Ocean City Police Sergeant Retires After 27+ Years of Service

OCEAN CITY, MD – After over 27+ years of dedicated service to the citizens of Ocean City, Sergeant Mark Paddack retired on October 31 from the Ocean City Police Department. Sergeant Paddack began his career with the OCPD as a seasonal police officer in the summers of 1989 and 1990 and was hired as a full-time police officer in December 1990. Over the years, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and served several summers as an Acting Lieutenant – Watch Commander.

During his career, Sgt. Paddack has held several leadership positions including Forensic Services Unit supervisor, Noise Enforcement Unit supervisor, Quick Response Team team leader, Firearms Training Unit supervisor, Property Review and Enforcement Strategies for Safe Housing (PRESS) Committee liaison, and much more. Sgt. Paddack also co-founded the Bicycle Patrol Unit and Citizens Police Academy, two programs that continue to be vital to OCPD operations.

Sgt. Paddack earned several awards for his exemplary service during his career including Neighborhood Watch Officer of the Year, Elks Lodge Officer of the Year, Maryland Governor’s Citation of Achievement for Pistol Marksmanship, Maryland Governor’s Citation of Achievement for Crime Prevention, and NRA Police Pistol Combat Distinguished Revolver Award, and 20 departmental commendations. Additionally, Sgt. Paddack was among a small group of officers honored by President Bill Clinton in October 1994 as a result of their work in arresting a serial rapist while on bike patrol.

“As a resident of Ocean City, Sgt. Paddack has always been truly committed to intertwining his passion for his community and his career in law enforcement,” commented Chief Ross Buzzuro. “Going back to early on in his career, Mark realized the effectiveness of community policing and many of his efforts will stand the test of time in this department. We salute him for his service.”

After his retirement, Sgt. Paddack plans to continue to serve his community and intends to work for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office as a School Resource Officer.

“I have believed in Ocean City. My home is in Ocean City. My community service has been in Ocean City and I am raising my children in Ocean City,” said Sgt. Paddack. “I have had the honor to serve with distinction, integrity, tenacity and compassion for almost 30 years. I will continue serving the Town of Ocean City in one capacity or another.”