Ivan J. Bates
Baltimore City State's Attorney
Ivan J. Bates
Baltimore City
State's Attorney
Bates for
Baltimore
SINCE TAKING OFFICE
Since taking office in 2023, Baltimore City State's Attorney Ivan J. Bates has implemented significant reforms to enhance public safety and uphold justice. He reinstated the prosecution of low-level offenses, reversing previous non-prosecution policies, to address quality-of-life crimes. Ivan successfully advocated for legislation increasing maximum sentences for illegal handgun possession, aiming to deter gun violence. Additionally, he withdrew a motion to vacate Adnan Syed's conviction, citing the need to maintain the integrity of the judicial process.
57%
During his first year alone, Ivan saw the highest approval rating for any City official. Read more HERE.
1,723
Out of the 2,129 violent crime prosecutions secured since 2023, 1,723 are incarcerated for their crimes, preventing repeat violent offenses. Read more HERE.
40%
From 2022 to 2024, Baltimore saw a 39.5% drop in homicides, in large part due to Ivan’s crackdown on violent repeat offenders. Read more HERE.
Achievements & the Future
Ivan and his staff have continually exceeded the goals set by the State’s Attorney and his office.
Ivan on the Adnan Syed Case
State’s Attorney Bates has officially withdrawn the motion to vacate Adnan Syed’s conviction, citing false and misleading statements in the original filing that undermined the integrity of the judicial process. Ivan emphasized his commitment to fairness, transparency, and ensuring that justice is pursued with integrity. This decision reaffirms his dedication to upholding the law while respecting the rights of victims and their families. Watch this video to hear him discuss this case with Lester Holt.
