Police/Crime/Fire  

Police Chief Marcus Jones Announces Retirement

Montgomery County Police Chief Marcus Jones will retire from the police department this summer.

After a 38-year career with county police, Jones has announced his retirement effective July 1, according to the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). The search for a new chief will start right away.

“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,” Jones said in a written statement. “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.”

Jones started his career with the police department in 1985, according to MCPD, working his way up to being appointed police chief in November 2019. In 2020, he was inducted into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame.

His previous roles included Assistant Chief of the Investigative Services Bureau, Commander of the 3rd District, Director of Major Crimes, and Drug Enforcement Commander, among other assignments.

In a statement, County Executive Marc Elrich said he is thankful for Jones’ leadership and appreciates “his compassion for victims, willingness to modernize MCPD and his steadfast advocacy on behalf of his officers and department.”

Elrich noted Jones led the police department during the pandemic and in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder. He led during calls for police reform and during a rise in hate and bias incidents — “He consistently adapted, responded, and communicated to our communities during our toughest times with empathy and respect,” Elrich stated.

County Council President Andrew Friedson stated he is, “Deeply grateful to [Montgomery County Police Chief] Marcus Jones for his leadership as chief and his exceptional 38 year career in public safety.”

Councilmember Will Jawando posted on X: “Thank you Chief Jones for your 38 years of service to Montgomery County! As you prepare to retire in July, know that you’ve made a positive impact in the lives of so many.”

In a statement, State’s Attorney John McCarthy offered “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.”

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