Downtown Houston Courthouse Shooting: Suspect Parnell Bland Charged, Deputy Sheila Jones Praised for Heroism

Suspect Identified and Charged

• 34-year-old Parnell Tmaine Bland has been charged with aggravated assault against a public servant and unlawful carrying of a weapon.
• Bland allegedly shot Deputy Constable Sheila Jones outside Houston's Family Law Center.
• Court records indicate Bland had recently posted bond for a criminal trespass charge.

Deputy Constable Sheila Jones's Actions

• Deputy Jones was guarding the law library when she responded to a call about a man with a gun.
• A shootout ensued, and Jones was hit while wearing a bulletproof vest.
• Officials praised Jones for her heroic actions, stating she prevented a potentially catastrophic mass casualty event.
• Jones, a decorated Army veteran, has a long history with law enforcement, starting with the Harris County Sheriff's Office in 1989.

Current Status and Recovery

• Both Parnell Bland and Deputy Constable Sheila Jones are recovering at Memorial Herman in the medical center.
• Deputy Jones is reported to be in good spirits and good shape, receiving excellent medical care.
• Harris County District Attorney Shawn Tierney commended Jones for her bravery in stopping the armed suspect.