U.S. Attorney Issues Police Week Message to Baltimore City Police Officers

U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein sent the following message to police officers serving in Baltimore City today:

During National Police Week, we pay tribute to police officers who have died in the line of duty and give thanks to officers who faithfully protect and serve.

In particular, I want to express my gratitude to every police officer who serves with honor and integrity in Baltimore City. Criticism of your department, whether or not justified, should not obscure the good that so many of you do every day. The murder rate in Baltimore City fell dramatically over the past decade, along with most types of crime, thanks in large part to superb work by outstanding officers of the Baltimore Police Department. You have saved many lives.

Some criminals have taken advantage of recent events. Although many agencies are working on long-term solutions, only the Baltimore Police Department can stop criminals from harming victims today. Good police work is essential to hold criminals accountable and deter them from committing more crimes and creating more victims.

Baltimore City police officers have one of the most challenging and most important jobs in Maryland. Thank you for your courage and for your devotion to justice.