ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Governor Wes Moore has chosen a new superintendent to lead the Maryland State Police.
Roland L. Butler Jr. was confirmed by the Maryland State Senate on March 31, becoming the first Black person to ever hold the position.
Former Governor Larry Hogan named Butler to oversee the department in an acting capacity in November, following the retirement of Colonel Woodrow W. Jones, III, who served in the role since February 2020.
Throughout three decades in law enforcement, Butler headed up MSP's Field Operations Bureau while also working in the Office of Equity and Inclusion.
Butler takes over a department that's currently facing a class action lawsuit and under federal investigation, over allegations of racial discrimination.
"Lt. Col. Butler has my full confidence–I know he will build a department that reflects the values of our great state and is diverse, well-trained, and thoroughly prepared for any challenge we might face," said Moore.
