BALTIMORE (AP) - Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh has a plan to combat violent crimes in the city, and has named a new director to help her lead the fight.
Pugh appointed Drew Vetter, who had been chief of staff at the Baltimore Police Department, to direct the Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice.
Also on Wednesday, Pugh released her most recent violence prevention plan, which includes initiatives to make community college in Baltimore free for public school students seeking two-year degrees beginning next year. She also plans to expand recreation centers and provide more homeless and substance abuse services.
The plan also includes improving technology and expanding training and recruitment for police officers.
Baltimore's violent crime rate continues to spike, with 212 homicides so far this year.
