely housed inmate population. Classification personnel are committed to creating a safe environment for inmates and staff. The Classification Section maintains operations in all of the Harris County jail facilities including the Inmate Processing Center. Hospital Security and Outlying Jails The Hospital Security Division is responsible for the care, custody and control of inmates who have been transported to area hospitals due to their medical condition. Hospitalized inmates are under 24 hour supervision for the safety of the public.
Hospital Security 2013 Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Appointments
Month
227
206
249
232
264
229
198
215
176
195
176
200
2,567
Admitted Prisoners
364
318
429
430
575
526
568
500
393
511
521
547
5,682
Avg. Daily Appointments
10
10
12
11
12
11
9
10
13
9
9
10
126
Avg. Daily Admitted
12
11
14
14
19
18
18
16
8
17
17
18
182
Avg. Total Daily Medicals
22
21
26
25
31
29
27
26
21
26
26
28
308
There are four outlying jails located at Clay Road, Humble, Cypresswood and Wallisville Road. These outlying jails are geographically-based, secure lockups.
Outlying Jails Division 2013 Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Prisoners Recieved
440
443
405
455
534
344
324
388
421
444
445
367
5,010
Prisoners AFIS’ed
494
477
453
542
608
386
357
444
433
548
497
433
5,672
Prisoners Released
1
0
0
3
1
0
2
0
0
0
0
3
10
Prisoners Refused
5
1
4
3
0
4
2
4
1
3
1
2
30
26
JUSTICE MANAGEMENT
Inmate Processing Division The Inmate Processing Division is responsible for the receiving, processing and releasing of all inmates arrested on a variety of charges in Harris County. Initial processing of inmates includes searching, property inventory, medical and mental health screening, attendance at probable cause court, and booking. On average, nearly six hundred prisoners are processed by the Inmate Processing Division on a daily basis.
IPC Booking / Releasing / 287 g 2013 Month Charges Recieved Prisoners Received Prisoners AFIS’ed Prisoners Booked Prisoners Released 287g Transfers
Jan 10,431 7,889 67 8,422 8,069 422
Feb 10,168 8,514 59 8,654 8,693 319
Mar 11,137 8,361 50 8,441 9,195 328
Apr 10,598 8,573 67 8,407 8,563 344
May 11,729 8,646 80 8,787 8,752 407
June 10,430 9,439 69 9,255 9,240 414
July 10,320 8,236 74 8,292 8,853 386
Aug 10,669 8,400 66 8,488 8,757 344
Sept 10,105 5,433 62 5,502 5,620 228
Oct 10,622 9,534 342 8,818 10,726 391
Nov 9,189 7,989 555 7,949 8,452 303
Dec 8,911 7,911 503 7,373 8,281 311
Total 124,309 98,925 1,994 98,388 103,201 4,197
Inmate Records Division The Inmate Records Division is responsible for the proper recordkeeping of all persons in custody of the HCSO. Inmate Records also includes specialized sections for bonding and TCDJ transfers.
Inmate Records Division 2013 Month TDC Transfers State Jail Transfers SAFPF / ISF Transfers BOPP / ISF Transfers Weekenders Off Work Hours Late Releases Erroneous Releases
Jan 630 505 38 77 7 268 2 4
Feb 530 440 41 111 2 291 3 1
Mar 640 433 31 103 6 452 10 3
Apr 691 581 23 74 3 339 5 1
May 658 522 36 116 4 207 3 3
June 538 447 25 81 6 382 6 5
July 679 440 13 73 16 257 2 1
Aug 595 483 41 107 4 304 5 6
Sept 0 0 0 0 10 350 2 2
oct 0 0 0 0 6 241 5 0
Nov 0 0 0 0 6 259 2 0
Dec 0 0 0 0 1 58 2 6
Total 4,961 3,851 248 742 71 3,408 47 32
Transportation Division The Transportation Division is responsible for the safe and secure transport of inmates outside the jail setting. Inmates are transported in secured vans and buses for efficiency and safety.
Transportation Division 2013 Month Miles Traveled Prisoners Transported Out of County Transports Workers Education State Jails / TDC Miscellaneous Transports
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Jan 23,631 5,561 15 188 1,966 622 234
Feb 24,750 5,964 13 184 2,231 555 206
Mar 22,607 5,677 9 188 2,019 561 220
Apr 26,175 7,003 10 225 2,597 710 170
May 28,970 6,663 6 238 2,383 606 192
June 23,529 5,398 6 196 1,919 549 163
July 25,819 4,256 11 218 1,323 543 107
Aug 25,513 3,573 10 210 951 442 146
Sept 23,920 4,738 12 189 1,627 568 132
oct 26,631 5,315 11 195 1,921 663 267
Nov 27,478 3,807 8 160 1,185 575 139
Dec 24,062 2,934 11 174 697 552 120
Total 303,085 60,889 122 2,365 20,819 6,946 2,096
SHERIFF’S ACADEMY
The Harris County Sheriff’s Academy was formally established and accredited by T.C.O.L.E. in 1969 with the first basic class of 28 students who were required to successfully complete a total of 140 hours of law enforcement inservice training. Basic academy and other training courses are held at the Harris County Sheriff’s & Fire Training Academy in Humble. Since its first academy class, the Sheriff’s Academy has graduated 146 regular Basic Peace Officer classes, totaling 4,386 cadets. The Sheriff’s Academy has always exceeded T.C.O.L.E. minimum standards. Currently, cadets who attend the Sheriff’s Basic Peace Officer course are required to complete 31 weeks (1,240 hours) of intensive training. Cadets who attend another academy’s basic peace officer course (BPOC) receive an additional 200 hours in the Sheriff’s Academy modified BPOC. The Sheriff’s Academy is classified as a “Regional” law enforcement Academy, in as much as officers from other law enforcement agencies across the State of Texas are welcomed to attend training at our facility. Additionally, the Academy provides unparalleled fitness and firearms training/testing for the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Academy Shooting Range Complex includes an all-weather range that provides covered areas on all its firearms ranges for student comfort. Additionally, the Range facility offers the use of pneumatic targeting systems, a rifle deck, a “hot house”, and a multi-classroom building situated and safely secured within solid security fencing. This state of the art shooting facility provides the finest in firearms training to all Sheriff’s Office and visiting law enforcement personnel who utilize it. In 2013, the Sheriff’s Academy conducted 20,435 classes offering quality instruction to approximately 42,042 students. This training equates to a staggering 300, 401 classroom contact hours. In addition, the Sheriff’s firearms complex also provided attending students approximately 12,189 firearms training related contact hours. The Sheriff’s Academy proudly continues to offer employees 24/7 hour access to its in-service training courses via the acquired HCSO internet in-service training program.
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SHERIFF’S ACADEMY
Sheriff’s Academy Year
2011
2012
2013
Classes Conducted
1,410
6,514
20,435
Students Instructed
14,389
21,745
42,042
2013 Online Training Hours 45,789
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RESERVE COMMAND
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Command assists the Sheriff’s Office in numerous divisions. In 2013, the Reserves contributed 65,128 hours to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. The hours contributed to the community include law enforcement activities, social and religious programs. The Reserve Command produced a fiscal savings to the Harris County community of $4,632,725.38. The Reserve program trained and graduated thirteen new Harris County Sheriff Reserve deputies. The Reserve Command of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is committed to the advancement of its program through training and dedication of excellence to assist the Sheriff of Harris County and his office to protect and serve the citizens of Harris County. Each year the Reserve Command looks forward to the opportunity to support the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and continue its efforts to make a difference in the safety of the Harris County communities and its citizens. In 2013, there were over 200 active Reserves. In 2013, the Reserves volunteered for 138 Special Assignments and saved the Harris County Sheriff’s Office over four (4) million dollars serving and protecting the Harris County community. In 2013, the Tactical Medical Program formally began. This program is under the Special Operations Division. The Tactical Medical Program is comprised of two arms, Sheriff’s Office Surgeons (S.O.S), which are only civilian physician volunteers; and Tactical Medical Team, which are both civilian and law enforcement Reserves. Recently, several HCSO Reserves personnel underwent Basic S.W.A.T. courses that are being used in the Special Response Team (SRT) to assist with high risk operations in warrants, patrol and other areas where this specialized training is required.
Rank
Number of Total Hours Personnel Contributed
Hourly Rates
Annual Fiscal Contribution to Harris County
Chief Deputy
1
1,384
$59.04
$81,711.36
Assistant Chief
2
3,365
$41.68
$140,253.20
Major
4
1,388
$59.04
$81,947.52
Captain
5
5,014
$41.68
$208,983.52
Lieutenant
17
12,910
$36.35
$469,278.50
Sergeant
46
13,933.50
$32.33
$449,076.71
Deputy
119
26,860.50
$25.67
$3,196,399.50
Jailer
2
273
$18.59
$5,075.07
TOTAL
195
65,128
$4,632,725.38
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HARRIS COUNT Y SHERIFF’S OFFICE EXPLORING PROGRAM 2013 The HCSO Law Enforcement Explorer Program is a perfect vehicle for recruiting the best and the brightest. Through this program HCSO deputies assigned to assist in the administration of the program are uniquely positioned to find and nurture individuals with the abilities the agency seeks to secure that the HCSO’s future.
The Exploring program is designed to acquaint young people with the nature and complexity of law enforcement. It encourages them to seek a career as an HCSO deputy. It also affords the HCSO an opportunity to evaluate each Law Enforcement Explorer prior to his/her application for employment if they choose to pursue a career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
During the year 2013 the Exploring program had six posts located throughout Harris County to reach out to as many youth as possible while representing all areas of Harris County. In 2013 there were approximately 145 explorers combined in all the posts. During the year of 2013 the Exploring program trained the Explorers weekly in law enforcement techniques. The exploring program also traveled to areas around the state competing against other agencies in Exploring Law Enforcement competitions. In the summer of 2013 the HCSO Explorers won the state championship (Best Overall) in Law Enforcement Exploring against over 52 different agencies.
The HCSO Explorers, besides their regular weekly meetings and competitions, assist the community in various communitybased events providing manpower and assistance. The HCSO Explorer program has also adopted the “Tejano Center” as its official yearly charity providing Christmas gifts to over 60 underprivileged kids.
The HCSO Exploring program has also developed a summer academy for Explorers similar to the HCSO’s academy. It has its own honor guard, which has been requested to numerous events and has assisted the regular HCSO honor guard.
We are proud to announce we have hired approximately six Explorers during 2013 as full time employees with the HCSO.
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MISSION STATEMENT “To enhance the safety and protect the trust of the citizens of Harris County by enforcing the law with integrity and professionalism.”
MOTTO “21st century leading law enforcement agency.”
CORE VALUES I. Merit and maintain the public’s trust. II. Embrace and deliver professional service. III. Protect our citizens with honor and courage. IV. Exemplify ethical conduct at all times. V. Develop, encourage, and care for our Sheriff’s Office family.