Jasper County backs public safety with new deputies, staff pay raises

Photo Courtesy of JCSO

JASPER COUNTY, Texas — The Jasper County Commissioners Court has approved three new deputy positions and across-the-board pay raises for sheriff’s office employees, a move Sheriff Chuck Havard called “unprecedented” and a major step forward in public safety.

The decision marks the largest number of deputies ever added at one time in county history. One position will be funded immediately through the prisoner reimbursement fund, before transitioning into the county’s general fund over the next four years. The other two deputies will be fully funded through the general fund beginning Jan. 1, 2026.

Havard said the department anticipates filling the positions with cadets currently enrolled in the Police Academy in Jasper. “We have identified the cadets that we believe will do an excellent job for our agency and the citizens of Jasper County,” he said.

In addition to new deputies, commissioners approved pay raises for all sheriff’s office staff. Deputies, jailers, and dispatchers will see a $1-per-hour increase, while the chief deputy and major — who do not qualify for overtime or comp time — will receive a $2-per-hour raise. Certificate pay for deputies, jailers, and dispatchers will also jump from $150 to $275 per month.

The court also authorized the reassignment of Administrative Assistant Debbie Berry, a county employee who currently supports the Texas Department of Public Safety. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, Berry will be assigned to the sheriff’s office in Buna while continuing to assist DPS as needed. Havard said the reassignment will allow deputies to spend more time in neighborhoods, businesses, and schools.

Why it matters

For years, Jasper County has relied on just two patrol deputies per shift — one covering the north end of the county and one covering the south. With more deputies on the streets, officials say residents can expect faster response times, more visible patrols in neighborhoods, and stronger backup for deputies in dangerous situations. Havard said the additional staff will help “push back against thieves and drug dealers” while giving law enforcement a stronger presence across the county.

Havard praised the court’s action, saying it will improve response times, increase visibility, and strengthen officer safety. “Their commitment to public safety is unmatched,” he said. “This action will significantly increase our visibility and consistently provide more professional law enforcement coverage than anytime before.”

Since taking office in January, Havard said his department has made “many good, solid criminal cases,” arrested hundreds of suspects, and increased patrol visibility. While acknowledging the agency is “far from perfect,” he said the progress reflects the dedication of deputies and staff.

“It is an honor of a lifetime to represent the people of Jasper County as their sheriff,” Havard said. “We will continue to work hard and do the very best we can to protect our citizens and their families.”