OCEAN CITY, Md. — The Ocean City Police Department is working to ensure it is fully staffed before the busy summer season begins.
The Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) recently updated the Ocean City council on its readiness for the summer months, reporting that 104 officers are set to be on duty. However, officials noted that this number could fluctuate due to retirements, potential injuries, or suspensions.
Local resident Cheryl Suitor praised the department’s efforts, saying, "I've actually talked to quite a few of them, and they seem friendly, but they're still looking around when they talk to you. I feel very safe coming here."
Ashley Miller, deputy communications manager for OCPD, emphasized that the department is still actively hiring and making the application process more accessible. "You can start our process on your own time. You can do your application right online, take the written test when it's comfortable for you, and then we also do a Zoom interview," Miller said.
This summer marks the first season without seasonal officers, a shift that OCPD has prepared for by increasing the amount public safety officers (PSOs) in town. Miller explained the difference, saying, "Being able to shift over to the public safety officer... the difference is you're not going to be seeing a lot of the bright blue uniforms, you'll see a lot of the yellow uniforms."
To attract experienced officers from within Maryland, the Ocean City council has approved a $15,000 signing bonus to be distributed over three years. Officials hope this incentive will encourage officers to transfer to Ocean City and strengthen the department’s workforce.