October 18th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

Governor Larry Hogan today delivered remarks at the opening ceremonies of the Maryland Chiefs of Police and Maryland Sheriffs’ Associations Professional Development Conference in Ocean City.

During his address, the governor thanked the chiefs and sheriffs for their commitment and dedication to Marylanders and touted his new $150 million Re-Fund The Police Initiative. First announced last Friday, this initiative will provide much-needed support and resources to police agencies statewide in their efforts to fight violent crime, including $1 million for the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association and the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association to further expand operational training and support. In total, the Re-Fund The Police Initiative includes $120 million for state and local police agencies, $20 million for victim protection programs, and $10 million for safer neighborhoods programs.

“Our state and our nation owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to all of you, and to all the brave, proud members of the Thin Blue Line who run toward the danger and adversity when others run away,” said Governor Hogan. “I want every single one of you to know—especially in today’s environment, when far too often our law enforcement officers are unfairly criticized and don’t get the appreciation or the recognition that you deserve—that you will continue to have my full support, that I will continue to have your back, and that I will continue to proudly stand with each and every one of you.”

Watch today’s speech.

This is the 12th joint conference of the state’s Chiefs of Police and Sheriffs' Associations. Today’s ceremony acknowledged the service of the associations’ outgoing presidents: Chief John Nesky of the Bowie Police Department and Sheriff Troy Berry of Charles County. The governor also took part in an award ceremony honoring law enforcement officers from across the state.

During his remarks, the governor highlighted his administration’s ongoing efforts to support law enforcement, including $513 million in police aid to local jurisdictions, the Hometown Heroes Act to provide tax relief for retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, and first responders, and the creation of a new Maryland Criminal Intelligence Network to assist police and prosecutors.

The Re-Fund The Police Initiative is the first in a series of announcements the governor is set to make in the coming weeks to support the police and make neighborhoods safer.