Tioga County Sheriff Gary Howard Honored with Prestigious Grover Cleveland Award

Sheriff Gary Howard of Tioga County was recently named the recipient of the Sheriff Grover Cleveland Award, a prestigious honor presented by the New York State Sheriffs' Institute. The award recognizes outstanding service and dedication within the field of law enforcement. This recognition comes as Sheriff Howard marks his 48th year with the Tioga County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff Howard’s career in law enforcement began after serving in the military as a police officer. He joined the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office as a correction officer before being promoted to road patrol. His diligence and strong work ethic earned him further promotions to Detective and Senior Investigator. In 2003, he was elected Sheriff of Tioga County, and in November, he secured his sixth term in the position.

Reflecting on his time in law enforcement, Sheriff Howard expressed a deep passion for his work.

“Corrections, emergency dispatch, supervisor, criminal investigations—I love the people I work with; I love what I do. I don’t even set my alarm for work; I look forward to Monday morning,” he said.

With over two decades as Sheriff, Howard has faced various challenges, particularly during significant policy changes in recent years. The implementation of bail reform, changes to evidentiary discovery rules, and the Raise the Age legislation all required significant adaptation. However, Sheriff Howard embraced these changes as part of the evolving demands of his role.

“For me, it’s a challenge. That’s how I see it—a challenge to get these new laws in effect and train the deputies. That is my job. I don’t make laws; I make laws work the best I can,” he explained.

The Grover Cleveland Award, named after the former Erie County Sheriff and U.S. President, is awarded to law enforcement professionals who demonstrate the values of integrity, courage, and common sense in their service. Sheriff Howard’s long-standing career and unwavering commitment to public safety exemplify the qualities this award seeks to honor.