The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., cited recent changes to Maryland’s use-of-force policy as the reason why multiple law enforcement agencies were reportedly unable to assist with security for the 2025 presidential inauguration.

Days before the inauguration, seven Maryland-based police departments confirmed to the Daily Caller that they would no longer work with the police department, even though they have previously supported security in the nation’s capital. At least one police department, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, said the problem was due to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the departments. Some of those police departments, including the Anne Arundel and Prince George’s County police departments and the Maryland State Police, announced they would support the U.S. Capitol Police instead. (Related: Exclusive: Local police refuse to help Washington, D.C., secure President Trump’s inauguration)

“Due to differences in interpretation of Maryland’s recent use of force laws and the District of Columbia’s use of force policy, some Maryland agencies will not be able to directly assist the Metropolitan Police Department in the lead-up to Inauguration Day. However, many of these agencies are contributing to event security efforts through agreements with the U.S. Capitol Police,” the Washington, D.C., Police Department told The Daily Caller in a statement.

Maryland state legislature passes new bill limit It regulated the use of force by police and abolished the country’s first Police Bill of Rights in April 2021 in response to the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. The sweeping police reform bill stipulates: force It can only be used to prevent an “imminent threat of physical injury” to a person or to “achieve a legitimate law enforcement objective.” The standard for the use of force has also been raised from “reasonable” to “necessary and proportionate.”

Police based in Washington, D.C., operate under a looser standard of “objective reasonableness.” Police also “overcome resistance to members or others,” “prevent physical harm to members or others (including intervening in suicide or other self-harm),” and “protect members.” The use of force is also permitted. Relevant general orders are provided for the purpose of “protecting members or third parties from unlawful force” and “preventing damage or loss to property.” state.

Police stations operating outside their jurisdiction are usually required to be sworn in under a memorandum containing the Home Office’s use of force policy. In this case, the Maryland State Police could face legal liability in its home state for operating under Washington, D.C.’s less stringent policies. of maryland new law It stipulates that police officers who violate use-of-force standards and cause serious injury or death can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison. Former Republican Governor Larry Hogan vetoed the bill, but it was overridden by the Maryland General Assembly on April 10, 2021.

MPD says it has operated under the same memorandum of understanding for the past two inaugurations.

“It is important to note that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) governing mutual assistance for the inauguration is the same Department of Justice-approved MOU that was utilized for the past two inauguration ceremonies,” MPD said. . “The safety of our city, visitors, and residents remains our top priority, and we are confident that our combined efforts will once again lead to a successful Inauguration.”

The Washington, D.C. City Council has passed a bill to update the Penal Code in 2022, reducing the sentences of some offenders. Congress used its home rule powers to try to block the bill, which was vetoed by President Joe Biden. However, the bill did not change police use-of-force policies. The city then passed a public safety bill that would roll back some progressive justice reforms to 2024. (Related: Senate passes bill to block D.C. anti-cop law)

MPD said it maintains “strong relationships” with its partners in Maryland, and some of those departments will support the Capitol Police’s efforts to secure the Capitol during Inauguration Day. President-elect Donald Trump announced Friday that he will move Monday’s inauguration ceremony to the Capitol Rotunda due to the frigid weather conditions expected on Jan. 20.

“Secretary Smith has been personally notified by these agencies and there are no conflicts between the agencies. MPD continues to maintain strong relationships with our partners in the Capital Region. “We continue to be a valued partner under our mutual aid agreement and in our day-to-day collaboration with MPD,” MPD told The Daily Caller.

25,000 military and law enforcement personnel from across the country are expected to provide security support for Monday’s inauguration. MPD said that while some Maryland counties will not participate, it has secured cooperation from 173 other counties.[ensure] We provide a safe and secure experience for all participants. ”

“The Metropolitan Police Department greatly values ​​the strong partnerships it maintains with law enforcement agencies across the country. These partnerships are essential to ensuring public safety during important events such as the presidential inauguration. ,” MPD said. “We look forward to working with our partner agencies and appreciate their continued support in maintaining the highest standards of public safety.”