HCSO Locative GPS Technology Program - A Way Into the Future

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) proposes to implement the Kevin and Avonte Program for individuals who tend to wander. HCSO is requesting $149,907 over a three-year period to purchase locative technology to facilitate the expeditious rescue of missing individuals with forms of dementia or developmental disabilities. Project activities include selection and purchase of GPS-related equipment, training HCSO deputies on use of the GPS devices, enrolling clients in the program and issuing transmitters to these clients, and raising visibility of the program through community outreach.

The expected outcome of this project is the quick and safe rescue of wandering individuals in unincorporated Harris County. This project will save lives. In calendar year 2022, HCSO responded to 363 calls for service in the unincorporated areas of Harris County in which a search and rescue operation for an individual with dementia or a developmental disability was required. Providing GPS devices to these individuals and training law enforcement officers on use of the technology will facilitate the safe return of wanderers to their families.