Though crime remains relatively low in Montgomery County parks, they are often not protected by a uniformed officer, according to a report released Thursday by the county Office of Legislative Oversight.
There are seven county park beats, but there are typically between four and six officers patrolling them, the report stated.
Higher coverage comes during the 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. hours.
“The Park Police deployed seven or more officers during only 17 percent of all shifts,” the report stated.
The county division of Maryland-National Capital Park Police is considering solutions ranging from requesting more sworn officers to creating a park ranger program such as one used by Prince George?s County.
“It?s easier to hire non-sworn rangers,” said Maryland-National Capital Park Police spokesman David McClintock, “but they have limitations. They are not a replacement for police officers.”
Prince George?s park rangers offer guided tours, help direct traffic and perform other functions, but do not have police powers. Instead, they carry radios and can report crimes to sworn officers through a dispatcher.
Thursday?s report included recommendations such as moving officers out of the park police headquarters or hiring more officers.
Though they have reassigned some internal work to civilians, McClintock said additional staff remains in the hands of county government.
Office personnel include those conducting criminal investigations and running background checks, as well as other support functions.
“It just isn?t feasible to have a full-service police department without a full staff of criminal investigators,” McClintock said.
The council committees overseeing public safety and planning will receive the report today in Rockville.
