Policy & Innovation

Public Safety

“Public safety is government’s most fundamental responsibility. Precinct 4 is building a safer Harris County by funding law enforcement, supporting victims, and investing in holistic approaches that address the root causes of crime.”

The addition of new courts helps reduce backlogs, accelerate access to justice, and support safer communities through timely and effective case management.

  • Secured six new criminal district courts in 2023.
  • Improved case processing times and enhanced public safety outcomes.

Law enforcement pay parity helped keep skilled, experienced officers in the field—supporting safer communities and a more stable, effective law‑enforcement workforce.

  • Committed nearly $100 million in FY26 to achieve pay parity.
  • Closed salary gaps of up to 20 percent compared with peer agencies.

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    The Viper Task Force enhances public safety by coordinating specialized resources to locate and arrest individuals charged with the most serious offenses.

    • Approved more than $3 million to expand warrant apprehension efforts.
    • Focused on individuals with open warrants for murder, aggravated assault, child abuse, and domestic violence.

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      The TeleDeputy Unit within the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) allows deputies to work overtime at the Emergency Dispatch Center (EDC) to respond to service calls that do not require an on‑scene law enforcement presence, ensuring a more efficient 911 response.

      • Routes eligible calls to phone‑based officers.
      • Preserves deputy capacity for violent and high‑risk emergencies.

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      Investments in the Harris County District Attorney's Office help ensure residents have access to the services they need while improving outcomes in cases involving vulnerable populations.

      • Committed $18 million to expand critical services.
      • Strengthened support systems for survivors and individuals in crisis.

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        Investments in jail-based mental health ensures individuals receive timely evaluation and support, improving both justice‑system efficiency and community well‑being.

        • Reduced waitlists for defendants awaiting mental‑health evaluations.
        • Funded 50 Mental Health Jail Reentry beds.
        • Improved case flow and enhanced safety outcomes.

          These initiatives strengthen safety nets for survivors, expand critical services, and support children affected by trauma with long‑term, evidence‑based care.

          • Championed Domestic Violence Assistance Fund that gives financial assistance to survivors.
          • $20M+ for crisis response, shelters, new dockets, and mental health services.
          • Early childhood resiliency fund: trauma-informed care for 3,000 children.

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          The countywide expansion of HART ensures residents in crisis receive specialized care while preserving law‑enforcement resources for higher‑risk emergencies.

          • The HART Unit has diverted more than 20,000 calls from law enforcement since 2022.

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