Baltimore City State Senator Dalya Attar was arrested and indicted on eight federal counts of extortion and conspiracy, marking a dramatic turn for one of Maryland’s newest and most historic lawmakers.
Dalya Attar Arrest and Charges
Attar, a Democrat who made history as the first Orthodox Jewish woman in the Maryland Senate, representing District 41, was indicted on October 23 alongside co-defendants Joseph Attar—her brother—and Kalman Finkelstein. Federal authorities accuse the trio of multiple counts of conspiracy, extortion via interstate communications, and aiding and abetting, all linked to an alleged blackmail scheme. They remain in federal custody as legal proceedings unfold.
Political Response
Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson issued a statement affirming the Senate’s commitment to ethical standards and acknowledging the seriousness of the charges, noting this was the first notification to leadership regarding Attar’s arrest. Ferguson emphasized that the body will wait for more facts before taking further action as the investigation develops.
Historic Context
Dalya Attar assumed her Senate seat in January following a vacancy and quickly became notable as a trailblazer for Orthodox Jewish women in state politics. The arrest has sent shockwaves through Maryland’s political establishment, raising questions about accountability and oversight as the case progresses.
Ongoing Developments
As the indictment becomes public, details of the specific allegations and the actions of Attar and her co-defendants will be further examined in court. With both the local and state communities watching closely, the implications for Attar’s Senate career and the district she represents remain to be seen.