News

New Chief of Park Police Announced by Dept of Parks and Rec., Pr. Geo. County

May 28, 2024

Riverdale, MD – The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County is pleased to announce the confirmation of Germaine Haywood as its new Chief of Park Police. With an illustrious career spanning 19 years with the Department and a proven track record of leadership, Chief Haywood brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this vital role.

Department Director Bill Tyler expressed confidence in Haywood’s ability to lead the Park Police into a new era of effectiveness and accountability. “I am delighted to confirm Germaine Haywood as our new Chief of Park Police,” stated Tyler. “His passion for serving the community, coupled with extensive experience, make him the ideal candidate to lead our park police force.”

Having served in various capacities within the Park Police, Haywood has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to public safety and community engagement. Since his arrival in 2005, he was assigned to various specialty units to include Investigations, Tactical Services, Rapid Deployment Team, Potomac River Waterfront, and Motors. In 2013, Chief Haywood was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In that role, he was assigned to Patrol Services, Southern Area, Potomac River Waterfront Unit, the Rapid Deployment Team, and the Motors Unit.

In 2016, Chief Haywood was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. In that role, he managed all aspects of the Police Department including Patrol Services, Canine Unit, Investigative Services, Staff Services, Technology Services, Property, Records Management, and Communications. In 2020, Chief Haywood was promoted to Assistant Chief/Captain as the Director of Field operations. During the onset of the global Covid-19 Pandemic, he flourished while managing Field Operations, Mounted Unit, Canine Unit, and the Potomac River Waterfront Unit.

Chief Haywood has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). He has numerous professional training certifications from various law enforcement leadership programs, including IACP’s Leadership in Police Organizations and the Greater Chesapeake Law Enforcement Executive certificates.

Chief Haywood is a proud husband and father of two. When not in uniform, he spends his time coaching multiple sports and being active in various boys’ and girls’ clubs where he mentors youth to make positive impacts in their lives and community.

In accepting the appointment, Haywood emphasized his commitment to collaboration, transparency, and innovation in law enforcement. “It is an honor to serve as Chief of Park Police for the Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County,” said Haywood. “I am dedicated to working closely with our officers, county officials, and community members to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.”

The Department looks forward to Haywood’s leadership and is confident in his ability to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in law enforcement. His dedication to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the community aligns seamlessly with the Park Police motto ‘Because We Care’.

About the Park Police

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George’s County Division consists of 136 authorized sworn personnel, 35 civilian employees, and approximately 40 volunteers. The Park Police Division ensures the safety of park patrons and facilities 24 hours a day through crime prevention, apprehension, enforcement of criminal and motor vehicle laws, and enforcement of park rules and regulations. Learn more at https://www.pgparks.com/safety-policy/park-police 

About the Department

With over 28,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds and more – M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for residents in Prince George’s County and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s facilities and programming continue to evolve and expand to keep pace with the needs of its vibrant community. For more information, visit www.pgparks.com 

Media Contacts: Angel Waldron, 301-446-3311

Lt. Galvin Savoy, 301-887-7039