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DPSCS Executive Staff

Carolyn J. Scruggs, Secretary

Carolyn Scruggs

Citing her vast experience in multiple divisions of DPSCS, Governor Wes Moore has named Carolyn J. Scruggs Secretary of the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, effective Friday, January 13, 2023.

In becoming the new Secretary, Ms. Scruggs has made history: she's the first African-American female ever to be named DPSCS Secretary.

Ms. Scruggs is a 27-year veteran of DPSCS who has played critical roles in pre-trial corrections and the DOC, including oversight of CJIS and programs, treatment, and services.

She played vital roles in developing both the statewide fingerprint and case management systems, as well as the award-winning Crisis De-Escalation Training.

Starting as a correctional officer at Central Booking in 1995, Ms. Scruggs eventually became the facility''s warden, along the way working on the development of critical public safety components including OCMS and MAFIS.

In 2019, she assumed oversight of the department's COVID19 Response Operations, guiding the Department's efforts during a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic.

A graduate from Baltimore's Western High School, she also holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from Towson State University and a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Coppin State University.

Most recently, Ms. Scruggs had been Assistant Secretary for Programs, Treatment, and Reentry, before being named Acting Secretary by outgoing Governor Larry Hogan.

DPSCS salutes the many accomplishments of Ms. Scruggs, and congratulates her on this historic appointment.