In a heartfelt ceremony at Fountain Life Center on Main Street, James “Smokie” Phillips, a Houston native with 37 years of law enforcement experience in Harris County, took the oath of office as County Constable for Precinct 7. Phillips succeeds May Walker, who had held the position since 2005, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both him and the community he serves.

The swearing-in ceremony, attended by over 200 enthusiastic supporters, was filled with pride and excitement as the crowd celebrated this monumental moment in Phillips' career. "This is a lifetime dream come true," Phillips said, reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings in Acres Homes to a distinguished law enforcement career. "I was born here, I played in the high school band, and I've been committed to serving this community ever since."

Phillips' dedication to public service started early when he became a reserve deputy in 1981 under Constable A.B. Chambers. His path eventually led him to graduate from the University of Houston Police Academy, and since then, he has served Harris County law enforcement with distinction. As Phillips reflected on his decades-long career, it was clear that his deep-rooted commitment to his community and its safety was unwavering.

A Vision for the Future

As Constable of Precinct 7, Phillips is focused on making tangible improvements that directly benefit the residents of Houston and the surrounding areas. One of his main priorities is to work closely with deputies to mentor youth and help them stay on the right path by encouraging school attendance, maintaining clean criminal records, and securing employment opportunities. "We want to work with young people, not just as law enforcement, but as mentors," Phillips said, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement in the community.

Another immediate focus for Phillips is enhancing safety around neighborhood corner stores, ensuring that senior citizens feel secure when they shop without the fear of criminal activity such as harassment, gambling, or drinking. "Every citizen, regardless of age, deserves to feel safe in their own community," Phillips remarked.

 Burt Levine, Smokie Philips, and Sandra Levine

Reflections from Community Leaders

Texas State Senator Boris Miles, who has known Phillips for many years, shared a memorable story from his youth. As a 14-year-old riding his bicycle in Sunnyside, he knocked on Phillips' door after admiring a home in the neighborhood. Phillips took the time to speak with him about the importance of law enforcement and encouraged him to pursue his dreams, an interaction that Miles said inspired him to later become a police officer.

Harris County Pct. 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis also shared stories of Phillips' commitment to public safety. In the 1980s, during Jesse Jackson's campaign for U.S. President, Phillips provided security when the Houston Police Department did not. His selfless service also extended to providing security at parks for El Franco Lee, Ellis’ predecessor.

Houston Mayor Pro-Tem Martha Castex Tatum emphasized Phillips' profound connection to the community. "Smokie is from here. He knows our neighborhoods and communities. He loves us, and we love him," she said, underscoring his integral role in the fabric of local public safety.

A Historic Moment

As the ceremony drew to a close, Phillips was sworn in by Justices of the Peace Judges Sharon Burney and Wanda Adams. The room erupted in applause, a fitting conclusion to a day that marked not only the beginning of his tenure as Constable, but the continuation of a lifetime dedicated to the service of his fellow Houstonians.

Houston Style Magazine readers, with a proven track record and a vision to improve the safety and well-being of all residents, Constable Smokie Phillips is poised to lead Precinct 7 into a new era of community-focused law enforcement. His unwavering dedication to his hometown, his passion for mentoring youth, and his hands-on approach to neighborhood safety are just a few reasons why this new chapter is filled with promise for the future.

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