Baltimore County’s next prosecutor faces tough choices on youth crime

The race for Baltimore County’s top prosecutor spot is heating up, with candidates pushing different ideas on how to handle rising crime. One candidate argues that current policies aren’t working and wants stronger action against juvenile offenses. She points to recent crime spikes in areas like Towson and Owings Mills as proof that something needs to change. Her plan focuses partly on holding parents responsible when kids break the law. She says existing laws can already be used to punish guardians who know their children are committing crimes. But critics might ask: Is punishing families the best way to fix youth crime, or does it risk making problems worse?She also opposes a new law that would move 16- and 17-year-olds charged with serious crimes into juvenile court instead of adult court. Starting next year, this change could limit prosecutors’ options for violent offenses. She calls it a step backward, but opponents might argue that treating teens differently could lead to fairer outcomes. Despite pushing for tougher crime policies, she admits that jail isn’t always the answer. She supports alternatives for some offenders, showing a more flexible approach. Still, her experience as a prosecutor and her past roles in criminal justice give her some credibility on the issue. The election is just around the corner, and voters will have to decide which approach works best for Baltimore County’s future.