Gov. O'Malley Outlines Plans To Combat Crime Behind Bars
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ)— In wake of the corruption scandal at the Baltimore City Detention Center, Gov. Martin O'Malley has outlined his plan to combat crime behind bars.
"We have zero tolerance for corruption," O'Malley said in a statement released Thursday morning. "When members of murder networks are behind bars, the public has every right to expect that they will be prevented from committing further crimes. We are continuing to coordinate with our federal law enforcement partners on investigations and prosecutions."
The statement outlines the following steps will be taken to enhance security and root out corruption:
- Expanding the installation of new technology that blocks inmates' ability to use contraband cell phones from correctional institutions
- Urging the General Assembly to pass legislation that would make smuggling a cell phone into a correctional institution a felony punishable with additional prison time
- Enhancing security procedures at the Baltimore City Detention Center to prevent money laundering, smuggling of contraband and fraternization
- Reviewing the statewide discipline manual to consider updated policies and measures that will enhance the ability to crack down on correctional officers who violate the public's trust
- Reviewing the procedures of the Correctional Officers' Bill of Rights (COBR) with an open mind to any amendments that would improve discipline while ensuring due process
- Administering polygraph exams to jail personnel to ensure the integrity of the institution
This is the aftermath of a federal indictment detailing how a violent gang corrupted officers at the Baltimore City Detention Center.
Federal authorities say Tavon White, a member of the notorious Black Guerrilla Family gang, essentially ran the Baltimore City Detention Center as his own kingdom, using cell phones for drug deals and recruiting correctional officers to help.
White, who plead not guilty in a federal court last month, is also accused of impregnating four correctional officers.
One of those correctional officers, Tiffany Linder–who is currently eight months pregnant with his baby–also pleaded not guilty.
The corruption scandal includes charges against 12 inmates and 13 officers.
