Baltimore

Baltimore: A Gun Violence Epidemic

A Surge in Gun Violence

Baltimore was grappling with a sharp rise in gun violence that culminated in 348 homicides in 2019—the highest per capita rate in the city’s history. This surge was even more striking when compared to New York City, which, with a population nearly 14 times larger, reported only 319 homicides that year. Despite overall declines in violent crime over the past two decades, the spike in gun violence threatens the city’s future.

An Evidence-Based Approach

In 2018, inspired by successful models from Chicago and Los Angeles, the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) adopted the Strategic Decision Support Centers (SDSCs), later renamed Baltimore City Intelligence Centers (CICs). These data-driven hubs were designed to anticipate and prevent gun violence through data-driven and community-focused strategies, shifting the focus from reactive to proactive policing.

The Workings of CICs

CICs are district-based intelligence hubs that combine advanced technology and human insights to enable real-time, targeted interventions. Key features of the CIC model include:

  • Gunshot detection systems for immediate identification and response to shootings
  • Predictive crime software to forecast hotspots for violence
  • Surveillance camera networks to monitor high-risk areas
  • Collaboration between BPD officers, tactical units, and community stakeholders to adapt strategies dynamically.

This integrated approach allows BPD to act swiftly and proactively, addressing violence before it escalates.

Precision Policing, Not Expanded Enforcement

The CIC model focuses on smarter resource deployment rather than increasing arrests. BPD has been equipped to use existing resources more effectively, deploying officers to areas where they have the greatest impact. Without the need to escalate enforcement, violence has been reduced.

Remarkable Results

Since the CICs introduction in late 2018, Baltimore has experienced measurable improvements in public safety and a sustained downward trend in homicides. We have seen:

  • Homicides down 41% from 348 in 2019 to 204 in 2024
  • Significant reductions in gun violence during the same time frame, with non-fatal shootings reduced by 34% from 635 in 2019 to 414 in 2024. 
  • Reductions were driven by the CIC police districts (Western, Eastern, Southwestern, and Central).

Strengthened Police-Community Ties

The CICs have been instrumental in building trust between the community and police. By making data transparent, involving the community in decision-making, and shifting to proactive policing, relationships between residents and law enforcement continue to strengthen.

A Blueprint for Safety

Since 2018, the CICs have proven effective, driving continued investment and expansion across Baltimore’s districts. As the program scales, it serves as a model for other cities, demonstrating how intelligence-led policing can reduce violence and improve public safety.