Md. Natural Resources Police names new superintendent

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently welcomed Orlando D. Lilly as the 11th superintendent of the Maryland Natural Resources Police.

A former major in the Baltimore County Police Department and Navy veteran, Lilly was sworn in at DNR headquarters in Annapolis on April 17. He assumed the rank of Colonel, DNR officials said.

The 55-year-old occupies a position most recently held by Col. Adrian Baker, who retired in January 2023. Acting Lt. Col. Brian Rathgeb has served as the acting deputy superintendent since July 2023.

“Col. Lilly has gone above and beyond throughout his law enforcement career, building a legacy of dedication and professionalism,” DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz said.

“We know that with Col. Lilly at the helm, the Maryland Natural Resources Police will be in good hands. His commitment to equitable policing, community-building, and leadership will ensure Natural Resources Police officers continue to effectively serve Marylanders through fair and equitable enforcement of the state’s natural resource laws.”

Lilly has nearly 30 years of experience in law enforcement, including serving in several leadership positions with the Baltimore County Police Department. Most recently, he was a Major in the Western Patrol Division at the department, where he was assigned to the Operations Bureau.

Lilly holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Baltimore and a master’s degree in management from Johns Hopkins University.

“We are very appreciative of Acting Lt. Col. Brian Rathgeb’s service and leadership during the previous months,” Kurtz added. “His guidance was invaluable and we are extremely proud and fortunate to have him as a part of our leadership team.”

Lilly has also served in various positions outside of the BCPD. He has been a member of several advisory boards, including the Baltimore County Work Group on Equitable Policing and the Baltimore County government’s New Americans Task Force.

According to a DNR release, Lilly also developed curriculum and taught math application in law enforcement for 17 years in the forensic science department at the University of Baltimore.