By: BoJanay Posey

          Intern

      African-American News&Issues 

HOUSTON- The impact of crime in minority communities was recently addressed by Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia at the Acres Homes Chamber for Business and Economic Development’s monthly networking luncheon. The Sheriff’s informative words generated waves of applause from the luncheon guests.

HCSO Major Edwin A. Davis introduced Sheriff Garcia. “Since my tenure at Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Garcia has done a tremendous job reducing the inmate population in Harris County jail,” said Davis.

Garcia’s strong voice embodied his unwavering presence in the community. Since becoming sheriff, Garcia has reinforced security and reduced crime by introducing programs such as a Safe Communities Unit and strengthening other programs such as Homeland Security. He strives to lead officers to be fearless in stopping crime. He said, “There are people who want to harm you…We are empowering officers today to be brave against those people.” Under his guidance, a new Gang Suppression Unit was established to sweep the 150 identified gangs from Houston streets. Also through his achievements, the Sheriff’s Office implemented new technological systems that allow officers to track reported crime in real time.

Moreover, to empower youth who aspire to be in law enforcement, the Sheriff partnered with the Boy Scouts to establish the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Police Explorers. Youth in the program are mentored by officers weekly. Garcia proudly remarked upon four youth from the program who have recently applied to be officers. Garcia’s presence at the luncheon reminds the people of the community of his dedication to serve and protect us. With a smile, he said he tells the force, “Remember who we work for.”

The September Luncheon will be held Thursday, September 6th at the Beulah Ann Shepard Building, 6112 Wheatley Street. For more information, call 713-692-7161.