BALTIMORE (WBFF) — A disturbing surveillance video showing a group of young people attacking a 74-year-old man outside a Baltimore 7-Eleven has reignited debate over juvenile crime in Maryland.
The assault, which occurred around 3:45 a.m. on July 7, was captured on surveillance video that has since spread widely online.
The footage appears to show six young people surrounding the elderly victim. One suspect is seen carrying what appears to be a sword, while another appears to be armed with an assault-style rifle. The group repeatedly punches and kicks the 74-year-old man, including taking turns kicking him after he falls to the ground.
On Friday, Governor Wes Moore attended a Maryland National Guard swearing-in ceremony commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
FOX45 News planned to ask the governor about the viral video and broader concerns over juvenile crime. However, members of the governor’s staff said he did not have time to take questions because of his schedule.
FOX45 later followed up with the governor’s office, asking for his reaction to the attack and whether he believes lawmakers should address juvenile crime during the upcoming special session. Lawmakers are returning to Annapolis Aug. 3-5 for a special session to discuss redistricting in Maryland.
Similar questions were also sent to House Speaker Joseline Pena-Melnyk and Senate President Bill Ferguson.
Speaker Pena-Melnyk called the videos “deeply disturbing,” and that no one, especially an older adult, “should have to fear being assaulted or harassed while simply going about their day.”
“My prayers are with the victim and their loved ones,” she adds. “People deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and young people who commit crimes must be held accountable.”
I have faith in Baltimore City officials to address this incident appropriately and take the necessary steps to protect public safety, Speaker Joseline Pena-Melnyk added.
While not answering the question about bringing up the issue during the upcoming special session specifically, the speaker said “we must continue working to ensure that our justice system protects the public while helping prevent future victims.”
FOX45 News did not hear back from Ferguson’s Office or Gov. Moore’s Team.
Because the attack occurred well before dawn, residents have also questioned whether Baltimore City’s youth curfew is being enforced.
When FOX45 previously asked the Baltimore Police Department about curfew enforcement, the agency referred questions to the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, MONSE.
MONSE responded that it does not have legal authority to enforce the curfew.
Betsy Smith, with the National Police Association, questioned the effectiveness of a curfew without enforcement.
“What is the point?” Smith said.
She argued that young people are unlikely to take the curfew seriously if there are no consequences for violating it.
“They’re not stupid,” Smith said. “I think a curfew is a great idea. You have to have somebody that’s able to enforce it.”
In a statement to FOX45 News, MONSE emphasized that Baltimore’s curfew is not “enforced by detaining and arresting young people.”
Instead, the office said, “Our outreach staff work alongside partners to encourage young people to go home and/or are redirected to more appropriate activities.”
Meanwhile, BPD said detectives are continuing to investigate the assault and are actively pursuing leads.
In a statement, the department said investigators are “actively following up on tips” and that the case remains “open and extremely active.”
The suspects shown in the surveillance video have not yet been identified. Anyone with information is asked to call citywide robbery detectives at 410-366-6311. To remain anonymous, call Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP.
Follow Political Reporter Mikenzie Frost on X and Facebook. Send tips to mbfrost@sbgtv.com.
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