Jasper — The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office has released a year-end report detailing activity levels, staffing growth, and operational upgrades during the sheriff’s first year in office.
Over the past 12 months, deputies answered 23,247 calls for service, conducted 1,223 traffic stops, and processed 1,821 bookings through the Jasper County Jail. Officials say those numbers reflect both increased visibility on patrol and expanded enforcement capacity.
One of the most notable changes highlighted in the report is staffing. The sheriff’s office is now fully staffed on patrol after adding three deputies, giving the department its largest patrol presence to date. Leadership says the additional personnel have reduced response times and improved coverage across the county.
Soon after taking office in January 2025, the sheriff ordered a comprehensive property and evidence audit. That review led to thousands of items being cataloged, secured, or removed from inventory. At the same time, deputies received updated uniforms, duty gear, and new firearms.
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The department also invested heavily in equipment. Thirteen new patrol vehicles and a dedicated prisoner transport van were purchased, ending the county’s reliance on leased vehicles. In addition, a patrol boat became operational in 2025 after community members raised more than $100,000 in less than 27 hours, significantly expanding marine enforcement capabilities.
At the Jasper County Jail, officials pointed to new rehabilitation programs and partnerships with local organizations, along with higher housing fees for out-of-county inmates. Facility upgrades were completed, and the jail successfully passed inspection by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards. Plans are also underway to expand the jail by 14 beds.
Operational changes were made at the communications center as well. Automated phone systems were removed, requiring all incoming calls to be answered by live operators. The sheriff’s office says the move has helped speed up emergency response times.
The year-in-review also highlighted several major investigations, including the April conviction of Colby Tatum for tampering with the body of Cristi Ruso and the arrest of four suspects in the Josh Larkin homicide, a case handled jointly with Newton County authorities.
Drug-related crime remains a major challenge, with officials noting that roughly 60% of inmates at the county jail are incarcerated on methamphetamine-related charges. Efforts to combat narcotics trafficking remain a top priority.
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Additional accomplishments outlined in the report include:
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The return of a police academy to Jasper County for the first time in more than 20 years, producing six graduates now working locally
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Expanded mental health response services through partnerships with Spindletop
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Growth of the sheriff’s office social media presence from fewer than 900 followers to nearly 25,000
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More than $55,000 raised through the Blue Santa Program to support families during the holiday season
Officials said the report reflects a year focused on rebuilding infrastructure, increasing transparency, and strengthening public safety services countywide.