Baltimore’s high crime rate impairs consumer spending, stunts job growth and impairs the operating performance of Johns Hopkins’ main campus in Homewood. And yet, we are reminded far too often, the concerns students have expressed about racial profiling are shamefully real concerns in Baltimore (“Johns Hopkins University wants its own police department. What would that mean for Baltimore?” March 18).
I believe all of these issues are worthy of a public debate. Still, I can’t help but wonder, when will the collective delusion wear off? Larger cities than Baltimore have lower crime rates. John Hopkins University President Ron Daniels should be commended for his diligent approach and encouraged to proceed in a timely manner.
Mark M. Spradley, Chevy Chase
