Calvin Ball Boosts Safety with New Police Units in Downtown Columbia

Increased Police Presence in Downtown Columbia

After the public announcement of a new “Crime Reduction Plan” for Downtown Columbia on February 27th, the HCPD has escalated its measures to secure the area, including the Merriweather District, The Mall in Columbia, and Columbia Lakefront. A permanent, full-time unit of officers from its Community Outreach & Pathways Section (COPS) is being stationed in these areas, and a full-time satellite office inside the Mall is being set up. Additional patrols have been assigned strictly to the Mall, ensuring 24-hour security.

Positive Impact of the Crime Reduction Plan

Since the implementation of this plan, the HCPD has noticed a significant decrease in gun crimes and shooting incidents in the area. The increase in police presence around the Mall and nearby pathways through foot patrols, mountain bikes, ATVs, Zero motorbikes, and patrol cars has contributed to this outcome. This strategic approach has also allowed officers to effectively address issues related to public nuisance and quality of life like disorderly conduct, parking violations, and noise complaints.

Proactive Strategy for Crime Prevention

“Our mission is centered around combating crime and reinforcing the public’s sense of safety,” said a representative of the HCPD. They believe in making strategic decisions about resource allocation and crime-fighting strategies at the onset of an emerging issue. Recent increase in staffing levels, approved by County Executive Ball, have enabled them to allocate resources where they are most needed. Repeat offenders have been identified as a primary concern, and proactive strategies are being developed to prevent serious crimes from happening in the first place.

Collaboration with Maryland Department of Juvenile Services

As part of the initiative to improve information-sharing with the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS), the HCPD has formed a partnership with them. As part of its juvenile monitoring program, officers have started attending prescheduled events, which has led to increased positive interactions with teenagers in DJS’s juvenile justice system. The plan includes quarterly meetings between HCPD and DJS staff to share information and keep communication lines open.

The HCPD is also initiating monthly small group structured sessions between officers and juveniles at various locations throughout the county. Each session will include a mandatory communication period between juveniles and officers.

Youth Engagement Strategy (YES!) Council

Alongside the HCPD’s collaboration with DJS, County Executive Ball has recently established the Youth Engagement Strategy (YES!) Council, in response to the need for a coordinated and proactive approach to youth engagement and violence prevention in Howard County. YES! aims to bring together young people, community-based organizations, public institutions, mental health organizations, and County agencies, to adopt a comprehensive approach to preventing violence committed by young people.

Partnership with Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services

The HCPD, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, is also accompanying State Division of Parole and Probation staff on home visits to adult offenders on parole. This joint effort increases officer awareness of individuals under supervision in the county and enhances safety for parole and probation staff. The initial round of visits was successful, with a second round scheduled for later this month.

The County will persistently allocate resources as required, to positively impact the public’s ability to be safe and feel safe.