Office of Professional Responsibilities

Office of Professional Responsibilities

The Office of Professional Responsibilities (OPR) serves as the primary repository for all complaints of employee misconduct and for requests for public information under the Maryland Public Information Act. OPR is also the principal investigative unit for administrative inquiries involving allegations of serious misconduct, including workplace harassment, workplace violence, discrimination, bias-based concerns, and other significant violations. Minor policy violations are generally investigated and reviewed at the division level unless otherwise directed. An OPR supervisor evaluates allegations in each case to determine the appropriate investigative course and ensure each complaint is handled with fairness, consistency, and transparency.

As part of its mission to promote accountability and public trust, OPR maintains detailed data related to all complaints of employee misconduct. This information is regularly provided to the Sheriff or designated authority to support comprehensive administrative review, identify emerging trends or training needs, and guide the development of corrective actions. OPR also conducts routine audits and compliance reviews across all Sheriff’s Office divisions to ensure adherence to agency policies, supervisory expectations, and operational standards. These audits are essential for identifying needed refinements, strengthening accountability, and reinforcing the professionalism and integrity expected throughout the organization. Through these combined efforts, OPR advances the Sheriff’s Office commitment to professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct across the Office and its employees.