A longtime state employee who recently resigned from the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) is speaking out about what they describe as a “toxic” work environment and culture of bullying under the agency’s leadership.

“It was a culture of bullying, disparaging remarks,” said the former staffer, who asked to remain anonymous. “They try to bully you into doing what they wanted you to do. They make you feel like you’re not helping the juveniles in the city.”

The ex-employee alleges there was pressure from upper management to sidestep proper state procurement rules and procedures. They claim DJS Secretary Vincent Schiraldi, who previously served as the corrections chief in New York City, fostered this problematic culture.

“Under Schiraldi, everything he promised to do, he didn’t,” said NYC Councilman Robert Holden, who was critical of Schiraldi’s tenure there. “He has a philosophy he believes in and thinks by osmosis he can make it happen. It’s not going to happen you have to do the physical work.”

The former DJS staff member said morale and productivity have suffered greatly within the office environment in Maryland under the current leadership.

“I often wonder why aren’t people seeing this?” they asked, expressing frustration about the alleged toxic workplace.

While the accusations are concerning, Secretary Schiraldi and DJS leadership have not yet responded to the specific claims made by this former employee about the agency’s internal operations and management practices.