In a recent conversation with the Spy’s P. Ryan Anthony and WHCP’s Jim Brady, Cambridge Police Chief Justin Todd shared updates on officer pay, youth outreach programs, mental health resources, a recent murder arrest, and community engagement.

Pay Raises Help, But Competition Remains Fierce

Cambridge’s newly approved city budget includes modest bonuses for police officers. Chief Todd acknowledged the gesture as a welcome one, but he was clear about the challenge of keeping up with rising salaries across the region.

Mysterious Arrests Spark Concern

On June 4, CPD began fielding phone calls and social media inquiries about photos showing unidentified law enforcement detaining individuals within city limits. Todd confirmed that the officers in question were not affiliated with the Cambridge Police Department and said CPD had no prior knowledge of the operation. In fact, the first CPD heard about the arrests was when a report ended up on social media. They didn’t learn anything more about it but assumed it was ICE. Todd added that, while CPD is occasionally informed in advance about federal enforcement activity, that is not always the case. If local officers encounter such situations, their protocol is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

15-Year-Old Arrested in Homicide Case

Chief Todd also confirmed that city officers recently arrested a 15-year-old male suspected of fatally shooting a man. Thanks to surveillance equipment and the work of CPD detectives, the department was able to identify the suspect and locate him hiding out in a vehicle.

Teen Court Shows Early Promise

Cambridge launched its Teen Court program in May, aimed at diverting first-time misdemeanor youth offenders from the traditional juvenile justice system. The program allowed teens to be judged and sanctioned by their peers. Todd, who attended the first session, came away impressed. The teens were harder on each other in sentencing than the juvenile justice system would have been. And it created a real sense of accountability. It also gave the police a way to connect with young people in a positive setting.

Senior Citizens Targeted by Scams

The CPD maintains a section on the city’s website warning residents about common scams targeting seniors. Todd emphasized that such scams—via phone, email, or text—are alarmingly frequent. There are a lot of scams pretending to be from the MVA or other agencies, trying to get personal information or money. People need to be very cautious.

Mental Health Services for Officers Continue to Grow

In April, CPD leadership visited the National Law Enforcement First Responder Wellness Center in Havre de Grace. Todd said the trip was inspiring and helpful in shaping the department’s wellness programming. Mental health support has come a long way since the chief started 25 years ago. Mental health assessments are now required every other year, and officers know services are available. Todd was particularly encouraged by how open attendees at the wellness center were in discussing their experiences with peers.

Community Engagement: From Flag Football to Local Support

This spring, the department wrapped up its community flag football program—a visible and successful outreach effort. It was amazing to see how many kids and parents showed up every weekend, Todd said, adding that the community needs more programs like that.

He also expressed deep gratitude for the public’s support, noting that local businesses and organizations regularly drop off food and thank officers personally. The department has made a real effort since 2022 to show the community they care.

As the department faces the dual challenges of staffing and public safety, Chief Todd’s message was clear: the CPD is committed to keeping the city safe while deepening its connection with the community it serves.

The video is approximately 16 minutes long.