Recently, I entered the Cellular Sales at Verizon store in Arnold Station to purchase a few accessories.
In a matter of minutes, an unhappy customer became hostile and threatening, shouting demands at the store employee, Mr. Donald Howard, while moving closer to him physically and becoming more enraged.
I quietly exited the store and called our county police for assistance, while the only other customer inside did the same.
In my brief time witnessing the situation, Mr. Howard's calm and steady demeanor prevented the situation from escalating, despite his clear concern for his own safety.
The angry customer left on his own before police arrived. I remained to make sure Mr. Howard was OK and when he expressed concern over the safety of closing the store later that evening, I suggested he share that with our officers and ask if they could come back at closing.
Not only did the officers come back once, but they came back twice, and made sure Mr. Howard and his colleague made it safely to their car.
Today, I had the honor to present this brave member of our community with a citation to recognize his actions.
Thank you Mr. Howard and the Anne Arundel County Police Department.
