Chief Marcus G. Jones, who has had a 38-year career with the Montgomery County Police, will be retiring effective Monday, July 1, 2024.
Chief Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community, stating,
“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. 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.”
County Executive Marc Elrich issued a statement on Tuesday expressing gratitude to Chief Jones for his dedicated service:
Montgomery County is grateful to Chief Marcus Jones for his 38 years of service to our community. Starting his career with the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) in 1985, Chief Jones has straddled two generations of police officers while witnessing an evolution in police training, tactics, technology, and strategies. His rise through the ranks within MCPD speaks to his character, integrity, and leadership skills over the last three decades.
I am thankful for Marcus’ leadership as chief over the last four years. I appreciate his compassion for victims, willingness to modernize MCPD and his steadfast advocacy on behalf of his officers and department.
As Chief, Marcus faced unprecedented situations in our County such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd and calls for policing reforms as well as the rise of hate-filled incidents throughout the County. He consistently adapted, responded, and communicated to our communities during our toughest times with empathy and respect.
Chief Jones has been a strong partner in implementing innovative practices and new public safety technologies that improve security for our residents and safety of our officers. And, during a period of police recruitment challenges nationwide, I was glad to work with Chief Jones on increasing pay for our officers as well as providing signing bonuses for new officers.
Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy also issued a statement expressing gratitude to Chief Jones:
The Office of the State’s Attorney offers a heartfelt congratulations to Chief of Police Marcus Jones as he announces his retirement after nearly four decades of tireless leadership and contributions to the people of Montgomery County.
Prior to taking the helm in 2019, Chief Jones wore nearly every major hat within the Montgomery County Police Department, serving as head of Major Crimes and the Drug Enforcement Unit. He created novel programs, pioneering strategies to reduce crime and combat issues including drug misuse in the community, most notably the Damascus Gardens Drug Market Initiative.
His elevation to Chief of Police occurred during one of the most challenging times in the history of our country to become a police chief and Chief Jones did it with great distinction. He will be remembered for his character, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the community.
Having been appointed as the 17th Police Chief in November of 2019, Chief Jones began his career with MCPD in September of 1985, gradually rising through the ranks. He previously served as the Assistant Chief of the Investigative Services Bureau and held various other key positions. Chief Jones is affiliated with several professional associations and was inducted into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame in 2020.
The search for a new Chief of Police will commence immediately to ensure a smooth transition, according to MCPD.
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