(Harris County, TX) – October 3, 2025 — Harris County released a report conducted by
RAND, and overseen by the
Office of County Administration’s Justice Innovation Team, following Commissioners Court request to examine racial and ethnic differences observed within the local criminal justice system. The report offers an in-depth analysis of key decision points, from charging and pretrial detention to court outcomes, and presents data-driven recommendations to promote fairness and equity across Harris County.
The study identifies critical areas for improvement and offers a set of actionable recommendations, including enhancing data collection and transparency to provide a clearer view of arrest and charging practices, expanding research on the factors influencing pretrial detention, and reviewing bail practices to ensure they do not unfairly disadvantage those with limited financial resources. The report also calls for efforts to reduce case processing delays, particularly for detained individuals, and for strengthening public defender resources to ensure that everyone receives effective legal representation.
“In the wake of George Floyd’s murder, we committed to tackling the root causes of disparities in our criminal justice system. Unfortunately, RAND’s analysis falls short of what we set out to do and lacks key information about policing practices. But this report still shines a brighter light on an unacceptable reality: Black residents in Harris County are overrepresented in every stage of the criminal legal system – from charging to sentencing. We cannot claim the criminal justice system is fair with glaring disparities like this. We will keep fighting for true safety and justice for all.” stated
Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Harris County Precinct One “This RAND Report shows we must continue working relentlessly to make Harris County safer and more just,” said Commissioner
Lesley Briones, Harris County Precinct Four. “In recent years, Harris County Commissioners Court has initiated a series of historic investments to reduce racial, ethnic, and economic disparities in the criminal justice system, yet much work is still needed. Data and transparency will continue to be key in holding ourselves accountable as we continue working to improve fairness and justice for all.”
“The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents while also treating all communities fairly and with dignity and respect,” said
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
“These steps are essential to addressing the disparities highlighted by the report,” said
Jesse Dickerman, Interim County Administrator. “We are committed to making progress and finding solutions that ensure fairness for everyone.”
To read the
full report click here.
About RAND: RAND is a research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous. RAND is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest. To learn more about RAND, visit
www.rand.org.