Cpl. LaShawn Handy honored for work with local young people

During a recent council meeting, Laurel Chief of Police Rob Kracyla took the floor to honor Cpl. LaShawn Handy with a promotion and to recognize his dedication to community and youth development. The Mayor and Council looked on as Corporal Handy was formally presented with a certificate of promotion to the rank of Corporal, effective June 9, marking his service anniversary.

“Corporal Handy has achieved the necessary requirements and is hereby presented the rank of Corporal with all the disciplines,” the chief read aloud, acknowledging Handy’s professional growth and exemplary service. Kracyla said the honors do not recognize rank alone.

Cpl. LaShawn Handy, right, is recognized during a recent Laurel Council meeting. Also shown are Police Chief Rob Kracyla and Mayor Carlos Oliveras.

The chief shared heartfelt remarks about Handy’s profound impact on the community, particularly within the school system. “Corporal Handy has worked extremely hard in the schools,” he said. “He is highly responsible for the reduction in youth violence,” a reference to juvenile incidents or broader community issues. He also cited a notable decline in major incidents in town, attributing much of that progress to Handy’s work.

Described as the embodiment of community service, he said Handy serves year-round in the school system, going beyond the traditional nine-month schedule. “The schools felt so strongly about his work that they wanted him there 12 months a year,” Kracyla said.

Now a new father, Handy is also seen as a positive role model and trusted adult among students. “There’s not a kid in that school that doesn’t know him or won’t talk to him. He’s very relatable,” the chief added. “LaShawn’s dedication extends beyond the workday; he keeps in touch with students after hours and remains engaged in their lives.”

Handy was previously named the “National School Resource Officer of the Year,” a title that speaks volumes about his character and reputation. “He’s not just a Delaware honoree or regional standout—he was on the cover of the national magazine,” Kracyla said.

Following the chief’s remarks, Handy expressed his appreciation. “First of all, I want to thank Chief for looking out for me,” he said. “When I came here, it was under a little situation. He kind of helped me get back on my feet. I wouldn’t be here without him.”

Handy also thanked the town leadership and the school board members. He spoke passionately about his work with local youth, describing a program he created to help keep kids occupied and supported after school. “It was all about building our kids up,” he said. “A lot of them said they had nothing to do when school got out.”

Through this initiative, students who participate receive $125 a week. “Not only are we getting them off the streets for a little bit, but we’re putting money in their pockets so they don’t feel like they have to turn to the streets,” Handy explained.

With a vision that stretches beyond Laurel, Handy hopes the program will expand. “Hopefully this thing will start in Laurel and spread to Seaford, Delmar, and then we can get it to all of Sussex County,” he said. “It is working.”

Handy’s closing remarks were met with a standing ovation in the council chambers.