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Maryland Department of State Police

Our History

Maryland law enforcement has evolved over time, beginning with colonial sheriffs and constables in 1921, growing into today’s modern Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP). Our history shows how public safety has evolved to meet new challenges. We are proud of our tradition of excellence in serving and protecting the people of Maryland.

Maryland State Police Museum

As the Department celebrated 105 years, the State Police Museum debuted a new exhibition, taking a closer look at a decade that helped shape the Agency in a pivotal way—the 1950s.

Colonial times

  • Every person had a duty to keep the peace—communities used “hue and cry” calls or formed a posse comitatus to catch wrongdoers.
  • Individuals with a history of disruptive behavior could be legally bound to maintain peace by a local court or magistrate, a measure intended to prevent crime.
  • Sheriffs and constables, based on British law, enforced order at the county level. As communities grew, local police departments formed.  

Baltimore City Police Force (1867–1978)

  • Baltimore’s first official state-controlled police force began in 1867 under a Board of Police Commissioners.
  • Before that, in 1784, the city had a night watch to guard against fire, crime, and disorder.
  • From 1900 to 1920, the Governor appointed the board. After 1920, a single Police Commissioner—part of the Governor’s Advisory Council—served.
  • In 1978, control shifted to the Mayor, who would appoint the Commissioner with City Council approval.  

Statewide enforcement begins

  • In 1909, Baltimore’s Police Board supported creating a State detective force to meet growing demand for investigations.
  • By 1914, a group of motorcycle officers under the Motor Vehicles Commissioner started enforcing vehicle laws statewide.
  • After World War I, criminal activity rose, prompting officials to form a broader State Police Force. The first training camp began around 1921. By 1922, motorcycle deputies had statewide jurisdiction and were supported by plainclothes investigators.  

Maryland State Police established 

  • The Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) was established as a separate State government unit in 1935, funded through vehicle-related revenue. Its duties included enforcing conservation laws and training troopers.
  • In 1970, the MSP joined the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
  • By 1994, it became a standalone executive department, later named the Department of State Police in 1995.
  • Today, the agency enforces motor vehicle and criminal laws across Maryland, helps maintain traffic safety, and supports other law enforcement agencies.  

State Fire Marshal joins MDSP 

The State Fire Marshal position began in 1894, funded by insurance claims to deter arson and investigate fires.  

  • In 1916, the role moved under the State Insurance Commissioner.
  • A modern Fire Prevention Commission and updated code launched in 1964.
  • The office officially joined the Department of State Police in 1997.