James T. DeWees

The board reviewed numerous handgun petitions, including requests for new handgun models and additions to existing rostered models. Decisions were made regarding the approval and tabling of various firearm petitions based on criteria such as concealability, safety, and manufacturing quality. Several petitions were tabled due to lack of quorum or pending further review, with specific notes regarding dissenting votes and requests for additional information on safety features.

This Strategic Plan outlines the Maryland State Police's commitment to ensuring Maryland is a safe place to live, work, and visit, guided by values of integrity, fairness, and service. It focuses on four strategic goals: preventing and investigating crime while supporting allied law enforcement agencies; enhancing highway safety; supporting citizens and communities; and developing an efficient and effective workforce. The plan emphasizes adapting to changing needs, strengthening personnel, and leveraging technology to achieve its mission.

The Board meeting focused on the review of various handgun petitions, including enhanced model additions, caliber additions, and restriction removals. The Board also reviewed samples and reports for several new handgun models to determine compliance with state criteria regarding safety, ballistics, and manufacturing quality. Additionally, the Board voted to approve the Project ChildSafe cable lock for addition to its list of approved mechanical safety devices.

The board reviewed numerous petitions for handgun additions, including enhanced models and caliber modifications. Most petitions were approved with a 7-1 vote, despite dissenting votes regarding safety concerns raised by one member. Some firearms were specifically identified by a board member as assault weapons. Certain petitions were tabled or disapproved due to failure to meet statutory criteria for reliability, quality of manufacture, or functional issues such as feeding problems.

This Strategic Plan for the Maryland State Police outlines the Department's direction for 2017-2021, with a 2020 update, focusing on ensuring Maryland is a safe place to live, work, and visit. The plan is guided by four strategic goals: preventing and investigating crime while supporting allied law enforcement agencies; enhancing highway safety; supporting citizens and communities; and developing an efficient and effective workforce. It emphasizes values of integrity, fairness, and service, with an aim to guide all departmental activities and foster public trust.