DELEGATE MIKE MCDERMOTT PRESS RELEASE

“HB119 Passes Out of the House Judiciary Committee”

Today, the House Judiciary Committee overwhelmingly approved House Bill 119 - Criminal Procedure - Misdemeanors - Citations, a bill sponsored by Delegate Michael McDermott (R - Eastern Shore), which will give significant latitude in law enforcement by allowing police officers the option to write a citation for certain misdemeanors. Under current law, police officers are permitted to issue citations only for certain minor offenses, such as disorderly conduct and property destruction. This bill would give officers the freedom to use their own discretion and opt, if they so choose, to issue a citation for any non-violent misdemeanor, rather than making a full-fledged arrest.

“Law Enforcement officers are a tremendous asset for our communities. HB-119 will allow our officers and deputies to spend less time on petty criminals and more time on the street defending us from more serious offenders,”commented delegate McDermott.

“This bill goes hand in hand with House Bill 261 - Criminal Procedure - Office of the Public Defender - Representation. Together, they seek to resolve the many issues arising out of the recent court decision, DeWolfe v. Richmond.” stated Delegate McDermott. DeWolfe v. Richmond requires representation for indigents at the earliest stages of the proceeding with the district court commissioner. HB261 also passed out of the House Judiciary Committee today.

Early next week, the full House will take up the measure, with eventual passage from that chamber slated later in the week. The measure will then be heard by the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, and must be approved by the entirety of the Maryland Senate before the Maryland General Assembly adjourns April 2012.