As the Maryland legislative session approaches, lawmakers are gearing up to address several pressing issues, with juvenile crime at the forefront for many residents.

New juvenile laws that took effect in November, following the 2024 legislative session, aimed to curb juvenile crime by extending probation and involving State’s Attorney’s Offices earlier in decision-making. However, it’s unclear whether these measures have deterred criminal activities.

“Basically what was communicated to us in the middle of the assault, was that there’s nothing you can do about it,” said a Fells Point man who, along with his wife, was robbed and assaulted by a group of juveniles shortly after the new laws were enacted.

In another incident, a Federal Hill man lost sight in one eye after being attacked for his pizza. “They hit me in the face, took my eyesight, robbed me and have zero repercussions. That’s not OK,” he said.

Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler highlighted the ongoing issues with the current juvenile system, recounting an incident where a young offender expressed intent to continue stealing cars upon release.

“There has to be repercussions for criminal activity, and I don’t believe that the current juvenile system of kids’ gloves is what we need,” Gahler said.

State’s attorneys across Maryland are also voicing concerns. Rich Gibson, Howard County State’s Attorney, said, “I don’t know a state’s attorney out of the 24 of us that is not deeply concerned with the state of juvenile crime.”

Charlie Smith, Frederick County State’s Attorney, added, “They just make recommendations. There’s really no teeth to them. There’s no sanctions. There’s no accountability.”

As the countdown to the 2025 legislative session continues, only four of the hundreds of bills expected to be introduced are related to juvenile crime, leaving many hoping for more substantial action.

Have a news tip? Contact Vincent Hill at Vihill@sbgtv.com.