Officer Larry Howard is described by his supervisors as quick to handle any call, or back-up any officer that needs it. Officer Howard often answers calls prior to the start of the shift, as he is mindful of the officer’s he is relieving. Officer Howard is a member of the department’s SWAT Team, a firearms instructor, and an OIC.
Officer Howard was nominated for commendations on three separate incidents in 2023. He received a Unit Commendation for a suspect that was arrested, which cleared a burglary on Brookline Boulevard as well as 9 thefts from vehicles in that area. The second incident, where Officer Howard was nominated for a Life Saving Award, not only by this department, but also nominated for and received an FOP Award, it was a radio call for a person down in the pool at a residence on Ellis Road. Officer Howard was one of the first officers on scene and immediately jumped in the pool and pulled the subject to the side of the deck, where other officers were able to pull the victim up and begin CPR, and upon the arrival of medical personnel, and transport to the hospital, the victim did sustain a pulse.
The third incident, which occurred on October 8, 2023, where a radio call was received for a woman in labor in a vehicle behind the Smoothie King on the 1100 block of West Chester Pike. Officer Howard was one of the first arriving officers and did deliver a healthy baby boy. Officer Howard was nominated for a department commendation for that incident, and was also nominated, and received an award by the FOP, which was in conjunction with the drowning victim.
In 2023, Officer Howard ranked first in the following categories:
Officer Howard was described as a “Swiss Army Knife” because of his attributes and value he brings to each shift and to the department.
For his exceptional police work, dedication to duty, leadership and professionalism, Officer Larry Howard is the Haverford Township Police Department’s “Officer of the Year”.