Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office holds Fall 2024 Promotion and Awards Ceremony

The fall 2024 Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MSCO) Promotion and Awards Ceremony was held on October 29, 2024 at the Lone Star Convention Center as MSCO celebrated and honored the achievements of the exceptional individuals who have dedicated themselves to serving our community with integrity and dedication. 

This special event is a time for the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office to come together as a team and a community to acknowledge those who have gone above and beyond in their service and to celebrate their hard work, commitment, and remarkable accomplishments that uplift the values and mission.

Watch the full ceremony below and on the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page here.

View photos taken by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office below and on the Hello Woodlands Facebook page here.

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PROMOTIONS & RECOGNITIONS

Executive Division
Headed by Captain Mac McKelvy
Michael Sparks, Deputy-Specialist
Stacey Jackson, Dispatch Supervisor

Criminal Investigations Division
Headed by Captain Dan Norris
Branden Henneke, Crime Scene Investigator

Homeland Security Division
Headed by Captain James Hook
Richard Durbin, Lieutenant
Landon Slatter, Range Master
Bryan Gomez, Deputy-Specialist
Luke Pickard, Deputy-Specialist
Nichole Cathey, Administrative Assistant I

Law Enforcement Services Division
Headed by Director Chad Jamieson
Diana Fernandez, Administrative Assistant I
Vinny Serrano, Maintenance Technician III

Sheriff’s Office Information Technology Division
Headed by Director Michael Holbrook
Eduardo Nava, Application Support Specialist

Patrol East Division
Headed by Captain Melvin Franklin
Zachary Vercher, Sergeant
Blake LaPaglia, Detective
Justin Pierce, Detective
Matthew Sweeney, Detective
Anne Anderson, Administrative Assistant I

Patrol West Division & The Woodlands Township Division
Headed by Captain Tim Holifield
Mark Gallion, Sergeant
Burdette Taylor, Sergeant
Conrad Rappleyea, Deputy-Specialist
Daniel Derby, Deputy

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AWARDS

COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNER AWARD
TF Warren Group
Juan Adan
Paul Bonneaux
Casey Cillis
Alida Jimenez
Fatima Martinez
Marina Ramirez
Maggie Sembera
On May 21, 2024, staff members from the TF Warren Group noticed a small child roaming unsupervised in their parking lot. Without hesitation, staff members brought the lost child inside and provided food, clothing, diapers, and care for him until law enforcement could locate his family and launch a criminal investigation. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office depends on these partnerships with our citizens. We are so proud to have a partner in the TF Warren Group who showed selfless compassion in the face of a perilous situation.

COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNER AWARD
Chaplain Pat Shannon
Over the past twelve months, Pat has volunteered more than 600 hours to support the men and women of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office through the Citizens Academy Alumni Association. Pat has been a dedicated Volunteer Chaplain in the MCSO jail, regularly serving two days per week. In addition to his chaplaincy work, Pat has volunteered for various other alumni association activities and events throughout the year. Due to his exceptional dedication, Pat was recently elected by the Alumni Association members as their first Vice President of the organization. Pat’s commitment to the mission is truly admirable and will continue to make significant contributions.

PROFESSIONAL AWARD
Dispatcher Pamela Neibarger
At approximately 3:00 AM on June 13, 2024, Pam received a harrowing 911 call from a woman trapped inside her burning home. With urgency and precision, Pam dispatched the necessary emergency units and meticulously recorded information to aid in their response. Throughout the call, Pam listened closely and spoke calmly, offering reassurance in an effort to keep the woman composed during the crisis. Tragically, the victim succumbed to the fire, but Pam’s actions exemplify the daily courage and professionalism of a dispatcher. In the face of devastating chaos, she was the calm, steady voice that all responders strive to be.

PROFESSIONAL AWARD
Sergeant Kenneth Provenzano
Sergeant Provenzano leads by example on a daily basis. He is constantly training, mentoring, and teaching the deputies under his command. He regularly places the needs of his troops above his own. Whether he is running calls so his deputies can go eat, or remembering their birthdays, Sergeant Provenzano is always there. He goes out of his way to make personal connections with his deputies, staying up to date on their lives both at work and at home. His work often happens behind the scenes and goes unnoticed, but he makes sure his troops are always put first. 

PROFESSIONAL AWARD
Deputy Henry Langston
On August 30, 2024, Deputy Henry Langston was dispatched to a call of a suicidal female in a public park. Upon arrival, Deputy Langston witnessed the female produce a large knife and hold it to her throat. Deputy Langston remained calm, maintained a safe tactical position, and continued to speak with the female while she held the knife to her throat for over five minutes. Deputy Langston’s professional and calm approach resulted in the female eventually putting the knife down and becoming compliant with his instructions. She was then transported to a local hospital to receive proper mental health treatment. Deputy Langston’s professional engagement in this event is commended through his display of high caliber, outstanding public service.

PROFESSIONAL AWARD
Records Specialist Alicia Madsen
Records Specialist Alicia Madsen is a dedicated veteran of the Records Unit and is always the first to volunteer and assist others in any way she can. During her time in the Records Unit, she has helped with the organization and transport of records, assisted members of the public, and trained new co-workers, taking the time needed to explain in detail the process of each task. She continuously seeks opportunities to grow professionally by learning new duties and accepts challenges with an open mind and positive attitude. Even while navigating the most challenging time of her life, she arrives at work every day and is committed to performing her best. It is evident she takes professional pride in demonstrating the many responsibilities assigned to the Records Unit. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed.

ACCOUNTABLE AWARD
Administrative Assistant Elena Balbuena
On July 15, 2024, Elena Balbuena-Guzman received an FBI Background request on a subject she learned was a suspect in a Family Violence case that occurred days prior. The suspect had applied to purchase a firearm. Elena felt it was suspicious that the suspect was attempting to buy a gun so close in time to the date of the family violence. She forwarded her concerns to Homicide and Violent Crimes supervisors, who notified the patrol unit investigating the original incident. The patrol sergeant and the investigating deputy facilitated the warrant issued for the family violence and arrested the suspect the following morning without further incident. Elena went above and beyond her regular duties and trusted her gut instinct. Her attention to detail and swift actions potentially avoided a more tragic incident.

TRUSTED AWARD
Records Specialist Tracey Tunstall
On September 19, 2024, Patrol District 2 detectives requested corresponding records from a tape log crucial to an ongoing domestic violence investigation. The records not only provided essential evidence but were also needed to capture the emotional context from the initial emergency service contact; invaluable information in understanding the severity of this incident. Due to detectives needing these records as quickly as possible, Records Specialist Tunstall prioritized the request and maintained communication with detectives even while off duty to ensure the records were located. In less than 24 hours, Records Specialist Tunstall was able to provide the records and ultimately helped the outcome of a strangulation victim. Records Specialist Tunstall consistently goes above and beyond, playing an integral role in the case preparation process by efficiently maintaining and delivering vital records. Her professionalism and timely assistance have significantly contributed to the success of the Criminal Investigations Division and has directly benefited our victims, helping to ensure justice is served.

PROFESSIONAL & ACCOUNTABLE AWARD
Lieutenant Richard Durbin
In August 2024, Lieutenant Richard Durbin was promoted to oversee the School Resource Officers (SROs) for the Willis Independent School District. In just three months, his leadership has already had a profound impact on their response capabilities. Lieutenant Durbin partnered with the Reality-Based Training Center to enhance response readiness and worked closely with the firing range staff to conduct regular tactical training. He ensured that all SROs are fully equipped for any situation, securing shields and breaching tools through grant funding. Collaborating with outside agencies, he integrated them into planned responses for real-world threats that have emerged in recent weeks. In addition to these safety improvements, Lieutenant Durbin coordinated a new contract with fleet operations, leveraging their expertise to service police-related vehicles. The rapid progress and advancements within the Willis ISD SRO Unit are a testament to Lieutenant Durbin’s leadership, dedication, and professionalism in ensuring the safety of students and staff. His efforts have brought great credit to our agency and the Willis Independent School District.

PROFESSIONAL & ACCOUNTABLE AWARD
Sergeant Brad Curtis
Sergeant Charlie Sullivent
In January 2024, Sergeant Brad Curtis of the Homicide-Violent Crimes Unit discovered significant inaccuracies in the clearance codes used in Spillman for State and Federal Incident-Based Reporting submissions. To address the issue, Sergeants Curtis and Charlie Sullivent created a training course for patrol deputies and detectives on using appropriate clearance codes and then voluntarily traveled to each district office in person to present this class. These actions demonstrate the dedication of Sergeants Brad Curtis and Charlie Sullivent to the mission of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office as a whole. They each exhibited professionalism in assuming the responsibility to correct the errors without being asked and accountability for the accuracy of our agency’s data. These individuals are assets to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the community they serve. 

PROFESSIONAL & COMPASSIONATE AWARD
Deputy-Specialist Harry Holman
Over the past year, Crisis Intervention Team Deputy-Specialist Harry Holman has completed 153 Emergency Detention Orders, surpassing all other officers in both the CIT and the Patrol Divisions. Deputy Holman’s dedication and resilience in handling these situations have been exceptional. His unwavering commitment to the Crisis Intervention Team and his willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty truly set him apart. 
One notable incident involved a male who was suicidal due to marital issues at home. Initially, the male denied feeling suicidal, making it a challenge for Holman to assist him. However, Deputy-Specialist  Holman took the time to engage with him in a caring and compassionate manner, allowing the individual to express his struggles and feelings about his suicidal thoughts. Thanks to Deputy Holman’s compassion and professionalism, the male was able to receive the help he needed.

PROFESSIONAL & TRUSTED AWARD
Real Time Crime Center Intelligence Analyst Angela Voss
On July 25, 2024, Real Time Crime Center Intelligence Analyst Angela Voss assisted Officer Brooks of the Webster Police Department with an investigation. Officer Brooks requested help with facial recognition for an individual involved in a pursuit. Analyst Voss worked on the photo and promptly communicated the results to Officer Brooks. Thanks to her quick assistance, Officer Brooks was able to confirm that the individual in the photo was the same male who had fled from him earlier. It was later found that this male was also wanted for murder in Harris County and was linked to a robbery case in which a victim had been shot. Officer Brooks stated that they would still be trying to identify this individual if it weren’t for Analyst Voss’s timely efforts. Her actions embody the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office’s core values of professionalism and trust.

UNIT CITATION
Open Records Unit
Supervisor Whitney Walton
Records Specialist Kelly Abdelbaky
Records Specialist Shauntell Bryant
Records Specialist Taylor Hunt
Records Specialist Lacey Lehmann
Records Specialist Eric Paige
Over the past seven months, the Open Records Unit of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has been working diligently on the development of the Records Request Processing Software, GovQA. Throughout this project, the team maintained a focus on creating a top-notch product to better serve the public and conserve MCSO resources. This commitment required considerable time and effort by the entire unit. The materials managed during this project included detailed reports, audio and video recordings, and sensitive agency data, all meticulously reviewed to ensure compliance with the Public Information Act. Despite these challenges, the team met all deadlines and was approved by the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Their efforts have modernized the processing of public information requests and subpoenas, enhancing service efficiency and fostering greater transparency and trust within the Montgomery County community.

UNIT CITATION
Auto Theft Task Force
Sergeant Kelley Smith
Detective Logan Peck
Detective Gary Sharpen
Detective Kyle Stone
Detective Kristy Veith
Detective Glenn Welter
Deputy-Specialist Josh Averitt
Deputy-Specialist Clint Curry
Deputy-Specialist Travis Lawson
Deputy-Specialist Samuel Smith
In the past year, the Auto Theft Task Force recovered over $17.4 million in vehicles and parts, including $204,000 from Mexico, and $1.68 million in equipment. They charged 210 individuals with vehicle and equipment theft and conducted 17 bait operations, along with handling 456 agency assists. The Task Force also completed 1,166 mandated 68A vehicle inspections. In July 2024, the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority awarded the Montgomery County Auto Theft Task Force a Tier 1 rating, recognizing it among the top 24 statewide task forces, despite having three to four times fewer personnel than larger agencies like Harris County Sheriff’s Office and the Houston Police Department.

LIFESAVING AWARD
Detention Officer Adam Bolton
On November 9, 2023, Detention Officer Adam Bolton requested medical assistance to a cell block where he was working. Upon arrival, other officers observed DO Bolton attending to an inmate on the floor, bleeding heavily. Bolton requested a tourniquet to stop the bleeding of a large puncture wound on the inmate’s left forearm. While Bolton applied the tourniquet, the inmate resisted and expressed a desire to die. Bolton helped to stabilize the inmate, who was transported to the infirmary, where EMS continued care. Thanks to Detention Officer Bolton’s quick action, the inmate’s life was saved. 

LIFESAVING AWARD
Deputy-Specialist Jeff Lackey Jr.
On July 28, 2024, Crisis Intervention Team Deputy-Specialist Jeff Lackey Jr. responded to a welfare check at a Magnolia address after a son expressed concern for his mother who had made suicidal statements. Upon arrival, Lackey received no response at the door but saw a woman lying unresponsive inside. He found an unlocked door, entered, and discovered her in a lethargic state with labored breathing. He placed her in the recovery position and monitored her condition until EMS arrived. EMS transported her to a local hospital where she was able to get the care she needed. 
On August 14, 2024, Specialist Lackey conducted a follow-up visit and found the female in good health. Afterward, she called the MCSO Dispatch Center to commend Lackey’s response during her crisis and his compassionate follow-up. She shared that she had been deeply depressed and had taken medication until she passed out. She believes that if Lackey hadn’t found her, she would be dead. She told his supervisor, “He saved my life. His visit shows what a good cop he is.” 

LIFESAVING AWARD
Detention Officer Caleb Bjork
Detention Officer Ethan Casey
Detention Officer Lane Lumpkin
Detention Officer Cody Risner
Detention Officer Brian Stewart
Detention Officer Brandon Warren
On August 28, 2024, Detention Officer Stewart completed a security round in the jail unit where he was assigned. Six minutes later, while escorting a trustee, he spotted an inmate attempting suicide in his cell. DO Stewart immediately radioed for a medical emergency and assistance. Other officers quickly arrived and began working to save the inmate. Detention Officers Stewart, Casey, Lumpkin, Risner, Bjork, and Warren initiated lifesaving measures immediately. The inmate was taken to the hospital and later made a full recovery. The quick actions of these officers and the ability to remain calm under pressure saved his life.

LIFESAVING AWARD
Detention Officer John Glover
Detention Officer Lana Lumpkin
Detention Officer Diego Ramirez
On July 16, 2024, detention officers received an urgent call for medical assistance due to an inmate choking. Detention Officers Lumpkin and Ramirez were the first to respond and immediately initiated the Heimlich Maneuver. Despite Detention Officer Lumpkin’s determination, her petite stature made it difficult to clear the inmate’s airway; given his six-foot height and 190-pound frame. Detention Officer Ramirez stepped in, employing the same technique, but was also unable to dislodge the obstruction. It was Detention Officer Glover who ultimately succeeded in clearing the inmate’s airway saving the man’s life.

Source: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

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