Marking a significant step in police reforms, Mayor Brandon M. Scott, alongside Police Commissioner Richard Worley and City Solicitor Ebony Thompson, has announced the filing of a joint motion with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to confirm that the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) is in full compliance with three more sections of its federal consent decree, cited according to the City of Baltimore mayor's office press release. These sections encompass the First Amendment protections, collaboration with Baltimore City School Police, and the operations of the Community Oversight Task Force, highlighting the city's progress in constitutional policing and reduction of violent crime.
"I have said over and over again: constitutional policing and public safety are not mutually exclusive," Mayor Scott stated in the city's press release, affirming the city's commitment to redefining police practices while noting landmark achievements in reducing violent crime and simultaneously, these policies, although seemingly divergent, are capable of operating in tandem to rebuild trust within the community; the joint motion is a testament to the city's efforts in achieving balance. Prior DOJ findings of rights violations during protests catalyzed the requests for Judicial acknowledgment of the BPD's transformation, especially regarding First Amendment issues. This narrative has since shifted with the BPD's revamped approach amidst the 2020 George Floyd demonstrations.
Commissioner Worley praised the diligence and perseverance of BPD's officers, who he said were "committed to implementing these reforms," as stated by the city's press release, amidst the challenges, including severe staffing shortages the department has faced, this dual task of reforming the force and maintaining public safety has showcased an elevated sense of duty and devotion to community service. The collaboration with the Baltimore City School Police has been strengthened under the consent decree, fostering a partnership aimed at ensuring the safety of the city's youth.
In a nod to the brighter outlook for community relations with local law enforcement, City Solicitor Thompson added, "We have an obligation to make sure our residents should see their Police Department and City Government as an asset, not something to be afraid of," as she communicated through the city's press release, by embracing the law and respecting the Constitution, Baltimore's leaders envision an era where governance and protection are perceived as communal benefits— the current discourse straddles historical misconduct and an earnest journey towards rectification. The City and DOJ have taken their collaboration to the courthouse, asking for the BPD to be recognized for its accordance with the consent decree, with a public hearing set for January 24, 2025, where the court is anticipated to deliberate on the submitted motions.
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