Drug charges filed on Harris County Sheriff's Office deputy

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Harris County sheriff's deputy is suspended indefinitely and facing charges after allegedly stealing narcotics from drug dealers, then turning around and selling them.

Deputy Christopher Ellis, 34, is charged with two counts of felony possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver. Investigators say he was arrested Monday night near Beltway 8 and Highway 249 after selling cocaine, marijuana, Loricet tablets and Soma tablets to an undercover officer for $1,000.

"Anybody would do anything for some money, " said Ashley Williams of northwest Harris County.

The investigation started after information was received that Ellis was stealing narcotics from drug dealers while on duty, then selling them for profit.

Ellis, who was been with the Harris County Sheriff's Office since 2010, was suspended pending the review of his employment status. He's currently in the Harris County jail. Bond has been set at $120,000.

"You got good and bad in everything," said Alvin Harris of northwest Harris County.

Ellis is scheduled to make his first court appearance Wednesday. The investigation remains ongoing.

If convicted, Ellis could be sentenced to life or 99 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

"We trust them to protect us and when they're out doing things to hurt us, how can we trust them?" Atascocita resident Derrick Grady asked.

The DA's office is asking for anyone who has information on Ellis to contact the Harris County Sheriff's Office internal affairs office at 713-755-6517.

The investigation is ongoing.

Reporter Jessica Willey is following this story. Watch for her report coming up on Eyewitness News.