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The investigation into the repeated armed carjackings and related offenses began in mid-October and ended with charges for 20 juveniles between the ages of 12 and 53 incidents for a total of 113 cases across seven of the nine police districts in the city.
"There can be no question that this group contributed significantly to the uptick in juvenile crime and carjackings that Baltimore experienced in 2023," said State's Attorney Ivan J. Bates. "While arrests were made during this period, the BPD task force worked tirelessly with my office to identify the juveniles involved in these crimes across jurisdictions and connect the dots as to how the group operated. I thank both teams for making today's announcement possible and restoring accountability to our streets."
Those who are eligible will be charged as adults, Bates added.
The investigation found that the crimes were being committed in groups of between two and eight members, with most occurring over a six- to eight-week period between October and November 2023.
Other offenses include armed robbery, assault, and handgun violations.
In some cases, upwards of 16 incidents of armed robberies and armed carjackings would be committed in just one night, Bates said, adding that only the Northwest and Northeast districts appear to have been untouched by these apparent crimes of opportunity.
In addition to these prosecutions, prosecutors will also be pursuing restitution from the parents or guardians of the juveniles in this group for the repeated violent offenses they are alleged to have committed, in addition to criminal liability.
“I want to thank State's Attorney Ivan Bates and Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley for their collaborative efforts in stopping this group from operating further in Baltimore,” said Senate President Bill Ferguson. “I am certain this was only possible through strong coordination throughout all agencies involved. I am grateful for their work to make Baltimore safer for all to enjoy."
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