City Manager Selects New Police Chief

City Manager Suzanne Ludlow is pleased to announce that Antonio “Tony” DeVaul has accepted an offer to serve as the next Police Chief of the City of Takoma Park. Mr. 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. During his tenure with the Park Police he 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.

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.  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.

“I am honored to be selected as the Chief of Police for the City of Takoma Park,” said Mr. DeVaul when asked for comment. “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.”

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

Mr. DeVaul’s first day with the City will be January 2.