SRPD Officer Riley Howard Named Exchange Club of Sonoma County's "2025 Officer of the Year"

The Santa Rosa Police Department is proud to announce that Officer Riley Howard has been named the 2025 Exchange Club of Sonoma County Officer of the Year. This prestigious award, presented by Ray Carlson, recognizes Officer Howard’s outstanding contributions to traffic safety and enforcement in Santa Rosa.  

Officer Howard served on SRPD’s Accident Investigation Team from 2020 to 2025, leading nine major injury and fatal collision investigations that resulted in successful prosecutions. His commitment to DUI enforcement led to over 350 arrests, including 140 in 2023 alone, earning him MADD’s “Top Cop” award. 

Officer Howard also played a pivotal role in reducing sideshow activity through enforcement, education, and vehicle impoundment efforts. Officer Howard took the lead to conduct enforcement operations and follow-up investigations to almost eradicate sideshow activity completely on our city streets. Officer Howard trained SRPD officers to conduct sideshow traffic enforcement and has done multiple presentations in English and Spanish for the community, regarding the dangers of sideshows. 

Also present to recognize Officer Howard’s efforts were Mayor Mark Stapp, and representatives from Senator Mike McGuire and Congressman Mike Thompson’s offices. Mayor Stapp presented Officer Howard with a City of Santa Rosa Proclamation; Senator McGuire’s office presented him with a Certificate of Recognition; and Congressman Thompson’s office presented him with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, all recognizing his exemplary service. These honors reflect the deep appreciation our community holds for Officer Howard’s tireless work to keep our streets safe. 

The Santa Rosa Police Department extends our gratitude to the Exchange Club for honoring Officer Howard’s dedication and impact. We also thank the dignitaries who joined in honoring Officer Riley Howard. Officer Howard’s dedication to traffic safety, DUI enforcement, and sideshow prevention has made a lasting impact, and we are proud to celebrate his achievements and continued commitment to public safety. 

Media inquiries can be made to Sgt. Patricia Seffens, Public Information Officer, at 707-543-3634 or pseffens@srcity.org.