Dwayne Preston Makes History as Bowie’s First Black Police Chief
In a historic moment for the city of Bowie, Maryland, Dwayne Preston was sworn in as chief of police on Tuesday, January 3rd 2024 – marking the first time an African American has held the city’s top law enforcement post.
Esteemed Homegrown Leader
Preston’s journey to police chief began over three decades ago as a 20-year-old recruit with the Prince George’s County Police Department.
The Maryland native rose steadily through the ranks there, serving in roles across patrol operations, community policing, internal affairs, narcotics and criminal investigations.
In 2012, Preston transitioned to the City of Bowie’s police force as deputy chief, a position he held for 12 years until being appointed acting chief last September. Tuesday’s swearing-in ceremony cemented Preston’s trailblazing leadership position heading the 67-officer department.
Commitment to Excellence and Community
“To our residents and business leaders in this city, know that I am committed to excellence and have served with integrity, honesty and commitment for over 33 years,” Preston declared after taking his oath. “Rendering service to each of you as though you are a part of my family is my guarantee.”
Throughout his accomplished career, Preston has championed initiatives strengthening police-community relations, accountability and transparency.
His efforts extend to serving on the Prince George’s County police reform task force and overseeing the implementation of body cameras during his tenure as Bowie’s deputy chief.
Vision for an Equitable Future
City manager Alfred Lott praised Preston as the ideal leader to chart Bowie’s policing strategy, having “built strong bridges between city and county police departments.”
Now at the helm, Preston is focused on recruiting to fill staff vacancies and cultivating positive youth engagement as part of crime prevention efforts. He views enforcement as just one facet of community-oriented policing.
“The best way to prevent an encounter with law enforcement is to teach your children how to abide by the law and respect all people,” Preston notes.
As the city’s first Black police chief, he hopes his pioneering role inspires the next generation. Preston’s trailblazing leadership signals a new era of diversity, equity, and innovation for law enforcement in Bowie and beyond.
