Concerns over the trial board process for law enforcement officers took center stage during the Caroline County Commissioners meeting on May 27, 2025. Discussions highlighted significant issues regarding the fairness and transparency of these proceedings, particularly the way evidence is presented to trial board members.

A key point raised was the potential bias introduced when trial board members receive case files months in advance, detailing the charges against officers. This practice, described as "poisoning" the trial board, raises questions about the impartiality of the process. One speaker emphasized that when board members are confronted with a pre-assembled case file, they may lack a clear understanding of the issues at hand, leading to predetermined conclusions.

The meeting also addressed the variability in trial board processes across Maryland's 156 law enforcement agencies. Each agency has the authority to establish its own procedures, resulting in a patchwork of practices that can affect the fairness of trials. Some agencies follow a more traditional approach, while others may not provide evidence in a way that allows for proper objections, complicating the process further.

Administrative law judges (ALJs) have begun to intervene in cases where trial board processes deviate significantly from established norms. The training of ALJs across the state aims to ensure that these proceedings adhere to legal standards, but concerns remain about the overall consistency and fairness of the trial board system.

As the discussion concluded, it was clear that reforming the trial board process is essential for maintaining public trust in law enforcement accountability. The commissioners acknowledged the need for ongoing dialogue and potential changes to improve transparency and fairness in these critical proceedings.