County Executive Requests Resignation of MCPD Chief Following OIG Misconduct Findings

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich announced on September 18, 2026, that he had requested and received the resignation of Montgomery County Police Chief Marc Yamada, citing findings from the County’s independent Office of the Inspector General (OIG). In a formal statement, Executive Elrich thanked Chief Yamada for nearly four decades of service but emphasized that County Police leadership’s integrity required decisive action.

According to Elrich, the OIG’s investigation substantiated violations involving the Chief’s failure to take or record leave as required, including time away from work during which appropriate adjustments to his schedule were not made. “Trust and integrity are fundamental to public service, particularly for those entrusted with leading our police department,” Elrich stated. He also noted that the most troubling aspect of the inquiry concerned the accuracy of the Chief’s statements to investigators during the OIG review. Based on these findings, Elrich determined that a leadership change was necessary to maintain accountability and public confidence.

Overview of OIG Findings

The OIG’s Public Synopsis: Investigation of Alleged Misconduct by an MCPD Executive details several violations of County and MCPD policies. The investigation confirmed that between July 2024 and July 2026, the executive did not record any leave despite multiple absences, including at least five full days (totaling 40 hours) during which the executive was not working but made no adjustments to their schedule. This included attendance at a golf tournament during work hours, where alcohol was consumed. MCPD policy prohibits employees from being absent from duty without leave, regardless of their exemption from certain County Personnel Regulations.

The OIG also substantiated that the executive selected a County‑employed relative to accompany them to an out‑of‑state work conference—despite initially denying involvement—and found that they had improperly directed that a County vehicle be provided to an Office of the County Attorney employee without setting proper restrictions. The vehicle was later used for personal matters, including commuting, in violation of County requirements. Providing false or misleading statements during an official inquiry constitutes a violation of County Code Section 2‑151(m)(2).

Systemic Oversight Challenges

Beyond individual misconduct, the OIG identified broader issues across MCPD, including supervisory oversight of time reporting and uncertainty among leadership about when employees must take leave for non‑official events. These systemic challenges highlight the need for clearer guidance, stronger oversight mechanisms, and consistent enforcement of established policies.

County Response and Leadership Transition

Executive Elrich affirmed that the County takes the OIG’s findings seriously and has already begun implementing the report’s recommendations to strengthen accountability and policy compliance across County government. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to ensuring internal standards are clear and applied consistently.

To ensure stability during the transition, Elrich appointed Assistant Chief Darren Francke as Acting Chief of Police and expressed full confidence in his ability to lead the department. Elrich also reaffirmed his appreciation for MCPD personnel’s professionalism and dedication.