‘Lowest amount of homicides on record’: Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott

Crime Trends and Statistics - In 2020, the FBI reported a 5% crime spike nationwide, with increases continuing in 2021 and 2022 before leveling off [1] - Some cities experienced 20-30% increases in violent crime, assaults, and homicides [1] - Preliminary statistics indicate the country may be nearing historic lows for the homicide rate [1] - Baltimore experienced a period of 300+ homicides annually from 2015 until two years prior to the discussion [1] - In 2003-2004, Baltimore police made approximately 91,700 arrests with 278 homicides, compared to 2024 with approximately 17,900 arrests and 201 homicides [5] - Baltimore's homicide clearance rate reached 64%, indicating improved police-community relations [65] Baltimore's Strategies and Initiatives - Baltimore is implementing a Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS), a focused deterrence approach offering support and resources to at-risk individuals [5] - GVRS involves direct communication with at-risk individuals, offering assistance with housing, job training, and mental health services [5] - 95.7% of individuals who accepted support through GVRS have not been revictimized, and 97.7% have not recidivated [9] - Baltimore has a comprehensive violence prevention plan overseen by the health commissioner, emphasizing a public health approach [21] - The city aims to reduce homicides by 15% year-over-year [22] - Baltimore is investing in community violence intervention ecosystems, paying individuals formerly involved in violence to help prevent it [24] Factors Contributing to Crime in Baltimore - Historical redlining and disinvestment in predominantly Black neighborhoods contribute to high levels of interpersonal violence [2] - The construction of highways that destroyed Black middle-class neighborhoods exacerbated the problem [2] - Over 60% of guns recovered by the Baltimore Police Department originate from other states [2] - The availability of drugs and guns significantly impacts crime rates [2] Policing and Community Relations - The focus should be on the quality of policing rather than the quantity of arrests [10] - Baltimore is operating under a federal consent decree, indicating a commitment to constitutional policing [12] - The city has implemented a 911 diversion program and a 988 mental health crisis line [43] - Community members and trusted partners play a crucial role in delivering messages and providing support to at-risk individuals [29] Economic and Investment Factors - $7 billion is being invested in downtown Baltimore [54] - A $3 billion plan over 15 years aims to eliminate vacant housing in Baltimore [55] - The city has the lowest number of vacant houses in 20 years [55] State and Local Partnerships - A strong partnership between the mayor and the governor is essential for addressing public safety and investment in the city [73] - The governor is providing $50 million annually towards the vacant housing initiative [74]