Montgomery County Police Chief Yamada Resigns Immediately
Montgomery County Police Chief Yamada Resigns Immediately
Anonymous
Key Points
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Yamada was chosen to lead the department ahead of the retirement of then-Chief Marcus Jones.
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The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 35, which represents Montgomery County police officers, had not immediately responded to requests for comment about Yamada’s departure.
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According to 7News sources, Yamada was cleaning out his office Friday morning after being forced to retire immediately.
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The Inspector General’s investigation into the alleged Las Vegas travel-related misuse of county funds was reportedly completed and was expected to be released soon.
Montgomery County Police Chief Marc Yamada resigned effective immediately on Friday, ending his tenure just months after becoming the department's first Japanese American leader. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich appointed Assistant Chief Darren Franke as acting chief while the county searches for a permanent replacement. Yamada, who spent more than 35 years with the department before his 2024 promotion, did not publicly state a reason for his departure.
An Office of the Inspector General investigation reportedly found that Yamada violated department policy, including attending a golf event during work hours without taking official leave and consuming alcohol at the event. WUSA9 reported that Yamada was seen cleaning out his office Friday morning. The Inspector General's report on the alleged misconduct was expected to be released soon.
Quick Rise and Sudden Exit
Yamada was promoted to chief in 2024 after the retirement of Marcus Jones, making him a historic leader for the 3,000-officer department. NBC Washington noted he was chosen to lead one of Maryland's largest police forces. His appointment marked a significant milestone for diversity in Montgomery County law enforcement leadership.
Investigation Finds Policy Violations
The Office of the Inspector General probe uncovered that Yamada attended a golf event while on duty without requesting official leave. Robert Dyer's Blog reported that he consumed alcohol at the event despite it occurring during working hours. The investigation was completed and the full report was expected to be released soon.
MyMCMedia reported that the OIG found misconduct by the police department executive who violated department policies. The specifics of the investigation remained limited in public disclosures as of Friday, though sources indicated additional details would emerge with the formal report release.
What Happens Next for the Department
Franke, who was promoted to acting chief, will lead the department during the transition period. Fox 5 DC reported that the county will begin searching for a permanent police chief. The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 35, which represents rank-and-file officers, had not immediately commented on Yamada's departure.
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