Support for Deputy Harold Howell's Recovery

Update 2/17/2025

Harold’s most recent doctors appointment went well. The doctor is happy with his healing. He provided us with his surgery report and photos from the surgery as we are keeping an album of his healing journey for the state attorney, should they need it. The plates, cadaver bone, and bone grafts have not moved and are right where they need to be. There is new bone growth, per the x ray, just not where Harold and I want it to see it. However, the doctor is happy with it and says bone just decides to grow where it wants. It basically does what it wants. Good sign is it’s on one of the plates so we are happy to see his body agree (for now) with the plates the doctor decided to use. Hopefully we continue to see that bone growth and progress in the next few months. I so badly want to see it in the missing area of his ulna, but it’s just not there yet.

Update 8/10/24

Harold was released from the hospital on August 6th and is recovering at home. The family thanks the LCSO family, friends, and community for the outpouring of support, prayers, and words of encouragement. Below is a statement released to the public from Harold: 

“Hello all- it is bittersweet to finally be home after this event. I would like to thank my Lake County Sheriffs Office family for their unending love and support. To everyone in Lake County, as well as state and even nationwide- I have seen and heard your prayers, love, and support. I want to thank each and every one of you. Please continue to support the family and friends of Deputies Link and Gargano through this most difficult time. Stay safe and take care of each other. God bless you all. Harold K-9 1525”

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On Friday, August 2nd, K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell was shot in the line of duty along with two other deputies. One was critically injured and the other deputy has tragically passed away.

Please keep all deputies and their families in your hearts- pray for healing, their medical teams, our entire family, both law enforcement and blood. Harold’s fiancé is a Lieutenant with the Tavares Police department and has been by his side throughout the night and will remain by his side during recovery. They could use any and all help provided to them, as this will be a long road to recovery.

This is the official GoFundMe to help aid in Harold’s recovery. We truly appreciate the love and outpouring of support we have received throughout the county. Thank you in advance for considering to help. We truly appreciate you all.

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Edited at the request of Gofundme: 

Harold has been one of my closest friends for many years. This go fund me has been set up by me on his behalf and he is the beneficiary of all funds raised.