Posted inOpinion

Why does it matter that Ivan Bates is wrong?

Baltimore public policy advocate Dayvon Love argues that State’s Attorney Ivan Bates’ criticism of MONSE reflects a political ideology that equates policing with public safety, despite evidence that law enforcement disproportionately harms Black communities. He contends that community-based violence-prevention programs address the root causes of harm more effectively than policing—and that opposition to these programs protects entrenched power structures.

Posted inBaltimore News

Bates pulls out of city’s violence-reduction partnership; Mayor Scott urges continued cooperation

Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates (D) announced his office will end direct coordination with the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE), citing a “veil of secrecy.” His actions raise questions about the future of the Group Violence Reduction Strategy, which is led by MONSE and is largely credited for recent public safety improvements.

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