Montgomery County Police Chief Marc Yamada retired immediately following an inspector general investigation that substantiated allegations of workplace misconduct, including unauthorized absences and providing false statements to investigators, according to county officials and the Office of the Inspector General.
The sudden leadership change took effect on Friday, September 18, 2026, after County Executive Marc Elrich accepted Yamada’s resignation. Inspector General Megan Davey Limarzi released findings from a memorandum of investigation showing that an agency executive—confirmed by sources as Yamada—recorded zero leave between July 2024 and July 2026 despite multiple absences. Investigators identified at least five days, totaling 40 hours, where the executive was unavailable for work without taking leave or properly adjusting their schedule under Montgomery County Police Department policy.
The investigation also revealed that the executive selected a county-employed relative—identified by sources as his son, who serves as a Montgomery County Police officer—to attend an out-of-state conference in Las Vegas. Investigators stated the executive lied during interviews by denying involvement in that selection, a violation of county code. Separately, the probe found the executive directed that a county vehicle be assigned to an employee of the Office of the County Attorney without setting appropriate limits, leading to personal use and commuting without required approvals.
Impact on Department Operations and Rank-and-File Trust
Law Enforcement Legal Defense Fund President Jason Johnson, a retired major and former deputy commissioner, noted that abrupt leadership changes under a cloud of controversy can harm agency morale and public confidence. Rank-and-file officers carrying out daily duties often bear the burden when public trust is eroded, according to Johnson.
County Executive Elrich emphasized that trust and integrity are fundamental to public service, particularly for those leading law enforcement agencies. Following the release of the inspector general’s report, Elrich stated that holding leadership to the highest standards necessitated a change in command. Assistant Chief Darren Francke has been appointed as acting chief of police while county leaders search for a permanent replacement.
Did You Know? Marc Yamada was the first Japanese-American to lead the Montgomery County Police Department, following a career spanning more than 35 years.
Policy Weaknesses and Recommendations for Reform
Beyond individual misconduct, the inspector general’s review uncovered systemic vulnerabilities within the police department. Investigators noted inconsistent supervisory checks on timecards and widespread confusion among managers regarding when leave is required for nonofficial events occurring during the workday. The report detailed an instance where the executive attended a golf tournament, consumed alcohol, and remained on the clock without documenting leave.
The inspector general’s memorandum included five specific recommendations to improve internal controls, time tracking, and supervisory reviews. County leadership has assured investigators that appropriate actions will be taken, and Councilmember Will Jawando stated he intends to review the recommendations closely to ensure necessary safeguards are strengthened across the agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently leading the Montgomery County Department of Police?
Assistant Chief Darren Francke is serving as Acting Chief of Police following Marc Yamada’s retirement, until a permanent chief is appointed.
What specific policy violations were substantiated against the former chief?
Investigators found the executive was absent from duty for at least 40 hours across five days without taking leave, provided false information to investigators regarding the selection of a relative for a conference, and misused a county vehicle assigned to an Office of the County Attorney employee.
How did the investigation begin?
The inquiry was initiated after complaints were submitted to the Office of the Inspector General’s hotline, according to Inspector General Megan Davey Limarzi.
How are you viewing the recent leadership transition within the Montgomery County Department of Police?