First Black Woman Nominated To Lead Anne Arundel County Police

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman nominated a new chief of police Monday afternoon. The nominee, Amal Awad, is the chief of the Hyattsville Police Department.

Awad would be the first Black person and the first woman to lead the Anne Arundel County Police Department. She also achieved the same feats in Hyattsville.

"Chief Awad’s experience in both large and small department policing, including right here in Anne Arundel County, makes her ideally suited to lead our department," Pittman said in a press release.

Awad has worked in law enforcement for more than 30 years. She started her career as a patrol officer in the Prince George's County Police Department. She eventually made the move to Anne Arundel County, serving as the department's chief of staff in 2013 and 2014.

"I have dedicated more than half of my life to this noble profession," Awad said. "I look forward to working with the County Council and earning the trust of everyone invested in this beautiful county."

During the presidential election, voters passed a referendum requiring the Anne Arundel County Council to approve nominees for police chief, fire chief and county attorney. That charter amendment does not take effect until Dec. 3.

Pittman said he still values the council's input, however. He will introduce legislation at the council's Monday evening meeting, asking for its support.

The county executive will request a hearing for Awad and a council vote on Dec. 7. If confirmed, she would take office on Dec. 17.

Awad would replace Bill Lowry, who currently serves at the interim chief of police. Lowry filled that roll on Aug. 1., temporarily replacing Timothy Altomare. The former chief retired the day after an Odenton man filed a lawsuit against the department alleging excessive force.

"I ... enthusiastically welcome Chief Amal Awad to our agency," Lowry said. "We look forward to the Chief's leadership, incorporating her vision and values, as we continue to serve and protect the Anne Arundel County Community."

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