Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler, who has served as Sheriff since his election in November 2010, is retiring after a distinguished law enforcement career spanning more than 50 years. Sheriff Cutler’s tenure in Hays County followed an extensive career with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, and Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
A native of Hutchins, Texas, Sheriff Cutler earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University in 1973. He began his law enforcement journey in 1974 at the Travis County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO), where he worked in various capacities, including jailer, patrol officer, fugitive warrant/mental health deputy, and criminal investigations detective. Rising to the rank of Captain, he oversaw divisions such as narcotics, crime scene investigations, SWAT, victim assistance, and criminal investigations before retiring from TCSO in December 2000.
In 2001, Sheriff Cutler joined the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as a sergeant and later as a lieutenant in the Major Crimes Division, managing crime scene investigations and victim assistance programs. He continued his career as an investigator with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission from 2004 until his election as Hays County Sheriff. Under his leadership, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office expanded to employ approximately 500 civilian and commissioned staff.
Joining Sheriff Cutler in retirement is Chief Mike Davenport, who has served Hays County for over 30 years. Chief Davenport began his career in the jail and worked his way up to Chief of the Sheriff’s Office, dedicating his entire law enforcement career to the community.
The retirement of Sheriff Cutler and Chief Davenport marks the end of an era for the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and leadership.
