Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform

As a prosecutor, Angela had a firsthand view of the inner workings of the criminal justice system, and she knows well the misery that often exists within it. In her experience, the criminal justice system becomes the destination for individuals when society fails to invest adequately in education, health care, jobs, and families.

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Angela firmly believes that the first task at hand is to keep families safe. She believes that everyone has the right to feel secure in their homes, every child and teacher should feel safe in their schools, and businesses should have confidence in locating in the community. During her time as State's Attorney, Prince George’s County saw a 50% reduction in violent crime – an achievement Angela helped reach by focusing on prosecuting violent criminals and allocating resources to keep those who pose the greatest threat to families off the streets.

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Feeling safe and secure in the community also involves having trust in law enforcement. Angela made it a priority to hold police officers accountable for any wrongdoing, ensuring that they faced charges and prosecution when they committed crimes. As County Executive, she established a Police Reform Work Group in the summer of 2020, with the goal of investigating and recommending necessary reforms for the Prince George’s County Police Department. She has since hired a reform-minded chief who specializes in 21st century policing and is implementing 46 of the 50 recommendations made by the Work Group.

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Angela also believes in giving people a second chance. That’s why as State's Attorney, she started Back on Track-Prince George's to give first-time nonviolent felony drug offenders a second chance and a clean record. As County Executive, she started the Returning Citizens Affairs Division in her Administration to better serve returning citizens and ensure a holistic approach for those transitioning back to the community. 

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If elected to the Senate, Angela will passionately fight to ensure proper funding and nationwide implementation of standards to keep families safe and to reform the criminal justice system. She firmly believes in the need for comprehensive changes that promote safety, justice, and equity for all residents.