News Releases

For Immediate Release: Thursday, December 22, 2022

Gaithersburg, MD - The Montgomery County Department of Police mourns the loss of retired Chief of Police Donald E. Brooks.

Chief Brooks began his career with the Montgomery County Police Department in 1950, rising through the ranks to become Chief of Police on April 26, 1988, until his retirement in 1991.

In 1950, the year he joined the force, there were about 100 officers on the force and when Chief Brooks retired 41 years later, there were 892 officers and more than 300 civilian staff.

In 1988 he co-authored “A Worthy Innovation: A History of the Montgomery County Police.” This book was dedicated to the men and women who served Montgomery County as police officers and the civilian staff who supported them. This work was one of his proudest achievements.

“I am saddened to report Retired Montgomery County Chief of Police Colonel Donald E. Brooks passed away,” said current Chief of Police Marcus Jones. “He was 96 years old and was a dedicated leader and public servant for our county. May he rest in peace.”

He is survived by his wife Eva Roberson Brooks; and his children, Donna Brooks Sensoy, Don Michael Brooks (Sharon) and Lisa Brooks Hammond. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.