A Seasoned Leader Steps Forward

Cottage City Welcomes Its New Police Chief

With a career shaped by service, precision, and leadership, David “Dave” Martini is set to bring nearly four decades of law-enforcement experience to Cottage City as its new Chief of Police. Appointed effective February 4, 2026, Chief Martini arrives with a reputation built on accountability, strategic command, and deep community engagement.

Chief Martini’s career began in 1988 with the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division, where he was entrusted with protecting the President, Vice President, and visiting foreign dignitaries. Just a year later, he joined the Prince George’s County Police Department—one of the nation’s largest law-enforcement agencies—launching a distinguished tenure that would span nearly three decades and culminate in his rise to the rank of Major.

Known as a subject-matter expert in narcotics enforcement and human trafficking investigations, Chief Martini has worked every level of the profession—from patrol officer and investigator to hostage negotiator and district commander. His leadership included key assignments in patrol, robbery, vice, sex trafficking, and regional interdiction initiatives, where he oversaw complex operations and mentored officers across multiple units. As Commander of District VI, he carried full responsibility for strategic direction, operations, and investigative oversight.

Beyond the field, Chief Martini is a lifelong student and educator. A graduate of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration, he has completed more than 40 advanced trainings through elite agencies including the FBI, DEA, and DOJ. His excellence has been recognized with honors such as Prince George’s County Police Officer of the Year and Employee of the Year for Public Safety.

A Maryland resident, devoted husband, and father of three, Chief Martini now begins a new chapter—one focused on professionalism, partnership, and public trust. He will be formally sworn in on February 11, 2026, marking a confident step forward for Cottage City and its commitment to community-centered policing.