As restrictions on the placement of women officers were eliminated, Mehrling moved on to other specialized assignments. She was the first woman to serve in many specialized and supervisory assignments throughout the Department.

In 1995, Montgomery County Executive Douglas M. Duncan selected Mehrling to become the Police Chief where she served with distinction.  Mehrling retired as Chief in 1999 after leading the force for four years.  Her total police service spanned three decades.

"Chief Mehrling was ahead of her time in so many ways", says current Chief of Police Tom Manger. "Not only was she a trailblazer for women in police work, but she brought a compassion and spirit for public service that made her a great cop."

May we remember her today.

RLI/PRS