Case suspended by HPD? Here’s one expert’s advice for any impacted victims

In Houston, Texas, the Houston Police Department has suspended more than 260,000 cases over the past eight years due to a “lack of personnel,” constituting 10% of the department’s caseload during that period.

Amy Smith, representing the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council, emphasized the impact of such statistics on victims of crimes like domestic violence or sexual assault.

“For victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, it’s incredibly challenging to muster the courage to reach out to the police,” Smith stated. “Discovering that their cases were closed due to staffing shortages is deeply disheartening.”

HPD Chief Troy Finner announced that over 4,000 adult sexual assault cases will undergo review after being suspended due to personnel shortages.

For individuals whose cases are currently suspended by HPD, Smith stressed the importance of persistence.

“Keep calling. Advocate for yourself,” she advised. “You deserve justice for what you’ve endured.”

Smith recommended contacting the police to inquire about the status of the case, offering any additional information that could aid in reopening the investigation, or requesting to speak with the investigator or their supervisor.

She also encouraged reaching out to advocacy groups such as the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council for assistance in advocating for their case.

Regarding the city’s response to this issue, sought comments from the Houston Police Department and the mayor’s office but did not receive any responses on Tuesday.

HPD has announced plans for a news conference to address these statistics later in the week, although specific details have not yet been provided.