Ocean City, MD– (April 07, 2025): The Ocean City Police Department proudly announces the retirement of Patrol Sergeant Joseph Bushnell, who officially concluded his distinguished 25-year career in law enforcement on April 1, 2025.
Hired in August 2000, Sgt. Joseph Bushnell dedicated a quarter-century to serving and protecting the Ocean City community. Over the course of his career, he worked in every division of the department, with a strong presence on patrol. He spent 16 years in that role, much of it focused on the south end of town and the Boardwalk, where he was a familiar and trusted figure on bike patrol.
Sgt. Bushnell was also a long-time member and a current Quick Response Team (QRT) team leader, playing a key role in tactical operations and emergency response. Sgt. Bushnell also served as a narcotics detective, including two years as an undercover agent with the Maryland State Police task force.
Beyond patrol, he contributed significantly to officer training as a Law Enforcement Emergency Medical and Casualty Care instructor. He was a founding member of the department’s Bike Maintenance and Instruction Unit and served for 20 years on the Executive Board of FOP Lodge 10, including time as its President. Sgt. Bushnell’s dedication and service have been recognized through numerous commendations for Excellent Police Performance and Unit Citations.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park, and hundreds of hours of advanced tactical and supervisory training, Sgt Bushnell’s expertise and leadership were instrumental in elevating the department’s operational standards.
Looking ahead, Sgt. Bushnell plans to embrace a well-earned change of pace. His future includes spending quality time with family, enjoying weekends and holidays free from callouts, and pursuing passions like hunting, fishing, and crabbing. He also plans to work part-time as a hunting guide and handyman.
“I would like to thank my coworkers for 25 very memorable years. The patrol shifts I’ve been a part of are the backbone of the agency, and they are the finest officers on the Shore,” Sgt. Bushnell shared. “I had some incredible bosses along the way. They helped shape me into the officer and eventually the supervisor that I am today. My QRT teammates over the years have been some of my closest friends and mentors. They are who I would want showing up, if/when things got really bad.” Also, Sgt. Bushnell would “like to thank the Mayor and Council for the opportunity to enjoy this fulfilling career in such a rewarding profession.”
The Ocean City Police Department extends its deepest gratitude to Sgt. Bushnell for his exemplary service and dedication. We wish him all the best in retirement and his next chapter of adventures.
###
