Mayor Scott Expands Review of SideStep Program Amid Cost Concerns

BALTIMORE — Mayor Brandon Scott is broadening the investigation into the now-terminated SideStep youth diversion initiative, raising concerns about the potential financial burden on taxpayers as multiple inquiries unfold.

The latest addition to the review team is Karl Racine, a former Attorney General for Washington, D.C., known for his legal expertise. The city anticipates that this independent investigation will conclude within 90 days.

This announcement comes amidst ongoing challenges faced by Baltimore's Inspector General, Isabel Cumming, who claims her office has been hindered in accessing essential records to adequately investigate the SideStep program. Critics argue that the creation of parallel investigations could lead to unnecessary duplication of efforts funded by taxpayers.

SideStep was introduced as a pilot program by the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE) with the intention of diverting youth from the criminal justice system. However, it quickly became embroiled in controversy regarding its operational transparency and data-sharing practices.

Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates has previously expressed reservations about the program, particularly concerning collaboration between his office and MONSE, as well as issues related to victim notifications.

The Inspector General's office had previously published findings that highlighted deficiencies in the planning and data management of SideStep. Following these findings, the Scott Administration restricted the Inspector General's access to city records, leading to a legal dispute over the matter.

Despite these challenges, the Office of Inspector General uncovered fraudulent invoices associated with the SideStep program, intensifying concerns about oversight.

Earlier this year, Mayor Scott announced a partnership with Baker Tilly, a consulting firm specializing in forensic audits, to conduct an independent review. However, details regarding the cost of this investigation to taxpayers have remained vague, prompting further scrutiny.

Racine's involvement is intended to enhance the investigation, with the Mayor's Office asserting that he will have full access to necessary documents. Nevertheless, questions remain about the financial implications of this expanded review.

David Williams, president of the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, has criticized the decision to engage additional resources, suggesting that the Inspector General could effectively handle the investigation if granted access to the required records. He called for the Board of Estimates to demand clarity on the potential costs associated with Racine's involvement.

As the legal battle between the Scott Administration and Inspector General Cumming persists, both parties are set to appear in court on July 28, where the Inspector General seeks to enforce her subpoena power.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WBFF (source).