TGR: Dixon’s case is clearly a representation of Baltimore City
By Troy Burke, Intern
www.bmorenews.com
(BALTIMORE - December 27, 2009) - In a city that is widely-known for its heightened rate of crime and violence, it sure did take a long time for city officials to crack down on Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon’s case and finally reach a verdict. On December 1, 2009, Dixon was convicted of embezzling gift cards that were originally intended for the needy. It turned out as a major victory for prosecutors and finally brought the case to a close ... for now.
Even after being found guilty, Dixon still faces additional charges of perjury. It is not surprising to see state prosecutors being so reluctant to keep Dixon under the bus. Sure, some could say that she put herself in this position (which is true), but is there ever a time to sit back and realize that enough is enough? Maybe it’s too early to tell, but I’m beginning to think that there is plenty of distortion on the horizon.
The city is already bracing itself for Sheila Dixon’s removal from office; it won’t be long. But what was the deciding factor in all of this? To me, it seemed like some of the law officials and jurors didn’t want Dixon in office anyway—but asking them these kinds of questions would be futile because they would downplay them instantly, saying all the right things.
How, then, does this case represent the City of Baltimore? This case would be a perfect fit for “The Wire.” Just look at the city’s history of crime and compare it to the way things are now. Was she set up because she was black and female? I actually think this might be true in a sense because the embezzlement charge was for the $500 in gift cards. Over a year ago, Sheila Dixon’s house was raided by police in an effort to find links to financial dealings. Even though they came up empty, you can bet that there were plenty of in-house officials who chose to keep a closed eye on Dixon, watching and waiting for her to slip up at any given notice. I personally do not think that Dixon should be removed from office because it was not like she stole thousands of dollars, but I also understand that this point of view could be met with a valid argument because of Dixon’s role as a person of power. As the mayor of Baltimore City, she had no business being in this situation in the first place. Sheila Dixon’s trial put the city in a negative light because it tarnished its image with a showcase of tainted leadership.
In determining Dixon’s fate, people will look back to what she did for Baltimore during her tenure in office; they will also look back to the things she did not do. As a college student who is trying to do the right thing and become a productive member of society, I think this case is relevant to all college students because it serves as a reminder that even if you have power, your choices can still cause you to fall.
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