22 Officers Promoted In Anne Arundel County

BROOKLYN PARK, Md. (WJZ) -- The risks and controversies that go with being a police officer, made way for what doesn't get a lot of attention.

WJZ's Alex DeMetrick reports, some days there are rewards of being a good cop.

In Brooklyn Park, it was  a day for families and dress uniforms as Anne Arundel County's police chief promoted 22 officers.

All singled out for the skill and dedication they bring to the job.

While it means new badges for sergeants, lieutenants and captains, Chief Timothy Altomare says that's not what it's all about.

"I'm adding weight to their shoulders." Altomare said, "that their life is going get harder that it was before today and they're going to shoulder more burden the police department carries every day to help keep the 569,000 odd people of this county safe."

Today's promotions follow years, if not decades of service.

Twenty five years ago, Michelle Simpson was a rookie cop.

She now goes from captain to major -- the first African American woman to reach that rank in the department.

It's not something she imagined starting out.

"Actually I didn't," Simpson said. "You take it one day at a time. It's going to be a challenge for me. I'm looking forward to it."

Jerard Flemings was sworn in as one of two deputy chiefs because he has earlier retired from the department.

DeMetrick: Did it take much arm twisting on the chief's part get you back uniform?

"A little bit," Flemings said. "I was sort of in relaxation mode there, retirement mode and enjoying what I was doing. But I think it's a great opportunity to be back, to be back under his direction and command. It's going to be fun. It's going to be interesting."

The promoted 22 officers were given time to celebrate over lunch with their families before going back to work.