Baltimore, Maryland, January 24, 2026
An independent review supports Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates’s decision to sever ties with the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE). Concerns over the lack of transparency regarding exculpatory evidence disclosure prompted this move, which has elicited criticisms from Mayor Brandon Scott’s office. The Public Defender’s Office is also reviewing cases affected by this partnership termination, further complicating the issues surrounding transparency in the local criminal justice system.
Baltimore, Maryland
Independent Review Validates State’s Attorney’s Choice to Sever Ties with MONSE
On January 22, 2026, an independent legal review conducted by Kramon & Graham Attorneys At Law endorsed Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates’s resolution to discontinue his office’s partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE). The review clarified that the State’s Attorney’s Office (SAO) could not uphold this partnership owing to apprehensions regarding the disclosure of exculpatory evidence in criminal cases. It emphasized the necessity for the SAO to ensure that all exculpatory information held by MONSE be disclosed to maintain the integrity of prosecutions and safeguard defendants’ constitutional rights.
State’s Attorney Bates made the decision to terminate coordination with MONSE in December 2025, citing a problematic “veil of secrecy” surrounding the Mayor’s Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) and the associated Victim Services programs. He raised alarms regarding MONSE’s failure to provide complete and timely information about services available to state witnesses, a concern which he deemed critical for the SAO’s ability to comply with legal obligations regarding evidence disclosure.
In reaction to the review’s findings, a spokesperson from Mayor Brandon Scott’s office criticized the termination of the partnership, alleging it was driven by political motivations and asserting that MONSE had consistently acted in good faith to fulfill information requests from the SAO. The mayor’s team has also announced intentions to pursue its own independent review.
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender has initiated its own review, addressing cases potentially impacted by these disclosure concerns. Public Defender Natasha Dartigue mentioned that their office will identify cases affected by these issues and will seek appropriate remedies, including motions to vacate convictions where the rights of defendants may have been compromised.
A Look at the Fallout from the Partnership Termination
This situation underscores ongoing tensions between the State’s Attorney’s Office and the Mayor’s Office regarding transparency within the criminal justice system. As the debate continues, several critical aspects warrant attention, particularly in the context of the local business climate and how public policy shapes its landscape.
The Importance of Transparency in Law
The affirmation of State’s Attorney Bates’s decision highlights a commitment to accountability within the legal framework. Clear guidelines regarding the disclosure of evidence not only bolster the integrity of the criminal justice process but also serve as a foundation for building trust among the community, particularly in troubled neighborhoods. This transparency is integral for fostering an environment where ideas and businesses can thrive—a crucial component of economic growth and resilience.
Potential Impacts on Local Economic Development
If transparency issues persist within governmental operations, they could reverberate throughout the city’s economy. Local entrepreneurs depend on the stability that clear and fair legal processes provide, which in turn can impact their investment decisions and willingness to innovate. Business owners thrive when they know that their operations are supported by a transparent and efficient judicial system.
Encouraging Community Involvement
As implications from this event unfold, community engagement will be essential. Residents, business leaders, and policymakers must convene to discuss ways to enhance the synergy between law enforcement and social services while promoting a robust business climate. Small businesses are the backbone of Baltimore’s economy, and their fortitude can be fostered through supportive legislation and open dialogues that connect community needs with city resources.
Conclusion
The intersection between judicial transparency and local economic growth continues to evolve, illustrated vividly by the recent developments surrounding the State’s Attorney’s decision to terminate ties with MONSE. Ensuring that all parties uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct will be crucial in shaping Baltimore’s future. Local entrepreneurs, community leaders, and residents are encouraged to remain engaged and proactive as the city navigates these challenges, harnessing the potential for innovation and progress in the Baltimore business landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the independent legal review’s conclusion regarding the termination of the partnership between the State’s Attorney’s Office and MONSE?
The independent legal review, conducted by Kramon & Graham Attorneys At Law, concluded that the State’s Attorney’s Office could not maintain a partnership with MONSE due to concerns over the disclosure of exculpatory evidence in criminal cases. The review emphasized the necessity for the SAO to ensure the disclosure of any exculpatory information possessed by MONSE to uphold the integrity of prosecutions and protect defendants’ constitutional rights.
What were the concerns raised by State’s Attorney Ivan Bates regarding MONSE’s practices?
State’s Attorney Ivan Bates expressed concerns that MONSE was not providing complete and timely information about services and benefits offered to state witnesses. This lack of transparency raised potential issues with the SAO’s ability to disclose exculpatory evidence as required by law, potentially compromising the integrity of criminal prosecutions.
How did Mayor Brandon Scott’s office respond to the termination of the partnership?
A spokesperson for Mayor Brandon Scott’s office criticized the decision to terminate the partnership, labeling it as politically motivated. The mayor’s office asserted that MONSE had always made good faith efforts to meet all requests for information from the SAO and indicated plans to seek its own independent review to address these concerns.
What actions is the Maryland Office of the Public Defender taking in response to this situation?
The Maryland Office of the Public Defender is reviewing cases for potential disclosure violations. Public Defender Natasha Dartigue stated that the office would identify affected cases and pursue appropriate remedies, including motions to vacate convictions where clients’ Sixth Amendment rights were compromised.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Independent Legal Review | Affirmed the State’s Attorney’s Office’s decision to terminate its partnership with MONSE due to concerns over the disclosure of exculpatory evidence in criminal cases. |
| State’s Attorney’s Concerns | Expressed issues with MONSE’s lack of transparency and potential risks to defendants’ constitutional rights. |
| Mayor’s Office Response | Criticized the termination as politically motivated and plans to seek its own independent review. |
| Public Defender’s Actions | Reviewing cases for potential disclosure violations and considering motions to vacate convictions where clients’ rights were compromised. |
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