In a significant move to enhance transparency and security within Baltimore's court system, Chief Judge Audrey Carrión of the Baltimore City Circuit Court has issued an administrative order requiring all law enforcement officers, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, to identify themselves when entering specific court facilities.
The order, which took effect on June 30, applies to the Clarence M. Mitchell Jr. Courthouse, the Elijah E. Cummings Courthouse, and the Juvenile Justice Center. This directive follows a recent incident where a local correctional officer allegedly invited ICE to detain an individual who was attending a scheduled court appointment.
According to the order, officers must report to the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office upon arrival, stating their identities and the purpose of their visit. They are also required to wear their uniforms or display their badges or agency IDs prominently.
Judge Carrión emphasized the importance of this protocol, stating, “It is crucial that Court management and the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office are aware of any law enforcement activity taking place in these courts.” Notably, this order does not extend to U.S. District Court or Baltimore City District Court facilities.
Nick Cavey, a spokesperson for the Maryland Judiciary, indicated that the order serves to reinforce existing protocols within the Baltimore City Circuit Court. The Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the correctional officer involved in the incident that prompted this order.
Legal experts, including Guha Krishnamurthi from the University of Maryland School of Law, support the measure, noting that it aligns with the court’s authority to ensure that individuals coming to the courthouse can do so without fear of apprehension, thereby preserving access to justice.
Reported by HarborBeat based on Maryland Daily Record (source).
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