Police Chief Announces Retirement From Howard County P.D.

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Police Chief Gregory Der has announced his retirement effective June 1.

Der was appointed as police chief in November 2021 and took the helm Jan. 1, 2022.

“I have known Chief Der for nearly 20 years, and he has always stood out as a thoughtful, determined, and effective leader. This has remained the same during his tenure as Police Chief during the last four and a half years,” Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced Wednesday. “Many of our officers are involved in stressful, difficult, argumentative and dangerous situations, often with strangers, going into situations with people who may be having one of the worst days of their lives.

"Oftentimes their success is quiet, and so I want to especially thank those that have faced the increasing challenges and obstacles of policing in recent years. During his tenure, Chief Der has remained a steadfast leader in helping to move our police department and our community forward. His leadership traits and his ability to build strong bonds with the community made him the right person for the job, and I’m grateful for his service to our community. I wish him the absolute best in his future endeavors," Ball concluded.

Der started his career in 1997 as a narcotics detective and patrol officer with the Easton, Maryland, police department. He retired from that department in August 2017.

Der has served as a school resource officer, hostage negotiator, property crimes detective and fire and explosives investigator.

The police chief received many honors during his career, including five Unit Citations, two Certificates of Appreciation, 11 Commendation Certificates, an Investigative Award and numerous Memorandums of Recognition and Letters of Appreciation.

“After 4.5 years of serving as chief of police, I am announcing my retirement with a deep sense of gratitude and pride. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to County Executive Calvin Ball for his steadfast support, leadership and commitment to public safety. This partnership has been invaluable, and I am grateful for the trust he placed in me and in this department,” Der said.

“It has been an honor to serve the HCPD alongside such dedicated, capable, and compassionate members of this agency. Every day, they demonstrate professionalism, resilience and a true commitment to the community we are privileged to protect. The work they do does not go unnoticed, and I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together.”

Prior to assuming the position of Howard County police chief, Der served as the Chief Deputy, Maryland State Fire Marshal, where he had primary oversight of all sworn and civilian staff, supervisors and managers stationed at six regional offices across Maryland. He was responsible for the progression and resolution of statewide fire, arson and explosive investigations, coordinating with other local, state and federal resources. He also oversaw preparation of the agency’s annual budget for legislative approval.

“As I step away from this role, I am starting a new chapter, having recently purchased a home in Florida, where I look forward to spending time with my new grandchild. This is an exciting time for our family, so any misinformation being circulated is troubling, especially from anyone in a position of leadership or authority, as I’ve said in the past,” Der continued. “My retirement has been planned for some time and is not the result of any recent occurrences. While I look forward to what’s ahead, I will always carry with me my time serving the people of Howard County. Thank you all for your service and support.”

Der graduated from Mt. Hebron High School in 1989. He obtained his associates of art degree in criminal justice from Carroll Community College in 2009, and his bachelor of science degree in organizational leadership from Johns Hopkins University in 2019.