4 Suicides in 6 Weeks: Are We Failing Our Officers?

Can your agency’s wellness program actually save a life?

In just six weeks, four current and former deputies from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Tx have died by suicide. These back-to-back losses have sparked serious concern about the effectiveness of mental health support available to law enforcement officers.

What Happened

Confirmed Deaths:

Deputy Christina Kohler – A veteran deputy reported missing and found on March 13. Her death was ruled a suicide.
Former Deputy Maria Vasquez – Left the department in December. Died by apparent suicide three days after Kohler was found.
Former Deputy William Bozeman – Died under circumstances similar to Kohler and Vasquez.
Former Deputy Long Nguyen – Died by suicide on February 6.

Why This Matters

Law enforcement continues to face one of the highest suicide rates of any profession.
These are not isolated events. They point to an urgent mental health crisis within the profession.
Existing support programs may not be reaching officers when it matters most.

What’s Being Done

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Behavioral Health Division was created in 2020 to provide resources and peer support.
The Harris County Deputies' Organization (FOP #39) is actively helping officers process the grief.
Despite these efforts, there is growing concern about whether these resources are enough—or accessible when officers truly need them.

Key Takeaways for Officers

Check on your fellow officers regularly. A simple conversation might make a difference.
Don’t wait for a crisis. Seek support early, whether through your agency, a trusted peer, or a private counselor.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7:
- Call or text 988
- Or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)