Gaithersburg Police Chief Sroka Retires

Gaithersburg Police Chief Mark Sroka will retire after 16 years with the City of Gaithersburg Police Department effective March 6, 2026. Chief Sroka was presented with a proclamation proclaiming March 6 as "Police Chief Mark Sroka Day" in the City of Gaithersburg, recognizing his service and dedication to law enforcement and his significant contributions to the Gaithersburg Police Department. The proclamation was presented during the February 17 Mayor and City Council meeting.

Mark Sroka has served as Chief of Police of the Gaithersburg Police Department since July 13, 2010. He was previously a 24-year member of the Maryland State Police and held the rank of Major upon his retirement on July 1, 2010. Chief Sroka holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from the University of Maryland and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Baltimore.

"It has been my privilege to serve with some of the finest officers and civilian professional staff - men and women whose courage and dedication to serving and protecting the City have made everything we have achieved possible," said Chief Sroka. "Together we have achieved much, and none of it would have been possible without the collective commitment of our department to this outstanding community."

Under Chief Sroka's leadership, the Gaithersburg Police Department has expanded from 52 authorized sworn positions in 2010 to 70 authorized sworn positions and 21 authorized civilian positions today. His outstanding accomplishments include driving the implementation of key technologies, including the deployment of Body-Worn Cameras, successfully guiding the department through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, decreasing crime in 11 of the last 16 years, and collaborating with City officials on opening a new state-of-the-art police station in April 2024.

During Chief Sroka's tenure, the Gaithersburg Police Department has been nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), a highly prized recognition of professional public safety excellence.

"Chief Sroka has led the Gaithersburg Police Department with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the values of community, safety, and service," said Mayor Jud Ashman. "His significant contributions have strengthened our City and made Gaithersburg a better place for all."

"We celebrate Chief Sroka's extraordinary career and thank him for his honorable service to our City and leaving an indelible mark on Gaithersburg," said City Manager Tanisha Briley. "Over the last 16 years, his leadership has shaped a safer, stronger community."

Gaithersburg Police Department Captain and Assistant Chief of Police Shawn Eastman will be sworn in as the new Chief of Police on Monday, March 2.

For additional information please contact the City Manager's Office.