May The Force Be With You

First Female Officer Brings Over 26 Years Of Experience To The Town Of Upper Marlboro

Corporal Katherine de Barros (center) was sworn in as the Town of Upper Marlboro Police Department’s first ever female officer. She was joined by Mayor Wanda Leonard (left) and Upper Marlboro Police Chief David Burse (right).

 A law enforcement professional with more than 26 years of policing experience is the newest member of the Town of Upper Marlboro Police Department, Mayor Wanda Leonard announced today. Corporal Katherine de Barros was officially sworn in October 22 by Town Chief of Police David A. Burse.

 “We are extremely pleased to have someone with Corporal de Barros’ expertise joining our police department, her credentials and background speak for themselves. We are especially proud to point out that Corporal de Barros is the first female officer we have ever had in our Town police department.” Announced Leonard.

 Cpl. de Barros started her law enforcement career with the Washington Metropolitan Police Department, and then joined the Prince George’s County Police Department, where she received several commendations for her accomplishments as a patrol officer. She was ultimately promoted to the rank of Corporal with the County Police.

Corporal Katherine de Barros has her new Town of Upper Marlboro Police Department badge pinned onto her uniform by her son, who is a Corporal in the Prince George’s County Police Department.

“As a law enforcement professional, Corporal de Barros has always been committed to the welfare of the community and was particularly dedicated to listening to and addressing the public safety concerns of the citizens of Prince George’s County,” Burse said. “In addition to enforcing the law, she also volunteered for different community events at local churches and schools. “She enjoyed working with the citizens and believes that a police officer can be essential in gaining the trust of the community which will help solve crimes and lead to resolutions to immediate community problems,” he added. “We are happy that she will bring that attitude and approach to our department.”

 Cpl. de Barros holds certifications and is trained in the following areas: Community Oriented Policing, Crisis Intervention Team Certified, Conflict Resolution, Radar Certified, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, Mountain Bike Certified, Multi-Jurisdictional Counter Drug Task Force Certified, and Field Training Certified.

 “I have always loved being a police officer, and I am eager to bring my knowledge and expertise to the Town of Upper Marlboro,” Cpl. de Barros said. “For me, working in law enforcement has never been just a job or a career. It has been a lifestyle choice, and I look forward to making a positive difference in this community.”