This interview was recorded at the Henderson County Justice Center on Wednesday, Feb. 22, with Sheriff Botie Hillhouse and Michael V. Hannigan.
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On this week's podcast, Sheriff Hillhouse discusses investigating a threat made against Cross Road ISD, including using the Crimes Against Children Task Force.
I. Jail Statistics (:45)
Summary: There are currently 435 inmates in the jail, with the average for the year being 404. There are currently 107 contract inmates.
Extra: The highest number of inmates in the jail this year was 437.
II. Threat in Cross Roads (2:00)
Summary: Tuesday, the Sheriff’s Office was made aware of a threat made against Cross Roads High School. The threat was written on one of the bathroom walls. The Sheriff’s Office responded with multiple deputies, including the Crimes Against Children Task Force. This is an ongoing investigation.
In a letter posted on Facebook, CRISD Superintendent Richard Tedder said, “Every precautionary measure is being taken. Additional security measures will be in place until the investigation is completed. Information will be given as deemed appropriate when it is received.”
Quote: "They do have some leads, which makes us feel really good," said Sheriff Hillhouse.
Extra: The Sheriff's Office has extra resources deployed to the Cross Roads area.
III. Crimes Against Children Task Force (6:50)
Summary: The Crimes Against Children Task Force has been deployed to investigate the threat made at Cross Roads ISD. The Task Force is one of the first of its kind in Texas. It currently has five investigators from the Sheriff's office who are dedicated and trained to handle investigations involving crimes against children, including child death, physical abuse, child neglect, and sexual abuse of children.
Quote: "This is threats made against the school district, which is threats made against children," Sheriff Hillhouse said.
Extra: The deputies assigned to the Crimes Against Children Task Force have had specific training relevant to the investigation.
IV. Deputies of the Year (15:40)
Summary: Last week, Sheriff Hillhouse was honored to present Deputy of the Year for 2022 to three outstanding employees. These employees all do an exceptional job, and Henderson County is lucky to have each of them. David Robertson was named Deputy of the Year. Sarah Kidd was named Communications Officer of the Year. Nathan Patterson was named Detention Officer of the Year. Help us congratulate each of them!
Sheriff's Report: Threat in Cross Roads; Deputies of the Year