RTD names acting co-chiefs of its transit police department

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has named Dr. Glynell Horn, Jr. and Steven Martingano acting co-chiefs of its transit police and emergency management department. General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson made the announcement to agency staff Friday morning, and the two immediately assumed the shared acting role. Horn and Martingano will co-lead the transit police department while a national search process gets underway, and the two will remain in the acting role until a permanent chief is named.

“Acting Co-Chiefs Horn and Martingano have my full confidence and will ensure RTD continues to prioritize the personal safety and security of its employees and customers,” Johnson said. “The two have more than 45 years of law enforcement experience between them, and they will continue the agency’s ongoing efforts to create a welcoming transit environment.”

Horn joined the RTD-PD in 2023 as the Deputy Chief of Patrol and Security, bringing nearly two decades of law enforcement experience in the Houston metro area in Texas. Prior to his RTD appointment, he served as the Assistant Chief of Police at the Stafford Police Department. Horn is known for bolstering personal safety and security through enhanced community outreach and engagement activities. He holds a Ph.D. in leadership and change from Antioch University. More information about Acting Co-Chief Horn is available online.

“I welcome the opportunity to take on the role of acting co-chief with Martingano because it further exemplifies our unity as ‘One RTD’ across the entire agency. As we navigate this transition together, I can confidently affirm that both our sworn and professional staff are fully dedicated to ensuring there’s a safe and welcoming environment for our employees and customers. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute positively and make a meaningful difference in our community,” said Horn.

Martingano was hired by RTD in 2015 after working for the New York City Police Department and other Denver metro area law enforcement agencies. He was named the RTD-PD Deputy Chief in 2017 and has led many innovative, community-based programs on the transit agency’s behalf. Martingano is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. More information about Acting Co-Chief Martingano is available online.

“As we move forward, I am excited for this opportunity and being a part of the RTD Transit Police Department’s progress. The hard work and dedication of our officers and support staff showcases a high level of professionalism, and that expectation will continue as we transition to new leadership,” said Martingano.

RTD is working on a public solicitation to retain a qualified executive recruitment firm to assist with its national search to recruit and hire the agency’s next chief of police and emergency management. RTD anticipates launching the robust search process next month, with a timeline to have the selected candidate named in early 2025.

Written by RTD Staff

RTD acting co-chiefs Dr. Glynell Horn, Jr. and Steven Martingano, respectively

Deputy Chief Dr. Glynell Horn Jr.
Deputy Chief Steven Martingano