Reasonable Reforms Supported by Scott
Marijuana Diversion Program for a Decade
Long before the Maryland Legislature decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana, Baltimore County State’s Attorney, Scott Shellenberger, adopted a holistic approach to the prosecution of these offenses. More than 10 years ago, Scott created a diversion program in which these cases were dropped in exchange for community service.
This results in countless citizens of Baltimore County being spared a criminal record for the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
More recently, Scott has expanded that program to include the possession of small amounts of other drugs, favoring treatment over prosecution.
In addition, Scott has spearheaded efforts to create a Drug Court in Baltimore County. The court favors treatment and education over punitive prosecution. Scott recognizes that attacking the cause of crime is the key to preventing it from occurring.
2021: Endorsed the Baltimore County SMART Policing Act, passed by the County Council and supported by County Executive Olszewski
2016: Supported the Justice Reinvestment Act
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Wrote an Op-Ed article with State Public Defender, Paul DeWolfe (click the link to read their support) https://www.baltimoresun.com/opinion/op-ed/bs-ed-op-0404-sentencing-rule-change-20210402-3kwpm6wqobgnhh3nqjpj56iaym-story.html
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The bill had 19 recommendations that emphasized that prisons be used for violent offenders.
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It strengthened probation systems so that underlying problems that cause crime can be addressed.
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The law worked to improve release and re-entry services so that those who get released are ready to contribute to society.
We are Aggressive in Supporting Domestic Violence Victims no matter where they were born
Many victims of domestic violence from other countries are reluctant to report the crimes to the police for fear of then later being deported. A U-Visa allows victims of certain crimes to remain in this country. Scott Shellenberger has a very robust U-Visa program overseen by one of his Deputy State’s Attorney’s to assure that victims of domestic violence from other countries remain here and can seek help so they will be safe.
Expungement
Scott has supported the expansion of the expungement (elimination) of certain criminal convictions and the shielding of other convictions from the public so that those records will not block people from being gainfully employed.
Currently Serves to Improve Criminal Justice
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2014: Governor’s Commission to Reform Maryland Pretrial System
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2015: Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure
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2015: Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council
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2018: DNA Evidence Kit Task Force
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2019: Erroneous Conviction Task Force
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2020: Workgroup on Equitable Policing and Re-Entry in Baltimore County
Supported a District Court Mental Health Docket