Full Notification

Feb. 5, 2021 -- It is with deep sadness that the Harris County Sheriff’s Office announces the death of a Detention Officer from complications of COVID-19. Our hearts, prayers and condolences go out to his grieving family, loved ones, and colleagues.

The Detention Officer, a man in his mid-50s, was a military veteran who served in the Harris County Jail for 5 years. Release of his name is pending notification of his family. He died on Wednesday, Feb. 3.

He is the third Sheriff’s Office correctional staff member -- and the fourth employee agency-wide -- to die after contracting COVID-19. The others are:

• Patrol Sgt. Raymond Scholwinski, 70, died on May 6, 2020.
• Deputy Juan Menchaca, 70, died June 13, 2020.
• Deputy Johnny Tunches, 56, died on Nov. 3, 2020.

“Our teammate will be missed by all of us who had the honor of working with and knowing him,” said Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “We’re grateful for his selfless commitment to be on the front lines of ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in the county jail – including his fellow detention officers, medical personnel, jail support staff, and those entrusted in our custody.”

Funeral arrangements are pending.