State's Attorney Issues Statement on City Council's Approved Budget

Baltimore, Md. (June 16, 2025) - "We want to express our deep appreciation for Councilwoman Danielle N. McCray, Chair of the City Council’s Budget and Appropriations Committee; Council President Zeke Cohen; Mayor Brandon M. Scott; and members of the Mayor’s Office for their steadfast leadership and continued recognition of the critical role the State’s Attorney’s Office plays in delivering justice and advancing public safety across Baltimore.

"Their support reflects a shared commitment to a safer, fairer city—one where prosecutors have the necessary resources to hold violent offenders accountable, support victims, and collaborate with our law enforcement and community partners to reduce crime and improve outcomes for all Baltimoreans.

"Conversely, it is deeply disappointing that Councilwoman Odette Ramos proposed an amendment aimed at stripping a position from the State’s Attorney’s Office. The most troubling part is that to date, the Councilwoman has not reached out to our office to discuss her amendment or its impact on us or public safety. In fact, it was only after Inspector General Isabel Cumming reached out to our office that we were able to discuss her office’s needs and devise a solution that was acceptable to all parties. This action neither reflects the spirit of true collaboration nor acknowledges the urgent needs we face as a city. As we make strides in reducing violent crime and rebuilding trust in our justice system, efforts to undermine that work for political reasons are both short-sighted and counterproductive.

"We remain focused on our mission and look forward to continuing our work with those in City leadership who understand that justice and public safety are not merely desirable, they are fundamental priorities." – Ivan J. Bates, State’s Attorney