Marilyn Mosby concerned about potential for violence in days leading up to election

BALTIMORE — State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby reminded prosecutors of their role in ensuring that they apply the law in the context of next month’s election.

“Like many across the country, I am concerned about the potential for violence in the days leading up to and following this year’s election," said State's Attorney Mosby in an email to staff. "I do not expect Baltimore City to be a flashpoint, but as prosecutors we must be ready to ensure the law is followed and applied in all circumstances.”

Georgetown University’s Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection advised and assisted the State’s Attorney’s Office (SAO) during the formulation of this policy.

State's Attorney Mosby highlighted a number of troubling incidents and developments across the state and the country in her memo to staff and noted that, “We must also be prepared. While the integrity of elections and voter fraud are under the jurisdiction of Maryland’s Attorney General and the State Board of Elections, and can be the purview of the Department of Justice, any violence associated with the election that results in arrests by the Baltimore Police Department will ultimately result in cases prosecuted by our office. I am asking you to be vigilant around these types of cases and ensure that such cases receive a forceful response from our office.”

State's Attorney Mosby also asked prosecutors “to pay special attention to alleged crimes that occur in the context of the election, appear to be politically motivated, occur in or around a polling location, or are aimed at voters or election officials.”

Click here to read the full memo.