Public safety is the top concern I hear during my visits to neighborhood associations and
in conversations with those who live and work in Towson. Recent incidents are frightening and should concern all of Towson’s leaders.
Fortunately, Baltimore County has a top-notch Police Department that has made arrests in some of the most serious crimes. I would like to thank Chief of Police Jim Johnson, Towson precinct Captain Richard Howard, and all of our police officers who serve with them. The additional police resources pledged by County Executive Kamenetz will certainly help as we move forward.
Our office has taken several steps as well.
First, we are working with the Towson Area Citizens on Patrol to have a strong COP presence throughout Towson. Earlier this year, we brought together volunteers to create a Western Towson Citizens on Patrol, but that presence needs to extend throughout Downtown Towson and into the neighborhoods that currently have no COP activity. Citizens on Patrol cannot replace our police, but they provide an extra layer of vigilance.
Second, we have formed a task force that will look at improvements along the Burke Avenue corridor where there were repeated incidents. If there are other areas in Towson where lighting could be improved or security could be enhanced, please contact me at dmarks@baltimorecountymd.gov.
Third, we will continue to communicate with Towson University and Goucher College. Students are sometimes more attuned to their cell phones than aware of the conditions around them.
Finally, we will continue to advocate for a robust and growing police presence as Downtown Towson grows.
I would like to thank the public safety professionals, community leaders, business owners, and residents who are working to make Towson a safer place to live, work, and raise a family. Please know that public safety is my top priority in Towson.