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Montgomery County Police Chief Survey Results

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, July 3, 2019

The search is on for the next chief of police for Montgomery County; and County Executive Marc Elrich has engaged residents to be part of the hiring process.

In March 2019, County Executive Marc Elrich launched a survey to garner and assess the qualities and character traits the County should seek in the candidates for this highly visible and responsible leadership role.

“Many in the community have sent a clear message through survey responses and in person,” said Elrich. “On June 6, at Kennedy High School, County Councilman Will Jawando and I hosted a community forum about policing to hear from people directly. Having substantial input and participation from our diverse communities, I will select a chief who represents the values of accountability, fairness, justice and transparency.  Our diverse population makes us stronger – it is my intent to hire a police chief who understands our commitment to, and support for, our diversity and an understanding of community policing.

The survey was made available to the public via email, a press release, and social media. The final tally of responses is 1,123 (1,028 online; and 95 at the forum).

The survey results show respondents rated the top-five leading characteristics in the area of “Most important characteristic / competency for police chief” are:

  • Integrity – 26 percent
  • Appreciation of Diversity – 17 percent
  • Honesty – 15 percent
  • Apolitical – 14 percent
  • Good Judgement – 10 percent

The entire survey results can be found here.

Comments from the Community Forum on Policing on June 6 can be found here.

The Elrich administration organized an interview panel, including representatives from the community, legislative and executive branches; and conducted interviews, utilizing data gathered from both the online survey and community forum. The Elrich Administration will also identify community stakeholders for Meet & Greet session with the top two candidates in July.

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Release ID: 19-232
Media Contact: Barry Hudson 240-777-6507