Harris Co. deputy to serve with turban and beard

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Sikh-American Harris County Sheriff's Office deputy will now be able to wear articles of his religion while on duty.

Sheriff Adrian Garcia announced on Monday that six-year HCSO veteran Sandeep Dhaliwal will be allowed to wear a dastaar and beard when in full uniform. Both are articles of faith of the Sikh religion.

"We'll soon be turning a new chapter in the history of the Harris County Sheriff's Office," announced Sheriff Garcia in a press release. "One of our very own HCSO family members will be adding a new dimension to his uniform. He'll be allowed to wear his turban."

Sikhs do not cut their hair, and Sikh men and women cover their head with turbans. These articles of faith represent a Sikh's commitment to equality, service and justice.

A formal announcement will come at a press conference later this week.