Acting Precinct Commander Reinforces Commitment to Reisterstown

The acting commander of the police precinct that serves Reisterstown and Owings Mills pledged the department’s continued support despite changes in the command structure.

“Our commitment to this group and to your goals has not changed,” Lt. Stephen Doarnberger said to the Reisterstown Improvement Association at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Doarnberger, previously assistant commander, is acting precinct captain after Capt. Matthew McElwee was reassigned Monday. McElwee was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence on Saturday in Carroll County, according to police. He was assigned to administrative duties at the police department’s operation bureau, police announced Monday.

The Franklin police precinct has been working with the RIA and the Main Street Committee on safety initiatives, including establishing a Merchants on Patrol program.

“None of us have unlimited resources, but I think we can come together and get some things solved,” Doarnberger said.

He and McElwee were recently honored at the Reisterstown-Owings Mills-Glyndon Chamber of Commerce’s charter night in February. The community has had mixed reactions to McElwee’s reassignment.

“Captain McElwee did so much for the ROMG area. He was always available to businesses and civic organizations and supported Reisterstown,” wrote Kathy Gambrill, an RIA board member and Main Street Committee member. “This is unfortunate and I’m sure he has regrets, but I would never say he was a disgrace to the uniform. I’m just so sorry this one event will be the only thing some residents of this community will associate him with.”