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4w ago

Harris County Sheriff's Office Confronts Mental Health Crisis After Four Suicides in Six Weeks

The deaths of four current and former deputies underscore the urgent need for stronger mental health support within law enforcement.

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Deputy Christina Kohler (left) and retired Deputy Maria Vasquez (right) lost their lives in March in deaths which were ruled a suicide.
A Harris County Sheriff's Office Peer Support Network brochure explains some of the wellness services available to deputies around the clock.
From left to right, Christina Kohler, William Bozeman, Long Nguyen and Maria Vasquez

Overview

  • Four current and former deputies from the Harris County Sheriff's Office died by suicide between February 6 and March 19, 2025, with three occurring within one week.
  • The Harris County Sheriff's Office is mourning the losses and has reiterated its commitment to mental health initiatives while acknowledging the need for further action.
  • The Behavioral Health Division, established in 2020, provides peer-to-peer support and wellness programs but faces challenges in addressing the mental health needs of officers.
  • Experts highlight the severe psychological toll of police work, with law enforcement officers significantly more likely to experience depression, PTSD, and suicide than the general population.
  • Calls for cultural change and reducing stigma around seeking mental health support are growing, as officials emphasize the importance of reaching out for help.