LJ being sworn in by Police Chief Brad Mock. {City of Coral Springs}
The Coral Springs community came together in a heartfelt show of support for 6-year-old LJ Howells, affectionately known as “Officer LJ,” as he prepares to travel to Boston later this month for a critical brain surgery.
LJ, who has battled multiple brain aneurysms and serious neurological complications since he was a toddler, has two great loves — police officers and lawn care. To honor his courage and bright spirit, the Coral Springs Police Department, along with the city’s Public Works and Parks and Recreation departments, hosted a special swearing-in ceremony naming him an honorary police officer.
Surrounded by flashing lights, patrol cars, lawn equipment displays, and a caravan of support vehicles, LJ stood proudly as Coral Springs Police Chief Brad Mock administered his oath.
City staff, first responders, and cheering neighbors lined the streets, waving signs and applauding as LJ was escorted through the city in a surprise parade. Lawn care crews joined alongside police units in a tribute tailored just for him.
LJ’s story has deeply touched residents, many of whom followed his journey after his family shared on Coral Springs Talk that he would require life-saving brain surgery in Boston. His honorary title as “Officer LJ” has become a symbol of the strength, bravery and optimism he displays each day.
“At the end of the day, we wanted him to know that we support him as he supports us,” Mock said. “He’s got a surgery coming up at the end of the month, and we want him to go up there knowing he’s got all of this behind him, fully supporting him and wishing for nothing but the best.”
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