This interview was recorded Wednesday, Nov. 17, at the Henderson County Justice Center.
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In this week's Sheriff's Report, Sheriff Botie Hillhouse discusses the evacuation of Eustace because of a gas leak, an animal cruelty case that turned into an aggravated assault, and the American Legion Post 310 Deputy of the Year.
I. Stats (1:40)
There are 423 inmates currently in Henderson County Jail with 106 of those being out-of-county contract inmates.
II. Eustace Gas Leak (2:07)
A natural gas leak in the Purtis Creek area of Van Zandt County last Friday prompted the evacuation of the Eustace area.
Sheriff Hillhouse said the County's emergency management team, led by the County Judge, was activated after being alerted about the gas drifting into Henderson County.
"We dispatched several units out there," said Sheriff Hillhouse. "We had to do an evacuation of the entire City of Eustace and some of the surrounding areas."
The Senior Citizens Building and the Living For The Brand Cowboy Church were opened as shelters. The shelters stayed open through the night with residents allowed to return to their homes in the morning.
There were no injuries reported because of the leak.
"It was a major undertaking," said Sheriff Hillhouse, who praised the communication and teamwork between various departments and agencies.
"It makes me feel good about how well all of our agencies work together here in Henderson County," he said. "That is not the case all across the nation. When we get something major like this, we all come together and we're all in it together trying to do what's best for the citizens."
III. Animal Cruelty/Aggravated Assault (8:28)
Tuesday, Sheriff's deputies responded to a report outside of Athens that someone shot a dog. Later it was reported that someone allegedly pointed a gun at the dog's owner as well.
The dog did not survive.
Deputies conducted interviews and executed a search warrant on a residence in connection with the incident.
One person was arrested on site and charged with aggravated assault for pointing a pistol at the dog owners. Investigation into the animal cruelty case continues.
IV. Deputy of the Year (11:50)
Members of American Legion Post 310 presented their annual First Responders awards this past weekend and recognized Henderson County Deputy Edwin Rodriguez.
"He does an outstanding job here at the Sheriff's Office," said Sheriff Hillhouse.
Deputy Rodriguez is a patrol deputy and also over the Sheriff's Office honor guard.
In a nice addition, the American Legion also recognizes the spouses of their award winners, so there is a Certificate of Appreciation that goes to Jessica Rodriguez for the sacrifices she makes.
"It's not a regular 8 to 5 job. We call them at the drop of a hat and they've got to go," said Sheriff Hillhouse. "I think it is very nice of the American Legion to recognize the spouses of the winners of the awards."
