Baltimore, Md. (January 6, 2014)—Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake released the following statement regarding the passing of former Police Commissioner Bishop L. Robinson:

"I was saddened to learn of former Police Commissioner Bishop Robinson's passing today. Bishop was a great friend, and someone on whom I could rely to impart sage advice, especially to a young public official just starting out. This is a man whose life should be celebrated for tearing down barriers by climbing his way to the top of an organization that historically treated African Americans with disrespect and derision. But Commissioner Robinson's palpable presence made him a force to be reckoned with. He worked his way up through the police department, step by step, becoming the first African American to command the Patrol division, then the first to command the whole force as Commissioner. The trail he cut for many that came after him will be one that should never be forgotten. Bishop Robinson will be dearly missed."