Jeremy, this bird of prey should be rehabilitated and trained to hunt hoodrats. They could build a nest for him on the top of the federal building at Pratt and Light.

Bird found injured on Charles County road

 

U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, appointed by President Donald Trump, again criticized the consent decree, saying that he has "grave concerns" about the agreement negotiated by the Obama administration.

"I have grave concerns that some provisions of this decree will reduce the lawful powers of the police department and result in a less safe city. There are clear departures from many proven principles of good policing that we fear will result in more crime," Sessions said.

The city again disagreed.

"I believe that we can do both together, that being a reformed Police Department. Trust by the community in this process, I think will make a difference in reducing crime in our city," Pugh said.

The consent decree aims to improve police training and equipment. The damning report that led to the consent decree cited long-running unconstitutional practices.

Even with a now-reluctant DOJ, the mayor said she expects federal money to finance some reforms.

"What we are talking about, especially the technology piece, is to improve policing in the city, and that's what we will be looking for federal assistance to do," Pugh said.

Next, an independent monitor must be chosen to oversee the consent decree. The monitor will answer to the court.

The Police Department also applauded the signing of the decree, saying in a statement:

"We are pleased to hear of Judge Bredar's decision to enter the negotiated consent decree. This will support and, in fact, accelerate many needed reforms in the areas of training, technology and internal accountability systems. We expect that this process will lead us to the goal we all share: a Baltimore Police Department that leads the progress of the policing profession. We look forward to engaging with the community and the court in the process of selecting an independent monitor."

Federal judge approves Baltimore police consent decree

Federal judge denies DOJ request for delay

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