Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Appoints Mike Giddens as New Chief of Police
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2025
Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Appoints Mike Giddens as New Chief of Police
Swearing-In Ceremony Scheduled for Friday, October 17, at 1:00 PM
HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, FL – The Howey-in-the-Hills Town Council, at its regular meeting on October 13, 2025, unanimously confirmed the appointment of Interim Police Chief Mike Giddens as the Town’s next permanent Chief of Police. A swearing-in ceremony will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Town Hall (101 N. Palm Ave.). Members of the public are invited to attend.
Chief Giddens brings with him over three decades of distinguished service in law enforcement, with a career that spans local, state, and federal partnerships. He previously served with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, where he led major investigations and supervised specialized task forces in public integrity, economic crime, and dignitary protection. Most recently, he has served as the Town’s Road Patrol Lieutenant and Interim Chief of Police.
“Chief Giddens has consistently demonstrated the kind of judgment, operational leadership, and ethical standards that strengthen a department,” said Town Manager Sean O’Keefe. “Chief Giddens has earned the trust of this administration, our officers, and the community through demonstrated leadership and a strong moral compass.”
The position was advertised publicly and statewide, and a panel of Lake County law enforcement leaders conducted structured interviews, culminating in a recommendation of Giddens to the Town Manager. Their unanimous support was based on a comprehensive assessment of experience, leadership, and alignment with the Town’s public safety values.
“Mike Giddens has the full confidence of this Council,” said Mayor Graham Wells. “His qualifications are exceptional, and his dedication to public service is evident. We look forward to his continued leadership in advancing the department and serving the community with integrity.”
Chief Giddens holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and a Certificate in Police Leadership from the University of Central Florida. His background includes significant field and supervisory experience in multi-agency coordination, officer training, and high-liability incident management. He is also an active FBI-cleared case agent with specialized training from the DEA and FDLE.
Residents are encouraged to attend Friday’s ceremony and welcome Chief Giddens as he officially assumes his new role. For more information, contact Town Hall at (352) 324-2290 or visit www.howey.org.
