Campus Connection

On October 24, the UMB News announced the appointment of Cleveland Barnes as the new chief of police and director of public safety at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. 

Barnes became the acting chief in July 2006 after Ed Ballard, his predecessor and a general in the Maryland National Guard, was called to serve in Afghanistan.  Barnes first joined the University Police Department in 1971 as a patrol officer.  Since then, he has worked his way through the ranks serving as a sergeant, shift supervisor, lieutenant, and most recently to colonel and assistant director of public safety. 

According to UMB News, he guided the successful reaccreditation of the University Police Department by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies during his tenure as acting chief. 

“His performance over the years has been superb, especially during the past 14 months,” said James Hill, vice president for administration and finance, in announcing Barnes’ appointment in UMB News.  “His leadership…will enhance the University Police Force's excellent tradition of providing quality professional services to the campus community.” 

The University Police Department was established in 1948 and today has 66 sworn officers supported by 50 security officers, according to historical information posted on the Department’s website.