In the News

Browse news coverage about the State’s Attorney’s Office.

Ivan Bates: Successful public safety begins and ends with a collaborative approach | GUEST COMMENTARY -

Over the past two years, Baltimore City has witnessed over 5,000 felony cases charged and closed, more than 1,700 repeat, violent offenders put behind bars with a sentence of five years without the possibility of parole, and nearly 300 individuals convicted of murder. Over three years, we have seen 355 individuals prosecuted through the mayor’s Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS), and 201 offered services instead of prosecution.

Judge Hands Down Decades-Long Sentence For 2023 Murder Outside Adult Club

Betters, who was represented by defense attorney Michael Tomko, was tried before a jury in September 2024 and found guilty of second-degree murder, firearm use in a felony or violent crime and firearm possession with a felony conviction. Judge Yolanda A. Tanner presided over the five-day trial and imposed his sentence on Tuesday.

Baltimore's anti-violence strategy sees success. Ivan Bates says it can do even better.

Murders and nonfatal shootings are down in Baltimore, while arrests and prosecutions are up. Baltimore City State's Attorney Ivan Bates wants to sustain that trend, and says it is time to refocus the Group Violence Reduction Strategy. GVRS is the city's effort to reduce violence in Baltimore by intervening in the lives of residents determined to be at highest risk of being involved in gun violence. Plus, what does the recent shake-up at the U.S. Department of Justice portend for Maryland, and the cooperation between federal and local authorities in Baltimore? And what is the future of Baltimore’s Citation Docket for low-level crimes?

Jury Finds Teen Guilty of Conspiracy to Commit Murder

The jury found King guilty of attempted first-degree murder, firearm use in a felony or violent crime, use of an assault weapon with a magazine, firearm possession with a felony conviction, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree assault.

Fifth person pleads guilty for role in Brooklyn Day mass shooting

Baltimore Circuit Judge Lynn Stewart Mays is set on April 29 to sentence Jackson on charges of conspiracy to commit first-degree assault, second-degree assault, use of a handgun during the commission of a crime of violence and possession of a regulated firearm under 21.

Baltimore man to spend 60 years in prison for 2024 murder of 6-year-old

"This sentence ensures that a dangerous individual who has continually demonstrated a propensity for violence throughout his life will spend the majority of his remaining years behind bars, unable to inflict harm on another innocent person," Baltimore State's Attorney Ivan Bates said.

March 28th, 2025: Unpacking the Juvenile Justice System

Join the conversation with TJ Smith. Dive into a compelling conversation with Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates, where strategies to combat crime and ensure justice are discussed in depth. As the community grapples with the impact of violent crime and joyous news of decreasing rates, Bates shares insights on partnerships, accountability, and the need for systemic changes in juvenile justice. This episode sheds light on the balance between reform and public safety, offering a narrative that underscores the importance of community engagement and legislative support.