Maryland State Police Open New $30M Berlin Barrack With Enhanced Forensic Lab

The Maryland State Police officially opened the new Berlin Barrack V and enhanced Forensic Sciences Laboratory, replacing the outdated 1976 facility with a modern 24,000 to 30,000 square-foot complex featuring state-of-the-art technology and expanded capabilities. The new barracks, located at 9758 Ocean Gateway, includes upgraded forensic labs with expanded disciplines such as controlled dangerous substances, fingerprint analysis, toxicology, digital forensics, and crime scene analysis, significantly enhancing services for the Eastern Shore. Officials highlighted the facility's amenities, including classrooms, training rooms, a secure sally port, a garage, fitness rooms, and overnight quarters, aiming to improve officer safety and operational effectiveness. Maryland Lt. Governor Aruna Miller and other state leaders emphasized the importance of these upgrades for law enforcement and public safety, noting the barracks will centralize and expedite forensic and policing efforts previously scattered across locations. Berlin Barrack Commander Lt. Earl Starner, the longest-serving lieutenant, expressed personal enthusiasm about the improvements, which are expected to provide faster forensic results and better support for troopers and allied agencies. The new facility symbolizes a significant step forward for policing on the Eastern Shore, enhancing both investigative capabilities and community safety.