Honorary Officer DJ Daniel Meets Jasper and Newton County Sheriffs at State Conference

From left to right: Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard, honorary peace officer DJ Daniel, and Newton County Sheriff Colton Havard at the Texas Sheriff’s Conference in Fort Worth. Photo courtesy of JCSO.

A special meeting took place today at the Texas Sheriff’s Conference in Fort Worth, where two East Texas sheriffs met a young man whose mission has touched law enforcement agencies across the nation.

Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard and his son, Newton County Sheriff Colton Havard, had the honor of meeting DJ Daniel — a brave and inspiring young boy battling brain cancer with unwavering strength. DJ has become a national symbol of hope, resilience, and unity, earning recognition from over 2,800 law enforcement agencies as an honorary peace officer.

Today’s meeting was filled with laughter, heart, and shared purpose. As DJ stood between the Havards, he looked up at the father-and-son duo and said with a smile, “Y’all look alike!” — a moment that brought joy and light to everyone nearby.

Soon, DJ will be officially sworn in by both Jasper and Newton Counties, continuing his incredible journey of spreading encouragement to first responders across the country.

“Thank you, DJ, for reminding us what courage truly looks like,” Sheriff Chuck Havard said following the meeting. “It was an absolute honor to meet such a determined and selfless young man.”