The Baltimore City Circuit and District Courts are addressing a Legionella bacteria issue that has led to the temporary closure of several courthouses. On December 20, 2024, the Clerk of the Court at the Circuit Court of Baltimore City reported a suspected exposure to Legionella pneumonia among staff. Subsequently, Mayor Brandon M. Scott confirmed positive tests for Legionella bacteria at the Mitchell and Cummings circuit courthouses.
In response, Administrative Judge Audrey J.S. Carrion issued an order to close these courthouses on December 23 and 24 for remediation by the City of Baltimore Department of General Services. They are set to reopen on December 26 at 8 a.m., with emergency matters being addressed at the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center during the closure.
The situation extends beyond these two locations. The Maryland Judiciary had been informed earlier in December about positive Legionella tests at Wabash and Patapsco district courthouses. Measures including flushing water systems, blocking drinking fountains, and providing hand sanitizer were implemented.
Further testing revealed positive results at the Civil courthouse on December 20, leading to its closure on December 23 and 24 for similar remediation efforts. Emergency housing matters will be relocated to Wabash District Court during this period.
Despite ongoing positive test results at Wabash and Patapsco, normal operations continue there along with North Avenue courthouse. The Maryland Department of General Services has established an updated remedial plan following consultation with health authorities.
According to guidance from both Maryland's Department of General Services and Department of Health, current precautions are deemed sufficient for maintaining safe operations in Baltimore City's courthouses.