Since taking over as Precinct 4 constable in May, Mark Herman has promoted administrative staff, implemented new mobility initiatives and cracked down on human trafficking and Internet crimes.

Herman was unanimously appointed to the position May 19 at a Commissioners Court meeting a week after former Constable Ron Hickman was appointed sheriff. The new constable said he has been pleased with the progress made since he took on the new role.

“I had big shoes to fill, but I’ve figured out the administrative side of the business,” Herman said. “I’ve been doing the line work on the streets for years, so it all fits like a glove to me.”

Hickman took six command staff employees with him, which Herman filled internally with the promotion of six other officers.Emphasizing public safety and mobility, Herman said the constable’s office is addressing traffic by directing traffic, fixing flashing red lights and removing panhandlers from county streets.

The constable’s office has also continued its efforts to attack human trafficking and Internet crimes, Herman said. In late 2015, the constable’s office helped get a human trafficking victim back home to her family in Alaska and also made eight arrests as a result of a child pornography sting operation.

Herman said the constable’s office will be increasing its patrol personnel and putting more deputies on the streets thanks to the 12 additional officer positions approved by the court in late last year.