The Baltimore Police Department (BPD) has recently announced a series of promotions and command changes, effective July 27. According to the official Baltimore Police Department news release, the updates are intended to fill vacancies left by recent retirements and aim to reinforce the department’s commitment to its mission.
One of the key promotions involves Lieutenant Colonel John “Jack” Herzog, who will be elevated to the rank of Colonel, overseeing the Criminal Investigation Division, as reported by the Baltimore Police Department. With an extensive 18-year background in the force, Herzog's promotion is a recognition of his notable leadership, which has achieved significantly higher clearance rates for the Citywide Investigations Division. Lieutenant Colonel Robert L. Velte, celebrating 30 years of service with the BPD, is also being promoted to Colonel and will continue to command the Crime Strategies and Intelligence Division.
In another major move, Major Matt Corell will step up to Lieutenant Colonel in charge of Area 3 within the Chief of Patrol’s Office. Bringing nearly three decades of service in patrol to the role, Corell has also been recognized for his leadership as commander of the Police Academy and his expertise in policy writing. Joining him in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel will be Major Paul Sinchak, overseeing Area 1 within the Chief of Patrol’s Office. With 16 years at the BPD, Sinchak has been acknowledged with accolades, including a Silver Star and two Bronze Stars for his contributions.
Additionally, Deputy Director Jennifer Moran, who was promoted earlier in July to the role of Laboratory Director, will now helm the Forensic Laboratory Section, according to the news release. Her promotion aligns with the BPD's efforts to promote skilled personnel, highlighted by her 19 years of experience in forensic science. On the district command front, Captain Tashania Brown, an officer from Jamaica with 19 years of service, will become Major and Commanding Officer of the Northeast District.
Filling other leadership positions, Captain Michael A. Mercado is set to become Major and Commanding Officer of the Southwest District. At the same time, Captain Scott Swenson is promoted to Major for the Central District with his 24 years of service to the Department. The promotions continue with Lieutenant Lisa Cornish becoming Captain as the Executive Officer of the Northwest District, Lieutenant Albert J. Rotell stepping into the role of Captain for the Northern District, and Lieutenant Christopher Warren being promoted to Captain and Executive Officer of the Southwestern District.
"These promotions and changes will strengthen our Department and assist in furthering our public safety mission," Police Commissioner Richard Worley stated in the Baltimore Police Department news release. He emphasized his confidence in the new leadership, having worked alongside many of the promoted officers, recognizing their honor, integrity, and the distinction with which they have served the city of Baltimore.
