Elected your Sheriff in November 2006

       Dedication, Persistence, and Compassion describe the past 20 years of my career. Long before suggestions by administration were made to resolve community issues, I spent countless hours dealing with and resolving community concerns. This was not typical of most law enforcement officers or agencies.

       As a first responder on many calls for service, I have taken the time to listen to the concern and have a plan of action to resolve the issue. The community does not want to think they are “bothering” the police, but want resolve to their complaints.

       While as an entry-level police officer I began to analyze and resolve the complaint or concern. This may have meant working with other forms of government and officers to resolve the issue. This was a non-traditional approach, that later led to promotions and placement in a Community Policing Unit.

       I am aware that “Community Policing” is an old philosophy of dealing with community issues, however it seemed that we (agency) were operating in a reactive response, instead of proactive response. If we (deputies) identify problems, take a firm stand on resolving them the first time; we will make a difference in quality of life issues. I am a firm believer that we need to solicit information from the community, they know what the concerns are, and with our data we can quickly and efficiently resolve the issue.

       This past “Community Policing” Philosophy has led to many large drug arrests, vehicle seizures, money seizures, burglary arrests, and so many other case closures for me. I firmly believe that in the past, we prepare ourselves with future information. The past partnerships have led to great success today. These partnerships I have created cannot be done in one year, this has taken many years to achieve community and business trust.

       This is the foundation of a strong leader and communication blocks for our county’s future.

       I started my career as an auxiliary police officer with the Annapolis City Police Department just after completing High School. Many hours were spent walking in the down town area, talking with merchants and community members.

       I then worked as a seasonal police officer for the Ocean City Police Department for several years, then working full time for the Centreville Police Department.

       I have achieved the ranks of Deputy First Class, Corporal, Sergeant within the Office of the Sheriff, Queen Anne’s County. Now I am proud to serve as your Sheriff. 

       I am currently Second Vice President of the Maryland Crime Prevention Association for the past two years, where I then held the position of third Vice President.

       I believe in my past, and know that we have a future in our community. In law enforcement, traditionally we only meet the 1% of the population, that causes the police response, however I can say that working with the other 99% of the community, has made me a believer that together we are creating a greater community.

Sheriff R.Gery Hofmann III