Baltimore is seeing historic lows in its homicide rates, the numbers plunging to levels not witnessed in almost half a century, thanks in large part to a collaborative effort led by the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City (SAO), in concert with local law enforcement and community members, a statement from the State’s Attorney’s office revealed yesterday.
The city’s strategic clampdown on violent crime has involved a revamp of the SAO under the leadership of State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates, who declared that the feat was the fruit of deliberate and sustained work, encompassing a boost in staffing, amplified training, and deepened partnerships with the Baltimore Police Department (BPD), city leaders, not to mention the critical involvement of state and federal law enforcement, according to a press release from the SAO.
In a statement obtained by the State’s Attorney’s Office, Bates emphasized the importance of accountability and a data-driven approach, saying, “This progress is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate, sustained work to rebuild this office, foster partnerships, invest in our people, and focus relentlessly on those who commit the most serious acts of violence in our city.” He underscored the efforts of various staff levels within the SAO, noting that the present achievement illustrates the potential impact of thoughtful, data-driven prosecution strategies centered around public safety and victims’ rights…