State Review Praises RCPD for Best Practices in Community Policing
September 5, 2025
The Rockville City Police Department has once again met the state of Maryland’s certification standards for excellence in community policing.
Each year, the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission evaluates RCPD’s community policing program, including a thorough review of the department’s written report and an independent assessment of ongoing RCPD initiatives. This year’s review yielded exceptionally positive feedback, stating: “Your agency’s report serves as a wonderful model and clearly demonstrates a strong understanding of best practices in Community Policing for an agency and community of your size and demographics.”
Over the past year, the department has strengthened its community policing strategies by:
State-certified mental health integration with a full-time mental health specialist embedded within the department’s operations.
Expansion of youth outreach, including Shop with a Cop, partnering with county schools in the criminal justice/law enforcement program, and school talks.
Over 25 National Night Out events, “Coffee with a Cop” sessions and dozens of neighborhood civic meetings to foster meaningful connections.
Proactive programs like weekly “Code 18” deployments, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design assessments and a steering wheel lock giveaway directly addressing crime concerns.
Enhanced training with courses in crisis intervention, Fair and Impartial Policing and more than 30 additional specialized programs to ensure professional, compassionate and equitable service.
Increased presence and accessibility through foot and bike patrols, station tours, public events, and vibrant social media engagement.
Broad and inclusive community partnerships that reach all segments of Rockville’s population, from youth and seniors to faith-based businesses and special needs communities.
The commission’s recognition of RCPD’s efforts is a direct reflection of the daily commitment and collective efforts of city officers, civilian staff and leadership, Chief Jason West said. “The certification and praise received from the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission affirms what we already know: Community policing is not just a strategy, it is at the core of who we are,” he said.