Harris County Pct. 1 deputy constable Sheila Jones has been released from the hospital Tuesday afternoon, just one day after she was injured in a shooting near the Harris County Family Law Center in Houston.
The shooting happened just after 12:30 p.m. Monday, near 1115 Congress Street.
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After Jones’ release, Pct. 1 Constable Alan Rosen held a press conference outside of Memorial Hermann Medical Center, the hospital where Jones was staying.
Constable Rosen read the following statement, which was written by Jones:
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpour of love and support I received from my fellow officers, my family and this incredible community. I love you more than words can express.
I am deeply thankful to be alive, and every moment I have now feels like a gift. But what I am most grateful for, is the chance to be with my granddaughter. Her smile is my strength. I thank God every day for this second chance. —Deputy Sheila Jones."
Jones was working security at the Family Law Center when Harris County deputies and Houston Police Department officers were alerted to a man in the area with a gun.
Authorities located the suspect, identified as Parnell Bland, 34, and they chased him. He pointed at least one gun at the officers, and an exchange of gunfire led to both Jones and the shooting suspect being struck.
Jones was transported to medical center by helicopter. A bullet-proof vest ultimately saved her from more severe internal injuries.
An Army veteran, Jones has worked in law enforcement for over 30 years. Before coming to work for the Pct. 1 Constable’s Office, she worked for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as a major. Officials say Jones has worked with Pct. 1 for two years.
The suspect was also transported to a nearby hospital with injuries from gunfire. He has been identified as 34-year-old Parnell Treymayne Bland. He has been charged with aggravated assault against a public servant and unlawful carrying of a weapon.
If convicted, Bland faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
MORE INFORMATION: Man charged in shooting that injured Harris County Pct. 1 deputy constable Sheila Jones near courthouse
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