PLATFORM ISSUES
IMMIGRATION & PUBLIC SAFETY
On July 1, 2025, Sheriff Brian Albert took decisive action to strengthen public safety by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to participate in the 287(g) Warrant Service Officer (WSO) program.
Under this program, selected Washington County Correctional Deputies are trained, certified, and authorized by ICE to execute immigration administrative warrants—only within the secure setting of the county’s correctional facilities. This ensures that individuals who are already in custody and wanted by federal authorities are properly transferred through lawful, coordinated procedures.
The WSO model is narrowly focused and clearly defined. Deputies are not authorized to question individuals about their immigration status and do not perform street enforcement. Their role is limited strictly to executing ICE warrants inside the detention center, maintaining the separation between local policing and federal immigration investigations.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Since taking office on December 15, 2022, Sheriff Brian Albert has made building trust and strengthening community relationships a top priority of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Under his leadership, Shop with the Sheriff continues to grow each year—providing meaningful experiences for local children while building positive, lasting connections between deputies and the families they serve.
The Sheriff’s Office also launched an annual Trunk or Treat event in partnership with Hagerstown Community College at the ARCC (Athletic, Recreation, and Community Center). This event brings families from across Washington County together in a safe, welcoming environment, reinforcing the importance of community-based policing.
Beyond these signature events, Sheriff Albert ensures the Sheriff’s Office remains present, approachable, and engaged by participating in numerous community events throughout the year. His commitment is simple: a Sheriff’s Office that listens, shows up, and serves alongside the people of Washington County.
COMMUNITY SAFETY INITIATIVES
Sheriff Brian Albert is committed to proactive, data-driven policing to keep Washington County safe. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office works closely with the Maryland State Police and local law enforcement agencies to conduct joint saturation patrols in historically high-crime areas—targeting criminal activity while increasing law enforcement visibility and deterrence.
On July 15, 2025, Sheriff Albert took further action by establishing a specialized enforcement unit focused on addressing high-crime areas, supporting the Narcotics Task Force, enhancing community engagement, and providing critical manpower support when and where it is needed most.
These initiatives reflect Sheriff Albert’s approach to public safety: strong partnerships, focused enforcement, and a visible law enforcement presence—delivering real results for Washington County.
EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY
Sheriff Brian Albert is leading the Washington County Sheriff’s Office into the future by responsibly embracing modern technology to enhance public safety.
Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Office has deployed License Plate Readers (LPRs) at strategic locations throughout the county to strengthen crime prevention and investigative capabilities. The Office is also expanding its drone program, with deployable drones and certified pilots available on every shift to improve situational awareness and response times.
Looking ahead, Sheriff Albert is actively pursuing a Drones as First Responder (DFR) program for Washington County. This innovative approach would allow drones to support law enforcement, fire departments, and Emergency Medical Services, providing faster information, safer responses, and broader coverage during emergencies.
These forward-thinking investments ensure Washington County is equipped with cutting-edge public safety tools, improving response and coverage across all 453 square miles of the county—while maintaining transparency, professionalism, and accountability.