Jesmond O. Riggins, Esq.
Jesmond O. Riggins, Esq. is an attorney, administrator, and civil rights advocate with a proven track record of leadership and success. Currently serving as a Board Member for the Police Accountability Board of Baltimore City and a Member of the Maryland Civic Education Coalition's Government Relations Working Group, Jesmond has been a stalwart advocate for social justice and civic engagement throughout his career.
Prior to his current roles, Jesmond served as Chief of Staff to Senator Jill P. Carter in the Maryland General Assembly. During his tenure, he oversaw the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the office and managed the senator's legislative portfolio, among other duties. Jesmond was also instrumental in drafting and negotiating law enforcement oversight legislation that would have strengthened the authority and independence of the Baltimore City Civilian Review Board.
Before working in the Maryland General Assembly, Jesmond served as the Civilian Review Board Supervisor for the City of Baltimore, where he oversaw the Board's investigations and advised on matters of law enforcement oversight and political strategy. Jesmond also established a complaint prescreening process and created an investigative Standard Operating Procedure to improve the Board's performance and accountability.
Jesmond's impressive career also includes serving as a Civil Rights Analyst for the United States Commission on Civil Rights and the United States Department of Justice. During his tenure at the DOJ, he enforced the Preclearance Provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, analyzed voting changes and redistricting plans, and provided on-site monitoring of federal, state, and local elections.
Jesmond holds a Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in Government & Politics from St. John's University. His dedication to social justice, civic engagement, and effective leadership has earned him numerous accolades and recognitions throughout his career.