Police Chief to move to Fla. Police

OCEAN CITY, Md. (WMAR) - The Ocean City Police Chief is retiring after serving the community for 24 years for a new adventure as the Chief of Police of the Sarasota, Florida Police Department.  

Chief Bernadette DiPino, who is a fourth generation police officer, began her career in Ocean City in 1988, after 3 years with the Baltimore County Police Department.

"I have been honored and privileged to work with so many dedicated and professional individuals in the supportive community of Ocean City," said Chief DiPino. "The people I have worked with over the last 10 years as chief and last 24 with the OCPD have allowed me to grow and gain valuable experience. I am most proud of the officers in this agency and the command staff which I've appointed over the years."

Chief DiPino worked her way through the Ocean City Police Department's ranks when she finally became Chief in 2003.  She has worked in every division and on every shift. She even served as a member of the Department's Quick Response Team or SWAT, and teaches many topics including firearms, defensive tactics and community policing.

"I am leaving the department with mixed emotions- excitement about a new opportunity and challenge in beautiful Sarasota, Florida, but heartfelt sadness because I will miss the department, the officers, and the citizens with whom I've developed so many lasting friendships.