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Sheriff · Howard County · 2026 Primary
The Sheriff is an elected official responsible for maintaining courthouse security, serving legal documents such as warrants and evictions, and transporting individuals in custody. In many Maryland counties, the Sheriff’s Office also serves as the primary law enforcement agency, conducting patrols and investigating crimes. This office is a key part of the local justice system, ensuring that court orders are enforced and the public is protected.
View all candidates in this raceMarcus Harris is the incumbent Sheriff of Howard County, currently serving his second term and seeking re-election. His professional background includes experience as a detective for the Baltimore County Police, where he was a member of the Community Drug Violence Interaction Team and supported a multi-agency fugitive task force. In addition to his law enforcement career, Harris is a small business owner in Howard County. His platform focuses on building community trust, enhancing public safety through technology and training, and improving the operational efficiency of the Sheriff's Office. He emphasizes his record of implementing body-worn cameras, drone programs, and de-escalation training while fostering partnerships with other local and federal agencies.
Sources: Campaign website
In my first two terms as Sheriff of Howard County, I have worked extremely hard to ensure that the promises I made during my campaign were kept and I fulfilled the duties and responsibilities as Sheriff to the best of my ability.
Restored the community’s trust and confidence in the Sheriff’s Office and to reverse the undercurrent of bias that has echoed in the past.
Join Sheriff Marcus Harris and continue the journey of growth and positive change in our community. Sheriff Harris has proven his commitment to public safety, community engagement, and justice with a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes both integrity and transparency.
With your support, Sheriff Harris will build on the achievements of the past two terms, bringing even more innovation and collaboration to create a safer, more united community.
Source: marcusharrisforsheriff.com
Public Safety and Training
Implemented modern technology and tactical improvements, including body-worn cameras, a drone program, and de-escalation training.
“Increased Use of Force training, de-escalation tactics and less-lethal “bean-bag” shotguns... Implemented Body Worn Cameras.”
Community Engagement
Established a dedicated community outreach section and increased participation in local events to restore trust and transparency.
“Created a Community Outreach Section... The Office is now more involved in the community than ever before through events such as: The Black History Expo... Coffee with a Cop.”
Operational Efficiency and Workforce Support
Focused on increasing staffing, improving retirement benefits, and achieving professional accreditation.
“Increased authorized strength by 25%... Enhanced retirement for members from 30 to 20 years... CALEA Law Enforcement Accreditation (in process).”
“Sheriff Harris has proven his commitment to public safety, community engagement, and justice with a forward-thinking approach.”
Source“Increased Use of Force training, de-escalation tactics and less-lethal 'bean-bag' shotguns”
Source“Restored the community’s trust and confidence in the Sheriff’s Office and to reverse the undercurrent of bias”
Source“Successful Howard County Small Business Owner with staffs of 5 to 50 people”
Source“Over $380,000 in grant funding to include Veteran incentives”
Source