Riverdale Park Set to Welcome David Morris as New Police Chief

Twenty six years ago, David Morris joined the Prince George's County Police Department, and since then he's said he's never looked back.

"I've never regretted a day in my career," Morris said, who is currently a Major for the PGPD.

But now, he's nominated for the top position on Riverdale Park's police force, and he says he's excited to start.

"It's a friendly town and well-respected agency," Morris said. The fact that Chief (Teresa) Chambers was here also adds to the agency's reputation, he added.

He has worked for Chambers is the past and said she was instrumental in his career — all of it within Prince George's County.

Morris, who lives in Anne Arundel County with his wife and three children, of whom the youngest is 18, started his career in law enforcement after his time in the U.S. Navy.

"I liked the discipline and structure," he said, "but every day is different."

Within the county's police department, Morris served in a variety of roles, from the commander of District 5 to a lieutenant at the Hyattsville barrack.

He has experience with community policing and believes policing is a partnership between the police department and the community.

As to why he wants the position in Riverdale Park, he said it was a mutual fit, after meeting the mayor and the council.

Mayor Vernon Archer said although Morris' appointment is on the Sept. 6 meeting agenda, he is not sure when Morris' first day will be.

Archer said each applicant was vetted by a committee. There were applicants from within the department, however, he said really strong candidates applied and it became about who would be the best fit, rather than who was solely familiar with the department.

Morris is still a nominee, and his appointment will have to be approved by council at their Sept. 6 meeting.