In just six weeks, four current and former Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputies have died by suicide, raising serious concerns about mental health support in law enforcement.
A 2023 U.S. Fire Administration report found that first responders made up 1% of all U.S. suicides between 2015–2017, with 58% being law enforcement officers (LEOs). A 2024 ABC News report documented 1,287 LEO and correctional officer suicides from 2016–2022—51% from local police and 20% from sheriff’s offices.
Recent HCSO Losses
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Deputy Christina Kohler, 37, was reported missing on March 12. She was found dead the same day.
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Former Deputy Maria Vasquez, 42, died by suicide days later at her home. She had left the department in December 2024.
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Former Deputy William Bozeman and Former Deputy Long Nguyen, 58, also died by suicide in recent weeks.
Mental Health Support Urged
Experts like Dr. Ron Acierno (UTHealth Houston) and Dr. Thomas McNeese (HCSO Behavioral Health) stress the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health care in law enforcement. “This profession takes a toll,” said McNeese. “Reaching out is critical.”
HCSO’s Response
The department is expanding mental health and peer support services. Leaders, including Constable Sherman Eagleton and HCDO President Jose Lopez, are calling for stronger resources and urging officers to seek help.
McNeese admitted HCSO’s mental health division is understaffed but hopes their presence normalizes getting support: “We’re not here to take away badges—we’re here to help.”