Town Hall of University Park, Maryland, Friday, December 21, 2018
The Town of University Park has appointed Harvey Baker as the next Chief of the University Park Police Department, beginning January 1. Baker will be the ninth Chief of Police for the Town. He succeeds Michael Wynnyk, who retires December 31, after 16 years in the post, more than 42 years in police work.
Baker's career spans nearly 30 years in public safety and encompasses leadership roles in investigations, patrol, support operations, and police administration. He has recently served as the Chief of Police for the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission. As a Deputy Chief of Police with the Maryland National Capital Park Police, he led and managed police resources in Prince George's and Montgomery Counties. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and began his public safety career as a patrol officer with the City of Annapolis Police Department. He holds a Master of Science degree in Organizational Leadership from Johns Hopkins University.
University Park Mayor Len Carey said "University Park has been committed to policing which develops relationships with the community and brings better cooperation, increased understanding of cultural differences, and improved public safety. We have appreciated Chief Wynnyk's leadership in shaping that approach over the years. Mr. Baker brings a similar approach to community policing and a great deal of experience, and we are thrilled to be working with him."
Mayor Carey will swear Baker in on January 7 at 7:30 p.m. at University Park Elementary School, at the beginning of the Town Council meeting scheduled for that date. A brief reception will immediately follow.