Alonzo D. Black II

Alonzo D. Black II is a former sheriff who served in Prince George's County, Maryland. He held the position of sheriff from 1998 to 2002. During his tenure, Black made significant contributions to law enforcement and community engagement in Prince George's County. 
==Early life and education==
Alonzo D. Black II was born in Panama City, Florida on March 10, 1945. He developed a passion for public service and law enforcement from an early age. Black went into the US military, served for years, fought in battle, and got wounded in the Vietnam War. After receiving an honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps in 1967, Black concluded his service as a decorated combat sergeant. Black pursued his higher education at Prince George's Community College and Bowie State University, where he graduated with honors in 1974. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration, graduating Cum laude|cum laude. Later in 1974, while concurrently pursuing his law degree at the University of Maryland, Black was appointed as a detective sergeant for the Prince George's County State's Attorney's Office. Following his admission to the Maryland State Bar in 1977, Black embarked on a career as a prosecuting attorney, serving in both the district and circuit courts. He became an Assistant Counsel to the state in the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Office. For a period of two years, he played a key role in coordinating grand jury cases. In 1992, Black transitioned to civil practice, retiring from his position as a prosecuting attorney. https://www2.law.umaryland.edu/marshall/schoolarchives/documentspriv/Pre-CommencementExercises1978.pdf
==Career==
Alonzo Black's career in law enforcement began in 1967 when he joined the Prince George's County Police Department as the first African American police officer in Prince George’s County. Black joined the Prince George’s County Sheriff’s Department as a deputy and legal counsel. He quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to serving the community. In 1993, Black was appointed to the position of Assistant Sheriff. Black's dedication to public safety and his innovative approach to law enforcement earned him recognition within the department. Within a year, he was promoted to the role of chief assistant sheriff, becoming the second-in-command of the agency. He held this position until he ran in the 1998 election. In 1998 Alonzo Black wins the election and is voted as the first African American Sheriff of Prince George’s County Maryland.
During his tenure as sheriff, Black implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing community relations, improving public safety, and reducing crime rates in Prince George's County. He actively collaborated with local organizations, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies to develop comprehensive strategies for crime prevention and community outreach. 
Black's efforts to promote transparency and accountability within the Sheriff's Office resulted in the implementation of various reforms, including enhanced training programs for deputies, improved internal policies, and increased community involvement in shaping law enforcement practices.
==Achievements and recognition==
Throughout his career, Alonzo D. Black II received numerous accolades in academics, within the military, as a lawyer, and recognition for his outstanding contributions to law enforcement. His dedication to public service and commitment to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the community have been widely acknowledged. He is recognized as the first African American Police Officer of Prince George’s County Maryland and the first African American Sheriff of Prince George’s County Maryland.
==Personal life==
Alonzo Black is married and has five children. Outside of his professional career, Black is known for his involvement in various community organizations and philanthropic endeavors. He has been an advocate for youth empowerment, education, and mentorship programs in Prince George's County. Alonzo Black is a member of or has worked with: Psi Sigma Epsilon International (business fraternity); Governor's Task Force on Welfare Fraud; President's Youth Motivation Task Force; Governor's Military Monuments Commission; Maryland State Bar Association; Baltimore City Supreme Bench; J. Franklyn Bourne Bar Association; VFW Post 9376; American Legion Post 248; Prince George's County Bar; TV host, "House Divided" (about domestic violence). In his free time, he enjoys traveling, collecting art, collecting gemstones/jewels, and music.
Category:Bowie State University alumni
Category:1945 births
Category:Sheriffs