Houston Police Department Chief Tim Ceplina advised city residents Thursday morning that the agency is in good operational condition despite the arrests of Texas County Sheriff James Sigman and deputy Jennifer Tomaszewski.
“Law enforcement in our community took a big hit yesterday with the events at the Texas County Sheriff’s Department,” Ceplina said. “Several people have asked how this affects our department and policing in our community. The sheriff’s department is a separate entity of law enforcement, and each municipality has its own jurisdiction.
“This department will continue to provide professional, effective law enforcement in the City of Houston.”
Ceplina said the HPD will be there to help area law enforcement brethren, if needed.
“We have worked together with every area agency in the past and that will continue,” he said. “We will do everything possible to assist county and state law enforcement during this time and continue to uphold the standards of honor and discipline within this department. We have a duty to provide services to the residents of Houston and we’re going to.”
Ceplina said he realizes the ramifications of the situation go beyond effects on area law enforcement.
“Our prayers go out to all of the families affected by these incidents,” he said.