HIGHLIGHTED PROGRESS
& RESULTS
Anne Arundel County Office of the Sheriff Announces Key Initiatives and Achievements to Strengthen Public Safety and Community Engagement
We are excited to share the incredible progress and achievements made under the leadership of our Sheriff. These accomplishments reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening public safety.
NEW HIRES
While most law enforcement agencies are struggling to fill vacancies, Sheriff Sesker has prioritized building a strong and skilled team by reducing his agency's over 20% vacancy rate to 0%, since taking office by hiring highly qualified personnel to ensure we maintain a capable and prepared workforce to serve the community.
NEW VEHICLES
Under the Sheriff’s leadership, we have equipped every deputy with a dedicated vehicle for the first time in the agency's history. This initiative ensures deputies have the resources needed to perform their duties effectively, enhancing their ability to respond quickly.
Having a vehicle for every deputy increases response times and improves community safety by ensuring law enforcement is visible and readily available throughout our neighborhoods.
A dedicated vehicle allows deputies to cover more ground, engage proactively with the public, and respond to incidents with the tools and equipment needed already on hand.
PROMOTIONS TO COMMAND STAFF
The Sheriff has recognized outstanding talent within the department by promoting qualified individuals to command staff roles. These promotions were long overdue and helped to ensure that we comply with the mandates outlined in the Maryland Police Accountability Act of 2021.
The addition to our command staff will also strengthen our leadership, providing a collaborative and capable team to guide the department toward continued success.
STRENGTHENED COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
The Sheriff’s Office has made it a priority to build stronger relationships with the community.
By participating in public events, organizing outreach programs and by conducting Threat Assessment Training for the community. Working closely with local organizations, we have increased our presence and created more opportunities to engage directly with residents.
These efforts help us better understand the community’s needs, address concerns, and show our commitment to working together for a safer, more connected community.
NEW POSITIONS FOR CIVILIANS
Recognizing the importance of civilian roles within the department, the Sheriff has created new positions that allow civilians to grow and advance their careers within the agency. These newly created civilian supervisory positions enable sworn personnel to devote more time to enforcement initiatives instead of administrative tasks. These supervisory positions also allow employees to take on more responsibilities, gain leadership experience, and contribute meaningfully without becoming sworn officers. This approach helps retain experienced staff, supports career development, and builds a more inclusive and skilled workforce.
HIGHER POSITIVE VISIBILITY FOR THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE
The Sheriff has prioritized strengthening our connection with the community, emphasizing that we are more than just an agency—we are an agency that deeply cares about public safety and the well-being of those we serve.
Through impactful initiatives like Purple Light Night, the department has raised awareness about domestic violence and offered unwavering support to survivors. Community-focused efforts, such as donating clothing to shelters, organizing school supply giveaways, and hosting events like Toys for Tots and Trunk or Treat—with special consideration for children with hidden disabilities—provide vital assistance to families in need. Additionally, including a deputy trained at the D.A.R.E. Academy builds meaningful relationships with the next generation.
NEW CANINES AND HANDLERS
The department’s K-9 unit has been strengthened with the addition of new canines and highly trained handlers, significantly enhancing its capabilities. These teams are integral to drug detection, search operations, and crime prevention, contributing to increased public safety. Additionally, the K-9 teams are actively involved in community outreach efforts, educating the public about the vital role and value of K-9s in law enforcement.
DEPUTIES IN EVERY COURTROOM
Following the tragic murder of a Maryland judge, and at the request of Anne Arundel County’s Chief Administrative Judge for the Circuit Court, Sheriff Sesker took the unprecedented step of assigning a Deputy to every courtroom. This proactive measure has significantly enhanced security, ensuring a safe environment for court proceedings and all who attend.
SPECIAL POLICE OFFICERS
To reduce costs and allow Deputies to focus on specialized assignments, Sheriff Sesker established the Special Police Officer (SPO) program for the courthouse. These armed contract SPOs, who have authority solely on courthouse grounds, are trained by and work directly under the Sheriff’s Office. They will manage public access points and other areas as designated by the Sheriff. This initiative enables Deputies, with statewide law enforcement authority and advanced training, to dedicate their expertise to assignments that require their specialized skills.
PEER SUPPORT FOR DEPUTIES IN DISTRESS
Acknowledging the challenges and stressors faced by deputies, the Sheriff has established a peer support program. This initiative provides a crucial support network, helping deputies navigate difficult situations and promoting the importance of mental health and resilience.
GROWTH THROUGH TRAINING AND CLASSES
Under the Sheriff’s leadership, employees have been encouraged to pursue professional growth through training and educational opportunities. This investment in development ensures a highly skilled and knowledgeable team, equipped to face evolving challenges in law enforcement.
IMPLEMENTATION OF A DRONE PROGRAM
The Sheriff has introduced a drone program to enhance safety for both officers and citizens.
This technology provides critical support during operations, offering valuable aerial perspectives and reducing risks during high-stakes situations.
OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL COMPLIANCE
The Sheriff has created the Office of Professional Compliance, also referred to as Internal Affairs, to promote accountability and maintain the highest standards of integrity within the department. Additionally, the Body Worn Camera unit has been reallocated to the Office of Professional Compliance to guarantee regular review of footage, ensuring that all personnel consistently follow laws and regulations.
CRIMINAL APPREHENSION TEAM
The former warrant team has been restructured into Criminal Apprehension Teams (CAT 1) and (CAT 2), focusing on improving efficiency and effectiveness in apprehending offenders and enhancing overall public safety efforts. The teams are currently undergoing additional training and are being equipped with the necessary tools to ensure the safety of all individuals during arrests.
PARTNERING WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES
By partnering with agencies across the county, the Sheriff has enhanced collaboration and shared resources to better protect and serve our communities. These partnerships improve communication and coordinate efforts to address county-wide challenges.
These achievements reflect the Sheriff’s dedication to strengthening our department, enhancing service delivery, and supporting our team.
Let us continue working together to build on this momentum and uphold the highest standards of excellence in our duties.
Your Sheriff Everett L. Sesker
Office of the Sheriff Anne Arundel County