In just six weeks, four current and former Harris County Sheriff’s deputies have died by suicide—an alarming pattern that’s sparking tough conversations about mental health in law enforcement.
The reality? Policing is a job that changes you.
Every day, officers face intense pressure, make high-stakes decisions, and endure trauma that doesn’t just disappear when the shift ends.
“This profession takes a toll on people,” says Dr. Thomas McNeese, head of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Behavioral Health Division.
“The longer you’re in it, the more it changes you.”
What Happened?
Among those lost is 37-year-old Deputy Christina Kohler, who was reported missing before being found dead.
Days later, former deputy Maria Vasquez also took her own life. Two more ex-officers followed.
“One is too many,” says Jose Lopez, president of the Harris County Deputies’ Organization. “Four? It’s devastating.”
Law enforcement suicides aren’t new—but they remain difficult to talk about.
Many officers feel pressure to “tough it out,” fearing stigma or job repercussions.
But as McNeese points out, help is available. “Reaching out is critical,” he says.
The question now isn’t whether this crisis exists. It’s whether departments—and society—are ready to face it head-on.
