In a stunning, unexpected announcement Wednesday, T.J. Smith, widely known as the spokesman for the Baltimore Police Department announced his departure from the agency.
In a lengthy goodbye letter specifically addressed to "Dear Baltimore," Smith did not give a reason reason for his resignation (which is effective immediately), but did offer some passionate insight as to what issues he would be addressing as a private citizen, hoping to bring about change in Baltimore: an end to repeat offenders via the court system, transforming impoverished communities, and addressing mental health. Smith asks, “Why are we still whispering about?”
“It is not normal to see someone get killed. Our community is suffering to a point that we have accepted it and normalized it. But yet, there has never been a cohesive plan to address this level of trauma our children and adults are witnessing on nearly a daily basis. We should not allow ourselves to be numb to what has historically occurred in our city.”
Smith asks, “Why are we still whispering about it?” “It is not normal to see someone get killed. Our community is suffering to a point that we have accepted it and normalized it. But yet, there has never been a cohesive plan to address this level of trauma our children and adults are witnessing on nearly a daily basis. We should not allow ourselves to be numb to what has historically occurred in our city.”
[[ Read T.J. Smith’s Entire Farewell Letter Here]]
Smith says he leaves the Baltimore Police department just as he came, not just as spokesperson, but he’s a community advocate. “As I say goodbye, for now, it has truly been my honor and privilege to serve with the men and women of the Baltimore Police Department and the citizens of the city of Baltimore,“ said Smith.
Smith has spent nearly 20 years in law enforcement. He began his career as a sworn officer with the Anne Arundel County Police Department. He worked primarily in police and community units and later transitioned to communications. T.J. was Chief of Staff/Executive Officer for the Chief of Police where his duties included keeping the Chief of Police advised on a multitude of topics as they relate to the agency, legislative affairs, and communications.