Feds Won't Reverse Denial Of Baltimore Riot Disaster Aid

By DAVID DISHNEAU/ Associated Press

BALTIMORE (AP) -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency is refusing to reverse its denial of disaster aid to help Maryland and Baltimore recover millions of dollars in costs stemming from rioting in the city in April.

Gov. Larry Hogan's office announced the decision Thursday. FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate said in a letter to the Republican governor that his agency had thoroughly reviewed Hogan's appeal.

Spokesman Matt Clark said Hogan is "disgusted and outraged" by the decision.

Maryland provided an estimate of $19.4 million in costs for protective measures and damage from rioting after the death of Freddie Gray from injuries he suffered in police custody.

Hogan had cited a presidential disaster declaration after the 1992 riots in Los Angeles following the acquittal of officers in the Rodney King beating.