The ranks of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police grew by 44 officers—the largest increase in manpower in 13 years – in recent graduation ceremonies. The additions come as the state’s conservation law enforcement agency celebrates its 150th anniversary.
Thirty-two recruits took the oath of office Nov. 3 and received their badges from Natural Resources Police Superintendent Col. Robert K. “Ken” Ziegler, Jr. The new officers received seven months of training at the agency’s live-in academy, based at the Maryland Police and Corrections facility in Sykesville.
“The sustainability of Maryland’s natural resources is ‘job one’ for all of us,” Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton told the graduates. “We need managers to set goals and scientists to inform our decisions and policies. It falls upon the men and women of the Natural Resources Police to enforce those decisions so that future generations have the same valuable outdoor experiences we enjoy.”
The keynote address was given by FBI Special Agent in Charge Gordon Johnson, a Frederick, Maryland native who supervises the Baltimore field office.
The new officers have been assigned to patrol districts across the state and will complete their formal police training in the field under the supervision of experienced officers. The Maryland Natural Resources Police has the same jurisdiction and authority as Maryland State Police, and also enforces fish, game and boating laws, and is the state’s lead agency for maritime homeland security around bridges, power plants and the Port of Baltimore.
The 32 new officers are: David Breakall, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.; John Bucher IV, Bel Air; Todd Cardarelli, Middle River; Cody Chaney, Williamsport; Aaron Cook, Baltimore; Jerimie Craig, Crofton; Jamill Elliott, Largo; John Gordy, Newark; Joseph Gukanovich Jr., Chester; Christian Helwig, Preston; Melissa Henderson, Oakland; Racquel Kavanaugh, Middle River;
