October 1st, 2025 by WCBC Radio

The Mayor and City Council of Cumberland plan to officially appoint James Russel Pyles to be the next Chief of Police at their public meeting on October 7, 2025.  Mr. Pyles of LaVale brings over 40 years of public safety experience to this position. He began his law enforcement career in 1989 at the Maryland State Police at the Cumberland Barracks and advanced his career to the rank of Major. He commanded both the C3I Criminal Unit and the C3I Narcotics Unit – both multi-agency teams comprised of officers from the Cumberland City Police Department, Frostburg City Police Department, the Allegany County Sheriff's Office, and the Maryland State Police.  Mr. Pyles was chosen after an open public search and a candidate interview process.