Budget Plan

• Any allegations of misconduct will be taken seriously and promptly investigated.

• Once an allegation is received, an initial review will determine whether the investigation should be conducted internally or by an independent entity to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability.

• A formal statement will be issued directly from me, Bilton Morgan, informing the public that allegations have been filed and that an investigation—whether internal or independent—is underway. Immediate administrative actions will be taken when appropriate, including placing involved personnel on administrative leave.

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We will ensure that all safeguards are followed so there are no loopholes that could lessen or minimize the seriousness of the allegations. If the offense is significant enough to affect the daily operations or integrity of the Sheriff’s Office, I will place the deputy or deputies involved on administrative suspension. During that time, they will be relieved of all law enforcement authority, their weapon and department-issued vehicle will be secured, and they will be escorted home. Once this action is taken, that individual will only be permitted on Sheriff’s Office property with an escort until the investigation is complete.

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Morale is a serious issue that has been ignored for far too long. The hardworking men and women of the Cecil County Sheriff’s Office deserve respect, professionalism, and a workplace free from negative influences. When serious allegations arise, those involved must be removed from the environment until the investigation is completed so the agency can continue serving the community with integrity.

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The men and women of this agency deserve confidence in their leadership. They need to know that I will not tolerate misconduct—no matter who it involves. Throughout my career, I have built my reputation on being firm, fair, and impartial. Everyone should be treated with the same level of fairness and accountability that I would expect myself.

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If someone damages not only their personal reputation but also the reputation of the entire agency and the allied agencies we work with every day, they can be certain that the matter will be handled quickly, fairly, and transparently. I will not hide behind political correctness when integrity is at stake. I believe in saying what I mean and meaning what I say.

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Strong safeguards exist when leadership sets clear expectations at every level of an organization. By providing clear direction, building a culture of accountability, and ensuring that personnel have secure and anonymous ways to report misconduct, we can strengthen trust within the agency and with the community we serve.