The Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office has ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement between the Mayor of Baltimore, the Sheriff, and the Deputy Sheriffs.
The agreement is Sheriff Sam Cogen’s first labor contract negotiation since assuming office, and just the second contract since the office won collective bargaining rights in 2021.
“This agreement reflects how far the Sheriff’s Office has come as a modern law enforcement agency,” Cogen said. “Over the past several years, our responsibilities have expanded significantly, and this agreement ensures our deputies are recognized, supported, and compensated in a way that matches the work they do every day for the people of Baltimore.”
The active FOP 22 members voted for the contract on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. The deal provides for a 17% total salary increase over three years, including a 7% increase that is retroactive to June 1, 2025. It is followed by two consecutive 5% increases. Cogen highlighted that the agreement is an investment in public safety and the deputy sheriffs who serve in their roles.
“Our deputies are sworn law enforcement officers who perform complex and demanding work,” Cogen said. “This agreement recognizes that reality while also providing stability, predictability, and fairness for our workforce.”
The agreement also includes provisions aimed at improving safety, accountability, and professional development. For example, the contract mandates that two deputy sheriffs must be present during eviction warrants to increase safety for all parties involved.
The contract also establishes four new rank structures below that of sergeant: Deputy First Class, Experienced Deputy, Senior Deputy, and Corporal. These ranks have incentive pay and create a career path for deputy sheriffs to advance.
The new agreement also eliminates the outdated “law enforcement bonus pays” clause. Under the new agreement, all work the deputy sheriffs perform is clearly defined as law enforcement work, which is reflected in the overall salary structure.
“I’d like to express my appreciation to the Baltimore City Labor Commissioner in resolving outstanding issues through the collective bargaining process,” Cogen said. “With this agreement in place, we are well positioned to recruit, retain, and support deputy sheriffs. This is a strong contract for our employees, for the City, and for the communities we serve.”
For more information, visit the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office website.
