Western District
Email: WesternDistrict@BaltimorePolice.org
Address: 1034 N. Mount Street, Baltimore, Md., 21217
Phone: 410.396.2477
Western District Commander's Monthly Crime and Community Meeting
3rd Tuesday at 7 p.m. - Western District Roll Call Room and Virtual via Zoom
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/97279954248
- Meeting ID: 972 7995 4248
- Passcode: 899406
Phone Number: 1-301-715-8592
- Meeting ID: 97279954248
- Passcode: 899406
Follow Us on Social Media
Facebook: @BPDwestern
District Information
The Western District is comprised of several historic neighborhoods such as Sandtown-Winchester, Penn-North and Druid Hill. The Western District is also home to Coppin State University, one of the nation's premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities, known for its nursing and teaching programs.
Part of this area is known for its jazz roots, producing famous artists such as Billie Holiday, Cab Calloway, Ethel Ennis and Rivers Chambers. In the 1950s, Pennsylvania Avenue, more commonly referred to as “The Avenue,” was the heart of Baltimore’s jazz scene. The Royal Theater, Club Tijuana and The Comedy Club were just a few of the popular jazz venues for both local and nationally known jazz artists.
Major Natalie Preston
Major Natalie Preston has been appointed as the District Commander of the Western District.
Major Preston has served the Baltimore Police Department since 2000. She was promoted to Major in 2024, Lieutenant in 2015 and Sergeant in 2010. Major Preston previously served in the Central District and Northeastern District. She has most recently served as the Public Safety Data Liaison.
Major Preston holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Coppin State University and a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Coppin State University. She is currently pursuing a degree in Addictions Counseling.
Captain Michael A. Mercado
Captain Michael A. Mercado has been appointed as the Executive Officer of the Western District. Captain Mercado has served the Baltimore Police Department for 12 years. Before joining the department, he served as a Soldier in the U.S. Army for four years. His previous assignments include the Northeastern District, Eastern District and Northern District. He also served as the Northern District Investigative Commander overseeing the District Detective Unit and District Action Team. He holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Homeland Security from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). During his tenure, he received numerous recognitions and awards, including the United States Attorney's Certificate of Commendation and The Deputy Operations Commissioner's Commendatory Certificate.