Tim Robinson: A Lifetime of Service, From the Boardwalk to Ocean Pines
Tim Robinson, a name synonymous with community policing and a deep love for history, has had a career that's come full circle. Growing up in Bowie, Maryland, in the 1980s, Robinson always knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in law enforcement. His journey began with a summer job in Delaware as a police officer on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, an experience that shaped his approach to community policing in resort towns.
“It was pretty awesome working on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach because it was just the mixture,” Robinson recalls. “You had the rides, you had the food places, you had all the tourists coming down.”
It was there that he learned the importance of customer service and doing the job right, lessons instilled by his then-chief, Craig Doyle.
Robinson’s time in Rehoboth wasn’t just about policing; it’s also where he met his wife of nearly 30 years. “One of the most important things that happened to me near the end of that summer was I met a young lady working at a food store on Rehoboth Avenue,” he fondly said.
After his stint on the boardwalk, Robinson joined the Delmar Police Department, a small-town experience that taught him self-sufficiency and the importance of community connections. He then moved on to the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, where he spent a little under 27 years, working in various facets of the department.
“I wouldn’t trade what I did in Wicomico County for anyplace else in the world,” Robinson says, reflecting on his time there. “I would have no regrets. It was probably one of the best careers I've ever had.”
Robinson’s path eventually led him to Ocean Pines, a community he was already familiar with thanks to his parents living there. He was drawn to the position because of his familiarity with the area and the opportunity to lead a department in a unique community.
“I’m not a stranger to Ocean Pines,” Robinson said. “My mom and dad live here, and I've been coming here for quite a while.”
Since taking over as police chief, Robinson has focused on expanding the department, implementing new technology, and fostering a strong connection with the community. He's increased officer salaries to attract top talent and has been actively involved in community events, making himself visible and approachable to residents.
“I do believe in getting out and being visible, checking on people, letting them know that I’m there to the point where I'm approachable,” Robinson said. “I don't believe in just sitting in the office.”
Beyond his policing duties, Robinson is also a part-time history faculty member at Salisbury University, a testament to his lifelong passion for the subject. He holds a master’s degree in history, specializing in colonial and revolutionary America.
“I love history,” he said. “I’m like a fiend about history. Every night when I go to bed, I always like falling asleep watching some sort of history documentary.”
Robinson’s dedication to community service, his passion for history, and his commitment to providing the best possible policing for Ocean Pines make him a valuable asset to the community. He’s excited about the future of the department and the community, and he's eager to continue serving the residents of Ocean Pines.
“I’m really excited about the direction that this department's going in,” Robinson said. “I’m really excited about Ocean Pines in general; just to say that I'm part of this community. I truly am part of this community now, and it is just a special place."