On the fifth anniversary of the Harding Street raid, the families of the murdered couple continue to seek justice, but they still have no answers

In Houston, Texas, the events of January 29, 2019, remain vivid for many, feeling like both yesterday and ages ago, depending on the perspective. Jo Ann Nicholas, still mourning the loss of her daughter Rogena, reflects on the passage of time. At 89 years old, she misses her daughter every day.

Ryan Tuttle, the son of Dennis Tuttle, shares a similar sentiment, recalling the news of the Harding Street incident. Despite reaching out to his father, Dennis never answered. That afternoon, a Houston Police narcotics team, led by Gerald Goines, conducted a no-knock warrant at Dennis and Rhogena’s residence, resulting in tragedy.

Gunfire erupted during the raid, leaving Rhogena, Dennis, and their dog dead, with several officers injured, including Goines. The warrant, later found to be based on false information, alleged the couple were heroin dealers, a claim vehemently denied by their loved ones.

Nicholas, residing in Natchitoches, Louisiana, knew her daughter was innocent. Dennis Tuttle, a Navy veteran and a disabled individual, was not involved in drug dealing, as attested by his son Ryan.

Following the incident, Goines and his partner faced charges, while other officers were implicated in overtime theft. Despite this, no one has faced trial for murder five years later, leaving families without closure or accountability.

Cliff Tuttle, Dennis’s uncle, emphasizes the lack of answers and accountability from the city of Houston and its officers. The families continue to fight for justice, despite personal losses along the way.

As they await resolution, the toll on the families has been significant, with Jo Ann’s brother, Joh, passing away two years ago, and Dennis Tuttle’s father also succumbing to the grief. Neither witnessed their loved ones’ names cleared.

Cliff and Ryan Tuttle remain committed to vindicating Dennis’s name, while Jo Ann vows to keep fighting for justice as long as she can. On Monday night, both families will share their perspectives on the unresolved Harding Street raid, a tragedy that lingers five years later.