In a significant move to combat violent crime in the Houston area, Governor Greg Abbott has announced the launch of a new state-led Violent Crime Task Force in Harris County, drawing strong support from Mayor John Whitmire and other top local officials.
The initiative, unveiled during Abbott’s visit to Houston on Wednesday, will bring together state and local law enforcement in a coordinated effort to target repeat violent offenders. The task force will include Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents, Texas Rangers, and aerial surveillance units, working in collaboration with the Houston Police Department (HPD), the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and other agencies.
“This partnership represents a unified front against violent crime in our city,” said Mayor Whitmire, who has made public safety a cornerstone of his administration. “The people of Houston deserve to feel safe in their homes, on their streets, and in their neighborhoods.”
Statewide Resources Coming to Houston
According to Abbott, the task force will provide resources not currently available to local departments, including advanced forensic science, intelligence sharing, and investigative tools. Residents can expect to see a heightened law enforcement presence along freeways and in high-crime neighborhoods, with a focus on curbing road rage incidents, gun violence, and gang-related crime.
Governor Abbott also used the occasion to advocate for Proposition 3, a ballot measure that would give judges the authority to deny bail to suspects accused of violent crimes. He emphasized that improving accountability within the judicial system is essential to keeping repeat offenders off the streets.
“We are coming for you,” Abbott said, addressing repeat violent offenders. “If you pose a threat to your community, you will be found, arrested, and prosecuted.”
Local Leaders Voice Support
The initiative has received broad support across Harris County’s law enforcement and political leadership.
Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare praised the move as a crucial boost to his office’s ongoing efforts to seek tougher sentences for violent offenders.
“We are committed to ensuring that those who repeatedly threaten our communities are held accountable,” Teare said. “This task force will allow us to better investigate and prosecute the worst of the worst.”
Crime Down, But Safety Still Top Concern
Despite recent data showing a decline in overall violent crime and homicides in Harris County, public safety remains a top concern for Houston residents. The deployment of DPS troopers to the region fulfills a key promise made by Whitmire during his 2023 mayoral campaign, in which he pledged to bring more state resources to address persistent crime issues.
Governor Abbott noted that if the task force proves successful in Houston, similar initiatives could be launched in other Texas cities grappling with repeat violent crime.
What’s Next?
While the Governor did not specify which neighborhoods will be targeted first, law enforcement officials said they will use crime data and intelligence to focus efforts where they are most needed.
As the task force rolls out in the coming weeks, residents are urged to report suspicious activity and continue engaging with community policing efforts.
