June 10th, 2025 by WCBC Radio
The removal of Vincent Schiraldi as Secretary of the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services is long overdue. From day one, Senate Republicans voted against Vincent Schiraldi’s nomination—first in the Senate Executive Nominations Committee and again on the Senate floor—warning that his radical, decarceration-above-all philosophy was a dangerous mismatch for an agency already in distress. Sadly, our concerns were proven right. Under Schiraldi’s leadership, a broken system became a public safety liability.
“He presided over widespread failures: violent juveniles released with no real supervision, repeated contract mismanagement, dangerous missteps in ankle monitoring, and frontline staff left to fend for themselves,” said Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey. “But just as damaging was his refusal to work with anyone. Law enforcement, state’s attorneys, local leaders, legislators all lost
confidence in his leadership.”
Secretary Schiraldi operated in a vacuum—ignoring the voices of those on the front lines. What he received was a bipartisan vote of no confidence. He shut out partners, rejected input, and left communities dealing with the consequences of his failed leadership. “For months, Governor Moore defended the indefensible,” said Senate Minority Whip Justin Ready. “This change in leadership is welcome, but it doesn’t erase the damage already done under Schiraldi—or the fact that the Governor stood by while this department fell deeper into crisis.”
The Department of Juvenile Services remains in disarray. Morale is shattered. Staff are leaving. Public confidence is eroded. The problems didn’t leave with Schiraldi—they’re deeply embedded in a culture of mismanagement and denial. “Removing Schiraldi is just step one,” Hershey added. “We need a full overhaul of the department, new leadership, real operational experience, a commitment to public safety, and above all, accountability.”
Governor Moore must now take responsibility for what has happened on his watch and commit to installing a leadership team that is capable, collaborative, and results-driven. Senate Republicans will continue to demand transparency, oversight, and the sweeping changes necessary to restore public trust. Marylanders deserve a juvenile justice system that protects communities, supports staff, and actually helps turn young lives around—not one that puts them in greater danger.
