What's New

Maryland-National Capital Park Police are wheeling around the park system on new T-3 units—three-wheel, front drive electric vehicles with a range of 25 miles per charge at a cost of 10 cents a day. The vehicles will be used to patrol at special events, around the Hyattsville Metro, Northwest Branch, and Henson Creek hiker-biker trails, and at National Harbor. The T-3s add to park police patrols using cruisers, horses, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Park Police Annual Reports

2001 Annual Report
2002 Annual Report
2003 Annual Report
2004 Annual Report
2005 Annual Report
2006 Annual Report (3.69 MB)

You will need Acrobat Reader to open the files. Download Acrobat Reader if you don't have it.

The Park Police Division is divided into four main areas of operation: Office of the Division Chief, Field Operations, Support Operations and Investigative Operations. The Office of the Division Chief establishes policy; provides human resources and financial management to the division; manages media and provides public information; manages and coordinates the agency's accreditation process; coordinates internal affairs matters; conducts audits and inspections; and manages recruitment. Field Operations contains the patrol function, and includes marked police vehicles, mountain bicycles, K-9 officers, and the horse-mounted unit. Patrol personnel respond to calls for service and perform daily pro-active policing. Support Operations provides additional police services such as Technical Services (Communications, Records Management and Alarms), Property and Evidence, and Staff Services (training, research, and community services). Investigative Operations conducts criminal investigations, provides crime analysis and tactical services to patrol and coordinates the Victim/Witness Assistance Program.

Park Police officers are responsible for protecting a variety of property, such as undeveloped park land, neighborhood parks, community centers, aquatic facilities, historical sites and mansions, several large sports arenas, and miles of hiker/biker trails. The Park Police has divided Prince George's County into eight patrol beats. Park Police officers are assigned to a primary beat and permanent work shift. This system ensures that the officer becomes familiar with the park properties and community.

The Park Police is very active in the community and participates in over 200 community events each year. A cornerstone of the Park Police philosophy is found in its Operation C.A.R.E. program, a program designed to work closely with the community in resolving issues of local concern. Other programs include the Cops Camp for Kids, DARE, Doing Something Right, and the Park Police Community Volunteer Academy.

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division is requesting your assistance. If you have had interaction with any member of our staff during the past 3 years, please complete this feedback form. The purpose of this survey is to measure the effectiveness of this department and improve our delivery of service. It is also an opportunity for you to submit recommendations and suggestions.

Mission Statement

"To provide professional Park Police services for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission in partnership with the community and other divisions of the Commission in order to provide a safe and secure environment, protect life and property, and identify and apprehend violators."

CALEA Accreditation

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division received international accreditation status on November 16, 2002 from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. This significant achievement was the result of a comprehensive three-year review of the division's operations, equipment, policies, practices and procedures. The accreditation process allows a law enforcement agency the opportunity to voluntarily demonstrate conformance and compliance with established standards that promote professional excellence. CALEA is a national program that was formed in 1979 and is currently sponsored by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Sheriff's Association (NSA), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF).

Our agency was awarded its second accreditation award through CALEA on November 19, 2005. We are committed to providing the best professional police services to citizens of Prince George's County and all those who patronize the facilities and properties under the jurisdiction of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. CALEA requires that agencies be evaluated for compliance every three years in order to maintain accredited status.

Job Qualifications for Park Police Officers

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring, training, and advancing professional, well-trained officers. If you are interested in applying to become a Park Police officer, you must meet the following qualifications: 21 years of age, United States citizen, high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.), valid driver's license, have excellent mental and physical health, and be of excellent moral character.

The first stage of the selection process is a written examination and personality measurement test, followed by an in-depth background investigation, medical and psychological screenings, drug testing, and ending with an oral board examination. Upon satisfactory results, a tentative job offer is given to the applicant. Applicants must then complete a medical examination, a psychological and drug testing. A final job offer is given to those who satisfactory complete all phases of the applicant process.

Job Qualifications for Park Police Communications Technicians
The Maryland-National Capital Park Police is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring, training, and advancing professional, well-trained civilian staff. If you are interested in applying to become a Park Police Communications Technician, you must meet the following qualifications: 18 years of age, United States citizen, high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.), valid driver's license, have excellent mental and physical health, and be of excellent moral character.

The first stage of the selection process is a written examination and personality measurement test, followed by an in-depth background investigation, and ending with an oral board examination. Upon satisfactory results, a tentative job offer is given to the applicant. Applicants must then complete a medical examination, a psychological and drug testing. A final job offer is given to those who satisfactory complete all phases of the applicant process.

Once selected, Communications Technicians receive on the job training and must complete additional training to obtain a Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) certification through the state of Maryland. Newly hired technicians are subject to a minimum six-month probationary period. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis. Call 301-454-1400 or the Park Police Job Hotline at 301-429-5680.

NOW HIRING! - Download a job application, fill it out, and mail it to: 6611 Kenilworth Avenue, Suite 103, Riverdale, MD 20737.

Park Police Communications Technicians Career Opportunities $27,239 to 43,511 (Top of Grade)

Holiday Pay	Double Time and a Half
Overtime Pay	Time and a Half
Shift Differential	$1.35 per hour evenings; $1.45 per hour midnights
Technician Trainer Pay	$1.50 per hour additional to those assigned to train newly hired technicians
Uniform Allowance	Uniforms are issued according to the bargaining unit agreement
Annual Leave	120 hrs per year
Sick Leave	120 hours per year
Personal Leave	3 days per year
Holidays	Ten holidays a year are observed
Retirement	60% after 30 years credited service; annual COLA
Life Insurance & A.D. & D.	2 X base salary $200,000 maximum. Plus $50,000.
Health Insurance	Numerous HMOs, Dental, Vision, and Prescription
Tuition Assistance Program	Tuition assistance is available for those seeking college degrees.

Operation C.A.R.E.
In keeping with the changing trends of modern day policing, the Park Police have expanded their policing practices from the traditional methods to include the Problem-Oriented Policing philosophy. Operation Care is a program designed to work in partnership with the community in solving problems in the park system. Through proactive patrols and community input, officers locate, analyze, and respond to problems and concerns related to the parks and park-owned facilities. Citizens living near parks are contacted at their residence by a Park Police officer who explains Operation Care and asks about any problems or issues related to the park. Citizens are provided with contact telephone numbers and information about the Park Police. With this program, the Park Police become a partner with the community in solving park-related problems.

Park Community Volunteer Academy and Volunteer Association

Mounted Services
The Park Police Mounted Unit has been a part of the community for many years. These horse and rider teams patrol park areas not accessible by motor vehicles, and perform routine patrols in the regional parks. The Mounted Unit also participates in parades, color guard details and regional mounted unit competitions. Officers regularly take their horses to local schools for "Show and Tell" programs.

The Mounted Unit polices at large events and festivals where crowd control may be needed. Officers are regularly assigned to assist other law enforcement agencies throughout the region and nationally.

Bicycle Patrol
Some Park Police officers patrol their beats on mountain-style bicycles. The bicycles are quiet, unobtrusive, and do not create a barrier with the public like a police car can. Officers on bicycles can patrol the hiker/biker trails and urban environments easily.

Canine Operations
The Park recently implemented a Canine (K-9) Patrol as a complement to the Patrol Services Unit. There are currently two Canine teams. Officer Bussey and Officer Gormley and their canine partners "Bolo" and "Smokey" endured a very intense training course and have been applying their skills to the benefit of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the residents and citizens of Prince George's County. The canine teams are used to conduct searches for evidence, narcotics and people. When not engaged in canine operations the teams perform patrol duties.

Tactical Services
Tactical Services is made up of officers trained in surveillance, follow-up investigation, security analysis, warrant services and motorcycle skills. These officers are used for special events, warrant services, surveillance, undercover operations, and other special duty or enforcement assignments.

Technology
Technology is an integral and necessary component of progressive law enforcement. The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division has remained pro-active in its efforts to utilize modern technology to enhance its service to the community.

• In-Car Video Cameras are installed in the Divisions's marked patrol cars. Cameras are used to videotape officers engaged in traffic stops and during priority response calls. The use of cameras not only monitors activities, but also can be used as a training tool to enhance officer safety.



• Mobile Data Computer (MDC's) are implemented for use in the Park Police's cruiser fleet. Docking stations for the computers are being installed in the entire fleet to allow officers direct access to crime information and motor vehicle records from their cruiser. The MDC system also allows communication from car-to-car or dispatch-to-car. Global Positioning System (GPS) software is programmed in the MDC's and affords communications personnel the ability to track vehicle locations. This permits more efficient dispatching of calls. Future software developments will enable officers to complete reports directly into computer databases.



• The Division is utilizing Digital Imaging and Forensic Video Photographic Lab Technology. Staff is using digital cameras to document crime scenes, reports of property damage, and other incidents of interest.



• The Division's Investigative Operations Unit is in the forefront of Forensic Video Analysis. The unit researched this technology and acquired a Forensic Video Photographic Lab. The lab can analyze and enhance photographs and video to aid in investigations. This specialized technology has been used to solve crimes and develop suspects for police agencies throughout the region.

Cops Camp for Kids
The Park Police hosts two week-long summer day camps, called "Cops Camp for Kids". The camp is designed for children ages 9 to 12. The program is designed to bring together law enforcement and the local community to foster a positive, interactive, and trustworthy environment between police officers and youth. The camp provides exposure to the many different facets of the law enforcement profession and the judicial system. The program is structured and includes tours of local and federal police facilities, attendance to a juvenile court session. Horse mounted officers, motorcycle officers, bicycle officers, detectives and other specialists demonstrate their skills to campers. The children also participate in staged crime scenes, mock trials and team building exercises. The camps have proven to be positive experiences for both campers and officers.

Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE)
The Park Police has officers specially trained in the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program. The DARE officers teach children in local elementary schools about the harmful effects of drugs, how to overcome the temptations of drugs and alcohol as well as "How to Say No". The DARE program lasts 17 weeks and the lesson plans include instruction on self esteem building, choosing a role model, and avoiding peer pressure.

"Doing Something Right"
With the cooperation of the Bowie Baysox Baseball Club, this program allows officers to reward children and adults for safe and law abiding acts. Complimentary vouchers for tickets are given to patrol officers to distribute when they observe a person "Doing Something Right". Examples would be the wearing of bicycle helmets or the use of seat belts and child safety seats. This program has been well received within the community and the officers view the campaign as a positive way to interact with the public. The Park Police distribute over 1500 vouchers per season.

Aid to Crime Victims and Witnesses
Becoming an innocent victim of, or witness to, a crime or incident requiring police assistance can be an intimidating and frightening experience. The Maryland-National Capital Park Police have a program to help people through this difficult process. The Victim/Witness Assistance Program is designed to provide guidance and assistance as you move through the judicial process.

For more information about how we can help you, call the Victim/Witness Assistance Coordinator at 301-731-2604, TTY 301-459-3051. Or, contact us using e-mail at vwap@pgparks.com. You may also write to the coordinator of the Victim/Witness Assistance Program, Maryland-National Capital Park Police, 6700 Riverdale Road, Riverdale, MD 20737.

Seat Belt and Child Occupant Safety

Officers of the Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division enforce the seat belt and child passenger safety laws of the state of Maryland.

Maryland's Adult Seat Belt Law enacted October 1, 1997 initiated the PRIMARY SEAT BELT LAW. Police officers can stop and ticket drivers and/or adult front seat passengers for not wearing a seat belt. The law covers the driver and front seat passenger next to the door, each or both of whom may receive a ticket for not wearing a seat belt.

Maryland's Child Safety Passenger Laws was changed on October 1, 2003 in regards to child safety seats. "A child younger than six years (regardless of weight) or who weighs forty pounds or less (regardless of age) must ride in a correctly used child restraint system that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards when in a vehicle registered in the state of Maryland. A child riding in a vehicle registered outside the state of Maryland must continue to meet Maryland's law, which requires use of a child restraint system if a child is younger than four years or weighs forty pounds or less."

A person may or may not transport a child younger than 16 years of age unless the child is secured in a child safety seat or a vehicles seat belt in all seating positions in all vehicles.

A child younger than 16 may not ride in an unenclosed cargo bed of a pick-up truck.

2007 Maryland Chiefs Challenge Award

The Park Police, Prince George's County Division was honored as a First Place recipient of the 2007 Maryland Chiefs' Challenge Campaign for Seat Belt and Passenger Safety Seat Use. Park Police staff attended the Awards Ceremony and Banquet that took place on September 19, 2007 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel. The Park Police's award winning efforts to support passenger safety and save lives in our community involved education, public awareness, and high visibility enforcement action components.

The Chiefs' Challenge takes place annually during the months of April and May. During the months of the challenge, Park Police officers and staff step up their enforcement of seat belt and child safety laws, perform seatbelt use surveys, conduct high visibility checkpoints, provide child safety seat check ups, educate the community through public information campaigns, and recruit supporting businesses and organizations. The success of the campaign was due to the coordinated support of the M-NCPPC Safety Committee, all the M-NCPPC employees, officers, civilian staff, and local businesses. The efforts of the Park Police and other state law enforcement agencies has resulted in Maryland having the highest seat belt compliance rate, 93.2, on the east coast.

Complaint Investigation and Administrative Review
Supervisory personnel of the Park Police will investigate all complaints. We strive to protect the public and agency employees by maintaining standards of professional conduct for officers of this division. Park Police personnel are required to receive complaints and assist you with filing them. This is how you may file a complaint:

1. Come to the Park Police Headquarters at 6700 Riverdale Road, Riverdale, MD, and speak with a supervisor. You will be asked to fill out a "Complaint Concerning Practices" form providing a written record of your complaint.



2. Call the Park Police at 301-459-9088 and ask to speak to a supervisor. Many concerns can be handled this way. If the matter cannot be resolved immediately, the supervisor will mail a "Complaint Against Police Practices" form, which can be completed and returned through the mail.



3. Send us a letter detailing the complaint. Please be sure to include your address, and your daytime and evening phone numbers so someone can contact you for additional information, if necessary.

Citizen and Community Comments

COMPLETE OUR SURVEY! Let us know how we are doing by completing our feedback form. We are interested in our agency's performance, the competence of our employees, our officers' attitudes and behavior towards citizens and our community's concerns related to safety and security within the MNCPPC parks system. Equally as important as reporting misconduct is the recognition of a job well done. Your recommendations and suggestions for improvements are also encouraged. All commendations are forwarded to the employee and their supervisors. Citizens are encouraged to call or write the Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County regarding the service or performance of its employees. You may write to Office of the Division Chief, Maryland-National Capital Park Police, 6700 Riverdale Road, Riverdale, MD 20737. Or complete the feedback form.

Letters from the Community:
"The Kingsford Elementary Magnet School Family would like to express our gratitude for patrolling our school, morning and afternoon, during the sniper situation. There are not enough words to convey how we feel about your sacrifices. Just the presence of the patrol vehicles made the staff, students, and parents feel more at ease during those most frantic times. Being a public servant is often a thankless job, but we'd like you to know that you will always have our utmost respect. You will forever remain in our thoughts and prayers."

"On behalf of the residents of Arthur Drive and the surrounding streets, we thank you sincerely for standing behind your words. The expediency with which you addressed our concerns is extremely impressive. Your officers canvassed our neighborhood Wednesday and Thursday promoting the virtues of your 'Operation Care' campaign. The sincerity of the task was evident as they spoke in length to every available resident! The presence of a very well dressed gentlemen and officers in uniform, lent credence to the verbiage in the information pack we received. They were very patient and did not seem as though they were burdened by a directive from above. Very credible gentlemen. We realize it is unrealistic to expect 24 hour surveillance, so we will do our part and embrace your program. While we don't look forward to future criminal activity, we do trust that you will continue the checks and be responsive to our calls. Once again, thanks to you and your representatives."

"On behalf of Special Programs staff, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the officers that were a part of the search effort for ------ ----- on Saturday October 21. Having never witnessed or taken part in such an investigation, I must say that I was in awe as I watched the expertise, compassion and intensity of the officers involved. Park Police left no stone unturned which helped the family as they watched and waited. Though this was an emotional experience that hopefully will not occur again, the fact that it had a happy ending is due to the professionalism and skill of your officers. We are fortunate to be protected and supported by such a fine police department ".

Preventing Identity Theft

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the U.S., claiming more than 10 million victims a year. You may be a victim of identity theft. Prevent being a victim by taking basic preventative steps.

Please keep in mind when viewing these Identity Theft Tips that the tips are to be used for information and reference only. The Federal and State laws are changing rapidly to stem the tide of rising Identity Theft. Check with the Federal Trade Commission and/or your state's attorney general's office or a legal professional for help concerning existing laws, as well as concerns about future changes in the law. Also contact any financial institution such as banks and credit card companies as to their policies and procedures if you have any questions.

DO:
• Order a copy of your credit report each year from one of the national credit bureaus and review it closely for any questionable entries;
• Shred or cut up all credit card receipts, check stubs, old bank statements, investment income statements, and bills before throwing them away;
• Close all unused credit card or bank accounts;
• Remove your name from mailing lists for pre-approved credit lines and telemarketers;
• Keep your PIN number hidden when you use an ATM or public telephone;
• Contact your creditor or service provider if you notice odd charges or if expected bills do not arrive;
• Update your computer virus software, use a secure browser, and install a firewall program.

DON'T:
• Give out personal information via the phone, mail, or internet unless YOU initiated contact;
• Carry information like your Social Security Number (SSN) or any PIN numbers or passwords in your purse or wallet;
• Put your Social Security number on your checks or other identifiers. It should be used for preparing taxes, obtaining a job, or obtaining a credit report. The Social Security number should never be used for identification.

1. Place a fraud alert on your credit file by notifying one of the national credit bureaus; Equifax (1-800-525-6285), Experian (1-888-397-3742), or TransUnion (1-800-680-7289);
2. Contact all creditors and financial institutions that an identity thief may have used to conduct transactions in your name and close all tampered accounts;
3. Contact your local police department, as well as your local FBI field office, and file a report;
4. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-IDTHEFT. Online identity thefts may also be reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). IC3 is a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C). (The FBI and other law enforcement agencies use these complaints in their investigations).

Tips to Prevent Auto Theft and Theft from Vehicles

1. Always lock your vehicle no matter how short your absence.
2. Park in well-lighted areas that have pedestrian traffic.
3. Never "hide" keys on your vehicle. They can always be found.
4. Remove phone chargers and leave the cigarette lighter in the socket.
5. Keep the interior of your car empty of possessions.
6. Never leave change or mail in view.
7. Consider investing in anti-theft devices such as alarms or ignition-disabling devices. Anti-theft devices do act as deterrents.
8. Consider using a steering wheel locking device.
9. Do not leave your car registration or insurance card in the vehicle.
10. Never leave your car running unattended. Always take your keys with you.

Park and Trail Safety Tips

• Walk or jog with a partner, if at all possible. Remember to carry identification and pertinent medical information.
• Tell family and friends where you will be traveling and when you should be back.
• Carry a cell phone - program the Park Police Emergency number (301-459-3232) into the phone- or carry coins for a pay phone.
• Report any suspicious activity to the Park Police.
• Stay alert and be observant about your surroundings.
• Avoid areas where visibility is poor.
• Avoid unfamiliar areas.
• Carry a whistle or other type of noisemaker.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing.
• Do not wear headphones.
• Know your location at all times (Cross streets, mile markers, land marks, etc.).
• Stay to the right on the trail. Only walk the designated trails or paths.
• If riding a bicycle, wear a helmet.
• Maintain a safe speed while riding on the trails.
• Let walkers or joggers know that you are passing on their left.
• Don't stop and sit on the trail.

Crime Solvers

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division, needs your help identifying the individual whose image has been captured on this video surveillance footage. The suspect entered the CVS Store located at 7041 Martin Luther King Highway Landover, MD, on 03/11/07 at approximately 1800 hours and proceeded to purchase a large quantity of gift cards utilizing a stolen credit card. The suspect is the African American male customer standing at the counter throughout the video wearing the black coat, glasses and a dark colored baseball cap with white lettering. Anyone with information about the identity of this suspect is asked to call the Maryland Park Police Investigative Division and ask to speak with Detective Labs at 301-429-5645.

Crime Reporting

The community is our eyes and ears. Report crimes or any other suspicious activity to the Park Police at 301-459-3232 for emergencies or 301-459-9088 for non-emergencies. Notify us of anything that appears unusual or any activity that occur at unusual times of the day or night.

Call us if you see persons peering into parked vehicles, persons loitering and not participating in park activities, persons or vehicles in the park after hours, persons screaming, the sound of gunshots, explosives, breaking glass or other loud noises, and persons consuming alcohol or drugs.

• Report what happened.
• Where it happened
• When (what time) it happened.
• Tell whether or not someone was injured.
• Who did it?
• Provide a description of persons involved to include age, sex, race, height, weight, clothing and any other unique characteristics to help identify suspects.
• If a vehicle is involved, get the license plate or tag number, state of registration, make, model and color of vehicle. Describe any unusual characteristics such as body damage, bumper stickers, etc. It is helpful to provide a direction of travel to assist the officers who may be responding so that they may cover any escape routes.

Police Reports

Copies of police reports and motor vehicle accident reports on M-NCPPC property or completed by Park Police officers can be purchased from the Records Section, at the Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division Headquarters, 6700 Riverdale Road, Riverdale, Maryland 20737. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4 pm. There is a cost of $5 per report. Reports require a minimum of five days from the date of the incident or accident before they will be available. Restrictions due to Privacy Laws may apply to some reports, such as arrest reports. Only accident reports can be mailed. All other reports must be picked up in person by a person of interest or their legal representative.

Contact the Records Section at 301-429-5650 for additional information.

Links to other Public Safety Organizations

American Red Cross

Community Crisis Services, Inc.
For information and assistance for individuals and families in crisis. The Community Crisis Services Hotline assists individuals with access to mental health services within the community. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for anyone facing crisis and personal turmoil.

DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)
DARE offers a variety of interactive, group participation, cooperative learning activities which are designed to encourage students to solve problems of major importance in their lives. A Park Police officer certified to teach DARE, presents each weekly lesson to students. The classroom teacher maintains an important role in their class, assisting with lessons and classroom management. Click the above title to learn more about DARE.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Maryland Emergency Management Agency

Maryland Sex Offender Registry

Maryland State Police

Missing and Exploited Children
Help find a missing child. The Maryland-National Capital Park Police supports the work of organizations such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Click the above title for more information and to view missing children.

Montgomery County Division Park Police

National Sex Offender Registry
The National Sex Offender Public Registry, coordinated by the Department of Justice, is a cooperative effort between the state agencies hosting public sexual offender registries and the federal government. This web site is a search tool allowing a user to submit a single national query to obtain information about sex offenders through a number of search options: by Name, ZIP Code, County (if provided by state), City/Town (if provided by state), State, National

Park Law Enforcement Association (PLEA)
The Park Law Enforcement Association is an affiliate of the National Parks and Recreation Association (NRPA). The association was established to improve law enforcement and visitor protection in park and recreation areas. Our agency has been involved in this organization for many years and has twice hosted the PLEA Annual Conference in Prince George's County.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security