Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, alongside Police Commissioner Richard Worley and City Solicitor Ebony Thompson, has announced a significant move towards lifting portions of the federal oversight on the city's police department. In a joint effort with the Department of Justice, the City and Baltimore Police Department (BPD) seek to end court supervision in two areas under the existing Consent Decree, specifically regarding the transportation of persons in custody and support for officer wellness. According to the City of Baltimore's official press release, this step comes after extensive reforms and could mark the first time individual sectors of the Decree are released from judicial oversight.
The request follows an assessment period that showed the Baltimore Police Department has continued to maintain the high standard required for the transportation of detainees, an issue thrust into the limelight by the death of Freddie Gray in police custody. After overhauling their practices and ensuring vehicles are up to code, the department believes they can effectively manage without external monitoring.
In a statement detailed by Baltimore's Mayor's Office, Mayor Scott regarded the developments as "an historic day for our City," acknowledging the efforts of the BPD in this transformation. Commissioner Worley emphasized the internal changes within the department, assuring the public of a true cultural shift in the practices of BPD. "Demonstrating sustained compliance marks another milestone in our commitment to transforming the Baltimore Police Department and I am incredibly proud of the men and women of BPD for their dedication to building trust and service to our city," he said.
City Solicitor Thompson highlighted the gradual nature of these improvements, noting to the public that even though court intervention might no longer be required for these two sections, the City will still ensure adherence to constitutional standards. The joint motion is currently waiting for a decision, with a hearing scheduled for April 17, where the fate of the Consent Decree's sections will be determined.
