Another Round Of Change

Braveboy Makes Key Public Safety Appointments

By Hamil R. Harris

PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO BY NINA WADE // PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE & MEDIA

Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy has appointed three veterans to her security team, which she says will further strengthen her efforts to provide better services in the county.

Braveboy has selected Dr. Katina Gomez as Director of Homeland Security, Anthony Reese as Director of Emergency Management, and Bernard Wright as the Director of the Office of Information Technology.

“Today we continue to elevate Prince George’s County not just in word but in action by elevating exceptional leaders who come from our very own neighborhoods,” said Braveboy during her July 7th press conference.

 Gomez, the former Deputy Chief of the Prince George’s County Police, rose to become the highest-ranking female in the department before she retired after 20 years of service.

“Together, we will work for the safety and security of every resident, every community, every faith, and every business in Prince George’s County,” said Gomez whose sentiments were echoed by Reese and Wright.

Reese, who served as chief of the Forest Heights Police Department, was well respected and will be missed in the community, said Prince George's County Council Chairman Edward Burroughs.

During his comments, Reese said that his focus goes beyond providing security for the residents of Prince George’s County. He said that he will consult with neighboring jurisdictions from the District of Columbia to Anne Arundel County.

“We’re going to make sure that we pick out the best practices and make sure that we hold that here in Prince George’s County,” Reese said.

Vernard Wright, Director of the Office of Information Technology, said when it comes to cybersecurity, he, too, has a mission that reaches beyond the county. “This is a critical time not just for Prince George’s County but for the nation.

During the press conference, Braveboy also named Deputy Chief Administrative Officers who will serve in Public Safety and in other departments.