As the legal career of an experienced Maryland criminal lawyer revolves around representing individuals who have been accused of criminal charges, it is important to update the public on any new information that could be beneficial to suspects. Recently, the Maryland House of Representatives approved legislation designed to eliminate gang activity, in response to violent crimes committed by these organizations around the state.
Last Tuesday, updated anti-gang legislation swept through the Maryland House of Representatives, winning approval by a vote of 111-28. Even though laws concerning gang activity were already on the books, law enforcement officials and state prosecutors contend that they were largely ineffective. The new legislation would make it easier to prosecute these individuals with Maryland criminal charges, as it defines "criminal gangs" and "criminal gang members," while broadening the scope of criminal violations considered "gang activity." Intimidating witnesses, carrying a firearm and second-degree assault are all now crimes that can make gang members eligible for harsher penalties, should the presiding judge deem it necessary.
Estimates from the Maryland State Police state that approximately 600 gangs, with a total of 9,000 members conduct themselves within the state. However, critics contend that the new legislation will only serve to single out juveniles who are guilty, only by association. According the chairman of the Maryland Juvenile Justice Coalition, Kinji Scott, "You cannot take every child and throw them away because of crimes committed by some." Additionally, former gang members have also spoken out. Baltimore public high school student and ex-gang member Christian Bailey explained that because many jail inmates ally themselves by gang association, sending juveniles to the same location would do more harm than good. "I have a hard time understanding what's the good thing about sending a juvenile gang member to somewhere where a majority of gangs are going," he stated.
Facing criminal charges is a difficult and overwhelming process, regardless if the accused is in a gang or not. As seen by the updated and recently passed legislation, conviction on gang-related charges will have permanent and life-changing consequences, ultimately resulting in jail time. For the best protection of your personal freedoms and liberties, it is important to contact a hard-working and trustworthy Maryland criminal defense lawyer for assistance. Doing so immediately can help ensure the most successful outcome for your case.
Price Benowitz LLP published this article. Our attorneys have offices in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. For more information about the firm, please visit the Maryland Criminal Attorney,Maryland DUI Lawyer and Maryland personal injury websites.
