Mayor Scott quiet on Marvin James investigation as questions mount

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is refusing to provide updates on an internal investigation into one of his top advisors after a FOX45 News investigation raised questions about how taxpayer resources are being used inside City Hall.

When asked Wednesday whether there were any developments in the investigation involving Special Advisor Marvin James, Scott offered a brief response.

“Stop chasing me,” the mayor told FOX45’s Mikenzie Frost following a Board of Estimates meeting.

The comment comes days after a FOX45 News investigation showed James appearing to spend little time at City Hall over a three-week period while using a city-issued vehicle to travel throughout the Baltimore area and to Washington, D.C.

FOX45’s investigation tracked James over three weeks and found him at various locations including salons, restaurants, and a political campaign office in Washington, D.C. During that same period, he was observed at Baltimore City Hall only twice.

James serves as Mayor Scott’s special advisor and earns a salary of approximately $198,000 annually.

The city’s vehicle-use policy states that city-owned vehicles “may not be used for pleasure or to conduct personal business.”

When confronted with the findings last week, Scott said the administration would review the allegations.

“We can’t just take your word for something,” Scott told FOX45 News. “We will investigate anything and we’ll take appropriate action when necessary.”

Since then, the mayor’s office has not responded to repeated questions about the status of the investigation, whether James remains employed by the city, or whether any findings will be made public.

The controversy is also drawing attention from Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen, who said he has discussed the matter with the mayor’s administration and expects answers.

“The mayor has indicated he is investigating this item,” Cohen said. “There does seem to need to be some clarification around the special advisor, what that role is.”

While Cohen said he wants the administration’s review to play out, he stressed that accountability is essential for public trust.

“I think it is really important that anyone who works here, works here,” Cohen said.

When asked whether James should remain on the city payroll while questions persist, Cohen said he does not yet have enough information to make that determination. However, he emphasized that the public deserves answers.

“Everybody is accountable,” Cohen said. “It’s incredibly important for the culture of city government.”

Cohen acknowledged concerns that the investigation could stall without producing public results.

“If there is no real investigation, then other actors, including the council, may take action,” he said.

For now, the mayor’s office has not provided a timeline for the investigation or indicated whether its findings will be released.

As questions continue to mount over the role, responsibilities, and activities of one of Mayor Scott’s closest allies, the public is still waiting for answers about how taxpayer dollars are being spent and whether anyone will be held accountable.

Follow Political Reporter Mikenzie Frost on X and Facebook. Send tips to mbfrost@sbgtv.com.