Crime and Violence Surge in Baltimore: Business Owners Have Had Enough

Many of the cities that have progressive District Attorneys are experiencing high spikes in crimes and criminal behavior  encouraged by policy changes that have reduced the consequences for crimes. The Baltimore Sun has this story on the response of many business owners to the lack of action being taken by city officials to address unacceptable levels of crime. “More than 30 business and restaurant owners in Fells Point are threatening to withhold taxes if city leaders do not address crime, trash and other issues they say are plaguing the waterfront neighborhood.” These issues include drug sales out in the open areas of the city and public drinking. The business owners have stated in a letter to the city that there needs to be more regulation and consequences for the crimes being committed. 

Soros-backed State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby has made policy changes that allow criminals to engage in activities that they should be held accountable for.  Mosby made an announcement in the early part of the year, “…that she will no longer prosecute a host of crimes, including drug possession, public drinking and urination, and trespassing, among others.” It comes as no surprise that such a change in policy would result in more crime, especially when there is no threat of prosecution.  These crimes not only effect the ability for residents to feel safe, but for local businesses to operate and offer their services customers. The letter written to the City states, “These are not concealed, clandestine operations by sophisticated gangs with suppliers and lookouts. These are brazen individuals who conduct their business in plain sight because they know Baltimore City will do nothing to prevent or punish them. This hurts the family fabric and tourist value of the community.”   The spokesperson for the State’s Attorney, Zy Richardson, said, “The assaults, the malicious destruction of personal and private property, and the shooting that took place in Fells Point this past weekend has nothing to do with our policies to divert those suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. Our office has and will continue to focus our time, attention and limited resources on violent crime and serious felonies causing the most harm in our city.” This type of response will have little impact on the criminals hurting local businesses by driving away customers.