HOUSTON – After the violence targeting law enforcement in San Antonio, Missouri and Florida, police in Houston are on high alert.
Some agencies, like the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, are reminding deputies on patrol to wear their protective vests, to work in teams and use appropriate backup procedures.
The Houston Police Department is also allowing patrol officers to partner up.
“We always believe two officers are safer than one, especially in traffic stops, where one has to have the focus on the violator while the other person can focus on the surroundings,” said Ray Hunt, president of the Houston Police Officer’s Union.
Many officers are pairing, especially those working the evening and night shifts.
Harris County Precinct 6 deputy constables are also working in pairs while patrolling certain neighborhoods.
Monday, the precinct’s new building, which is still under construction, appears to be the target of what looks like a drive-by shooting.
“It's alarming to know that people are firing upon the people who are out here keeping you safe, police officers,” Chief Deputy Armando Tello said.
Precinct 6 is in the process of moving its offices.
Sunday night, a deputy working security at the new headquarters discovered at least three bullet holes while patrolling the property.
“We're trying to find out where some other bullets may have hit and some fragments inside the building,” Chief Tello said.