Washington DC – Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal was shot and killed Friday, September 27, 2019, during a routine traffic stop in Harris County, Texas. A 10-year veteran, Dhaliwal joined the Harris County Sheriffs Office (HSCO) in 2008 as a detention officer and became a deputy four years later.
READ: ‘Pioneering’ deputy dies after being shot from behind
In 2015, Dhaliwal made history when the HCSO allowed him to keep his beard and wear a dastaar (Sikh turban) while on patrol — a requirement of his Sikh religion. He became the first HCSO deputy to be allowed to wear a turban and articles of the Sikh faith, while on duty.
READ: Texas sheriff allows Sikh officers to wear beards, turbans on patrol
“Sandeep was a trailblazer for the Sikh American community. He served not just the Sikh community here in Houston with honor and dignity, but all of his community”, said SALDEF South East Regional Director Bobby Singh “He did his job well and was respected by all. We will support his family through these difficult times.”
“We offer our deepest condolences to the Dhaliwal Family on this tremendous loss. This is a tragedy for the Greater Houston Area and the Sikh American community across the country”, said SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill. “Deputy Dhaliwal was a hero to the local community in Houston and an example to all Americans for his dedicated career as a law enforcement officer and his community service efforts out of uniform.”
There is currently no threat in the area, and law enforcement has a suspect in custody. We join with all of you in mourning this loss and ask you to please keep Deputy Dhaliwal and his family in your thoughts and prayers.