LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 26, 2026) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Stacey Lynn Wilkinson, 39, of Callaway, Maryland, has been sentenced to a total of 120 days of active incarceration for driving while impaired by alcohol, repeated incidents of driving while suspended, and violating her probation.

Wilkinson was convicted of the following offenses:

• Driving while suspended (incident date March 26, 2026);
• Driving while suspended (incident date April 15, 2026);
• Driving while impaired by alcohol (incident date April 25, 2026); and
• Violation of probation (probation ordered July 24, 2025).

The total sentence imposed by the Court was 480 days, with 120 days of active incarceration.

Wilkinson’s license was suspended due to alcohol restrictions.

“Driving is a privilege that carries significant responsibility, and every person on the road has an obligation to follow the law,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “The choices we make behind the wheel have real consequences for everyone who shares our roads.”

Assistant State’s Attorneys Paisleigh Hemmings and Hollend Hickman prosecuted the cases on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Deputies Mina Geric and Austin Welch of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were the lead investigators.

The Honorable K. Christy Holt Chesser presided over the cases.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 26, 2026) – On Wednesday, June 24, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office was notified by the La Plata Police Department of an investigation into the theft of a firearm from a residence in La Plata in which Dayvon Maurice West, 35, of Lexington Park, was identified as the suspect.

 

Through investigative means, it was determined that, following the theft, West traveled to Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary’s County. An extensive search of the park was initiated, involving members of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, Maryland State Police, and the Maryland Natural Resources Police. Additionally, to ensure public safety, the park was evacuated and closed for several hours while officers searched for West.

 

West was located, surrendered to deputies, and taken into custody. The reported stolen weapon, a fully loaded Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, was found in West’s possession.

 

West has been charged with possession of a stolen regulated firearm, handgun on person and loaded handgun on person.

 

West, a correctional officer with the St. Mary's County Sheriff’s Office, was suspended from duty on March 4 during an unrelated criminal investigation, which resulted in a Criminal Summons filed on June 23.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – ?June 26, 2026? – Calvert County Government offices will be closed Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. In addition:  

• The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county convenience centers will be open Friday, July 3, but closed Saturday, July 4. Appeal, Barstow and Mt. Hope convenience centers will be open Sunday, July 5, with normal hours.      

• The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open Friday, July 3.  

• The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed Friday, July 3.  

• Calvert County senior centers will be closed Friday, July 3, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered. Meal delivery is scheduled to resume Monday, July 6.   

• All community centers will be closed Friday, July 3.  

• There will be no county bus service Friday, July 3, or Saturday, July 4.   

• Calvert Library locations will be closed Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at calvertlibrary.info/.  

• The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed Friday, July 3. Animal control officers will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491.  

• The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4. Cruises will be running aboard the Wm. B. Tennison.   

• Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be open Friday, July 3, but closed Saturday, July 4.      

• Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center is closed for the summer for renovations. The Cove Point Pool will be open July 3 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and the Kings Landing Pool will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cove Point Pool and Kings Landing Pool will close at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 4.    

• All recreation parks including Dunkirk District Park, Ward Farm Recreation & Nature Park, Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park will be open with normal hours Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4.  

• Chesapeake Hills Golf Course is scheduled to be open with normal hours Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4. 

• Flag Ponds Nature Park, Kings Landing Park and Battle Creek Cypress Swamp will be open Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, with normal operating hours.  

• Breezy Point Beach & Campground will be open Friday, July 3, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and open 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4.     

• Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.  

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LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 26, 2026) – On June 25, 2026, detectives assigned to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division arrested Deshawn Swein Campbell, 18, of Dameron in connection with a double shooting at a Lexington Park apartment complex. On June 13, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 46000 block of Hilton Drive for reports of multiple shots fired. Upon arrival, deputies found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

 

Campbell is charged with 17 criminal counts, including
 

• Two counts of attempted first-degree murder
• Two counts of attempted second-degree murder
• Two counts of assault first-degree
• Two counts of assault second-degree
• Two counts of use of a firearm during a violent crime
• Reckless endangerment
• Illegal possession of a firearm by a minor
• Illegal possession of ammunition
• Handgun in vehicle
• Loaded handgun in vehicle
• Handgun on person
• Loaded handgun on person

 

Campbell is being held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown on no-bond status.

 

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Warren Forinash at 301-475-4200, ext. 8072, or by email at Warren.Forinash@stmaryscountymd.gov.

 

Tipsters can also submit tips anonymously to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office through tip411:

• Text 847411: start your message with “SMCSO”, add a space, and then your tip.
• Online: Submit a tip through the Sheriff’s Office website at www.FirstSheriff.com/tips.
• App: Send a tip directly through the SMCSO app. Download the free app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Phone: For those who prefer to make a phone call, tips can also be shared through the Crime Solvers line at 301-475-3333.

With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – June 26, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation and the Calvert County Department of Community Resources announce that Southern Community Center and Southern Pines Senior Center in Lusby will reopen Monday, June 29, 2026, for normal hours. The centers are opening earlier than anticipated following heating and air conditioning system repairs.

The Southern Community Center and Southern Pines Senior Center are located at 20 Appeal Lane in Lusby.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda. As part of the consent agenda, the CSMC approved a routine update to authorized signers for County accounts with Shore United Bank. During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners took the following action: • Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas. • Approved the Grant Award for the FY27 Victims of Crime Act Grant. • Approved the St. Mary’s County Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board’s recommended rankings for the FY27 Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation applications. • Approved the resolution authorizing the sale and issuance of $61.5 million in general obligation bonds. The Commissioners then wrapped up their business meeting with Commissioner Time. There will be no CSMC meetings on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, or Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The next CSMC meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website by clicking Board Documents from the home page. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on SMCG TV Channel 95 or at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov. For more information on SMCG programs and operations, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates. 

Thirteen Charles County high school graduates from the Class of 2026 were recently awarded scholarships through the Charles County Juneteenth Foundation Inc. The foundation is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide educational opportunities about Juneteenth and its history, bring awareness to the rich African American heritage of Charles County, provide scholarship opportunities and support Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) businesses.

Each scholarship recipient received a $700 scholarship after meeting necessary criteria to qualify for the award. Each awardee submitted a short essay, a final high school transcript and a college acceptance letter to qualify.

The 2026 Charles County Juneteenth Foundation Inc., scholarship recipients are:

• London Brehon, La Plata High School graduate and North Carolina A&T State University student.
• Makai Fitch, La Plata graduate, and North Carolina A&T State University student.
• Jermiah Harrison, North Point High School graduate and Temple University student.
• Jada Harry, Westlake High School graduate and Temple University student.
• Dylan Leigh, Henry E. Lackey High School graduate and Morgan State University student.
• Ashley Martinez, Maurice J. McDonough High School graduate and Towson University student.
• Kamille Mauldin, Westlake graduate and Temple University student.
• Drew Pearson, North Point graduate and Rutgers University student.
• Lamont Spriggs, Jr., St. Charles High School and The Catholic University of America student.
• Sanai Thomas, North Point and Tuskegee University student.
• Aaliyah Underwood, North Point and Spelman College student.
• Trayon White, Jr., McDonough and University of Maryland Eastern Shore student.
• Journey Wooden, North Point graduate and Stevenson University student.

Since 2020 the Charles County Juneteenth Foundation Inc. has impacted over 5,000 people in the community by bringing together families, businesses and cultural organizations to honor the history of African Americans and their future, according to information provided by the foundation. The foundation continues to receive donations and sponsorships to fund opportunities such as their scholarship fund and annual community celebration.

For more information about the foundation, email the Charles County Juneteenth Foundation at charlescountyjuneteenth@gmail.com.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – June 24, 2026 – Democratic and Republican voters in Calvert County participated in the Gubernatorial Primary Election by casting ballots through early voting, mail-in voting and at polling locations on Election Day, Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

Winners of primary races advance to the general election, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Primary election tallies are unofficial until they are certified by the Calvert Board of Elections on or before Monday, July 6. There are approximately 3,800 mail-in and provisional ballots remaining to count.

County Commissioner At Large unofficial results:

· Democrat Alexes N. Jones: 1,462 votes (19.58%)

· Democrat Judy Pedersen: 2,516 votes (33.69%)

· Democrat Antoine S. White: 3,489 votes (46.73%)

· Republican Commissioner Earl “Buddy” Hance: 1,412 votes (11.44%)

· Republican Commissioner Todd Ireland: 1,539 votes (12.47%)

· Republican Jason Scaggs: 3,282 votes (26.60%)

· Republican Patti Stueckler: 4,666 votes (37.81%)

· Republican Barbara J. Warner: 1,441 votes (11.68%)

Candidates Pedersen, White, Scaggs and Stueckler advance to the November election for the two at-large county commissioner seats.

County Commissioner District 1 unofficial results:

· Democrat Ethan Cox: 4,084 votes (100%)

· Republican Jennifer L. Brown: 657 votes (9.97%)

· Republican Patrick E. Flaherty: 2,100 votes (31.86%)

· Republican Commissioner Mike Hart: 3,834 votes (58.17%)

Cox and Hart advance to the General Election in November for the District 1 seat.

County Commissioner District 2 unofficial results:

· Republican Commissioner Mark C. Cox, Sr.: 2,283 votes (34.20%)

· Republican Kenneth B. Lee: 4,392 votes (65.80%)

Lee advances unopposed to the November election for the District 2 seat.

County Commissioner District 3 unofficial results:

· Democrat Michael Bennett: 4,077 votes (100%)

· Republican Commissioner Catherine M. Grasso: 3,905 votes (58.92%)

· Republican Kelly D. McConkey: 2,723 votes (41.08%)

Bennett and Grasso advance to the November election for the District 3 seat.

Treasurer:

· Republican Amanda N. Dolina: 4,236 votes (64.02%)

· Republican Steve Weems: 2,381 votes (35.98%)

Dolina advances unopposed to the November election for treasurer.

Sheriff Ricky Cox and State’s Attorney Bob Harvey were unopposed in the primary election and are unopposed in the general election in November.

Candidates elected in the general election in November will take the oath of office Dec. 15.

There are 23,098 registered Democrats and 28,898 Republicans in Calvert County, according to the Maryland Board of Elections. To view more information about Calvert County election results and other statewide races, visit the Maryland State Board of Elections web page.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – June 25, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Community Resources and the Calvert County Family Network (CCFN), are pleased to support the Grab ‘n Go Summer Meals Program, hosted by Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS). The program ensures children have access to nutritious meals during the summer months.

Meal kits will be distributed weekly on Wednesdays from July 1 through Aug. 5, 2026. Each kit includes five breakfast meals, five lunch meals and milk.

Distribution sites and times are:

· Huntingtown High School

4125 Solomons Island Road, Huntingtown

9:30-10:30 a.m.

· Southern Middle School

9615 HG Trueman Road, Lusby

9:30-10:30 a.m.

· Calvert High School

520 Fox Run Road, Prince Frederick

12:30-1:30 p.m.

This program is open to eligible children ages 2 to 18. To participate, households must contact the CCPS Child Nutrition Office at 443-550-8680 to confirm eligibility and register each child for the weekly meal distribution program. Registration is now open. Visit CCPS’ summer meals program web page for more information.

Next week, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will implement the next phase of Operation Clean Sweep – its statewide litter removal effort along highly traveled State-maintained roadways.

This weekday daytime maintenance work is scheduled to start Monday June 29 and will continue through Thursday July 2.        

Travelers are reminded to remain alert for highway crews and reduce speeds when approaching these operations.

Customers may help by reporting litter on State roads by clicking here or they may contact the SHA District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or 800-331-5603. 

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – Communities surrounding the naval air station, Caroline County, and Northern Neck of Virginia are advised that nighttime noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place June 25, 2026 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.  

 

Pilots at PAX will be conducting nighttime helo operations.  Night testing and training is essential for the precision and safety of our military men and women and the success of their mission. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations. 

 

As with all operations, NAS Patuxent River takes precautions to lessen the impact of testing activities on the community. For more information, call 1-866-819-9028. To view all current NAS PAX noise advisories please click the following link: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/PaxRiverNoise

On Wednesday, June 24, Commissioners received a presentation on proposed collective bargaining legislation, including information from county leadership regarding employee concerns related to representation, workplace conditions, compensation, and organizational support. Staff highlighted recent investments in employee pay, benefits, workplace safety, professional development, facility improvements, and employee engagement. They also outlined potential operational and fiscal impacts of implementing collective bargaining, including staffing needs, personnel costs, and long-term budget considerations. Commissioners voted 3-0 with one abstention to include proposed amendments submitted by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) to the bill previously submitted by the County Attorney’s Office. Commissioners plan to schedule an additional work session on Tuesday, July 7. They also scheduled a public hearing on the bill and the amendments on Tuesday, July 21.

Briefings and Updates

The County Commissioners and Board of Education held a joint briefing on the proposed School Allocations for the 2026 Annual Cycle. Staff reported that Charles County Public Schools currently have available capacity for approximately 4,499 students across the elementary, middle, and high school levels, based on September 2025 enrollment data and the County’s Adequate Public Facilities requirements. The proposed cycle would allocate capacity to eligible residential development projects on the School Allocation Waiting List, while reserving a portion of available capacity for minor subdivisions and existing lots of record. Commissioners adopted the 2026 school allocation analysis and authorized the issuance of available allocations in accordance with the Adequate Public Facilities Manual.

Commissioners were briefed on a proposed amendment to the 2016 Charles County Comprehensive Plan that would revise land use designations for 351 acres surrounding Maryland Airport. The amendment would align the land use map with existing Watershed Conservation District zoning by reversing a 2021 land use designation change that was intended to support potential industrial and business park rezoning. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval following a public hearing and work session, noting the amendment would not expand industrial zoning or add new permitted uses. Commissioners scheduled a public hearing on the proposed amendment for July 21, 2026.

Annual Updates

Commissioners received updates from the following county boards and commissions:

• Ethics Commission
• Commission for Women
• Commission for Veterans Affairs

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Commissioners made the following appointments:

• Appointed Henry St. Charles as a District 3 representative and Kevin Copeland as a District 4 representative to the Police Accountability Board. 
• Reappointed Christine Gonzales and Jared Cooney and appointed Crystal Dearing and Marleen Greenleaf as members to the Animal Matters Hearing Board.
• Appointed Dennis Johnson as a District 1 Representative to the Board of License Commissioners (Liquor Board).
• Appointed Bernard Howard as member of the Historic Preservation Commission.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• Charles County’s FY2027 Board of Education Budget.
• The County’s recommendations for five eligible Opportunity Zones 2.0 census tracts in Waldorf, Indian Head, and Newburg for submission to the State of Maryland. Per the State’s request, Charles County prioritized the order of its recommended eligible tracts, with two in Waldorf and one in Newburg as the top three options within the five eligible tracts. The eligible tracts were based on federal guidelines relative to Median Family Income (MFI) and poverty rates.  The County prioritized eligible tracts based upon a set of criteria that make them attractive for private investment and supporting redevelopment, job creation, and long-term economic growth.
• A letter of support for a $1.26 million Land and Water Conservation Fund grant application to help fund improvements at White Plains Regional Park, including new outdoor basketball courts, relocation of the golf driving range, expanded park amenities, and enhanced recreational opportunities for residents.
• The Hopewell Burial Ground Landmark Designation Application, requesting local historic landmark status to a previously undocumented burial ground discovered during construction in the St. Charles Parklands community. The designation will protect the site, honor those buried there, and recognize its historical and cultural significance to Charles County.
• A Memorandum of Understanding with Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 24, which is a one-year agreement establishing FY2027 collective bargaining terms, including step increases, leave sell-back eligibility, and enhancements to the Sheriff’s Office Retirement Program.
• Amendments to the P3 agreements with IQ Fiber (formerly ThinkBig) for its broadband installation projects in Charles County.
• Charles County’s state and federal lobbying contract.
• An inter-category budget transfer request of $3.8 million for Charles County Public Schools that reallocates existing funds from salary savings, unused contracts, and other underutilized budgets to support instructional needs, special education services, transportation, utilities, facility maintenance, healthcare costs, and capital outlay, while maintaining fiscal responsibility and aligning resources with actual operational needs.
• A budget amendment increase of $200,000 to carry forward FY 2026 Economic Development Fund Strategic Plan funding into FY 2027, when the contract is expected to be awarded and the project initiated.
• A budget transfer request of $1,122,200 to consolidate three White Plains Capital Improvement Projects into one project account.
• A budget transfer request of $67,000 from savings in the equipment repair and maintenance account to cover a shortfall in the electricity account within the Department of Emergency Services.

– Democratic and Republican voters in Calvert County participated in the Gubernatorial Primary Election by casting ballots through early voting, mail-in voting and at polling locations on Election Day, Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

Winners of primary races advance to the general election, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Primary election tallies are unofficial until they are certified by the Calvert Board of Elections on or before Monday, July 6. There are approximately 3,800 mail-in and provisional ballots remaining to count.

County Commissioner At Large unofficial results:

· Democrat Alexes N. Jones: 1,462 votes (19.58%)

· Democrat Judy Pedersen: 2,516 votes (33.69%)

· Democrat Antoine S. White: 3,489 votes (46.73%)

· Republican Commissioner Early “Buddy” Hance: 1,412 votes (11.44%)

· Republican Commissioner Todd Ireland: 1,539 votes (12.47%)

· Republican Jason Scaggs: 3,282 votes (26.60%)

· Republican Patti Stueckler: 4,666 votes (37.81%)

· Republican Barbara J. Warner: 1,441 votes (11.68%)

Candidates Pedersen, White, Scaggs and Stueckler advance to the November election for the two at-large county commissioner seats.

County Commissioner District 1 unofficial results:

· Democrat Ethan Cox: 4,084 votes (100%)

· Republican Jennifer L. Brown: 657 votes (9.97%)

· Republican Patrick E. Flaherty: 2,100 votes (31.86%)

· Republican Commissioner Mike Hart: 3,834 votes (58.17%)

Cox and Hart advance to the General Election in November for the District 1 seat.

County Commissioner District 2 unofficial results:

· Republican Commissioner Mark C. Cox, Sr.: 2,283 votes (34.20%)

· Republican Kenneth B. Lee: 4,392 votes (65.80%)

Lee advances unopposed to the November election for the District 2 seat.

County Commissioner District 3 unofficial results:

· Democrat Michael Bennett: 4,077 votes (100%)

· Republican Commissioner Catherine M. Grasso: 3,905 votes (58.92%)

· Republican Kelly D. McConkey: 2,723 votes (41.08%)

Bennett and Grasso advance to the November election for the District 3 seat.

Treasurer:

· Republican Amanda N. Dolina: 4,236 votes (64.02%)

· Republican Steve Weems: 2,381 votes (35.98%)

Dolina advances unopposed to the November election for treasurer.

Sheriff Ricky Cox and State’s Attorney Bob Harvey were unopposed in the primary election and are unopposed in the general election in November.

Candidates elected in the general election in November will take the oath of office Dec. 15.

There are 23,098 registered Democrats and 28,898 Republicans in Calvert County, according to the Maryland Board of Elections. To view more information about Calvert County election results and other statewide races, visit the Maryland State Board of Elections web page.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

LA PLATA, MD— Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Monday, June 22, 2026, Charles County Circuit Court Judge H. James West sentenced Joseph Michael Norman, 53, to 20 years in prison for the Involuntary Manslaughter of his two children, Brandon Myron Norman and Maddison Tanice Norman.

 

Norman pleaded guilty to the charges on June 9, 2026.

 

On August 26, 1997, Brandon Norman, Norman’s 8-month-old infant, was found unresponsive in his crib and transported to a hospital, where he was, unfortunately, pronounced deceased despite lifesaving efforts. An autopsy determined that Brandon died from complications related to blunt force trauma. Evidence obtained during the investigation showed that Brandon suffered a skull fracture in June 1997 resulting in subsequent seizures. Norman claimed the injury occurred accidentally when Brandon struck his head on a crib while the two were playing.

 

On September 5, 2001, Maddison Norman, Norman’s 3-year-old daughter, was found deceased in her bed by her mother. Investigators discovered an object in Maddison’s mouth, later identified as a red hair tie with two attached plastic balls. An autopsy determined that Maddison died as a result of asphyxia.

 

Both children were in sole care and custody of Norman at the time their fatal injuries were sustained.

 

At the time of sentencing, Norman was already serving a life sentence stemming from a 2001 conviction for the First-Degree Murder of an acquaintance of his then-wife. Norman’s 20-year sentence will run concurrently with his existing life sentence.

 

At sentencing, the prosecuting attorney told the judge that the incidents were “unfathomable” and that “Late justice is better than no justice. Tragic doesn’t seem like a word great enough to express the magnitude of these matters.”

 

Sentence

 

C-08-CR-24-000643 – Involuntary Manslaughter

• 10 years

 

C-08-CR-24-000644 – Involuntary Manslaughter

• 10 years, consecutive to C-08-CR-24-000643

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

 

As part of the consent agenda, the CSMC approved a routine update to authorized signers for County accounts with Shore United Bank.

 

During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Grant Award for the FY27 Victims of Crime Act Grant.
• Approved the St. Mary’s County Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board’s recommended rankings for the FY27 Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation applications.
• Approved the resolution authorizing the sale and issuance of $61.5 million in general obligation bonds.

 

The Commissioners then wrapped up their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

 

There will be no CSMC meetings on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, or Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The next CSMC meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website by clicking Board Documents from the home page. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on SMCG TV Channel 95 or at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

 

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Small Business Administration announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Maryland to offset economic losses caused by frost and freeze occurring on April 21.

The disaster declaration covers the Maryland counties of Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Queen Anne's, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Talbot, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester, and the District of Columbia, and the Delaware counties of Kent, New Castle, and Sussex, and the Pennsylvania counties of Adams, Chester, Franklin, Fulton, Lancaster, and York, and the Virginia counties of Accomack, Arlington, Fairfax County, Loudoun, and Northumberland, as well as the West Virginia counties of Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs — including faith-based organizations — with financial losses directly related to this disaster.  The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and PNPs — including faith-based organizations — with financial losses directly related to this disaster.  The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, Associate Administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms of up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 16, 2027.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 23, 2026) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Christina Lee Calero, 47, of Leonardtown, Maryland, was sentenced to five years with eighteen months of active incarceration for Theft: $100 to Under $1,500 as a subsequent offender.

On August 19, 2025, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the JCPenney in California, Maryland, for the report of a theft in progress. Upon arrival, deputies observed that Calero was wearing a pair of new shoes from the store with the price tag ripped off, as well as jewelry within her purse that she had not purchased. Store employees advised that Calero had selected additional items, concealed those in her purse as well, and then attempted to proceed through the checkout area without paying for them. Merchandise totaling almost $200 was recovered from Calero’s possession.

“Retail theft imposes real costs on businesses and their employees that they should not have to absorb,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “Holding offenders accountable helps protect the businesses that serve our community and promotes a safer environment for employees and customers alike while making sure those costs are not passed onto the public.”

Assistant State’s Attorney Megan Crawford prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Deputy Thomas Dewey and Deputy First Class Travis Wimberly of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were the lead investigators.

The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.

applications and disburse funding only after confirming that eligibility criteria have been met.

Applications must be submitted through FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO), the agency’s grants management system. For more information, review the Notice of Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD June 23, 2026 - A grand jury indicted Dayvon Maurice West, a Correctional Officer assigned to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center (SMCDRC), on theft and misconduct charges. On June 23, 2026, West was formally charged via criminal summons with theft of $1,500 to under $25,000, a felony, and misconduct in office.

 

In March, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division (CID), in conjunction with the Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor, initiated an investigation after an incarcerated individual reported to SMCDRC personnel that cash was missing from their personal belongings when the property was returned following their incarceration.

 

During the investigation, evidence was obtained establishing probable cause that West took the money and concealed it on his person while processing the incarcerated individual’s personal belongings.

 

In accordance with St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office policy, the Office of Professional Responsibilities (OPR) initiated a concurrent administrative investigation. West was suspended with pay and removed from the workplace pending the outcome of the criminal and administrative investigations. Upon being served with a felony criminal charge, West stopped receiving pay in accordance with Maryland law.

Sheriff Steve Hall said, “Theft by any employee of this agency is a serious betrayal of public trust and will not be tolerated. Our badge does not shield anyone from accountability. When the evidence establishes probable cause that an employee has committed a crime, we will act decisively, support the criminal justice process, and hold that individual accountable under the law. While the actions of one dishearten, they do not diminish the honor with which the badge is worn by the hardworking men and women of our agency who work each day to honestly and faithfully serve our community.”

A copy of the press release from the Office of the Maryland State Prosecutor can be found here.

GLEN BURNIE, MD (June 22, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation and Maryland State Police continue to urge motorists to drive safely during the summer travel season and follow these important safety reminders: 

• Obey posted speed limits and slow down, especially in work zones.

• Move over for any vehicle with flashing lights, or slow down if you cannot safely change lanes.

• Avoid distractions while driving - including phones, passengers and any activity that takes your attention away from the road ahead.

• Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs.

• Wear seat belts on every trip, in the front seat and back seat.

• Share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.

• Avoid aggressive driving and give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination.

Fatal Crash Summary 

Between June 16 and June 21, 2026, nine fatalities were recorded across the state, bringing the month-to-date total for June to 22. As of June 22, 2026, 173 people have lost their lives on Maryland roadways this year, compared to 207 at this time last year 

Each fatal crash represents a life lost on Maryland's roadways. The table below represents all reported fatal crashes throughout the state. Data is preliminary and subject to change

	June 2026	2026 Total Year to Date	2025 Total
Drivers	13	81	282
Passengers	1	26	83
Pedestrians	5	39	109
Bicyclists	1	2	10
Motorcyclists	2	25	49

Maryland Department of Transportation is Serious About Safety. Learn more about the Highway Safety Office?and Maryland’s safety efforts?at?ZeroDeathsMD.gov?or on Facebook,?X, and Instagram at @ZeroDeathsMD

On June 20, at 2:14 a.m., officers responded to Friendly Tavern & Liquor located in the 3000 block of Leonardtown Road in Waldorf for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located two male victims. The first victim was transported to a hospital for treatment of multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body and remains in critical condition. The second victim suffered a minor injury to the lower body and refused treatment. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Burgess at 301-609-6494. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspects involved. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward should contact Charles County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. The investigation is ongoing.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – In celebration of Historic Preservation Month, the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) and the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) presented the annual Historic Preservation Awards. Established in 1999, these awards recognize outstanding achievement and excellence in the field of historic preservation in St. Mary’s County.

The CSMC and Historic Preservation Commission are pleased to announce the 2026 recipients:

Preservation Service Award – Awarded to Karen Stone, Museum Division Manager for the St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks, who researched and authored the first-ever book on the Black Diamond Disaster, Shipwreck on the Potomac: Disaster in Pursuit of Lincoln’s Killer. Ms. Stone’s book brings this story to light, exploring a long-overlooked chapter of St. Mary’s County history.

Preservation Project Award – Awarded to Historic Sotterley, which shares the history and stories of the site from the early 1700s through the 1950s through its extant structures. The organization recently relocated and restored a small tenant farmhouse from a previously owned adjacent property onto its current grounds. The farmhouse helps interpret the post-slavery transition period, when hired tenant labor was prevalent on farms throughout the region.

Preservation Project Award – Awarded to Jocelyn Copeland, who spearheaded the production of an educational pop-up museum experience for the 59th Annual U.S. Oyster Festival. The exhibit highlighted the rich history and vibrant community of the region’s oyster industry and watermen culture. Artifacts were secured on loan through collaboration with the Calvert Marine Museum, the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab, and generous local watermen.

Preservation Project Award – Awarded to KT Harris, who produced an immersive video experience highlighting the history of “The Dancing Molly” and the “Oyster Wars” in Maryland and Virginia. The exhibit quickly became one of the most talked-about additions to the festival, engaging more than 8,000 visitors and offering a meaningful, hands-on connection to the area’s maritime heritage.

Awards were presented during the CSMC business meeting on May 12, 2026. A recording of the awards presentation is available online at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/HPC and on the SMCG YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, June 12, 2026, Elmer Geovanny Marquez-Orellana, 27, of Waldorf, entered a guilty plea to Sex Abuse of a Minor and Second-Degree Rape. As a part of his plea, Marquez-Orellana will have to register as a lifetime Tier 3 Sex Offender.

 

On January 19, 2026, officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to a Waldorf residence for a reported sexual assault involving a child. Upon arrival, they made contact with the 13-year-old victim and her parents. The victim disclosed that she was sexually assaulted by Marquez-Orellana earlier that morning.

 

An investigation revealed that Marquez-Orellana had been visiting the victim’s family on January 18, 2026, and remained overnight at the residence. During the early morning hours of January 19, 2026, the victim got out of bed to get a bottle of water located in the garage. Marquez-Orellana, who was also in the garage, grabbed the victim and began sexually assaulting her. Despite the victim repeatedly telling him to stop, Marquez-Orellana removed the victim’s clothes and continued the assault.

 

The victim’s mother eventually entered the garage after hearing the victim saying “no.” When she entered, she observed both the victim and Marquez-Orellana unclothed.

 

Investigators reviewed in-home surveillance video, which captured Marquez-Orellana entering the garage and the victim entering three minutes later.

 

A Sexual Assault Nurse Examination was conducted on the victim, and forensic testing later identified DNA consistent with Marquez-Orellana on the victim.

 

A sentencing date has been set for August 27, 2026, at 2:30 p.m.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 19, 2026) – Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were called to Lowe’s in the 45000 block of Worth Avenue in California on Thursday, June 18, at about 1:39 p.m. for a reported shoplifting.

 

Upon arrival, it was reported that a male subject entered the store, placed various tools and equipment items in a shopping cart, and left without paying.

 

During the investigation, store asset management advised that the same suspect had also stolen a toolkit and a nail gun from the store during a separate incident on Saturday, June 14. In both incidents, the suspect was reported to have left the area in a black BMW coupe, which was determined to be registered to Christoper Lamontai Smith, 32, of Suitland, MD.

 

Later, on June 18, at about 2:24 p.m., a deputy responded to Aldi in the 44000 block of Oak Crest Road in California for a theft report and was told that a subject had loaded multiple food and household items into a shopping cart and left the store in a black BMW.

 

A short time later, a patrol deputy located the vehicle near the 23000 block of Mervell Dean Road in Hollywood and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Initially, the driver pulled over onto the shoulder, then continued southbound briefly before stopping.

 

Merchandise, reported stolen during the June 18 incidents from Lowe’s and Aldi, was located in the vehicle’s trunk.

 

The passenger, Keon Rondell Mathis, 35, of Clinton, Maryland, was arrested and charged with a theft scheme of $1,500 to less than $25,000 and two counts of theft of less than $100 to under $1,500.

 

Smith, the driver, was arrested and charged with two counts of theft of at least $100 but less than $1,500 and one count of fleeing and eluding.

 

At the conclusion of the investigation, at the request of Aldi store management, the recovered food and household items were donated to a local food bank.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – June 18, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation and the Calvert County Department of Community Resources advise residents that the Southern Community Center and Southern Pines Senior Center in Lusby will be closed from Wednesday, June 24, through Tuesday, June 30, 2026, for heating and air conditioning system repairs.

Normal hours will resume Wednesday, July 1.

The Southern Community Center and Southern Pines Senior Center are located at 20 Appeal Lane in Lusby.

The departments appreciate the community’s patience and understanding while this maintenance work is performed.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.