BALTIMORE, MD (Thursday, September 21, 2023) – Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott released the following statement on tonight’s City Council confirmation hearings held for Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley and Acting Fire Chief James Wallace.

Mayor Brandon M. Scott said:

“Tonight, Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley and Acting Fire Chief James Wallace both showcased the grace, deep knowledge base, and leadership qualities that prompted me to nominate them to lead our two top public safety agencies in Baltimore.

“Acting Commissioner Worley outlined a proactive vision to improve community policing, continue our police department’s pathway out of the consent decree, and apply his unique perspective as a life-long Baltimorean to the job. Already in the role of Acting Commissioner, he has led with a commitment to transparency and service to Baltimore’s residents. I’m thankful that his dedication to our city and willingness to work on behalf of every Baltimorean has shone through in this process.

“Similarly, Acting Fire Chief James Wallace exhibited his decades of experience protecting Baltimore City residents and visitors alike. As a paramedic, firefighter, leader in the Fire Department, and Director of the Office of Emergency Management, Chief Wallace has not only saved lives, he’s led other first responders and emergency management personnel tremendously through numerous challenging situations. I know he will continue his exemplary record of leadership as head of the Baltimore City Fire Department.

“I want to thank the City Council, particularly Chairman Isaac ‘Yitzy’ Schleifer and the rest of the Rules and Legislative Oversight Committee, for their thorough and thoughtful approach to these hearings. I appreciate their support of these nominees for two critical public safety leadership positions, and look forward to the full City Council vote and ultimately swearing in these two public servants to their new roles.”