Baltimore Police Investigating Viral Video of Bouncer Putting Man in Chokehold
BALTIMORE, Md. — City police are investigating after a viral video showed a bouncer placing a man in a chokehold outside a Federal Hill establishment over the weekend, raising questions about the use of force by private security in one of Baltimore’s busiest nightlife districts.
Video Sparks Concern
The incident happened on East Cross Street and quickly spread online. In the video, the bouncer is seen wrapping his arm around the man’s neck during what appeared to be an argument outside a bar.
While police said no calls were made to report the incident at the time, detectives are now working to determine exactly what happened.
Loyola student gets ROCKED by a bouncer in Fed Hill and smashes a car window 🤯 pic.twitter.com/oIL3VPuFQe
— Barstool Loyola (@BarstoolLoyola) September 28, 2025
Councilman Calls for Action
Baltimore City Councilman Yitzy Schleifer responded on social media, tagging both the Baltimore Police Department and State’s Attorney Ivan Bates, writing: “Both bouncers/security guards need to be held accountable.”
His comments fueled growing calls for oversight of how private security firms operate in nightlife hubs like Federal Hill.
Extra Security in Federal Hill
The neighborhood has seen an increase in crime in recent years, prompting the creation of the Federal Hill Neighborhood Patrol in 2020. The patrol, contracted through MATCOM Office of Public Safety, works alongside city police and claims to have reduced crime by more than 40% in some categories.
These patrols are certified as special police in Maryland, giving them authority to detain suspects in certain cases. On weekends, up to six officers are assigned to the area to ease pressure on Baltimore police stretched thin by bar-related calls.
Recent Crime Wave
Despite added patrols, Federal Hill has faced challenges, including break-ins, vandalism, and violent incidents. Last month, a 39-year-old woman was injured in a shooting, and another woman was reportedly carjacked at knifepoint with her child in the car.
Next Steps
Baltimore police said the case remains under investigation and urged anyone with firsthand information or footage to come forward.
Do you believe private security should have the power to detain and physically restrain people in Baltimore neighborhoods, or should only police have that authority? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
