BALTIMORE, MD (Tuesday, August 5, 2025) - Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott joined state leaders, city officials, and law enforcement partners at National Night Out events across Baltimore City. Scott Administration officials and city leaders attended a total of more than 60 events across Baltimore.

National Night Out is held annually on the first Tuesday of August across the country. It began 42 years ago as a nationwide campaign working to connect residents to law enforcement to foster positive relations between officers and the communities they serve. In Baltimore, community associations host events both individually and collaboratively to meet officers and city leaders, discuss safety concerns unique to their communities, and build relationships.

"National Night Out is a time for communities - and those who serve them - to gather together, build relationships, and have a good time," said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. "This spirit of togetherness, of unity, is a key part of how we - as a City, as a village - have managed to achieve historic reductions in violent crime over the past three years. National Night Out allows us to take stock of the progress we have made as a city and recommit ourselves to the work of building on the historic reductions we have worked collectively to achieve."

"Every single Marylander plays a part in making our state safer," said Governor Wes Moore. "National Night Out is based on the simple premise that partnership produces progress, and everyone has a role - officers and activists; prosecutors and public defenders; judges and village elders; local, state, and federal leaders; and so many others across Maryland. By working together, we've delivered historic drops in homicides and violent crime in Baltimore City. And through our continued partnership, we will accelerate our work to bolster public safety in every corner of the state."

Mayor Scott has made strengthening public safety a top priority for his administration. Through the creation of the Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE), and in partnership with the Baltimore Police Department and Baltimore residents, Mayor Scott implemented Baltimore's first-ever Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan (CVPP). In line with the BPD's Consent Decree requirements, Mayor Scott and BPD leadership have emphasized community-oriented policing. This approach to policing is a way to build, strengthen, and repair relationships between law enforcement and residents. This approach places constitutional and proactive policing at the center of the public safety strategy.

"Effective public safety is built on trust between law enforcement and the people they have sworn to protect - and National Night Out is an opportunity to deepen that trust as we continue to invest in comprehensive solutions to reduce violence in our communities. The relationships fostered between residents and police through these events are vital to our collective efforts to promote safer streets and stronger neighborhoods," said Senator Chris Van Hollen.

"For more than four decades, neighbors, families, and law enforcement have come together at National Night Out, strengthening trust and forging bonds that keep our communities safe. This year, let us take pride in the historic progress made to reduce violent crime, and reaffirm our shared commitment to a safer Baltimore," said Congressman Kweisi Mfume.

"National Night Out is about block parties - but it's also about building connections," said Congressman Johnny Olszewski. "It's about neighbors meeting neighbors, and citizens coming together with our local law enforcement, fire departments, and first responders to say: we are united, we care about each other, and we care about our community. I thank all of the community organizations who hosted celebrations across Baltimore."

"Thank you to all the communities that hosted National Night Out events across the city, showcasing the strength of police-community partnerships," said Police Commissioner Richard Worley. "My team and I had a phenomenal day connecting with neighbors, strengthening relationships and reaffirming our shared commitment to safer, stronger neighborhoods. We look forward to building on this momentum throughout the remainder of the year and working hand-in-hand for a safer Baltimore."

"National Night Out improves public safety by building relationships between neighbors and the police who serve them," said Attorney General Anthony G. Brown. "It takes all of us to make our streets safer for all Marylanders. That's why our Office works with Mayor Scott's Group Violence Reduction Strategy, which has helped reduce crime by protecting Baltimoreans from violence and giving communities the resources they need to heal from the pain inflicted by guns and drugs."

"As prosecutors in Baltimore, our role goes far beyond the courtroom - it's about building trust, ensuring accountability, and standing with communities in the pursuit of justice. Events like National Night Out are an opportunity to strengthen those essential relationships," said State's Attorney Ivan J. Bates. "We know that successful prosecutions often depend on the courage of victims and witnesses who come forward. That only happens when people believe the system will protect them, hear them, and value their voices. By showing up, listening, and working alongside our communities, we're creating the foundation of trust that makes justice possible."

Now, in its fifth year of the Violence Prevention Plan, Baltimore continues to see progress in reducing gun violence. Following a 20 percent drop in homicides in 2023, Mayor Scott, MONSE, BPD, the SAO, and many other partners doubled down on their efforts. 2024 yielded a 23 percent drop in homicides. As of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, homicides are down approximately 25.7 percent (84 in 2025 vs. 113 in 2024) and nonfatal shootings are down 16.7 percent (199 in 2025 vs. 239 in 2024).

"I'm proud to join Mayor Brandon Scott and our fellow state and local leaders for Baltimore's 2025 National Night Out," said Council President Zeke Cohen. "This event symbolizes our community's commitment to safety. When we come together to share meals, laughter, and joy with our officers, we strengthen our neighborhoods and create safer spaces. National Night Out reminds us that we are partners in shaping Baltimore's future. Let's stand together tonight and take steps toward a brighter tomorrow."

"National Night Out has proven itself to be an important event for both city and community in establishing relationships between our residents and our law enforcement partners and first responders," said Comptroller Bill Henry. "Building trust and communication is vital in keeping our city safe and vibrant, and these events make sure those lines stay open."

"National Night Out is a wonderful opportunity for communities, public safety personnel, elected officials, and businesses to come together and connect with one another," said City Council Vice President Middleton, District 6. "It's an evening filled with camaraderie, where neighbors can strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual support."

"National Night Out is a powerful reminder of what makes Baltimore and District 41 so special - neighbors who look out for one another, communities that come together, and a shared commitment to building a safer, stronger city. It's also a moment to recognize and thank our police officers and first responders who put their lives on the line to protect us every day," said State Senator Dalya Attar, District 41. "I want to thank Mayor Scott for his strong commitment to public safety and community partnerships. I'm proud to represent a district filled with people who care deeply about each other and who work every day to make our neighborhoods better. Events like these are not just celebrations - they're reflections of our values."

For more information on National Night Out, visit https://natw.org/.