Baltimore: Mayor Declares State of Emergency Amid Rise in Carjackings

Baltimore Mayor Declares State of Emergency Amid Surge in CarjackingsBaltimore Mayor Declares State of Emergency Amid Surge in Carjackings Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott has declared a state of emergency in response to a recent spike in carjackings, a violent crime that has plagued the city in recent years. The declaration, effective immediately, grants the mayor additional powers to address the crisis, including the ability to direct city agencies and resources to combat carjackings. The state of emergency will remain in effect for 30 days, subject to renewal. According to police data, there have been at least 800 carjackings in Baltimore so far this year, a significant increase from the approximately 675 carjackings reported in all of 2021. The majority of carjackings have occurred in the city’s western and northeastern neighborhoods, with young people and women being targeted at a disproportionate rate. “Carjackings are a heinous crime that terrorizes our residents and makes them fearful for their safety,” Mayor Scott said in a statement. “This state of emergency will allow us to take aggressive action to protect our citizens and hold these criminals accountable.” The declaration of a state of emergency will enable the city to implement a range of measures aimed at curbing carjackings, including: * Increased law enforcement patrols: The Baltimore Police Department will deploy additional officers to target areas with high rates of carjackings. * Enhanced surveillance: The city will install additional cameras and use other technology to monitor high-crime areas and deter potential carjackers. * Community engagement: The city will work with community organizations and residents to raise awareness of carjacking prevention measures and encourage reporting of suspicious activity. * Victim support: The city will provide assistance to victims of carjackings, including counseling and financial aid. Mayor Scott also called on state and federal officials to provide additional resources to support Baltimore’s efforts to combat carjackings. He urged the Maryland General Assembly to pass legislation that would increase penalties for carjacking and provide funding for anti-carjacking initiatives. “This is a citywide problem that requires a collaborative response,” Mayor Scott said. “We need all levels of government to work together to make our streets safe again.”