March 28, 2024
Annapolis, US 47 F

Arundel’s Top Cop Calls It Quits

Amid a sea of controversy, Colonel James Teare, Anne Arundel County’s police chief, has called it quits as of August 1, 2012.  Teare was under investigation by the State’s Prosecutor in connection with the indictment of Teare’s boss, County Executive John R. Leopold.  According to a statement issued by the State’s Prosecutor, the investigation and case against Teare has been completely dropped. However, if called, he will need to testify in the Leopold trial. There is speculation that Teare will ultimately testify against his former boss once he goes to trial in September.

In a statement from County Executive Leopold’s office, the County Executive said, “Chief Teare notified me today of his intent to leave the Police Department in order to spend more time with his family, effective August
1. I would like to thank him for his long and honorable service to Anne Arundel County and wish him the best of luck in his retirement.” Leopold’s office said there would be no further comment.

Also without further comment, Teare released a statement through the Public Information Office for his department.

Chief of Police Colonel James Teare, Sr. will be retiring from the Anne Arundel County Police Department effective August 1, 2012. Colonel Teare has cherished the opportunity to serve the citizens of Anne Arundel County.

Over the past months, Teare has been under the gun about his role surrounding the indictment of John R. Leopold.  It is alleged that Leopold used the police department to compile dossiers on political components, utilized his police department security detail for personal errands, and run interference between Leopold’s longtime girlfriend and a county employed mistress.  Teare refused to answer most questions when subpoenaed before the County Council and have received votes of no confidence from the County Council as well as the rank and file officers. The International Brotherhood of Police Officers has also called for his resignation.

Teare stands to walk away from hus tenure as Chief with a decent retirement package. His package would include a $235,000 lump sum payout along with a $70,000 per year pension according to The Capital. This is in addition to health and life insurance benefits.

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