BALTIMORE: WHERE'S THE POLICE UNION?

I've never been much of a union sympathizer, but I surely do know why they were originally formed: to address horrible working conditions, poor wages and oppressive behaviors of American businesses; they eventually spread into the public sector for the same reasons. 

We all know what has been happening to cops in Baltimore.  Everyone involved in running that Godforsaken city has been dumping on their cops for weeks now.  In fact, I think one could safely suggest that there is a war going on in Baltimore... the city "leaders" versus the cops... who are supposed to keep the peace and enforce the law.  Now, even police commissioner Anthony Batts has come forth to dump on his own employees, warning that more cops will be fired and charged as the days go on.  

So, where is the Police Union?  Why doesn't somebody in that city have the cops' backs?  Why have the leaders been able to level charges, summarily prosecute and condemn cops in their own kangaroo court, and why hasn't the union been more vocal in standing up for their members and for the return to the fundamental principles of law and order?  

Isn't that what unions are for?    

Oh, I guess they've not been totally silent.  Gene Ryan, union president, and Local 3 of the F.O.P. have said: (1) cops fear being arrested more than they fear being shot and (2) criminals have become "empowered."  Big whoopee.  If I were a dues paying union member, I'd be expecting the union to be saying it was standing behind its members 100% and threatening lawsuit if the city leaders don't get their acts together.  I'd even be ready to call for a strike against the city in retaliation for unfair labor practices. 

The cops have been warned that they could lose their jobs and face jail time if they make a mistake.  Nobody... not one responsible city official... not even the Maryland Governor... has even made the suggestion that everyone should draw a deep breath, step back and let reason as opposed to hyperbole, rule the day. 

So, crime in Baltimore is soaring.  Who is really to blame?