It is an honor to join all of you today in Baltimore County’s Public Safety building to celebrate the 135th Anniversary of the Baltimore County Police Department. We are particularly fortunate to have five of Baltimore County’s Police Chiefs with us today as we celebrate this milestone anniversary. Please join me in honoring these outstanding public servants - Chiefs Ellison Ensor, who served from 1967 - 1975; Neil Behan, who served from 1977 - 1993; Mike Gambrill, who served from 1993 - 1996; current Superintendent of the Maryland State Police, Terry Sheridan, who was our Police Chief from 1996 until 2007; and the man who has been our Baltimore County Police Chief since 2007, Jim Johnson. It is truly an honor and a privilege to have all of you here. On April 11, 1874, the Maryland General Assembly approved Chapter 374 of the Laws of Maryland. This legislation authorized the Baltimore County Commissioners "to appoint such number of policemen as they may deem necessary, for the better protection of persons and property,” creating a Baltimore County Police Department that was very different from the Police Department we know today. There were to be no more than 30 police officers at any one time; they were paid a salary of two dollars per day; and mounted officers were required to “ furnish their own horses, trappings, equipment and forage.” Obviously, things have changed. Although those officers would recognize the names of some of our historic hometowns, like Towson, Dundalk, and Catonsville, they would be amazed by how much those communities have grown. The technology that today’s officers use would have been inconceivable to those first 30 members of the Department, and we no longer have officers riding on horseback. But some things have not changed throughout the history of this Department, namely, the professionalism, selflessness, and tireless dedication of our police that have served as the foundation of Baltimore County’s well-being and success. These characteristics have made our Police Department one of the most innovative and effective departments in the nation, and a department that has always enjoyed the respect and admiration of the citizens of our county. Typically the accomplishments and quality of Police are measured by examination and analysis of crime statistics. And by that metric, our Baltimore County police have been extraordinarily successful. But to truly understand what the officers of the Baltimore County Police Department have accomplished, you need to walk through any of Baltimore County’s communities and see the wonderful neighborhoods and local business districts that have thrived for generations. It is the success of these communities that serves as the greatest monument to the men and women who have served in the Baltimore County Police Department during its 135-year history. The officers of today truly inherit a proud legacy. I want every member of this Department, both past and present, to know that the people of Baltimore County continue to be grateful for what you do, and we congratulate you on 135 years of extraordinary service. We join you in the celebration of your law enforcement heritage. |
Courthouse 