Several police departments in Maryland will not aid the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) during the 2025 presidential inauguration due to differences in their approach to use-of-force policies according to The Daily Caller.
Despite the lack of direct aid, Maryland departments are still contributing security efforts through arrangements with the U.S. Capitol Police.
In the wake of Maryland's revised use-of-force policies, which differ from those of Washington, D.C., several law enforcement agencies have declined to provide direct assistance to MPD for the upcoming inauguration.
According to MPD, the recent changes in Maryland's legislation have created disparities that affect cooperation between jurisdictions. The Maryland police departments have stated they will not participate in direct support, even though they have done so in previous inaugurations.
The Montgomery County Police Department attributed their withdrawal from direct involvement to issues with the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The MOU, a critical document that outlines mutual aid, has been utilized for the past two presidential inaugurations. Washington, D.C. officials emphasized that the MOU remains the same as in recent years and is approved by the Department of Justice.
In April 2021, Maryland passed new laws tightening restrictions on police use-of-force and repealed the Police Bill of Rights.
The revised statute emphasizes that force is permissible only to prevent imminent threats or achieve legitimate law enforcement objectives.
Under the new regulations, any officer whose use of force results in serious injury or death could face up to ten years of imprisonment. This standard marks a significant deviation from Washington, D.C.'s "objective reasonableness" standard, which governs its police operations.
Although seven Maryland police departments are unable to offer direct support to MPD, they are still engaging with security efforts for the event through arrangements made with the U.S. Capitol Police.
Notably, departments from Anne Arundel County, Prince George's County, and Maryland State Police have committed to assisting in this capacity. The collaboration highlights their commitment despite differing interpretations of use-of-force policies.
MPD expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Maryland agencies with the Capitol police, acknowledging the enduring partnerships across the region. "These partnerships are crucial during significant events like the Presidential Inauguration," an MPD statement highlighted. The engagements signify a collective commitment to public safety amid differing legal frameworks.
The inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump has been moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to freezing weather conditions.
An estimated 25,000 personnel, comprising both military and law enforcement, will ensure that the event proceeds smoothly. The security ensemble includes collaboration from 173 secured departments nationwide.
Despite differences in policy interpretations, the relationships between D.C. and Maryland law enforcement agencies remain sound.
Chief Smith of the MPD has been personally informed by the respective police chiefs from these agencies, with no disputes reported between them. Maryland's departments continue to hold value as partners involved in Council of Governments' mutual aid agreements.
The ability to play a pivotal role in securing inaugural proceedings underscores the importance of regional cooperation. By fostering strong partnerships, law enforcement agencies can leverage shared expertise and resources, ensuring public safety. MPD continues to rely on its robust network of national allies for success during high-profile events.
