New chief of Maryland Transportation Authority Police named

MARYLAND (WBFF) — A new chief will soon lead the Maryland Transportation Authority Police.

The MDTA announced that Nicholas Augustine, who currently serves as assistant chief of police with the Montgomery County Police Department, has been named the department’s next chief of police after what officials described as an extensive recruitment process. He will begin his new role on Oct. 2.

Katie Thomson, secretary of transportation and chair of the MDTA, described Augustine as a leader with more than 25 years of law enforcement experience.

We are confident that incoming Colonel Augustine is the right leader for this moment and for the future of the MDTA Police,” Thomson said. She added that his “experience, proven leadership and commitment to public service will help advance MDTA’s mission of providing safe, secure and reliable transportation for the people of Maryland and the millions of travelers who use our facilities each year.

Augustine succeeds Colonel Joseph Scott, who retired this summer after a 26-year career with the MDTA Police. Bruce Gartner, executive director of the MDTA, said, “Incoming Colonel Augustine understands that effective policing requires both strong leadership within the department and a meaningful partnership with the community.” Gartner explained that he looks forward to working alongside Augustine to “build on our successes, address the challenges ahead and continue our mission to safeguard the people who use and work at MDTA facilities.” Gartner also thanked Lieutenant Colonel Alford for serving as acting chief of police during the transition.

Augustine started his law enforcement career in 2002 with the Montgomery County Police Department, having previously served with the Maryland-National Capital Park Police. His career has included roles in patrol operations, criminal investigations, tactical operations, district command, administration and executive management. He also led the Investigative Services Bureau as chief, overseeing criminal investigations and specialized operations.

I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this department’s dedicated professionals and serve all those who use our facilities,” Augustine said. He added, “The MDTA Police play a critical role in protecting some of our state’s most important transportation infrastructure and I look forward to strengthening our partnerships and building on the strong foundation that has been established.

Augustine holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland University College, a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice from Arizona State University and a Master of Public Safety from the University of Virginia. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command.