University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD) PFC Scottie Washington was nominated to be a spotlight officer after a community member called to recognize his good work.  

“I just thank them so much. They were wonderful,” the community member said in a voicemail to Chief Thomas Leone. She went on to say that Washington encouraged her to pursue the case and how grateful she was for his support. Assistant Chief Chad Ellis immediately replied, “Nomination for spotlight!!”

Washington joined UMBPD in May 2021 after retiring from the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office in November 2020. The officer served 10 years in the Navy straight out of high school and has 21 total years in law enforcement. “I wanted to serve and help others in need,” he said. 

In the sheriff’s office, Washington worked with victims of domestic violence. He says helping them is his greatest achievement on the job. He also was detailed to help during the unrest in Baltimore in 2015. 

Washington says he’s a silly guy who loves to see and make people laugh. “You never know what a person is going through, so if I can put a smile on their face, it makes me feel good!” he says.

In the future, he hopes to advance into a leadership position.