Harold Howell

Master Deputy  |  LCSO

Aug. 2, 2024 changed nearly everything for Master Deputy Harold Howell — except his commitment to serving Lake County.

Howell, who has been with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office since 2005, was injured in the same ambush that killed Master Deputy Bradley Link. The physical recovery has included multiple surgeries, titanium plates, bone grafts and months of restrictions, but Howell says none of that compares to losing his friend.

“I could complain, but I would go through it twenty more times just to see Brad again,” Howell says.

Howell was selected as a canine handler in 2011, a role he says remains one of the proudest accomplishments of his career. He describes the work as demanding, unpredictable and deeply rewarding.

Since the ambush, his perspective has shifted. Things that once seemed important now feel trivial and he has become more diligent about doing the things he once put off.

What stays with him most is Bradley Link.

“Brad was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met, and he cared for the citizens of Lake County,” Howell says.

Howell prides himself in bringing hard-earned life experience to every call. He says that protecting and serving means being fair and showing compassion.

The values Howell holds dear have taken on even greater meaning after surviving the darkest day of his career.