Mayor Scott: Here’s how to make Baltimore safer
It must be stated in all fairness that Mayor Brandon Scott has made progress in numerous areas and is to be commended for this. However, his progress related to crime needs to be discussed, examined and improved upon (“State of the City address: Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott says strategy on crime is working,” March 25).
Although Mayor Scott highlights his reduction in murder and other criminal activities and puts forth statistics to prove his point, the perception and reality of reduced criminal activity in Baltimore does not ring true. Having served the city under three mayors, William Donald Schaefer, Kurt Schmoke and Clarence “Du” Burns, I would like to present some suggestions that may be of value to Scott and others who are trying to reduce crime.
Like deficit spending, disrespect for law and order did not occur overnight whether in Baltimore or in other U.S. cities. We can no longer fail to admit that we are catching more criminals than our jails can hold. Further, we can no longer fail to admit that many of our young people are getting high on dope, booze, glue, etc. Murder has become an ordinary phenomenon, and many citizens are fearful. Armed robberies are prevalent. Many of the perpetrators are repeat offenders and are back on the street with the speed of summer lightning.
In reality, we will never bring about a safe city, county or nation until all of us are willing to work for change. First, we must face the fact that crime, murder, rape and other criminal activity must be curtailed. Further, we should demand that criminals of all types be made to pay in full. We dare not forget that crime does not pay — work does. Judges who allow repeat offenders to go free should be required to explain why!
There should be no individual exempt from receiving proper punishment for committing a crime regardless of wealth or standing in the community. The insanity defense must be revisited and redefined so that fewer individuals can plead insanity and receive lesser sentencing.
Stiffer sentences for serious crimes should be given full consideration. Early parole should be eliminated except in cases where it is truly warranted. Repeat offenders should be made to serve their full sentences. In addition, every citizen should try to do his or her part to curtail crime by speaking out. All must be willing to testify in criminal cases and support local police in all areas.
Finally, we should educate our young to hold each other and the law with respect and reverence — and to have a deeper appreciation for the importance of human life.