Feb 2024. Blues Vol 40 No. 2

most people would never experience
that I realized how vital it is to
have qualified police leadership that
is ready at a moment’s notice. I was
born and raised in Harris County,
and I don’t like what it has become.
Due to my concerns for our community,
I prayed and spoke with my
family and decided that I needed to
step up and run for sheriff. I’m the
only republican candidate with police
supervisory experience and jail
supervisory experience - qualifications
that are paramount to being
sheriff of the nation’s third-largest
county. Escalating violent crime and
violence and death in our county
jail equate to human rights violations
that have to be addressed
immediately. We should ask sheriff
candidates tough questions about
their recent training, supervisory
experience, real-life scenarios that
they have encountered, and their
commitment to protecting citizens’
constitutional rights. One Republican
candidate has stated that you
just need to be a good politician to
be sheriff – I think 100% of Harris
County citizens would disagree.”
PAUL DAY
As I stand before you as a candidate
for Harris County Sheriff,
I am reminded of the journey
that has led me here. With over
45+ years of experience in law
enforcement, including 32 dedicated
years with the Houston
Police Department (HPD) and a
significant tenure with the Harris
County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO),
my life has been a testament to
the values we uphold as guardians
of the community.
My years with HPD, particularly
the 17 spent with SWAT, shaped
me into a resilient officer, ready
to face the unpredictable challenges
of law enforcement. I
continued my service by joining
the HCSO, where I eventually
retired after 11 years of diligent
work. This unique journey makes
me the only Republican candidate
in the primary who has not
just served but retired from the
HCSO. This firsthand experience
as a Harris County Sheriff’s deputy
gives me an intimate understanding
of the intricacies and
demands of the role I now aspire
to lead.
As Sheriff… my focus will be
clear:
• Advocate for High Double-Digit
Raises: I am committed
to using all available resources
to persuade the Commissioners
Court of the critical need for
significant salary increases. Our
dedication and risk deserve equitable
compensation.
• Expand the Recruiting Process:
Recognizing the need for
a robust and talented force, I
aim to broaden our recruitment
strategies to bring in individuals
who reflect the values and skills
essential for modern policing.
• Stand Behind Our Deputies: A
fundamental promise from me –
to always have your backs. Your
safety and well-being will be
my utmost priority, in and out of
the field.
• Control & Pass Jail Inspections:
Managing the County Jail
efficiently and ensuring it surpasses
the Texas Commission
Jail Standards (TCJS) will be a
top priority. Our aim is not just
to meet but exceed these standards.
• Expand K-Time: Understanding
the importance of your
professional growth and financial
stability, I plan to increase
opportunities for you to engage
in specialized assignments,
enhancing both your career and
personal well-being as well as
enhancing the ability to protect
those we serve.
• Invest in advanced training for
a skilled Deputy/Detention Officer
workforce.
In my bid for Sheriff, my commitment
is to you, the men and
women who put their lives on
the line every day. I understand
your challenges, I share your
concerns, and I promise to lead
with the same dedication that I
served. Together, we can elevate
the Harris County Sheriff’s Office
to new heights of excellence
and integrity. With your vote on
March 5th, I WILL NOT LET YOU
DOWN!
Paul Day
94 The Blues - February ‘24