New Police Chief Selected In Takoma Park

TAKOMA PARK, MD — Takoma Park Police announced a new Police Chief has been chosen — Antonio “Tony” DeVaul, who grew up in Takoma Park.

DeVaul has worked for the Maryland-National Capital Park Police for the past 23 years, where he is currently the Police Chief overseeing a department of 151 staff members and a $13 million budget, according to a news release.

"Mr. DeVaul stood out among an excellent field of candidates for the Takoma Park Police Chief position, performing very well in each step of the rigorous selection process," the Takoma Park Police Department said in a statement. "Of particular interest and importance regarding his selection was his dedication to community policing and a guardian philosophy, and a proven track record of building and nurturing strong community relationships, especially with youth, neighborhood associations, and businesses."

During his tenure with the Park Police DeVaul worked his way up through the ranks, beginning as a Patrol Officer and serving as a supervisor of every division in the department before becoming an Assistant Chief and ultimately Chief in 2012.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Johns Hopkins University and is currently a candidate for a Master of Science degree in Organizational Leadership, also from Johns Hopkins. He is also a 2015 graduate of the FBI National Academy.

“I am honored to be selected as the Chief of Police for the City of Takoma Park,” DeVaul said in a statement. “The Takoma Park Police Department has an exceptional reputation and is known for its active community policing. I look forward to engaging all city residents and continuing to build lasting partnerships with all of our stakeholders.”

DeVaul grew up in Takoma Park and is a lifelong resident of Montgomery County. He is married with five children and two grandchildren.

His first day with the City will be January 2. He will be sworn in as Takoma Park's Police Chief at 7 p.m. in the Council auditorium on the second floor of 7500 Maple Avenue. There will be refreshments afterwards just outside of the auditorium. Residents are encouraged to come and show support for the new Police Chief.

Patch Photo by Cameron Luttrell