BALTIMORE — Baltimore City has emerged as one of several cities across the nation witnessing significant declines in homicides during the year 2023. On Thursday, state, local, and federal law enforcement officials highlighted the success of their collaborative efforts in curbing crime, attributing their partnerships to the notable reduction in violent incidents within Baltimore.
The city reported a 20% decrease in homicides and a 9% decrease in non-fatal shootings. U.S. Attorney Erek Barron emphasized the prioritization of addressing violent crime, labeling it a top concern for their office.
Federal prosecutors spotlighted the case of Correy Cawthorn as an exemplar of successful federal partnerships. Cawthorn received a 35-year prison sentence on Thursday after admitting, in his plea agreement, to involvement in multiple murders as a member of the East Baltimore “Triple C” gang.
ATF leaders underscored the use of gun tracing technology in cracking the Cawthorn case. ATF Director Steven Dettelbach emphasized the importance of focusing on individuals responsible for repeated gun violence, highlighting the potential to not only penalize past actions but also prevent future crimes.
Baltimore Police reported the seizure of nearly 3,000 guns in the city during 2023. Commissioner Richard Worley acknowledged the hindrance posed by the widespread availability of firearms, stating that a significant portion of shooting incidents could be further reduced if not for the ease of accessing guns.
Worley noted improved communication and relationships with the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office. State’s Attorney Ivan Bates expressed his intention to advocate for changes in the handling of juvenile cases when Maryland’s General Assembly convenes in the upcoming week. Bates emphasized that it’s not solely juveniles committing crimes but also criminal organizations utilizing juveniles for unlawful activities.
The U.S. Marshals’ Maryland Office highlighted a “record number of fugitive operations” conducted last year, while Bates noted an increased number of cases sent from his office to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.