St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Mourns the Line-of-Duty Death of Beloved Deputy Mark Porter
Leonardtown, MD – With heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss, Sheriff Steve Hall and the members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office announce the tragic passing of Deputy Mark Porter, a retired sergeant and beloved figure in the law enforcement community. Deputy Porter died in the line of duty on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, while actively serving the residents of St. Mary’s County in his post-retirement role as a contract deputy.
Deputy Porter, a highly respected veteran of the force, dedicated decades of his life to public service and continued that mission even after his official retirement. His passing marks a significant and painful moment for the department and the entire community he served so faithfully.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Porter experienced a medical emergency while performing his duties in uniform. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched, and he was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown, where he was later pronounced deceased. His sudden passing has sent waves of grief through the department, law enforcement agencies across the state, and the local residents who came to know and admire him over the years.
Deputy Porter began his law enforcement career with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office over 30 years ago. Rising through the ranks with distinction, he eventually attained the rank of sergeant, where he mentored younger deputies, led with calm determination, and made an enduring impact on policing strategies in the county. His leadership style was marked by patience, professionalism, and deep compassion for the people he served.
After his formal retirement, Porter chose not to walk away from the badge. Instead, he returned to duty as a contract deputy, a role in which he continued to provide safety and reassurance to the community. Whether patrolling neighborhoods, responding to calls, or simply talking with residents, his presence was both comforting and reassuring—an example of community policing at its best.
“Deputy Porter was more than just a colleague—he was a mentor, a leader, and a dear friend to so many of us,” said Sheriff Steve Hall. “His unwavering dedication to service didn’t end when he retired. He continued to wear the uniform with pride, representing the best of our department every single day. His loss is immeasurable, and we will carry his memory in our hearts forever.”
Throughout his long and honorable career, Porter was known for his integrity, humility, and quiet strength. He earned numerous commendations and accolades, but he rarely sought recognition. Instead, he focused on serving with honor, protecting the vulnerable, and helping to build trust between law enforcement and the public.
To his colleagues, Deputy Porter was a dependable team member who could be counted on in even the most challenging situations. To the community, he was a familiar face—always ready with a smile, a wave, or a helping hand. Many remember his work with local schools, his commitment to youth mentorship programs, and his steady presence during community events.
Deputy Porter’s death is a stark reminder of the sacrifices law enforcement officers make each day, even beyond their official years of service. It highlights the deep sense of duty that continues to burn within those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
He is survived by his loving family, including his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended relatives, all of whom were the center of his world. The Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the family to provide support during this incredibly difficult time and will be announcing funeral and memorial arrangements in the coming days.
Flags throughout St. Mary’s County will be lowered to half-staff in honor of Deputy Porter’s life and service. A full line-of-duty memorial will be held, with participation from local and state law enforcement agencies who will gather to honor his legacy and pay tribute to a man whose commitment to service never wavered.
As the community of Leonardtown and all of St. Mary’s County mourn this tremendous loss, we remember Deputy Mark Porter not only as an officer of the law, but as a pillar of strength, a friend to many, and a hero whose devotion to duty remained steadfast to his final breath.