In a significant move, Angela Alsobrooks, the Democratic candidate running for the Senate seat in Maryland, diverted $20 million from a planned police training facility to establish a mental health and addiction treatment center in Prince George's County. This decision was made in June 2020 amidst a national outcry following the death of George Floyd and calls for police defunding.
Alsobrooks justified the reallocation by highlighting the high percentage of inmates with mental health issues in county jails, emphasizing the need for alternative treatment approaches. However, this decision coincided with a surge in violent crime rates both nationally and within Prince George's County.
According to FBI statistics, Prince George's County witnessed a 16% increase in overall violent crime in 2020, including a 58% rise in reported homicides, a 19% increase in robberies, and a 15% increase in aggravated assaults. Despite these concerning trends, Alsobrooks reaffirmed her choice to redirect funds during a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental health care over punitive measures.
A spokesperson for Alsobrooks highlighted her past achievements in reducing violent crime during her tenure as the state attorney for Prince George's County, where a 50% decrease was recorded. However, since assuming the role of county executive in 2018, violent crime in the county has surged by 30% through 2022.
As the election approaches, Alsobrooks will face former Republican Governor Larry Hogan in what analysts predict as a 'likely Democratic' race. Despite Hogan's popularity in the state, the diversion of funds from law enforcement to mental health services may become a focal point of debate in the upcoming election.
