Baltimore State's Attorney Bates backs ex-Mayor Dixon, citing lack of support

Baltimore City State's Attorney Ivan Bates is showing frustration over a shortage of support from the Mayor's office.

"We continue to do the work, the heavy lifting every day, but you're not showing state's attorneys that you appreciate them," said Bates at a fundraiser Thursday night.

This week, Bates endorsed former Mayor Sheila Dixon who's vying to unseat Mayor Brandon Scott.

"I need a partner and without a doubt Mayor Dixon will be that partner," said Bates.

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Political Scientist John Dedie says taxpayers have much to lose when there's disagreement between the Mayor and State's Attorney over how to fight the war on crime.

"If they're not on the same page and it comes time to go to Annapolis, the Mayor can be an advocate but if he's not advocating,...that leaves Bates carrying the weight for the city and I think there's some sort of frustration there."

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While Mayor Scott has accused Bates of playing politics, Bates insists he's simply trying to achieve what the city deserves.