Former Hyattsville police chief becomes Anne Arundel County’s first Black, female chief

After making Hyattsville history as the community’s first female and Black police chief, Amal Awad is stepping down – in order to lead Anne Arundel County police department.

READ MORE: FOX 5 goes one-on-one with former Anne Arundel County police chief Timothy Altomare

Awad is also Anne Arundel County’s first Black and female chief.

“I feel deeply connected to Hyattsville. I began my career here in Hyattsville as a Prince George’s County patrol officer in 1991. As we all know, life is filled with opportunities and choices, and when I was presented with the opportunity to serve Anne Arundel County as their future chief of police, I was honored to answer that call,” said Awad, who joined the City of Hyattsville Police Department in the spring of 2017.

Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather

Awad is credited with expanding the Hyattsville Police Department’s minority representation from 36 to 56 percent.

In addition, she launched a mental health crisis response exploratory committee that includes representatives from the community’s spiritual and mental health expert communities.

READ MORE: Anne Arundel County police chief Timothy Altomare announces surprise retirement

“Chief Awad has been a superb leader and community role model during some of this city’s, and the country’s, most challenging times for law enforcement officers. We are thankful to have had her leadership over the last two years as Chief of Police, and wish her well on the next chapter of her career," said City Administrator Tracey Douglas.

WATCH LIVE ON YOUR MOBILE DEVICE