Sheriff presents three‑year report; court adopts National Police Week resolution

Chambers County's sheriff presented a multi‑year report to the commissioner's court on May 13 that showed declines in several crime categories while highlighting growth in calls for service and traffic enforcement.

The sheriff told the court the office is more organized managerially and that the report looks at a multi‑year period (staff said 2021 statistics are skewed by COVID). He said arrests and burglaries are down and that most violent crimes investigated involve non‑county residents. "Statistically, our major crimes are people coming here committing the crime," the sheriff said. He also noted an increase in traffic stops after the court supplied motorcycles and other tools.

The sheriff discussed vehicle pursuits, a strict pursuit policy and post‑pursuit reviews managed by Chief Skyler Hearn; he said the office uses stop sticks and tasers regularly and that canine teams reduce the need for hands‑on force. The report also referenced fleet challenges and the need for vehicle replacement as the department grows.

Commissioner Bagley moved to accept the annual report; Commissioner Gore seconded. The court approved the motion by voice vote. Separately, the court approved a resolution recognizing National Police Week and honoring Chambers County fallen officers; the resolution listed four officers and was approved by voice vote.

The sheriff told the court the office will continue after‑action reviews of pursuits and that regular reporting will aid transparency. Staff offered the report as an informational and budgeting tool for the court and the auditor.