Captain John M Keeney,
Commander, Precinct 6, Towson
Captain John Keeney is a 24-year veteran of law enforcement. He joined the Baltimore County Police Department in 2002 and began his career in the Garrison Precinct as a Patrol Officer. Most recently, he was assigned to the Towson Precinct as the Commander.
After meeting Captain Keeney at a recent Towson Chamber Breakfast we were able to have a quick Q&A to get to know our new Commander. Please join us in welcoming Captain Keeney to Towson!
Captain Keeney: I grew up in Pennsylvania and I’m a graduate of York College. I briefly worked in juvenile corrections during college before being hired by Baltimore County.
🔥 What first drew you to law enforcement, and what has kept you in the job all these years?
Captain Keeney: I’ve always had a strong desire to become a police officer. I had a great grandparent that was a police officer but besides him, there are no other family ties to the profession. It’s just something I've always wanted to do, as early as age two. I’ve remained with the profession so long due to the satisfaction the job can bring. Recent times have been difficult for our profession, that's for sure, but I’ve never once thought about leaving early.
🔥 Did you have any mentors or experiences early in life that shaped how you think about policing and community?
Captain Keeney: I can’t recall any early life experiences; however, my very first patrol Lieutenant was a major influence to me, as were several of my senior squad mates.
🔥 What do you like to do when you’re off duty — hobbies, local spots you enjoy, ways you unwind?
Captain Keeney: Spending time with my family consumes most of my time when I'm off. However, I do spend time golfing, working out and watching my Phillies and Chicago Bears.
🔥 Is there something about you that residents might find surprising or not expect from a police captain?
Captain Keeney: Ha, no not really. I’m generally a very quiet person with a very normal life. I go to work serving the citizens of Baltimore County and then I go home and become “Dad.”
🔥 How would you describe your leadership style with your officers and civilian staff?
Keeney: I’m a very laid back person. I don’t let emotions dictate how I respond to things or situations. I like to lead by example. I’ve always felt that if your people see you doing something they may be more inclined to act in the same manner. I also like to empower my people and not micromanage. I feel like when you make every decision it can hurt morale and may stifle your personnel’s growth as an officer, Sgt, etc.
🔥 When you think about “good policing,” what does that look like in everyday interactions with residents?
Captain Keeney: Acting and looking professional at all times, even when no one is looking. As I stated before, the last few years have been difficult for our profession and certain nationwide incidents have been a black eye on law enforcement. Interacting with residents in a professional manner shows the community that we can be trusted, which goes a long way with making it easier to do our jobs.
ABOUT THE COMMANDER
Captain John Keeney is a 24-year veteran of law enforcement. He joined the Baltimore County Police Department in 2002 and began his career in the Garrison Precinct as a Patrol Officer. Most recently, he was assigned to the Operations Bureau as the Duty Commander.
2002—Entered the Baltimore County Police Academy
2002 to 2003—Assigned to the Garrison Precinct as a Patrol Officer
2003 to 2006—Assigned to the Franklin Precinct as a Patrol Officer
2006—Assigned to the Pikesville Precinct as a Patrol Officer
2006 to 2009—Assigned to the Pikesville Precinct’s Community Action Team
2009 to 2011—Assigned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau/Vice Narcotics Section as a Detective
2011—Promoted to the rank of Corporal
2011—Assigned to the White Marsh Precinct as a Patrol Corporal
2011 to 2013—Assigned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau/Vice Narcotics Section as a Detective Corporal
2013—Promoted to the rank of Sergeant
2013—Assigned to the Records Management Section
2013 to 2017—Assigned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau as a Detective Sergeant
2017—Promoted to the rank of Lieutenant
2017 to 201 —Assigned to the Woodlawn Precinct as a Patrol Shift Commander
2018 to 2024—Assigned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau/Vice Narcotics Section as a Detective Lieutenant
2024—Assigned to the Operations Bureau as acting Duty Commander
2024—Promoted to the rank of Captain
2024 to 2026—Assigned to the Operations Bureau as the Duty Commander
2026—Assigned to the Towson Precinct as the Commander
