Why Baltimore City State Sen. Dalya Attar Was Arrested on Federal Extortion and Conspiracy Charges

Baltimore City State Senator Dalya Attar has been arrested and indicted on multiple federal extortion and conspiracy charges, marking a dramatic turn for the Maryland lawmaker who made history as the state’s first Orthodox Jewish woman in the Senate.

According to federal court documents, Attar and two co-defendants — identified as Joseph Attar and Kalman Finkelstein — were taken into custody following an indictment filed on October 23, 2025. The case, which surfaced publicly on Thursday, October 30, has sent shockwaves through Maryland’s political community.

Federal Indictment Details and Official Reactions

Attar, a Democrat representing Baltimore City’s District 41, faces eight counts related to alleged extortion and conspiracy. Prosecutors allege that she and her co-defendants participated in a scheme involving improper financial dealings and misuse of her public position for personal gain. Specific details of the alleged scheme have not yet been disclosed in full by federal authorities.

Attar was sworn into the Maryland Senate in January 2025 after filling a legislative vacancy. Her swift rise in Maryland politics and reputation as a reform-minded community leader make the charges particularly significant. Sources within the Maryland Senate have confirmed that Attar is currently under federal investigation, though no trial date has been set.

Senate President Bill Ferguson released a statement acknowledging the situation, stating, “This is the first we have been made aware of State Senator Dalya Attar’s arrest and we don’t have any additional information to provide at this time.” He added that the Senate “holds its members to the highest ethical standards” and pledged to “learn more about the alleged facts in the indictment.”

Meanwhile, Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley confirmed that one of the co-defendants, Kalman Finkelstein, was also charged in connection to the same case. Federal officials have not commented on whether additional arrests or charges are expected.

Political Fallout and Community Impact

Attar’s arrest has sent shockwaves through Baltimore’s political circles. Known for her advocacy on family and education issues, Attar was viewed as a rising figure within Maryland’s Democratic Party. Her historic election as the first Orthodox Jewish woman in the Senate was celebrated earlier this year as a milestone in state politics.

Now, the indictment threatens to undo years of public service and community trust. The case also raises questions about oversight and accountability within state government, especially as Maryland continues to confront past scandals involving local officials. Political analysts suggest the fallout could lead to stricter ethics reforms in Annapolis.

Constituents in Baltimore’s 41st District expressed shock over the news, with some calling for her immediate resignation if the allegations prove true. Others urged patience, noting that Attar, like any defendant, is entitled to due process.

As the federal case proceeds, the Maryland Senate and Baltimore political community will closely watch how this unprecedented arrest unfolds. For now, Dalya Attar remains at the center of one of the most high-profile corruption cases in recent Maryland history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why was Baltimore State Sen. Dalya Attar arrested?

Dalya Attar was arrested on federal charges of extortion and conspiracy. Prosecutors allege she was involved in a scheme to misuse her position for personal or financial gain.

Q2: When was Dalya Attar indicted?

She was indicted on October 23, 2025, according to federal court documents. The indictment became public the following week.

Q3: Who are Dalya Attar’s co-defendants?

Her co-defendants are identified as Joseph Attar and Kalman Finkelstein, both of whom have also been taken into federal custody.

Q4: How did Maryland Senate leaders respond?

Senate President Bill Ferguson issued a statement saying the Senate holds its members to high ethical standards and will monitor the situation as it develops.

Q5: What happens next in the case?

The case will proceed through federal court. No trial date has yet been set, and the full details of the alleged scheme remain sealed.