Constable Ted Heap Passes the Torch to Newly Elected Constable Terry Allbritton
In a ceremonial transition, outgoing Harris County Precinct 5 Constable Ted Heap officially passed the torch to newly elected Constable Terry Allbritton on January 2, marking the start of a new chapter for the precinct. The event, held in Katy, celebrated Constable Heap's transformative 40-year career in law enforcement and welcomed Constable Allbritton's leadership.
Constable Allbritton, who was elected in November 2024, took the oath of office from State Representative Mike Schofield, with his family proudly witnessing the occasion. Following his swearing-in, Constable Allbritton administered an oath to the Precinct 5 deputies in attendance, underscoring the continuity of service and commitment to the community.
"As your new constable, I consider myself blessed to lead an agency that is full of amazing men and women," said Constable Allbritton. "Our sworn and civilian personnel are among the best that can be found anywhere. I am truly humbled and honored to lead such an amazing group of people."
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A Veteran Leader with a Vision
Constable Allbritton brings extensive experience to his new role. His career in public service began at 18, serving four years in the U.S. Air Force, including deployments in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He joined the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office in 1993, steadily rising through the ranks. For the past eight years, he served in a command staff position under Constable Heap in what is now the second-largest constable's office in the nation.
"My years of experience, combined with a commitment to leadership and professional development, have prepared me for this role," Allbritton said. "I aim to continue addressing issues like violent crime and ensuring our deputies have the resources they need to serve effectively."
Community Engagement and Future Goals
Constable Allbritton emphasized the importance of community partnerships in tackling public safety challenges. He plans to work closely with neighborhood groups, civic organizations, and other agencies to maintain open communication and improve policing methods.
Harris County Precinct 5 Constable Terry Allbritton, far right, being sworn in by State Representative Mike Schofield. (Source: HCCP5)"Constables are community policing specialists, and we must use those relationships to fight violent crime," Allbritton said. "I will continue to provide services to victims, listen to concerns, and embrace new technologies to enhance community safety."
Reflecting on Ted Heap’s Legacy
Constable Ted Heap’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable era for Precinct 5. His career, which began in 1984 with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, culminated in his tenure as constable starting in 2017. Under his leadership, the department expanded its ranks, enhanced training programs, and introduced specialized units to better serve the precinct's growing population of over one million residents.
"I cannot express what it has meant to me to serve the community in which I was raised," Heap said in a statement announcing his retirement. "The relationships I have forged within our community are irreplaceable."
Heap’s humanitarian contributions, including coaching the Katy Wolfpack Special Olympics team and serving as a regional chairman for the Williams Syndrome Association, highlight his dedication to service beyond law enforcement.
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Looking Ahead
Constable Allbritton assumes leadership with a commitment to uphold the values established by his predecessor while addressing the evolving needs of Precinct 5. His focus on reducing violent crime, improving resources for deputies, and fostering community collaboration sets a strong foundation for the future.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
