Shocking Audit Reveals 36 In-Custody Deaths Were Misclassified—Should Have Been Homicides

A damning new audit has uncovered a disturbing trend: at least 36 cases of in-custody deaths across Maryland were wrongly categorized, concealing what should have been classified as homicides. The findings raise urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and systemic failures in law enforcement oversight.

Key Findings from the Audit

• Misclassified Deaths: Auditors identified 36 cases where individuals died in custody under circumstances suggesting homicide, yet official records did not reflect this.
• Lack of Accountability: The mislabeling prevented proper investigations, allowing potential wrongdoing to go unchecked.
• Families Left in the Dark: Many victims’ relatives were never given accurate explanations for their loved ones’ deaths.

Why This Matters

The audit exposes a troubling pattern that undermines public trust. When deaths in custody are improperly documented, it becomes nearly impossible to hold agencies or individuals accountable. Legal experts warn that without accurate classifications:

1. Prosecutors may lack grounds to pursue charges.
2. Civil rights violations could go unaddressed.
3. Systemic issues remain hidden, perpetuating cycles of abuse.

Demands for Reform

Advocacy groups are now calling for:

• Independent reviews of all in-custody deaths.
• Stricter penalties for agencies that fail to report accurately.
• Federal oversight to ensure transparency.

What Do You Think?

• Should law enforcement agencies face criminal charges for misclassifying deaths?
• Is federal intervention the only way to ensure accountability?
• Could body cameras and independent monitors prevent these errors—or is the problem deeper?
• Do these findings reflect a national crisis in policing?