By Adam Pagnucco.
Police Chief Marcus Jones, who has served in the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) for decades and has been chief since 2019, has announced his retirement.
This is a big event for the county and I will have more to say about the search for the next chief soon. But first, a word about Chief Jones. He is a steady and professional public servant who deserves the respect of the public. While he has struggled with the same staffing challenges that most local police departments face, he has been honest about them and has tried hard to make progress. (The $20,000 signing bonus for recruits was a positive step.) He has also tried to balance police reforms, some mandated by the county council and the state, with the need to fight crime. Chief Jones will be remembered as doing the best he could in trying times.
MCPD’s press release is reprinted below.
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Chief Marcus Jones Announces Retirement After Thirty-Eight Years of Dedicated Service
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Gaithersburg, MD – After a career spanning 38-years, Chief Marcus G. Jones has announced his retirement from the Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD), effective Monday, July 1, 2024.
Chief Jones is a respected leader, who has tirelessly served Montgomery County with unwavering commitment and dedication. Throughout his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing public safety, implementing innovative policing strategies, and fostering positive relationships between MCPD and the community.
Reflecting on his decision to retire, Chief Jones expressed gratitude for the privilege of serving the community. “It has been an honor to lead such a dedicated and talented department of officers and professional staff. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am confident in the department’s continued success,” said Chief Jones. “Now is the right time to retire. I am grateful for the support I have received throughout my career. While I may be stepping down a few months earlier than originally planned, I won’t be far. You will still see me around, actively engaging in and contributing to the well-being of Montgomery County.”
Chief Jones was appointed the 17th Police Chief in November of 2019. He began his career with MCPD in September of 1985, and worked his way up the ranks. He previously served as the Assistant Chief of the Investigative Services Bureau. He has also served as the Commander of the 3rd District, Director of Major Crimes, Drug Enforcement Commander and a variety of other assignments.
Chief Jones is a member of the Major Cities Chief’s Association, the Maryland Chief’s Association, the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) and the International Association Chiefs of Police (IACP). Chief Jones is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc, (Theta Rho ’84). He was inducted into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame in 2020.
The search for a new Chief of Police will begin right away, to ensure a smooth transition.