Charles County Crime Solvers offering a cash reward in locating fugitive’s whereabouts: The Charles County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit is actively seeking the public’s assistance in locating Danielle Sicam Alicka, age 27, from Hughesville, who is wanted in connection with multiple charges including home invasion, armed robbery, and first-degree assault. On May 1, 2024, Alicka forced her way into a Waldorf residence and assaulted several victims with a handgun. One of the victims was shot in the hand before Alicka fled the residence. Multiple items were reported stolen during the incident. 

Alicka is an Asian female, 5’5”, 140 lbs., has multiple tattoos, and is known to frequent the Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s County areas. Anyone with information about Alicka’s whereabouts should contact Cpl. Caywood #564 at 301-861-8051. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple Store by searching P3tips. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to Alicka’s arrest.

Due to forecasted high temperatures Sunday, June 30, animal owners or custodians are required to provide appropriate protection from the weather including providing adequate shelter, water, space and access to shade.

Pay special attention to animals that are most prone to heat stroke:

·       Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with short noses, such as bulldogs, pugs, boxers, Persians and Shih Tzus, have compromised airways that make it difficult for them to cool themselves through panting.

·       Older Animals: Senior pets often have health conditions that make them less able to regulate their body temperature, increasing their risk of heat stroke.

·       Young Animals: Puppies and kittens are less capable of handling extreme temperatures due to their developing bodies.

·       Animals with Preexisting Health Conditions: Pets with respiratory, cardiovascular or other health issues are at higher risk of heat stroke due to their compromised health.

·       Thick-Coated Breeds: Animals with dense fur, such as huskies, malamutes and long-haired cats, may struggle to stay cool in hot weather.

·       Outdoor Animals: Animals kept outdoors should be monitored at all times and brought into a temperature-controlled environment if they begin to show signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, dizziness, disorientation, seizure or heavy panting.

Take preventative measures to protect animals during hot weather:

·       Provide ample water and shade to help them stay cool.

·       Avoid hot surfaces such as pavement and asphalt to prevent burns and overheating.

·       Adjust activity levels and exercise animals during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and keep sessions short.

·       Use cooling aids like cooling mats, fans, or damp towels for animals to lie on, and consider using pet-safe cooling vests.

·       Never leave pets in parked cars, which can quickly reach lethal temperatures, even with the windows slightly open.

·       Monitor at-risk pets closely and keep them indoors as much as possible during excessive heat.

·       Be vigilant for symptoms of heat stroke, including excessive panting, drooling and lethargy.

If you suspect an animal is suffering from heat stroke, immediately:

·       Move the animal to a cooler area.

·       Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.

·       Wet the animal with cool water and use a fan to aid cooling.

·       Contact a veterinarian immediately for further instructions.

Any person in violation of the requirements set forth in this alert may be subject to enforcement, which could include fines up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail.

To report concerns, citizens may contact the Animal Control Division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2526, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If the office is closed, reports may be made to the non-emergency line at 410-535-3491.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared in the event of an emergency by visiting www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Alerts and signing up for Calvert County Alert to receive timely information about various emergency and non-emergency situations in the county.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Cherron Montril Waul, 47, of Great Mills, Maryland, was sentenced to Life in prison for the first-degree murder of a 33-year-old St. Mary’s County man that occurred in the early morning hours of February 3, 2022.

“Mr. Waul lured the victim out of his home, then mercilessly stabbed him nineteen times, cut him an additional seven times, ultimately killing him,” Sterling said. “The Defendant left the victim to die in the freezing cold and rain near Great Mills High School where he was discovered by a morning commuter.”

State’s Attorney Sterling added, “I want to acknowledge the incredible investigation and thank the entire law enforcement team, to include the crime lab technicians, patrol officers, and detectives who worked closely with the prosecution team.  I’d further like to thank the legal administrators, prosecutors, victim witness coordinators, investigators, and members of the Evidence Review Unit who worked diligently with our law enforcement partners to ensure justice for the victim, his family, and our community.”

Waul was convicted by a St. Mary’s County jury of first-degree murder, following a three-day jury trial in April 2024.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Jeffrey R. Maylor and Donna C. Pettersen prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Warren Forinash of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River and Webster Outlying Field are advised that noise-generating, low altitude, nighttime testing events are scheduled to take place July 1-2, 2024 from 8:30 p.m. to midnight. 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.

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

NEW CARROLLTON, MD. - The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced it has issued $17.2 million in bonds through the Local Government Infrastructure Finance (LGIF) Program to support infrastructure improvement efforts in St. Mary’s County.

The money for these St. Mary’s County projects are part of an overall $34.8 million in bonds that will be issued by local entities across Maryland. DHCD’s Community Development Administration administers the bonds on behalf of counties, municipalities and/or their instrumentalities to finance projects that serve the community at large, such as streetscape improvements, transportation enhancements or water and sewer treatment facilities.

The financing through the Department will bring the following projects in St. Mary’s County to fruition:

• Leonardtown - $6,000,000 to fund the construction of a new water storage tank and well.
• St. Mary's Metropolitan Commission - $11,257,216 to fund water and sewer system improvements.

“Our Local Government Infrastructure Finance program is an important tool for local governments to help fund projects to enhance the lives of its residents such as those planned in St. Mary’s County,” said DHCD Secretary Jake Day. “ We’re also grateful for partners such as McKennon, Shelton & Henn, People First, Caine Mitter, and Wilmington Trust for their hard work and diligence to make this happen.”

“The Town of Leonardtown is pleased to have been the recipient of our second LGIF loan in the last two years,” said Town Administrator Laschelle E. McKay. “These funds are being used to fund significant infrastructure projects to support future growth and economic development projects for our growing Town. The team implementing the LGIF program is top notch and assists the applicant throughout the entire process. The terms of the program make these large water and sewer projects much more affordable for small municipalities.”  

“The St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission is very appreciative of the Local Government Infrastructure Fund financing received through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development,” said Metropolitan Commission’s Executive Director George Erichsen. “These funds will allow the Commission to ensure that the community continues to be provided with a reliable supply of quality public water, enhanced fire protection and upgraded wastewater collection & treatment systems. We are grateful to the State, in particular to Mr. Charlie Day and Darrel Connelly for their work in helping secure these funds and to the all-volunteer Board of the Commission and our local County Commissioners for the incredible work they do in our community.”

The funds supporting the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission in particular will go towards four projects:

• $2.9 million in upgrades to the King Kennedy / Loveville Road (MD 247) Water System will increase fire protection, correct undersized water main conditions, improve water service and replace lines that have experienced ongoing maintenance issues.

• The Bay Ridge Well Replacement & Upgrade Project was designed to provide a new production well and well house to improve system performance and integration in the Lexington Park service area, which serves an estimated 31,000 people. The $4 million project will include the new well, well house, pump controls, disinfection system, pipe work, telemetry equipment, and controls integration.

• $775,000 will enable Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) sewer main rehabilitation technology to be applied to over 11,000 linear feet of prioritized sewer lines to prevent unnecessary expenses at sewer treatment facilities and corrosion in the public sewer system, which can significantly reduce the strength of the pipe and potentially lead to failure or collapse.

• $1.2 million to the Grinder Pump Replacement Program will help to replace aged, worn or otherwise problematic sewer grinder pump systems in order to improve reliability, reduce maintenance costs and avoid sanitary sewer overflow incidents. Without this program property owners would have no other means to dispose and treat their sewage.

Whether funds are needed for a $150,000 effort or a $10 million project, Local Government Infrastructure Financing is a convenient and streamlined resource for local governments that:

• Want to secure long-term capital financing with advantageous terms;
• Do not routinely issue bonds; and
• Have limited resources to initiate financing on their own.

Local governments must secure local legislative approval to receive the financing.

To see a full list of awards, click here. For more information on the Local Government Infrastructure Financing program, click here.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, June 27, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 4-day trial, and approximately 2.5 hours of deliberation, convicted George Christopher Floyd, 44, of the Second-Degree Murder and False Imprisonment of Triston Treshaun Irvin, as well as related charges.  

Commenting on the verdict of the case, State’s Attorney Tony Covington stated, “Thankfully, the jury saw this case for what it was: an unjustifiable, outrageous taking of a young, innocent life. How can anyone, including this defendant, George Floyd, even think to put someone in a chokehold for 20 minutes and expect the victim to survive?  Everyone knows you can’t, and this defendant knew it too. He didn’t care. Pure depravity which amounted to murder.”

On October 8, 2023, officers responded to a residence in Waldorf for the report of a subject not breathing. When officers arrived, they located the 18-year-old victim unresponsive on the floor in a bathroom. Officers also made contact with Floyd, the victim’s stepfather. Floyd reported to officers that he put the victim in a neck restraint because the victim was trying to run away. The victim ultimately became unresponsive as a result of the neck restraint. Emergency Medical Services rendered aid to the victim then transported him to the hospital for further treatment. However, he, unfortunately, died as a result of the restraint.

An investigation revealed that Floyd, the victim’s mother, and the victim were engaged in a verbal disagreement the night before the murder but went to bed peaceably. Floyd entered the victim’s bedroom at approximately 5 a.m. the next morning and demanded that the victim clean his room. Shortly after, Floyd began to restrain the victim, ultimately putting him in a neck restraint. The victim’s mother entered the bedroom after hearing the commotion, then requested three of the victim’s friends who were sleeping over and his teenage brother to help defuse the situation.

Floyd ordered the young men to help him restrain the victim and pray over him. At one point, Floyd ordered one of the victim’s friends to get olive oil, which Floyd then used to put a cross on the victim’s forehead. However, Floyd kept the neck restraint around the victim for approximately 15-20 minutes while the victim was lying on the floor. During this time, the victim was not moving or talking, but Floyd continued to hold his arm around the victim’s neck. When Floyd got up and saw that the victim was not responsive, he and the other young men attempted to render aid but did not immediately call for emergency personnel. When the victim remained unresponsive for approximately 5-10 minutes, Floyd called 911.

A sentencing date for Floyd has been set for August 16, 2024. He faces over 75 years in prison.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) seeks public comment on a Draft Literacy Policy that will guide efforts to improve outcomes for all students.  

“This initiative aims to enhance data-driven literacy standards and practices across the state, ensuring every student receives a strong foundation in literacy,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “Feedback from educators, families and community members is crucial in shaping this policy to best meet the needs of our students.” 

The proposed literacy policy, drafted by the Office of Teaching and Learning and the Literacy Programs and Initiatives Branch, with support from national policy organizations, is based on a review of the latest literacy research and policies in other states. 

Members of the public are invited to review the draft policy and share suggestions by Friday, July 19 through the online Draft Literacy Policy Feedback Survey. 

The draft policy will be presented during the State Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, July 23.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4, 2024, in observance of Independence Day. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Friday, July 5, 2024.

The July 4 closure also includes:

• All three St. Mary's County Libraries (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown, and Lexington Park)
• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern), and there will be no home-delivered meals
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS)
• Department of Recreation & Parks indoor programs and facilities
• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill
• The Animal Adoption & Resource Center

The following SMCG operations will be open on July 4:

• Great Mills Pool (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wellness & Aquatics Center (6 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wicomico Shores Golf Course (closing at noon) and the Riverview Restaurant (closing at 6 p.m.)
• Elms Beach, Myrtle Point & Snow Hill waterfront parks (8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.)
• Splash Pad at Nicolet Park (12 p.m. – 6 p.m.)

SMCG’s Department of Emergency Services urges community members to celebrate the holiday safely and responsibly. Remember, only gold-labeled sparklers, novelty items (snap pops), and ground-based sparkler devices are permitted in approved Maryland counties. We strongly advise residents to leave fireworks to the professionals and to take advantage of one of the many public fireworks displays available in St. Mary’s County. More information on local events is available at www.visitstmarysmd.com/events.

Additional information on firework regulations and safety are available from the Maryland State Fire Marshal and Maryland State Police at: mdsp.maryland.gov/firemarshal/Pages/ExplosivesandFireworks.aspx

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, shortly after 9 p.m., deputies with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to the 9500 block of Sea Gull Court in North Beach, for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Deputies and EMS rendered first aid to the victim, William Lee Hutcherson, 39 of North Beach, who was later pronounced deceased on the scene.

A preliminary investigation revealed witnesses observed two adult males engaged in an altercation in the parking lot of the residence at which point the suspect then fired a shot striking the victim.

Calvert deputies were able to quickly apprehend the suspect, Anthony Wayne Simpson, Jr., 40 of Fredericksburg, VA. Simpson was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and is facing charges of Second-Degree Murder, First-Degree Assault, Second-Degree Assault, Use of a Firearm During a Felony/Violent Crime and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

This appears to be an isolated incident. Detectives are continuing to investigate and ask anyone with information to please contact Detective M. Mudd at 410-535-2800 or via email at Michael.Mudd@calvertcountymd.gov. Please reference case # 24-49674. Citizens may remain anonymous through the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning invites public feedback on the June 2024 draft of the Prince Frederick Town Center Master Plan Update. Residents, businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to review and comment on the draft plan until September 25, 2024. The draft plan is available online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PFTC.

All who live, work, shop or visit Prince Frederick are encouraged to read the plan and submit comments. The plan is intended to amend the July 2021 draft plan and update the current Prince Frederick Master Plan, which was adopted in 1989, and aims to create a vibrant, well-planned community. It includes guidelines for land use, transportation, public facilities and community amenities.

Comments can be submitted in several ways:

·         Email: TownCenterUpdate@calvertcountymd.gov

·         Mail: Mr. John Toohey, Chair, Calvert County Planning Commission, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678

·         Fax: 410-414-3092

·         Hand Delivery: 205 Main St., Prince Frederick

All comments will become part of the public record for the Prince Frederick Town Center Master Plan and Zoning Update. Public record documents will be made available to members of the public upon request.

Planning & Zoning is distributing the draft plan to relevant agencies and neighboring jurisdictions for review for a 90-day comment period as directed by the Planning Commission at its June 26, 2024, meeting. This action complies with the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, which requires notification at least 60 days before the public hearing. A public hearing will be held after Oct. 1, 2024; details will be announced when available.

For more information on the Planning Commission’s meetings and agendas, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PCagendas.

The plan adoption process has several steps following the 90-day review and public hearing:

·         The Planning Commission will review and consider comments on the draft plan.

·         The Planning Commission will prepare its recommended plan and hold a public hearing before sending its recommended plan to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for consideration.

·         The BOCC will hold a public hearing on the plan to receive and consider written and oral public comment.

·         The BOCC may then adopt the plan, modify the plan, remand the plan back to the Planning Commission or disapprove the plan.

The dates and times for any public hearings and deadlines for comment will be announced in future news releases, on the county website and on the county Facebook page. Questions may be directed to Tay Harris, long range planner, at 410-535-1600, ext. 2333, or Tay.Harris@calvertcountymd.gov.

For more information about the Town Center Master Plans, visit www.CalvertCountyMD.gov/TownCenters.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

On Tuesday, June 25, Kelly Robertson-Slagle, Director of the Charles County Economic Development Department, Taylor Yewell, Chief of Business Development, and Sheil Patel, Director of Operations at the Maryland Airport, held a briefing on operations at the airport in Indian Head.  Patel stated that the airport is discussing establishing an on-site flight school and continues participating in several community activities. Patel stated that future plans included several hangar projects and other efforts to build up infrastructure at the airport. Patel stated that any future runway expansion would be five to eight years away and require FAA and EPA approval. 

Commissioners also voted to reconsider the motion to establish July 5, 2024, as a county holiday. Commissioners reversed a June 11, 2024, vote not to establish the day as a holiday. Commissioner Vice President Ralph E. Patterson II made the motion after further research indicated that July 5 was given as a county holiday in 2019. Commissioners then voted to approve July 5, 2024, as a county holiday.

On Wednesday, June 26, Commissioners held a special session to discuss plans to handle potential neighborhood nuisances during the Fourth of July holiday. Representatives from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office and La Plata Police Department detailed their monitoring efforts to deal with any potential nuisance complaints brought by residents. No legislative actions on the issue were taken during the meeting.

Briefings

·       Heather Kelley, Planning Supervisor, and Charles Rice, Planning Director, held a briefing on Docket 90 Amendment PDZA #24-90(23), Villages of Wooded Glen & Piney Reach Master Plan. The amendment would relocate a proposed Middle School from the Villages of Wooded Glen Neighborhood 3 to the Villages of Piney Reach Neighborhood 2, request an exemption to the 85% rule, and other amendments. Commissioners voted unanimously to schedule the public hearing for Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m.

·       Dr. Dianna Abney, Charles County Health Officer; Julie Kosteas Brown, Healthcare Consultant; and Margaret Brown, Vice President of Business Development at Blue Zones, presented a briefing on a proposal for the Blue Zones Initiative in Charles County. The first phase of the proposal will be a study that will provide a detailed analysis of how to improve health and economic stability in the community. 

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Commissioners took the following actions on county boards and commissions:

• Reappoint Quincy Cobey to the Board of Fire & Rescue.
• Appoint Anupa Mukhopadhyay as the Attorney on the Sheriff’s

Office Disability Review Board.

• Reappoint Kathryn Young and Jacqueline Marshall Hall as Citizen

Members, appoint Anthony Wilson, Kerwin Wilson and Keeon

Johnson as Citizen Members to the Board of Social Services.

• Appoint LaTonya Rogers as an At-Large Member to the Homeowners

Association Dispute Review Board.

• Reappoint Jennifer Walker and Cynthia Ybanez-Casares as At-Large

Members to the Board of Appeals.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

·       A budget transfer request of $251,000 to transfer cumulative general fund salary savings from Planning & Growth Management to a capital project for office renovations at the County Government Building to take place during fiscal year 2025 to meet staffing needs.

·       A budget amendment increase of $210,000 to support the credit card budget for the Inspection & Review fund.

·       A budget transfer request of $209,000 in full-time salary savings from the Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism for furniture and IT equipment for the new Recreation, Parks & Tourism building.

·       A budget transfer request of $70,000 using salary savings from the Department Recreation, Parks, and Tourism complete electrical work at Mallows Bay to complete a project to bring fiber optics to the park.

·       A budget Amendment Increase of $3,685,000 for the Animal Shelter Capital Improvement Project, which was delayed by a bid protest and subsequent litigation. The additional funding represents the increase in the cost of materials and labor that have occurred during the litigation period.

·       A budget transfer request of $65,610 from part time savings in the Community Options Wavier (COW) program special revenue fund to support higher than anticipated case manager oversite of the program.

·       A budget transfer request by the Charles County Public Schools of $3,531,000 from the La Plata High School capital project to the TC Martin capital project to cover invoices from May and June. The construction for the TC Martin capital project is moving faster than anticipated, which necessitated the transfer. Funds for the La Plata High School capital project will be returned in July.

·       Interagency Budget Transfers by the Charles County Board of Education.

·       The Fiscal Year 2025 Board of Education Budget

·       A proposed revision to the County Commissioner Expense Policy.

·       A request to use community support funds in the amount of $267 to purchase name tags and tablecloths for the Commission for Veterans Affairs.

Viewing option of the meeting and the Commissioner Listening Session: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: July 9-10

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, shortly after 9 p.m., deputies with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to the 9500 block of Sea Gull Court in North Beach, for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Deputies and EMS rendered first aid to the victim who was later pronounced deceased on the scene.

A preliminary investigation revealed witnesses observed two adult males engaged in an altercation in the apartment complex parking lot at which point the suspect then fired a shot striking the victim.

Calvert deputies were able to quickly apprehend the suspect.

This appears to be an isolated incident. Detectives continue to investigate and ask anyone with information to please contact Detective M. Mudd at 410-535-2800 or via email at Michael.Mudd@calvertcountymd.gov. Please reference case # 24-49674. Citizens may remain anonymous through the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

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.

The CSMC then presented commendations for Virginia Quade and Corporal Andrew Holton in celebration of their retirements from St. Mary’s County Government.

For their main agenda items, the Commissioners approved the Proposed Ordinance to repeal and reenact Chapter 203 entitled, "Building Construction" and repeal Chapter 223 Article IV entitled, "Inspection Fees.” They also authorized the request to schedule a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the St. Mary's County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum Association’s lease renewal and extension.
• Approved the Sheriff’s Office request to reorganize the Booking Specialist position and the Civilian Security Specialist to the position Corrections Specialist.
• Approved the reorganization and position classification for the Department of Human Resources.
• Approved and adopted the 2024 Recreation and Parks Strategic Plan.
• Approved the letter to the Maryland Agriculture Land Preservation Foundation
• Approved the agreement to lease Unit H of 25470 Point Lookout Road Leonardtown, Maryland from W.M. Davis Development at Breton Marketplace, LLC for the benefit of the St. Mary's County Health Department.
•  

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

Juveniles arrested while breaking into vehicles at St. Charles Towne Center: On June 24 at approximately 3:23pm, officers responded to the St. Charles Towne Center parking lot after a citizen reported seeing a group of four juveniles breaking into several cars. Officers arrived in the parking lot, and the four suspects immediately fled on foot but were quickly apprehended. Further investigation found 3 vehicles had been broken into and damaged, and several tools used to enter the cars were recovered from the suspects. The four juveniles, including three 15-year-olds from Accokeek and a 14-year-old from Fort Washington were arrested on-scene, and were charged via Juvenile Offense Report with breaking and entering a motor vehicle, destruction of property, and other related crimes. All were later released to a parent.

“This is an outstanding example of a community member seeing something occurring and calling police immediately. That information allowed the officers to quickly apprehend these juveniles and prevent the theft of the owner’s cars and property” said Sheriff Troy Berry. The investigation is continuing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Ofc. D Moats #792 at 301-609-3282 ext. 0792.

Today, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission by a 5-4 vote repealed the longtime prohibition on dredging for blue crabs during the winter near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources strongly disagrees with Virginia’s decision. 

The Virginia blue crab dredge fishery has been closed for nearly 15 years as part of the overall cooperative management efforts with Maryland to ensure a sustainable blue crab fishery. A winter dredge fishery would target a population of majority female blue crabs at a critical stage in their life cycle before they spawn the next generation of crabs. According to the presentation given to the Commission by its staff, the winter dredge fishery was estimated to harvest 32% of the female crabs that are in the Bay at the start of the dredge season and up to 96% of the dredge fishery harvest is female.

The Virginia Commission planned to meet again later this year to vote on regulations that would govern the state’s blue crab dredge fishery.

The prevailing opinion of the scientific community engaged in Chesapeake Bay issues, including the Commission’s staff, recommended against this decision. Scientists cited an adult female population of blue crabs that has not hit desired target levels, in addition to concerns that it could negatively affect future spawns and the blue crab population as a whole. The Commission also received 186 public comments on the proposal, all of which opposed opening the winter dredge fishery.

The decision comes at a time when a stock assessment on the blue crabs of the Chesapeake Bay is underway. The significant effort will take into account decades of data on blue crabs to explore possible causes for low juvenile abundance and other challenges, as well as to determine new baselines for the management of blue crabs.

The Commission voted to open the winter fishery with no consideration of compensating for the additional harvest of female crabs through reductions in other parts of the fishery, meaning female harvest will increase. A management approach that limits the harvest of female crabs resulted in a recovery of the blue crab population after a decade of low abundance in the late 1990s and 2000s and has been the framework for blue crab management since.

In response to the decision, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz issued the following statement:

“In Maryland we are committed to making management decisions based on data. The data show that female crabs are below target levels and lower than last year’s abundance. We also see persistent below-average numbers of young crabs. The success of the species’ recovery after a steep decline in the 2000s can be directly traced to Maryland and Virginia cooperatively managing blue crabs, especially females, based on science. Today’s action by Virginia breaks with this successful approach. 

“The timing of the decision is also poor because we are working on a new comprehensive stock assessment to account for changing conditions including warmer waters due to climate change, expanding populations of invasive predators such as blue catfish, and other advances in our scientific understanding. The Virginia Commission’s unilateral decision will impact the species at a time when Marylanders are regularly sitting down to pick crabs with their friends and families. A decision of this magnitude should have only been made with the support of scientists, in close consultation with Maryland officials, and in response to a significant increase in the blue crab population. It’s a bad day if you care about blue crabs. We are reviewing our options to ensure the sustainability of the blue crab fishery.” 

Additional background information and scientific context can be found in this Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ article: At Another Key Juncture for Blue Crabs, Scientists Look Back at Two Decades of Management

During the March 5, 2024, Charles County Board of Commissioners session, a request was presented by Commissioner Vice President Ralph Patterson to officially rename “Black History Month” to “African American Heritage Month.” Recognizing the significance of this request, Charles County Government is facilitating Community Conversations group meetings.

As part of our equity focus, Charles County Government is working to cultivate relationships with the community that promote opportunity for inclusive dialogue, collaboration, and diverse participation regarding decisions that impact the people we serve. The community is invited to participate in the scheduled Community Conversation groups. During the group discussions, the community will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed change. Upcoming meetings are scheduled as follows:

Due to limited capacity, confirmation of your attendance is required. To RSVP, please send an email to MilesR@CharlesCountyMD.Gov or call 301-645-2647.

Charles County Government is aware of the short notice provided to the public for the June 26^th meeting and apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.  An additional opportunity for residents in this area to participate in a community conversation will be provided at a later date.  To be notified about future opportunities, please send an email to MilesR@CharlesCountyMD.Gov or call 301-645-2647.

Following the final Community Conversations meeting, an online public survey will be launched to allow additional community feedback. At the conclusion of this endeavor, Charles County Government staff will present the findings to the Board of County Commissioners.

For additional information on this endeavor, please contact Renesha Miles, Chief Equity Officer, by phone at 301-645-2647, or email: MilesR@CharlesCountyMD.Gov. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay at 7-1-1 (TDD: 800-735-2258).

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1209 Calls for service, including 11 Emergency Petitions, from June 17 to June 23, 2024.

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public as well as self-initiated events made by deputy sheriffs.

The Emergency Petition statute in Maryland enables the prompt evaluation of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis having the potential to harm themselves or others to be taken to an emergency facility to assess the need for immediate treatment.

ARRESTS:

6/20/24 – Darius Antonio Mills, 31, of No Fixed Address, by Corporal Jason Smith for Fourth-Degree Burglary, Indecent Exposure, Assault Second-Degree, CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

6/22/24 – Joshua Antoine Miles, 35, of Newburg, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. Miles was also arrested on an open Bench Warrant.

6/22/24 – Walead Othman, 57, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Taylor-Lynn Kril for Motor Vehicle Unlawful Taking and Teft of $25000 to under $100,000.

DUIs:

6/17/24 – Jordan Taylor Poetzman, 29, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Jordan Wagner for Driving While So Far Impaired by Drugs/Alcohol Incapable of Driving Safely, Driving While Impaired by Controlled Dangerous Substance, and Driving on a Suspended License.

6/23/24 – Maurice Louis Jackson, 35, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Mina Geric for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol and Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se.

SUMMONSES:

n/a

WARRANTS:

6/18/24 – Terri James Dyer Jr., 36, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Ryan McLean for Failure to Register as a Tier I (15-year) Offender.

6/18/24 – Daniel Albert Humpleby, 30, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Aaron Ocasio-Rivera for Failure to Register as a Tier III (Lifetime) Offender.

6/18/24 – Kenneth Shane Rebarchick, 32, of Hollywood, MD, by Deputy Cody Donaldson for Failure to Register as a Tier III (Lifetime) Offender. NO CURRENT PHOTO AVAILABLE

6/20/24 – Timothy Dwayne Halloway, 37, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Erik Fleenor for Motor Vehicle Unlawful Taking, Theft of $25000 to under $100000, and related charges.

6/21/24 – Matthew Scott Hurry, 38, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Joseph Bowling for Failure to Complete Weekly Notification as a Tier III (10-Year) Offender.

6/22/24 – George Houston Russell Jr., by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for Theft $1500 to under $25000.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) announces an adjusted fee schedule for programs, facilities and services will take effect on July 1, 2024.

CCPR formalized the collection of fees through its Revenue and Fee Manual, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) in October 2019. The fee schedule is reviewed and approved by the BOCC each fiscal year. A formalized fee schedule guides the department in the proper collection of those fees and allocation of revenues. 

Modest increases in some programs and services account for changes in community needs, cost of products, and the addition of programs and services. View the FY 2025 Parks & Recreation Fee Schedule at www.calvertcountymd.gov/CCPRFeeSchedule.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.Facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks and follow @CalvertCountyParksandRec on Instagram.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place through July 9, 2024 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.

Pilots at NAS PAX will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier. The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers, “bounces.” Airspeed, altitude and power are all precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach the ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our military aviators and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. It is a highly complex and perishable skill, and requires intense period of training before pilots deploy. 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.

CDS Violation: 24-45909
On June 11, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the area of Hillside Court and N. Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown, to assist DFC Hendrickson with serving court papers. Contact was made with Lionel Mackall, 42 of Prince Frederick, who was observed throwing a silver object on the ground. Further investigation revealed Mackall was possessing a metal pipe covered in a white powdery residue (suspected crack cocaine) with wadded-up copper inside. Mackall was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and Resisting/Interfering with Arrest. 

CDS Violation: 24-46107
On June 12, 2024, DFC Lewis responded to the area of S. Solomons Island Road and Oakland
Hall Road in Prince Frederick, to assist a disabled motorist with two flat tires. Upon arrival, contact was made with Bryan Steve Velasquez, 30 of Alexandria. Further investigation revealed Valesquez was displaying signs of impairment and was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. A search of Velasquez’s person incident to arrest revealed a plastic tube with suspected heroin residue and a firearm holster. A vehicle search revealed a loaded Glock 43X 9mm handgun. Velasquez was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving Vehicle While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Handgun in Vehicle, and Loaded Handgun in Vehicle. 

CDS Violation: 24-46979
On June 15, 2024, DFC Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driving all over the roadway nearly striking other motorists in the area of the Walmart located at 150 Solomons Island Road N. in Prince Frederick. Contact was made with the driver, Matthew Kelland Novotny, 46 of Solomons, who refused to comply with deputies commands. Multiple open bottles of liquor were observed inside the vehicle in plain view. A vehicle search revealed numerous open containers of alcohol, two metal containers containing a white powdery substance (suspected cocaine), two plates, two straws, and two bank cards all covered with a white powdery residue. Novothy was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, and Resisting/Interfere with Arrest.

Damaged Property: 24-45753
On June 11, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to the 440 block of Lake Drive in Lusby, for a
report of damaged property. The complainant advised the back glass window of his truck was
shattered, sometime between 8 p.m. on June 10 and 7:30 a.m. on June 11. The estimated value of damaged property is $200.00.

Damaged Property: 24-46440
On June 13, 2024, Cpl. Kelly responded to the 3700 block of Williams Wharf Road in St.
Leonard, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised sometime between 4 p.m. on June 12 and 5:30 p.m. on June 13, unknown suspect(s) uprooted and stole the victim’s mailbox. The mailbox is described as a black metal mailbox with a black metal post. The estimated value of damaged and stolen property is $200.00.

Theft: 24-45912
On June 11, 2024, Deputy R. Contic responded to the 6000 block of Gordon Drive in
Sunderland, for the report of theft and trespassing. The complainant advised a Spy Point - Link Micro LTE trail camera was stolen from the victim’s property sometime between 8:30 p.m. on June 10 and midday on June 11. The estimated value of stolen property is $150.00.

Theft: 24-46696
On June 14, 2024, DFC Grierson responded to the 8300 block of Autumn Crest Lane in
Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a firearm was stolen out of the victim’s truck while parked at the Walmart located at 10600 Town Center Blvd in Dunkirk. The firearm is described as a black Sig-Sauer 365X with a 3-inch barrel, inside a black leather holster. The estimated value of stolen property is $620.00.

Theft: 24-46895
On June 15, 2024, DFC Rzepkowski responded to the 3800 block of Forrest Drive in
Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised her aluminum paddle boat was stolen from the community common area sometime after 6 p.m. on June 12. The paddle boat is a three-seater and approximately 8-10 ft long. The estimated value of stolen property is $1,000.00.

Theft: 24-46888
On June 15, 2024, DFC Rzepkowski responded to the 3700 block of Bayview Drive in
Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a BIC paddle board and black collapsible paddle were stolen from the community common area sometime after 5 p.m. on June 14. The paddle board is red and white and approximately 12 feet long. The estimated value of stolen property is $1,550.00.

Theft: 24-47100
On June 16, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to a theft report in the 11900 block of Lexington Drive in Dunkirk. Two individuals reported that their wallets and the contents inside were stolen from two separate unlocked vehicles parked at the Mary Harrison Cultural Arts Center, located at 2950 Chaneyville Road in Owings. The estimated value of the stolen property is $513.00.

Theft: 24-47201
On June 16, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the Big Lots located at 765 N. Solomons Island
Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised two individuals walked into the store and grabbed numerous items, passed all points of sale without making payment and fled the area. The estimated value of stolen property is unknown at this time.

Stolen Property: 24-47147
On June 16, 2024, DFC Rzepkowski initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle at Southern Maryland Blvd. and Skinners Turn Road in Owings, displaying stolen tags. Contact was made with the driver, Anastasia Brittany Bullock, 31 of District Heights, who was advised the rear registration plate was stolen. Bullock was issued a criminal citation for the stolen tag (Theft less than $100 from a Motor Vehicle) and issued other traffic related citations.

Vehicle Tampering: 24-46863
On June 15, 2024, deputies responded to the 3700 block of E. Larkview Court and the 3400
block of Lancer Court in Dunkirk, for the report of vehicle tampering. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect described as a black male, approximately 5’10”- 6 ft. tall, wearing dark clothing, a hood, and a backpack was observed on video surveillance walking up to vehicles, pulling on door handles, attempting to gain entry. There were no reports of stolen or damaged property.

Weapons Violation: 24-46039
On June 12, 2024, Cpl. Kelly initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle at Stoakley Road and N.
Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, after observing equipment and traffic violations. Contact was made with the driver, Oscar James Chew, III, 34 of Lexington Park, who failed to provide vehicle registration. Further investigation revealed K9 Kodak conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed a butterfly-style knife and a syringe containing a clear liquid (suspected heroin). Chew was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and Concealing a Dangerous Weapon.

Weapons Violation: 24-46807
On June 15, 2024, DFC Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop on a motorcycle for excessive speed along Rt. 4 and Patuxent Point Parkway in Solomons. Upon making contact with the operator, Joseph Leroy Bush, Jr., 45 of Lexington Park, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was detected, and a Smith and Wesson Bodyguard, 380 caliber fully loaded semi-automatic handgun was located on Bush’s person. Further investigation revealed Bush admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages and failed a series of standardized field sobriety tests. It was determined Bush was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. Bush was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Handgun on Person While Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and DWI.

With the arrival of summer and the Fourth of July holiday quickly approaching, Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray suggests that Marylanders attend public fireworks displays. "I would highly suggest the safest way enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the many public fireworks displays throughout the state," stated Mowbray. To help Marylanders enjoy a safer summer season, the State Fire Marshal offers several ways to enjoy fireworks while avoiding injury:

• Consider attending one of the numerous public fireworks displays in Maryland every year. Leave fireworks to the professionals.
• Visit: Office of the State Fire Marshal 2024 Firework Permits List for the most updated list of all legal and permitted displays throughout the state, 

Examples of prohibited fireworks include:

• Firecrackers, Cherry Bombs, Black Cats, M-80’s, Crackling Balls and Smoke Bombs
• Roman Candles and Bottle Rockets (whistling and/or with report)
• Sky Rockets, Helicopter-type Rockets, Spinning Wheels, moving tanks or other vehicles
• Any firework that is shot from a mortar tube

For those individuals who insist on the use of consumer fireworks

• Purchase the fireworks in the location where you intend to discharge them. Check with the local municipality to determine what fireworks are legal for use in that area.
• Fireworks are PROHIBITED in Baltimore City, Montgomery, Prince George's, Harford, and Howard counties, as well as Ocean City.
• Read and follow label warnings and instructions.
• Do not allow small children to use fireworks.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages while using fireworks.
• Have a bucket of water or hose available.
• Fully extinguish remains of fireworks in water before disposal. 

Any law enforcement officer may issue a criminal citation and confiscate fireworks for violations. Confiscated fireworks must be turned over to the State Fire Marshal's Office for disposal. The penalty, according to state code, for intending to ignite or igniting prohibited fireworks is $250.

"Fireworks have been a long tradition of the 4th of July holiday celebrations. Please make safety your number one priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday season." stated Acting State Fire Marshal Mowbray. "By acting responsibly, we can help eliminate fireworks injuries in Maryland."

The Calvert County Department of Community Resources, Public Transportation Division, is pleased to announce Calvert County buses will be fare free starting July 1, 2024.

The Board of County Commissioners approved the implementation of fare-free transportation at its Jan. 9, 2024, regular meeting. This initiative aims to boost ridership among Calvert County residents. While the county will see a projected $27,000 loss in farebox revenue, the fare-free model is expected to save $46,500 in annual farebox maintenance costs, resulting in an overall cost savings in the capital project budget. Additionally, increased ridership could lead to higher grant awards under the Maryland Transit Administration's new funding formula.

Public Transportation currently offers eight fixed bus routes and four demand-response para-transit routes. Riders may board or exit the bus at any safe location along the route. For routes and schedules, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/BusSchedules.

Learn more about the bus system and public transportation services at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Transportation.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

On Sunday, June 23, 2024, while on routine patrol in the 22000 block of Three Notch Road, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Brandon Reynolds spotted and recognized James Perry Bond, 33, as an individual who was sought on an open warrant for escape.

Bond had been in the custody of the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center following a January 2023 conviction for CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute, when on May 25, 2024, while participating in an in-patient treatment program, he removed his ankle monitoring device. This act led to the issuance of a warrant for Second-Degree Escape.

During the Sunday morning arrest, a subsequent search revealed suspected controlled dangerous substances and drug paraphernalia on Bond’s person. Bond was arrested under the warrant for escape and charged with two counts each of CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Bond has been transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center to await a bond hearing.

The Calvert County Department of Community Resources, Calvert County Family Network (CCFN), is pleased to support a Grab ‘n Go Summer Meals Program hosted by Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS). The program will ensure that children have access to nutritious meals during the summer months. Meal kits will be distributed weekly on Wednesdays from July 3 through Aug. 7, 2024.

Each meal kit includes five breakfast meals, five lunch meals and milk for each meal. Distribution sites and times are as follows:

·         Calvert High School

520 Fox Run Road, Prince Frederick (GPS Address: 600 Dares Beach Road)

Front Parking Lot (Right Side)

12:30-1:30 p.m.

·         Southern Middle School
9615 H.G. Trueman Road, Lusby
Front Parking Lot

9:30-10:30 a.m.

·         Windy Hill Middle School

9560 Boyd’s Turn Road, Owings

Front Parking Lot

9:30-10:30 a.m.

To participate, households must contact the CCPS Child Nutrition Office at 443-550-8680 to confirm eligibility and preregister all children for weekly meal distribution. Preregistration must be completed by 4 p.m. Tuesday to participate in Wednesday distribution; same-day registration is not available. Eligibility cannot be determined at Grab ‘n Go sites.

Households with children that are not enrolled in CCPS, must submit a meal benefit application, which can take 2-3 business days to process. Meal Benefit Applications can be found on the CCPS website or families may contact the CCFN at 410-414-5997 to request an application by mail. Completed applications should be mailed or dropped off at:

Calvert County Public Schools

Child Nutrition Department

1305 Dares Beach Road

Prince Frederick, MD 20678

Those who do not qualify for meal benefits can still participate by preregistering and prepaying $41 per meal kit. Payments are not accepted at distribution sites. For payment options, please contact the Child Nutrition Office.

Additionally, CCFN has limited funding available to offset meal kit costs for households that apply for, but do not qualify for free or reduced-price meal benefits. This assistance is on a first-come, first-served basis until depleted and will cover the full 6-week program for eligible households.

Community partners such as the Calvert Library Bookmobile, CalvertHealth Mobile Health Unit and Calvert County Health Department Highway to Health will visit meal sites bringing resources directly to families, promoting literacy and wellness. Additionally, CCFN will provide grab-and-go activities for families.

For more information and to preregister, please contact the CCPS Child Nutrition Office at 443-550-8680.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

On Friday, June 21, pursuant to an ongoing criminal investigation, detectives with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Intelligence Unit served a Search and Seizure Warrant for a juvenile suspect. With the assistance of other detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division, the juvenile was stopped as the driver of a vehicle in the Walmart parking lot in California, MD.

During the traffic stop, the juvenile was detained for the service of the search and seizure warrant. SMCSO K9 Maja performed a free-air sniff of the vehicle, which resulted in a positive alert. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm handgun located under the driver's seat.

The suspect, charged as an adult, faces multiple charges, including possession of a firearm by a minor, carrying a handgun on their person, carrying a loaded handgun on their person, transporting a handgun in a vehicle on public roadways, and transporting a loaded handgun in a vehicle on public roadways.

The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown to await a bond hearing.

The Board of Education of Charles County at its June 17 work session approved updates to the eligibility policy for Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) students. Board Policy 6431 guides student eligibility for both athletics and extracurricular activities for middle and high school students. Eligibility is based on student attendance and GPA but is also impacted by students receiving a failing grade.

In a vote of 6 to 2, the Board approved a policy change that provides more flexibility for students who receive an F in the fourth quarter, or last marking period of the school year. Students will now be eligible for fall athletics and extracurricular activities if they receive an F in the fourth quarter of a class but receive a final overall passing grade. Additionally, students will be permitted to regain eligibility by taking and passing a summer school make-up course in the same class (if offered) that caused them to be ineligible.

The GPA and attendance requirements do not change under the new policy. Students must still earn a 2.0 GPA, must have no failing grades for Quarters 1-3 and must be absent fewer than five days from the previous quarter. Suspensions count against a student’s eligibility.

The eligibility requirements for students are as follows.

Rising freshmen/Grade 9

• Students who are promoted from Grade 8 to Grade 9 automatically meet the GPA and attendance requirements for the first semester of their freshman year.
  • Absences count against eligibility for these students starting with the third quarter. Students who are absent fewer than five days from the previous quarter (second quarter) remain eligible without absence documentation.
  • Students who are absent five or more days can provide documentation of a lawful absence within five days of the absence and are limited to five parent notes.

Repeat freshmen and Grades 10-12

• Students must meet promotion standards.
• Students must have earned a 2.0 GPA from the previous quarter with no Fs for quarters 1-3.
• Students must have earned a final 2.0 GPA with no final failing F grades for any yearlong or semester course from the previous school year.
  • A student can earn an F for the fourth quarter but are eligible if they receive a final passing grade.
• Absences count toward eligibility.
  • Students who are absent fewer than five days the previous quarter remain eligible without documentation.
  • Students who are absent five or more days can provide documentation of a lawful absence within five days of the absence with a limit of five parent notes.

State regulations define lawful absences as: a student illness documented by a parent note; work approved or sponsored by the school; court summons; death of a family member; other emergency as approved by the principal; hazardous weather conditions; observance of a religious holiday; state of emergency; or lack of authorized transportation.

The policy also outlines eligibility for each quarter.

• Except for students promoted from eighth grade to ninth grade, students who wish to participate in fall extracurricular and/or athletic activities will need to meet eligibility requirements based on their final GPA at the end of the previous year. 

• Except for students promoted from eighth grade to ninth grade, students who wish to participate in winter extracurricular and/or athletic activities will need to meet eligibility requirements based on their first quarter GPA. 

• Students who wish to participate in spring extracurricular and or athletic activities will need to meet eligibility requirements based on their second quarter GPA. 

• Except for students promoted from eighth grade to ninth grade in their first semester, if a student receives a failing grade in Quarters 1,2 or 3, they are ineligible for the remainder of the season, for post-season play and for the following quarter. 

• Students academically ineligible at the end of the school year due to a failing grade may regain eligibility by attending and passing any/all summer school class(es) that caused the student to be ineligible, if said class(es) are offered in summer school. Students may regain eligibility only by taking the same summer school class to improve a failing grade or the corresponding equivalent that meets graduation requirements. GPA requirements will be recalculated after the completion of summer school.    

• Summer school classes taken for original credit do not count toward or against eligibility. 

• Students cannot gain or regain eligibility at interim or at any time during the quarter and/or season.  

The Maryland State Board of Education and Blueprint Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB) will meet jointly on Tuesday, June 25, 9 a.m., at the Nancy S. Grasmick State Education Building, 200 W. Baltimore St., in the Board Room (7th floor). The joint meeting will conclude at 1 p.m., and the regular State Board meeting will begin at 2 p.m.  

The State Board and AIB will review various priorities related to implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future during the joint meeting. The priorities discussed will include a presentation on a series of state education goals and metrics for the upcoming school years, updates on statewide literacy initiatives, Blueprint Implementation Plans from local school systems, and College and Career Readiness (CCR) supports for students who do not meet the CCR standard set by the State Board.  

The State Board will recognize Maryland’s U.S. Presidential Scholars in the afternoon. Maximilian P. Belyantsev and Angelina Xu, Richard Montgomery High School (Montgomery County); Mingni L. Dong, Dulaney High School (Baltimore County); and Minaal A. Khwaja, Wicomico High School (Wicomico County) are among the 161 high school seniors nationwide selected for the honor by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. The annual U.S. Presidential Scholars program honors the nation’s top-performing high school students in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. 

The State Board will also consider several regulatory actions related to teacher licensure and certification, and adoption of professional learning standards for teachers. 

Public Comment 

The State Board and AIB welcome?public comment?both in-person and virtually during meetings. Registration is limited to 10 individuals on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the maximum number is reached, additional individuals may be placed on a waiting list.  

Registration for public comment opens the week prior to the meeting date and ends at 3 p.m. on Monday, June 24. Interested individuals can register by completing this online form. Confirmed registrants for public comment will be notified. Comments are limited to three minutes for each speaker and monitored by staff. 

The complete agenda and livestream?are available online. 

During the evening of June 22, 2024, The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded to a reported assault at the 45000 block of Nicholas Court in Lexington Park, MD. Deputies spoke with the victim, who advised she was supposed to meet her ex-husband, John William Alvarado, 47, of Mechanicsville, MD. When the victim approached the suspect, Alvarado exited his vehicle, pointed a loaded handgun at the victim, and proceeded to strike her with the handgun several times. Alvarado then discharged the handgun twice and fled the scene.

The victim was flown to an area hospital for treatment of her injuries.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division responded to continue the investigation, and the subsequent investigation revealed that Alvarado had a previously disqualifying criminal conviction that prohibited him from possessing firearms.

On June 23, 2024, Detectives received an arrest warrant for Alvarado. Detectives received information Alvarado was in the Leonardtown area, and with the assistance of deputies from the Patrol Division, a traffic stop was conducted where the suspect was taken into custody and served the arrest warrant charging him with:

Attempted First Degree Murder

Attempted Second Degree Murder

Assault First Degree

Assault Second Degree

Firearm Use During the Commission of a Violent Crime

Regulated Firearm Illegal Possession

Loaded Handgun on Person

Loaded Handgun in Vehicle

Reckless Endangerment and related charges.

Alvarado is currently being held at the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, MD.

Due to forecasted high temperatures from Friday, June 21, through Wednesday, June 26, animal owners or custodians are required to provide appropriate protection from the weather including providing adequate shelter, water, space and access to shade.

Pay special attention to animals that are most prone to heat stroke:

·         Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with short noses, such as bulldogs, pugs, boxers, Persians and Shih Tzus, have compromised airways that make it difficult for them to cool themselves through panting.

·         Older Animals: Senior pets often have health conditions that make them less able to regulate their body temperature, increasing their risk of heat stroke.

·         Young Animals: Puppies and kittens are less capable of handling extreme temperatures due to their developing bodies.

·         Animals with Preexisting Health Conditions: Pets with respiratory, cardiovascular or other health issues are at higher risk of heat stroke due to their compromised health.

·         Thick-Coated Breeds: Animals with dense fur, such as huskies, malamutes and long-haired cats, may struggle to stay cool in hot weather.

·         Outdoor Animals: Animals kept outdoors should be monitored at all times and brought into a temperature-controlled environment if they begin to show signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, dizziness, disorientation, seizure or heavy panting.
 

Take preventative measures to protect animals during hot weather:

·         Provide ample water and shade to help them stay cool.

·         Avoid hot surfaces such as pavement and asphalt to prevent burns and overheating.

·         Adjust activity levels and exercise animals during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and keep sessions short.

·         Use cooling aids like cooling mats, fans, or damp towels for animals to lie on, and consider using pet-safe cooling vests.

·         Never leave pets in parked cars, which can quickly reach lethal temperatures, even with the windows slightly open.

·         Monitor at-risk pets closely and keep them indoors as much as possible during excessive heat.

·         Be vigilant for symptoms of heat stroke, including excessive panting, drooling and lethargy.

If you suspect an animal is suffering from heat stroke, immediately:

·         Move the animal to a cooler area.

·         Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.

·         Wet the animal with cool water and use a fan to aid cooling.

·         Contact a veterinarian immediately for further instructions.

Any person in violation of the requirements set forth in this alert may be subject to enforcement, which could include fines up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail.

To report concerns, citizens may contact the Animal Control Division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2526, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If the office is closed, reports may be made to the non-emergency line at 410-535-3491.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared in the event of an emergency by visiting www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Alerts and signing up for Calvert County Alert to receive timely information about various emergency and non-emergency situations in the county.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office successfully apprehended Dimarian Eltreek Logan, 20, of Lexington Park, MD, following a three-hour barricade on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

In the early afternoon, Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division located Logan in an apartment in the 46000 block of Admiral Lane in Lexington Park. Logan had escaped incarceration in May by removing his GPS monitoring device.

Shortly after 6 p.m., a barricade was declared when Logan refused to respond to Detectives. Roads in the immediate area were closed, and officers with the Hostage Negotiation Team made continuous but unsuccessful attempts to communicate with him. Members of the Emergency Services Team entered the apartment, and Logan was apprehended at approximately 9:46 p.m.

Logan absconded from custody on May 7 by removing his electronic monitoring device while on a court-approved furlough. He had been incarcerated following fourth-degree Burglary charges, which violated his probation for a January 2021 Robbery conviction.

Following his apprehension, Logan was taken to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for a precautionary evaluation. He was then transported to the Leonardtown Detention and Rehabilitation Center and served with Warrants for Violation of Probation, Escape, Burglary, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court decision for U.S. v. Rahimi: 

“The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the law banning domestic violence abusers from owning guns is a victory in the fight for gun safety and for survivors of domestic abuse. Keeping guns out of the hands of those with a record of violence saves lives. This is a step in the right direction, but there is more work we can and must do to implement commonsense gun safety policies and keep more families across the country safe.” 

As summer temperatures rise, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents to remain vigilant about the severe dangers of leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles.

The interior of a car can heat up to dangerous levels within minutes, even with windows cracked. Studies have shown that on an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach 104 degrees within 10 minutes and soar to nearly 120 degrees within half an hour. This drastic temperature increase can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and even death.

Children: Young children are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke as their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults. Heatstroke can occur when a child’s internal body temperature reaches 104 degrees, potentially leading to permanent injury or death.

Pets: Dogs and cats are also at high risk. In just 15 minutes, pets can suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke. They cannot cool themselves as effectively as humans, making them more susceptible to rapid temperature increases.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office offers the following tips to ensure the safety of your loved ones:

• Never Leave Them Alone: Never leave children or pets alone in a parked car, even for a short time. Not even for “just a minute.”
• Create Reminders: Place a reminder, such as a stuffed animal or a personal item like a phone or purse, in the front seat to ensure you check the back seat before leaving your vehicle.
• Utilize Technology: Use apps or features available in newer vehicles that remind you to check the back seat. Many cars now come equipped with systems that alert drivers if a rear door was opened at the beginning of the trip.
• Lock Your Car: Always lock your car when you’re not using it to prevent children from entering and becoming trapped.
• Immediate Action: If you see a child or pet alone in a hot car, call 911 immediately. Stay with the vehicle until help arrives.

Preventing heat-related tragedies is a community effort. By staying informed and vigilant, we can protect our community's most vulnerable members.

As summer temperatures rise, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents to remain vigilant about the severe dangers of leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles.

The interior of a car can heat up to dangerous levels within minutes, even with windows cracked. Studies have shown that on an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach 104 degrees within 10 minutes and soar to nearly 120 degrees within half an hour. This drastic temperature increase can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and even death.

Children: Young children are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke as their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults. Heatstroke can occur when a child’s internal body temperature reaches 104 degrees, potentially leading to permanent injury or death.

Pets: Dogs and cats are also at high risk. In just 15 minutes, pets can suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke. They cannot cool themselves as effectively as humans, making them more susceptible to rapid temperature increases.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office offers the following tips to ensure the safety of your loved ones:

• Never Leave Them Alone: Never leave children or pets alone in a parked car, even for a short time. Not even for “just a minute.”
• Create Reminders: Place a reminder, such as a stuffed animal or a personal item like a phone or purse, in the front seat to ensure you check the back seat before leaving your vehicle.
• Utilize Technology: Use apps or features available in newer vehicles that remind you to check the back seat. Many cars now come equipped with systems that alert drivers if a rear door was opened at the beginning of the trip.
• Lock Your Car: Always lock your car when you’re not using it to prevent children from entering and becoming trapped.
• Immediate Action: If you see a child or pet alone in a hot car, call 911 immediately. Stay with the vehicle until help arrives.

Preventing heat-related tragedies is a community effort. By staying informed and vigilant, we can protect our community's most vulnerable members.

Public Cooling Centers Available Friday, June 21 – Sunday, June 23, 2024

LEONARDTOWN, MD – With extreme heat in the forecast for the weekend, St. Mary’s County Government is announcing the availability of cooling centers for the public. Residents, who need to take refuge in a cool place, can go to one of the following locations:

Friday, June 21, 2024

Saturday, June 22, 2024

Sunday, June 20, 2024

* Times listed above are normal business hours and may change

The highest temperatures of the week are expected on Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23, 2024.  Visit ready.gov/heat for tips on staying safe during extreme temperatures. Always remember to check on your neighbors and loved ones, especially if they are elderly or have functional needs.

Learn more about and prepare for potential emergencies at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/em.

The Charles County Historic Preservation Commission will host the 2024 Historic Preservation Reception and Awards Ceremony on Sunday, June 23, 2024, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at Pleasant Hill House (9205 Marshall Corner Road, Pomfret, Maryland). The winner(s) of the Charles County Preservation Awards for 2024 will be announced.

The event will feature an address from Travis Wright, the owner of Pleasant Hill House. This residence housed many notable individuals, including Mother Catherine Spalding, who was born in the house in 1793. Spalding, known as “the Mother of Social Work,” went on to found the Sisters of Nazareth in Kentucky, which still operates today.

To conclude the ceremony, the first 20 people who register will be given a tour of the Pleasant Hill House.

The Historic Preservation Award is presented annually to an eligible individual, business, organization, or project that deserves recognition for outstanding achievements in historic preservation. Awards are presented in three categories: Preservation Service, Preservation Project, and Award of Merit.

For more information or to RSVP for the event or the house tour, contact Mr. Cal Carpenter at 301-645-0584 ext. 2584 or CarpentC@CharlesCountyMD.gov. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at approximately 8:27 p.m., Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 27000 block of Yowaiski Mill Road in Mechanicsville, MD, for the report of a disturbance between neighbors involving gunshots.

Witnesses report hearing an altercation between two individuals and gunshots fired. No injuries or property damage was reported.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division have assumed the case, and anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective Andrew Burgess at Andrew.Burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov or 301-475-4200, ext. 8041.

PRINCE FREDERICK, MD - Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day visited parts of Huntingtown and Prince Frederick on Tuesday to learn more about  Calvert County and shared goals.

Calvert County was the 10th stop in DHCD’s Day Trip series. The tours started in September 2023 to provide opportunities for DHCD to see the projects the agency has invested in and learn about the priorities of the community.

In a span from Fiscal Year 2020-24, DHCD invested more than $41 million to provide affordable housing, revitalize neighborhoods and community businesses, improve internet services and support homeless services in Calvert County.

“The places we visited today show how collaboration between the state and local officials benefits the overall community,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “No one knows Calvert County better than the people who live and work here and DHCD is ready to support its leadership to advance the area’s continued growth and to ensure this will be Maryland’s decade.”

"Calvert County is addressing housing challenges head-on, fostering smart development that enhances economic prospects and ensures accessible, quality housing,” said Calvert County Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. “We are especially grateful for the support and collaboration of Secretary Day and his staff from the Department of Housing and Community Development. Their recent visit facilitated productive conversations with our staff and community partners, reinforcing our shared commitment to tackling these vital issues together."

Tuesday's tour began in Huntingtown, where Secretary Day and senior staff visited the End Hunger food warehouse. End Hunger received a ???????????????????????????Community Development Block Grant to help construct the facility that provides food for people in need across Southern Maryland. Funded federally and administered in Maryland by DHCD, CDBG helps strengthen communities by expanding affordable housing opportunities, creating jobs, stabilizing neighborhoods and improving the overall quality of life.?

 DHCD presents a $100,000 check to Calvert County to the Armory Square

Later that morning, Secretary Day presented a check to Calvert County officials to celebrate a grant of $100,000 from one of DHCD’s State Revitalization Programs in support of the Armory Square site in Prince Frederick. Funding through the State Revitalization Programs are primarily used to help with expenses associated with capital projects. 

Once complete, Armory Square will serve as a multi-use pavilion that will support a walkable community, farmers market and event space.

The tour also featured a walk through Prince Frederick’s Main Street area before concluding with a community stakeholders meeting at the College of Southern Maryland.

The Day Trips tour continues in June in Worcester County.

During the overnight hours of Tuesday, June 18, several motor vehicles in neighborhoods surrounding Chancellors Run Road in Great Mills were entered, and items were stolen. Many of these cars were left unlocked.

Video surveillance from residences in the area shows what appears to be the same three individuals entering or attempting to enter several different cars. The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is actively investigating these incidents.

The Sheriff's Office urges residents to take precautions to prevent further incidents. We remind everyone to lock their cars, even when parked in driveways or in front of homes. Unlocked cars are easy targets for thieves. Taking a few seconds to secure your vehicle can save you from potential theft and loss.

Anyone with information about these crimes is asked to contact Deputy Richard Stillwell at Richard.Stillwell@stmaryscountymd.gov or 301-475-4200, ext. 8183.

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or send a text to Crime Solvers at 274637. Type "Tip239" in the message block and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. 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.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1303 Calls for service, including 14 Emergency Petitions from June 10 to June 16, 2024.

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public as well as self-initiated events made by deputy sheriffs.

The Emergency Petition statute in Maryland enables the prompt evaluation of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis having the potential to harm themselves or others to be taken to an emergency facility to assess the need for immediate treatment.

ARRESTS:

6/11/24 – Robert Samuel Taylor, 35, of Harwood, MD, by Deputy Darrell Stewart for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

6/11/24 – Douglas Lee Oliver, Jr., 34, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Travis Wimberly for Assault First-Degree, Assault Second-Degree, CDS Possession – Not Marijuana and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

DUIs:

6/15/24 – Cheaz Jeremiah Laquinn Porter, 29, of White Plains, MD, by Deputy Paul Rodriguez for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and Driving a Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely.

6/16/24 – David Lee Lancaster, 68, of Hollywood, MD, by Deputy Erik Fleenor for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

SUMMONSES:

6/06/24 – David Allen Hostetler, 28, of Leonardtown, MD, by Detective Edward Vogt for Sex Offender Failure to Notify Change in Employment status.

WARRANTS:

Kyle Wayne Jones, 31, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Robert Chase for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and Failure to Notify for Change in Vehicle Information.

As Juneteenth approaches, Calvert County is proud to honor the remarkable contributions of African American soldiers who served in the United States Colored Troops (USCT) during the Civil War. The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning, Historic Preservation, in collaboration with the Calvert Historical Society, is driving an ongoing historical preservation initiative to highlight the stories of these unsung heroes who helped shape Calvert County and American history.

 Through detailed research using service and pension records, Freedmen’s Bureau records, census data and historic maps and imagery, this project brings to light the significant, yet often overlooked, contributions of African Americans to the county’s history.

  Research findings have already revealed the profound impact these individuals had in shaping the community. Often having to escape enslavement to volunteer, these men served, fought battles and many returned to establish institutions that remain pillars of our community to this day: from churches and schools to the living legacy of their descendants. These stories reinforce the lasting influence of African Americans on Calvert County’s culture and society.

The goal of this initiative is to create a comprehensive and accessible database of the African American soldiers from Calvert County who served in the Civil War. This will serve as a historical record and as a resource for descendants and researchers interested in this pivotal chapter of American history.

The project represents the county’s ongoing commitment to historical preservation and acknowledges the remarkable contributions of people of color to our community. Plans include creating a user-friendly platform to make the collected information accessible to the public and ensure the stories of these American heroes are recognized and remembered.

Residents are encouraged to contribute to this historical preservation effort by sharing any information they may have about their ancestors who served in the USCT. Your stories, documents and artifacts can help enrich the project and ensure that these heroes receive the recognition they deserve.

If you have any information to share, please contact Historic Preservation at 410-535-1600, ext. 2504, or Christopher.Sperling@calvertcountymd.gov.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman issued the following statement on pardons for cannabis convictions issued today by Governor Wes Moore:

“I applaud Governor Moore’s executive order to pardon Marylanders previously convicted of misdemeanor possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. Like the Governor and Attorney General, I know and have seen the significant hardships these convictions impose on individuals and communities. As an attorney, I regularly represented pro bono clients in expungement matters and saw the toll that the conviction placed on them and their ability to access basic needs, like housing and jobs. 
 
“The Governor’s action demonstrates a keen understanding not only of the moral imperative in righting decades of wrong-headed policies but also the economic imperative. Low-level convictions too often result in a lifetime of negative consequences. As our agency’s State of the Economy report explained, we must do all we can to bring more people into the workforce. I know that the Marylanders now freed from the burden of a past conviction will be able to compete for and secure better jobs and more stable housing that will allow them to contribute more to their families, communities, and our state economy.”

Dangerous Weapon / DUI: On May 17, 2024, Trooper Bennett observed a gray Honda CRV bearing Florida registration traveling at a low speed that hindered the flow of traffic on Rt 4. A traffic stop was conducted and contact was made with the driver who was identified as Kyle Freeland, 32-year-old male, of Westminster, MD. Impairment was observed from Freeland and a Standardized Field Sobriety Test was conducted. A search of Freeland revealed brass knuckles hanging from his belt buckle. Freeland was placed under arrest for DUI and concealed deadly weapon and transported to Calvert County Detention Center.

Disorderly Conduct/Obstructing/Resisting Arrest: On May 19, 2024, Trooper Hernandez-Miguel responded to Harvest Ln in Huntingtown for a complaint of an abandoned vehicle. Upon arrival it was observed that a black Dodge Caravan was parked in the road and was deemed to be a traffic hazard. The owner of the vehicle arrived on scene and was identified as Joyce Murphy, a 63-year-old female of Chesapeake Beach. Murphy attempted to obtain a tow for her vehicle, but was unsuccessful. Trooper Hernandez advised her that he arranged a tow company to retrieve her vehicle. Once Murphy was advised of the tow company Murphy became combative and refused to leave her vehicle. Murphy resisted arrest and assaulted Trooper Hernandez-Miguel. Murphy was transported to Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with assault on law enforcement, disorderly, and hindering an investigation.

Assault/ Disorderly Conduct: On May 24,2024, Trooper Miller responded to Calvert County District Court, 200 Duke St. in Prince Frederick, for a report of disorderly conduct. Contact was Bailiff Wood who advised that Brandon Robinson, 18-year-old-male of Prince Frederick, was in the courtroom when he began to act disorderly and yell profanities at the State's Attorney. Robinson was advised to leave and not to return or he would be trespassing. Robinson left the building and returned a short time later and when he returned he assaulted Bailiff Wood and threatened to kill him. Robinson was placed under arrest and charged with assault and disorderly conduct.

Motor Vehicle Theft: On June 1, 2024, Trooper Miller observed a silver Lincoln Town Car bearing Virginia registration, which was reported stolen, traveling southbound on Rt. 4. Tpr. Miller later observed the vehicle at the Prince Frederick WaWa. Contact was made with the driver, Lester Johnson, a 47-year-old male, of Mechanicsville, MD. Johnson was placed under arrest for the theft of the vehicle. Johnson was transported to Calvert County Detention Center and charged accordingly.

Theft/Evading/Attempted Murder: On June 11, 2024 TFC Bauer and Tpr Bennett attempted to perform a traffic stop on a Nissan Altima bearing GA registration that was confirmed to be involved in a theft at Harris Teeter in Dunkirk. The vehicle fled the traffic stop and Calvert County Sheriff's Department Office began to pursue the vehicle. During the pursuit the driver attempted to strike a Deputy. After this TFC. Bauer attempted to place stop sticks in the path of the vehicle. While placing the stop sticks the driver of the vehicle who was later identified as Jordan Green, a 27 year-old-male, of Bowie, MD deliberately turned the vehicle towards TFC Bauer and Tpr. Bennett and struck TFC Bauer. CCSO was able to successfully end the pursuit and apprehended the driver and the occupants of the vehicle. Occupants of the vehicle were identified as Malik Lewis, 27-year-old male of Hagerstown, MD, and Shadeed Graham, 23-year-old-male of Capitol Heights. Green, Lewis, and Graham were transported to Calvert County Detention Center and charged with attempted murder, attempted 1st degree assault, theft, and several other charges.. TFC Bauer was transported to Baltimore Shock Trauma with critical injuries.

Joint HVE Initiative: On June 13, 2024 Tpr. Hernandez and Tpr. Sivic of the Prince Frederick Barrack along with Maryland State Police Gun Unit, worked with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Department to conduct a High Visibility Enforcement in the Lusby/Solomons area. This initiative was focused on criminal and drug enforcement. This resulted in 13 stops, 13 citations, 12 warnings, 1 vehicle search, and 1 DUI arrest.

Sheriff Steve Hall is pleased to announce that Warden Mary Ann Thompson and Corporal Joshua Crow from the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center (SMCDRC) were recognized during the 2024 Annual Maryland Correctional Administrators Association Conference (MCAA) held earlier in June.

Warden Thompson was honored with the prestigious Dewitt Award. This annual recognition, named in memory of Cecil County Sheriff Jack Dewitt (1974-1990), recognizes the outstanding contributions of corrections professionals and their associates. This is the second time Warden Thompson has received the Dewitt Award, having also been recognized in 2015.

Warden Thompson began her career in 1984 at the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Washington Field Office Division. In 1989, she joined the Corrections Division of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, where she now serves as the SMCDRC Warden. She provides professional guidance and direction in the planning, leadership, and management of the 350-bed detention facility.

Cpl. Crow's versatility and dedication were acknowledged as he was named the MCAA Officer of the Year for his outstanding performance at SMCDRC, a role he has served since 2017. His career has been marked by a multitude of responsibilities, including Intelligence Liaison, Fire and Safety Officer, Transport Officer, and Booking Officer.

Sheriff Steve Hall reflected on these achievements, saying, “We are incredibly proud of Warden Thompson and Corporal Crow. Their awards underscore the dedication and professionalism they demonstrate daily. Warden Thompson's distinction as a two-time recipient of the Dewitt Award showcases her sustained effectiveness over nearly a decade and reflects the high regard and respect she commands within the corrections community across the state.”

CDS Violation: 24-44293

On June 5, 2024, Deputy R. Contic responded to the intersection of Rt. 2 and Kent Road in Sunderland, for the report of a suspicious person. Upon arrival, contact was made with Mark Emery Cress, Jr., 41 of no fixed address. Deputies had responded to two prior calls that evening involving Cress. Cress was offered a ride but required a search of his person before entering the deputy’s vehicle. A search of Cress’s person revealed a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) including a Suboxone film package that contained residue. Cress was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-44564

On June 6, 2024, Deputy Chase initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle after observing multiple traffic violations along Robshire Manor Road in Huntingtown. Further investigation revealed Kyle Natalie Thomas, 39 of Huntingtown, admitted to taking heroin earlier in the day and advised deputies a bag of heroin was inside the vehicle. A vehicle search revealed controlled dangerous substances inside the vehicle. Thomas was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-44718

On June 7, 2024, Det. Hudson initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle with improper registration on Rt. 260 and Harrison Blvd. in Chesapeake Beach. Contact was made with the driver, Jamaal Ali Ramsey, 46 of SE Washington DC., who advised he did not possess a valid driver’s license or registration card. Further investigation revealed K9 Kodak conducted a K9 sniff of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed clear capsules containing MDMA, a BB Gun, clear containers of suspected PCP, two scales, and a “Special Police” badge. Ramsey was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.
 

CDS Violation: 24-44903

On June 8, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to Ulta Beauty located at 845 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a suspicious person. Upon arrival, contact was made with Lorenzo Cordell Mackall, 36 of no fixed address. Further investigation revealed Mackall was possessing drug paraphernalia. Mackall advised deputies he had used narcotics earlier in the day. Mackall was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-45186

On June 9, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the 6500 block of 11^th Street in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a person asleep behind the wheel of a vehicle. Deputies arrived on scene and observed Linda Diane Stokes, 29 of Chesapeake Beach, passed out with her foot on the brake and the vehicle still in drive. Stokes advised deputies she had used Heroin, a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) before leaving the house. Further investigation revealed CDS paraphernalia covered in a white powdery residue was found inside the vehicle. Stokes was arrested and charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

Damaged Property: 24-43971

On June 4, 2024, DFC Strong responded to the 3600 block on 28^th Street in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised a trailer parked outside the residence had been damaged as several small dents were observed. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-44358

On June 6, 2024, Cpl. Naughton responded to the Rod N Reel Resort located at 4160 Mears Avenue in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a disorderly subject. Contact was made with Devean Michael Gemoya, 20 of St. Leonard. Gemoya was underage and refused to leave the establishment after multiple requests. Gemoya was yelling and screaming causing a disturbance in front of other patrons. Gemoya was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Trespassing-Private Property, and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer.

Theft: 24-43659

On June 3, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to the Solomons Nursing Home at 13325 Dowell Road in Solomons, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised $40 was stolen from his wallet sometime between May 5 and June 2, after it was left in an unlocked drawer. The total value of stolen property is $40.00.

Theft: 24-43922

On June 4, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to the 11800 block of HG Trueman Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between May 30 and June 3, multiple prescription medications, wrenches, and coins were taken from his unlocked vehicle while parked in the 600 block of Field Road in Lusby. The estimated value of stolen property is $87.00.

Theft: 24-45012

On June 8, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the 4000 block of Hidden Hill Drive in Huntingtown, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between June 7 at 6:30 p.m. and June 8 at 9:30 a.m., an unknown subject(s) stole two Board of Education campaign signs from the victim’s property. The estimated value of stolen property is $20.00.

Theft: 24-45270

On June 9, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to the Flag Harbor Marina located at 1565 Flag Harbor Blvd in St. Leonard, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised several boat parts and accessories had been stolen from his boatyard at various times. The stolen items include a Mercury 20hp boat motor, a wrench set, an engine mount, a boat prop, and an I-beam. The total value of stolen property is $2,500.00.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Section (NES), in collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration,  and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, has successfully dismantled a major drug ring operating across Charles County. This year-long investigation culminated in a coordinated operation that resulted in several arrests and the recovery of significant amounts of drugs, weapons, and other evidence.

On June 7, NES detectives served search warrants at four residences in Charles County.

The search warrant operation was supported by Emergency Services Teams from Charles, St. Mary's, and Calvert County Sheriff’s Offices, along with additional CCSO components, and Charles County Animal Control. As a result of the searches, detectives recovered:

• Approximately $18,000 worth of cocaine HCL and crack cocaine
• Multiple counterfeit oxycodone pills which contained fentanyl
• Tramadol pills
• Five handguns
• Four shotguns
• Various firearm ammunition and accessories
• Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS)Drug manufacturing, production, and packaging materials
• A stolen dirt bike

The coordinated effort of all resources led to the arrest of all four suspects:

1. William Russell Stewart, 27, of Nanjemoy, was charged with possession with the intent to distribute drugs, and illegal possession of ammunition (prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction). Stewart was released by a judge on electronic monitoring.  
2. Donovan Franklin Delano Henry, 29, of Waldorf, was charged with weapons violations relating to firearms. Henry was released by a district court commissioner on June 7 on personal recognizance.
3. Rashad Isaiah Cobey, 23, of Indian Head was charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition (prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous conviction). Cobey was released by a judge on electronic monitoring.   
4. Lyray Darnell Simpson, 44, of Nanjemoy, was charged with possession with intent to distribute drugs. Simpson was released by a district court commissioner on a $10,000 unsecured bond.

The Calvert County Department of Public Safety is urging residents to prioritize heat safety to protect themselves and their loved ones as summer brings sweltering temperatures. Excessive heat, particularly when combined with high humidity, can lead to serious health risks, including heat-related illnesses. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, infants and children, and those with certain chronic illnesses such as asthma are at higher risk.

To combat the dangers of excessive heat, Public Safety officials recommend the following measures:

·         Stay hydrated: It is crucial to drink plenty of water, as hydration helps regulate body temperature during periods of intense heat.

·         Limit strenuous activity: Avoid engaging in strenuous physical outdoor activity when the heat is at its peak. If possible, schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.

·         Seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces: Whenever possible, stay indoors in air-conditioned areas to escape the heat. If air-conditioning is not available, close windows and use fans to create cross-ventilation. Closing curtains, shades or blinds can also help keep rooms cooler. South- and west-facing windows typically receive the longest hours of sunlight.

·         Take cool showers and baths: Take advantage of cool showers or baths to lower body temperature and find relief from the heat.

·         Seek refuge in public spaces: Public places like libraries and community centers offer temporary respite from the heat. These spaces are equipped with air conditioning and provide a safe environment to cool down.

During excessive heat events, the heat index may surpass the forecasted temperature. Whenever the heat index is projected to reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for two consecutive days, emergency cooling centers will be opened throughout the county. Libraries and community centers serve as emergency cooling centers and will provide water to those in need.

Residents can stay tuned to emergency alerts and information about the location and availability of cooling centers online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov and through the Calvert Prepare mobile app. Visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/BeAwarePrepare to download the free app and sign up for local emergency alerts.

For individuals who are unable to afford cooling costs, weatherization, or energy-related home repairs, residents are encouraged to contact the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP provides assistance to qualifying individuals and families, ensuring they can access the necessary resources to stay cool and safe during extreme heat events.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

 The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in observance of Juneteenth. In addition:

·         The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station and all county customer convenience centers will be open with normal operating hours.

·         The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open on Wednesday, June 19, with normal operating hours.

·         The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed on
Wednesday, June 19.

·         All Calvert County senior centers will be closed, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered on Wednesday, June 19. Meal delivery is scheduled to resume on Thursday, June 20.

·         There will be no county bus service on Wednesday, June 19. Regular service will resume on Thursday, June 20.

·         Calvert Library locations will be closed Wednesday, June 19, and will reopen at 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 20. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at calvertlibrary.info.

·         The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours on Wednesday, June 19. Juneteenth programming will take place between 1-3 p.m. and is included with museum admission.

·         Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be closing at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19.

·         The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed on Wednesday, June 19. Animal Control officers will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491.

·         All community centers will be closed on Wednesday, June 19.

·         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.

·         Chesapeake Hills Golf Course will be open on Wednesday, June 19, with normal hours.

·         Flag Ponds Nature Park and Kings Landing Park will be open with extended hours of operation from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Kings Landing Park pier will close at 5:30 p.m. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary remains closed due to fire damage however the trails are open. For a full nature park schedule, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/1505/Park-Hours.

·         Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center, Cove Point Pool and Kings Landing Pool, will be open with normal operating hours on Wednesday, June 19.

·         Breezy Point Beach will be open with extended holiday hours Wednesday, June 19, from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 14, 2024) – On Thursday, June 13, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 report of a subject not breathing. Upon arriving at the scene at the 21000 block of FDR Boulevard in Lexington Park, the deceased body of a woman, identified as Erica Christina Drinks, 52, was found in a shed on the property.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division have assumed the case, and the preliminary investigation suggests no foul play. The body has been sent to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy.

Anyone with information relating to this case is asked to contact Detective Benjamin Raley at 301-475-4200, ext. 8076, or by email at Benjamin.Raley@stmaryscountymd.gov.

 The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is hosting free back-to-school vaccination clinics for children ages birth to 18 years living in St. Mary’s County. Appointments are recommended. The following vaccines will be available:

• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough)
• Meningococcal (meningitis)
• MenB (Serogroup B Meningococcal)
• HPV (human papillomavirus)
• Varicella (chicken pox)

A parent or guardian must be present and bring the child’s immunization record and any related school forms. Marylanders can view and print their official vaccination records through MyIR, Maryland’s free immunization record portal. A Spanish-speaking interpreter will be on-site to assist community members as needed. 

To make an appointment, please call 301-475-6807 or 301-278-1412. Clinics will be held on the following dates and locations:

Spring Ridge Middle School-Based Health Center

• Saturday, July 27, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday, August 1, from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, August 6, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Saturday, August 24, from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• Saturday, September 21, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Margaret Brent Middle School-Based Health Center

• Tuesday, July 9, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday, July 18, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Saturday, August 10, from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, August 13, from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday, September 14, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

SMCHD Main Office in Leonardtown

• Saturday, July 26, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

For more information about vaccination recommendations by age, please visit smchd.org/immunizations or call the SMCHD Health Clinic at 301-475-4330.

Senate Republicans blocked this legislation while one in seven women in the U.S. have trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Finance Healthcare Subcommittee, today issued the following statement on the Right to IVF Act, which would establish a nationwide right to receive, provide and cover in-vitro fertilization treatment.

“Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the far right has consistently acted to restrict and ban access to reproductive health care. Now, they are jeopardizing the right to have a child through IVF and want to put doctors and their patients in jail for seeking a treatment that provides hope for so many families.

“I cannot understand why anyone would not want to protect the ability to use IVF. This is a medical procedure. This should not be political. 

“In-vitro fertilization is how millions of parents experience the joy of having a child. I thank all of the Maryland families who were at the Capitol today to lend their voice to this critical issue. I am proud to be a cosponsor of the Right to IVF Act, and we must continue to work to protect access to fertility treatment while eliminating extraordinary out-of-pocket costs.” 

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated South Patrol District One Station at 6845 Crain Highway in La Plata.

Sheriff Troy D. Berry, Captain Andrew Schwab – the current South Patrol Division Commander – and Captain Charly Baker delivered remarks to commemorate the opening of the new facility. The ceremony featured Officer Wyatt Adams cutting the ribbon, selected for this honor as the most recent Excellence in Patrol Award recipient. Certificates of Appreciation were presented to Chief of Building & Trades John Earle and Superintendent Colin Mohler of the Charles County Department of Public Works.  

In his remarks, Sheriff Berry expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the project and emphasized the station's significance. “This new facility will enhance our ability to serve and protect our growing community more effectively.”

Captain Schwab highlighted the importance of the new station in accommodating the increasing staff necessitated by the county's growth. “Charles County continues to experience growth as new homes and businesses are built, prompting the Sheriff’s Office to hire more police officers to maintain safety. We are constantly exploring options for additional space, including repurposing existing county buildings.”

The new South Patrol District One Station initially served as the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center over twenty years ago and later housed work-release individuals until that program ended. 

The successful completion of the project was overseen by Captain Charles Baker, Captain Cari Baker, Captain Harry Ivers, Captain Andrew Schwab, and the Charles County Department of Public Works. 

The CCSO was accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2001 and has since earned the highest rating of Excellence. Established in 1658, the CCSO is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States. For more information, visit www.ccso.us.

Charles County Crime Solvers offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a person responsible for a crime in Charles County. All individuals who provide tips through Crime Solvers will remain anonymous. Anyone with information about an unsolved crime or the location of a fugitive may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple Store by searching P3tips. For more information about the P3 program, click on this link: www.p3intel.com. 

The Charles County Sheriff’s Warrant/Fugitive Unit is actively seeking the public’s assistance in locating Eric William Broome, age 26, from Waldorf, who is wanted in connection with multiple charges including failing to appear in court for first-degree assault, false imprisonment, and violation of probation.

Incident Summary:

On August 1, 2023, Broome was arrested by Charles County Sheriff’s officers following a domestic-related incident. He faced charges of first-degree assault, false imprisonment, and other related offenses. On August 3, 2023, a judge released Broome from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring. The victim in this case secured a Protective Order. Broome violated the Protective Order in November 2023 in Garrett County, MD, and was arrested. He was released on personal recognizance by a Garrett County district court commissioner. 

During this investigation, investigators learned Broome has been on parole since June 3, 2022, following a guilty plea in 2015 for attempted second-degree murder in Charles County. Because he violated his parole conditions by being charged with the recent assault, the Circuit Court for Charles County issued a bench warrant for Broome’s arrest for violating his parole.

Efforts to Locate:

In December 2023, collaboration between the CCSO Fugitive Warrant Unit and the U.S. Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Task Force led to the discovery of Broome’s presence in Las Vegas, Nevada.

On December 20, 2023, the District of Nevada U.S. Marshals Service apprehended Broome after a brief foot pursuit and he was subsequently extradited back to Charles County.

On January 10, 2024, Broome was served with a warrant for parole violation. However, on January 12, 2024, a judge released him on electronic monitoring. Since this release, Broome's whereabouts have been unknown.

On May 2, Broome failed to appear in Circuit Court, resulting in the issuance of another bench warrant for his arrest.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Eric William Broome to contact PFC Chandler or CPL Rickard Jr. at 301-752-9258. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Charles County Crime Solvers tip line at 1-866-411-TIPS.

On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at approximately 4:02 p.m., deputies with the Calvert County Patrol Bureau responded to a report of a theft in progress at the Harris Teeter located at 10125 Ward Road in Dunkirk.

Upon arrival, deputies observed a white Nissan Altima occupied by two male subjects fleeing the scene with numerous stolen items.

The suspect vehicle was located traveling southbound on Rt. 4 in the area of Lower Marlboro Road, where TFC Bauer, Trooper Bennett, and Lt. Tilley attempted to stop the vehicle. Calvert County Sheriff’s Deputies initiated a pursuit when the suspects fled from the attempted traffic stop.

During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle was observed traveling at a high rate of speed in the area of Harvey Road in Huntingtown. The suspects attempted to ram a detective's police vehicle and continued fleeing.

In the vicinity of Harvey Road and MacArthur Drive, TFC Bauer and Trooper Bennett were attempting to deploy stop sticks. The suspect vehicle swerved to evade the stop sticks and struck TFC Bauer.

Deputies quickly apprehended three suspects Shadeed Gregory Graham, 23 of Capitol Heights, Malik Demencio Lewis, 27 of Hagerstown, and Jordan Green, 27 of Bowie. All suspects were transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Attempted First-Degree Murder, multiple counts of First-Degree Assault, Second-Degree Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, and Theft: $1500 - $25,000.

The injured Trooper was flown by Maryland State Police Aviation Trooper 2 to

R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, where he was evaluated, treated, and has since been released.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Det. Mudd with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office at (410) 535-2800 or email Michael.Mudd@calvertcountymd.gov. Please reference case #24-45880.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will be installing new sidewalks, curbs, and asphalt on South Shangri La Drive between MD Rte. 246 (Great Mills Road) and FDR Blvd. The project will include a paved walking path along the north side of Willows Road, from South Shangri La Drive to Lancaster Park. The project is scheduled to begin on or about Monday, June 17, 2024, with completion expected in approximately 30 days, weather permitting. 

Drivers are asked to please remain alert for equipment, work crews, and changing traffic patterns. Please consider alternate travel routes to avoid delays in traffic. Message boards and signage will be deployed in the area prior to and during the project to serve as a reminder.

For additional information, please contact John Wise with DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3531.

Senior Deputy State Fire Marshal Josh Matthews has been selected as Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year for the Southern Regional Office. His supervisor and regional commander, Deputy Chief State Fire Marshal John Nelson, nominated him. The Southern Regional Office comprises Charles, St. Mary's, and Calvert counties.

Starting as a summer intern during his studies at Hood College in Frederick, Maryland, Matthews quickly demonstrated dedication and passion for fire investigation and public safety. During his internship, he actively participated in various aspects of the agency's operations, including observing fire scenes, attending court proceedings, and shadowing deputies throughout investigations. This experience laid the foundation for his hiring as a Deputy State Fire Marshal in 2018. 

"His commitment to Southern Maryland and the entire state is commendable, evident in his extensive involvement in fire and explosive investigations. In 2023 alone, Senior Deputy Matthews was the primary investigator in 22 fire and explosive investigations while assisting in 38 cases. His contributions proved instrumental in resolving criminal cases, including the arrest of a 21-year-old individual on charges related to arson and property destruction." said Nelson on Matthews's achievements

Matthews has been accepted as part of the Maryland State Fire Marshals Office Bomb Squad. He was selected to join the elite unit through an application and interview process and started his additional duties in 2023. Matthews has taken part in Bomb Squad monthly training, assisted at demonstrations, and deployed the Southern Regional Bomb Truck when requested. Later this year, he will attend the six-week FBI hazardous device school in Alabama to become certified as a bomb technician. Matthews will have additional on-call duties and travel across the state to assist with potential explosive incidents when needed.

Nelson commended Matthews's participation in several community events held throughout the year. "He is always willing to assist in public demonstrations and public safety events as needed and regularly participates in the Shop with a Cop program and Community Risk Reduction programs held throughout the year."

Matthews will join other investigators chosen throughout the state for the 2023 James C. Robertson Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year Award. The award will be presented next week during Acting State Fire Marshal Mowbray's Annual Report at the Maryland State Fireman's Association 132nd Convention and Conference in Ocean City. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Animal Adoption & Resources Center has announced that all dog and cat adoption fees will be waived through June 30, 2024. Adoption fees will still apply for all other animals, excluding some specific animals that have been “sponsored” and paid in advance by other residents to encourage adoption. 

Since opening, the St. Mary’s Animal Adoption & Resource Center has been protecting, advocating for, and providing compassionate care to animals in need. The Animal Adoption & Resource Center takes in and oversees adoptions for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, reptiles, small mammals, birds, and more!

The shelter is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from noon – 6 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon – 4 pm. Walk-ins are welcome; no appointment necessary!

Residents can learn more about the Center and volunteer opportunities, view animals available for adoption, and watch the live kitty cam online at: stmaryscountymd.gov/animalshelter.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 2838 Calls for service, including 37 Emergency Petitions from May 27 to June 9, 2024.

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public as well as self-initiated events made by deputy sheriffs.

The Emergency Petition statute in Maryland enables the prompt evaluation of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis having the potential to harm themselves or others to be taken to an emergency facility to assess the need for immediate treatment.

ARRESTS:

5/30/24 – Katelyn Marie Corliss, 29, of Lusby, MD, by Deputy Austin Welch for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

6/03/24 – Dkarhia Lakya Belcher, 19, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Nicholas Hill for Assault First-Degree and Assault Second-Degree.

6/06/24 – Zuri Kali Harrison, 21, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

6/06/24 – Carol Marie Thompson, 36, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Elijsha Munn for Assault First-Degree and Assault Second-Degree.

6/07/24 – Laryssa Jean Wall, 28, of California, MD, by Deputy Alexander Tasciotti for Assault First-Degree, two counts of Assault Second-Degree on a Law Enforcement Officer, Assault Second-Degree, and Resisting Arrest.

6/07/24 – Tavion Kelly Sommerville, 18, an incarcerated individual, by Deputy First Class Nicholas Hill for Assault Second-Degree on a Division of Corrections Employee.

6/09/24 – Kyle Xavier Johnson, 27, of Lusby, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for providing Fraudulent Personal Identification. Johnson was also arrested on two active warrants through the Maryland State Police.

6/09/24 – Robert Wayne Wright, 46, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Richard Stillwell for providing Fraudulent Personal Identification. Wright was also arrested on two active warrants.

DUIs:

6/01/24 – Nick Alieu Seisay, 40, of Alexandria, VA, by Deputy Joseph Reppel for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident, and related charges.

6/02/24 – Maureen Genevieve McFadden, 62, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Preston Dixon for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

SUMMONSES:

6/06/24 – Anthony Cleaver Mason, 64, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Elijsha Munn for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

WARRANTS:

6/10/24 – Jacquelyn Elaine Walker, 37, of Alexandria, VA, by Deputy Helen Deitrich for Theft $1500-$25000.

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.

The CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of  National Certified Nursing Assistant Week and World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. They also presented proclamations celebrating the Leonardtown High School Softball and Baseball teams for winning their respective Maryland State Championships, and presented a commendation to Kayla Rorie of Great Mills High School for winning the State Championship for 100 meter Hurdles. 

For their main agenda item, the Commissioners approved the Board of Education’s FY2025 budget and quarterly payment schedule.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Department of Social Services Inter-Governmental Agency Agreement on behalf of the Local Management Board, Poverty Alleviation System, Circles USA.
• Approved the FY2025 Memorandum of Understanding with Visit St. Mary’s MD.
• Approved the renewal of the MOA with College of Southern Maryland for Small Business Development Center services in FY2025.
• Approved the Program Open Space development applications for Chancellors Run Regional Park LED Light Retrofit project.

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

The CSMC will not meet on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. Visit stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

Calvert County Government is pleased to announce the results of the latest community survey, reflecting the opinions and insights of 869 residents. Of these, 690 respondents were digitally recruited using platforms such as social media, mobile apps, local websites and survey panels, which targeted respondents through ads to ensure an unbiased sample of county residents. The survey offers a comprehensive look at the strengths and areas that residents believe need improvement within the community.

The survey identified three primary areas for improvement:

·         Arts and Culture: The survey revealed a low score in arts and culture. Calvert County Government is advancing initiatives to incorporate the arts into county facilities, including plans to add murals at Appeal Landfill and park basketball courts.

·         Public Transportation: Despite continued county efforts to better meet community transportation needs, transportation continues to score low among residents. In addition to updated transportation route maps, education and outreach regarding transportation use, Calvert County is transitioning to fare-free bus services starting July 1, aimed at making public transportation more accessible and convenient for all residents.

·         Zoning: Zoning issues remain a concern, with increased interest from residents in more information from Planning & Zoning. Residents are encouraged to review the proposed Zoning Ordinance articles and submit feedback during the public comment period this summer. County staff are considering opportunities and channels to increase information and engagement in this area.

The survey included a set of questions specific to community resources and communication. Of note, 27% of respondents think a lack of awareness of eligibility is the biggest barrier to accessing veterans’ benefits in Calvert County. To address this, staff are working with the Veterans Affairs Commission (VAC) on various efforts, including a new monthly veterans newsletter.

When asked about communication with residents, 56% of respondents would like to see increased transparency and 37% want more frequent updates from local government. Staff is working to address these concerns with a newly launched mobile app that allows custom notifications for topics of interest and quick access to submitting feedback or contacting county staff.

The survey also highlighted key areas respondents feel are strengths:

·         Safety: Overall safety continues to score high. The establishment of new Sheriff’s Office district stations in Dunkirk and Lusby is a significant step in maintaining and improving this essential area.

·         Libraries and Education: Quality of libraries and education funding are consistently praised. The recent addition of a new library and ongoing county funding for education reflect our commitment to these essential services.

The survey showed that 77% of surveyed residents expressed overall satisfaction with life in Calvert County. This significant figure highlights an overall positive sentiment within our community and motivates staff to continue working on areas needing improvement.

Full survey results are available at www.calvertcountymd.gov/SurveyResults.

Calvert County residents are encouraged to participate in the latest community survey. The survey is available at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Survey through Aug. 31. Residents who have participated in previous surveys are strongly encouraged to respond again. Continuous feedback is invaluable in helping county officials and staff to identify and address community concerns, strengths and areas that need improvement.

Survey responses are confidential and anonymous; however, a respondent may choose to share their email address if they wish to receive updates about future surveys. The survey will not collect an individual’s name, address or any other identifying information.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

The June 19 closure also includes:

• All three St. Mary's County Libraries (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown, and Lexington Park)
• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern), and there will be no home-delivered meals
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS)
• Department of Recreation & Parks indoor programs and facilities
• The Animal Adoption & Resource Center

The following SMCG operations will be open on June 19:

• The six Convenience Centers (9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• The St. Andrews Landfill (8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
• Great Mills Pool (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wellness & Aquatics Center (6 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course and Riverview Restaurant

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

On June 4, 2024, around 10:30 a.m., the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an alleged armed robbery at the Safeway Gas Pumps located at 10276 Southern MD Blvd in Dunkirk. The report was filed by Brian Arnell Hall, 35 of Washington D.C., who claimed that an unknown suspect had approached him with a weapon and demanded his wallet.

Following a thorough investigation, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office has determined that the report was false. Evidence gathered from surveillance footage, witness interviews, and other investigative methods revealed inconsistencies in Mr. Hall’s account of the events. The investigation concluded that no armed robbery took place and Hall fabricated the incident. Hall is facing charges of False Statement to a Law Enforcement Officer.

Sheriff Ricky Cox stated, "We take all reports of criminal activity very seriously and allocate significant resources to ensure the safety of our community. False reports not only waste valuable police resources but also create unnecessary fear and anxiety among residents. We are committed to holding individuals accountable for providing false information to law enforcement."

The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office urges the public to report suspicious activities or crimes accurately and responsibly. False reporting is a criminal offense and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident or any other crime is encouraged to contact the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office at 410-535-2800 or via email at ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov.

On June 4, 2024, at 9:23 p.m., members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Patrol Bureau responded to the area of Maryland Rt. 260 and Paris Pines Court in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a serious motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. Due to the circumstances, the Crash Reconstruction Team responded to the scene and assumed the investigation.

A preliminary investigation revealed a 2020 Toyota Rav 4, operated by Marilyn Shane Maloy, 30 of Chesapeake Beach, was traveling east on Maryland Rt. 260 in the area of Paris Pines Ct. While driving the Toyota struck Michael Frank Brooks, 69 of Owings. At the time Brooks was struck, he was wearing all dark clothing and was walking in the travel portion of the roadway.

Brooks sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Maloy was treated for minor injuries and released on scene.

Deputy First Class Michael Daily of the Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or events leading up to the incident is asked to contact DFC Daily at 410-535-2800 or via email Michael.Daily@calvertcountymd.gov.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for its 2024 Citizens Police Academy (CPA) class. This 12-week program will begin in September 2024 and will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. through early December, except Wednesday, November 27. The classes will be held in various locations, including the CCSO Headquarters, District 3 Station, Community Services Annex, Crime Lab, Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, and the Charles County Courthouse.

"We're excited to reintroduce the Citizens Police Academy for its ninth year," said Sheriff Troy Berry. "This invaluable program offers community members an inside look at the police profession and enables us to engage with citizens to understand their views on law enforcement. It's a crucial tool for strengthening the relationship between the police and the communities we serve."

Participants will learn about a wide range of topics, including:
•             Patrol Procedures
•             Narcotics Investigations
•             Forensic Evidence
•             Criminal Law
•             Juvenile Issues
•             Use of Force
•             Criminal Investigations
•             Search and Seizure

Participants will get hands-on experiences including a Firearms Training Simulator (FATS) and crime scene processing. They will also have the opportunity to ride with a police officer and experience policing from an officer’s perspective. Participation in the Ride-along Program is not required but is strongly encouraged.

The Citizens Police Academy is a valuable opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the realities of policing. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residents of Charles County. Individuals who wish to apply will be subject to a background check. This program is free of charge. There are a limited number of seats available, so anyone interested in participating in the CPA should submit their application as soon as possible. 

Additional information and applications for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy can be found on our website. Applications are due no later than August 9, 2024,  and can be emailed to training@ccso.us or mailed to: 

Charles County Sheriff’s Office
6915 Crain Highway
PO Box 189
La Plata, MD 20646
Attn: Human Resources

Additional questions about the program or application process should be directed to Captain Robert Kiesel at KieselR@ccso.us.

On Sunday, June 9, at approximately 11:18 p.m., Deputy Bradley Kirscht initiated a traffic stop after observing a vehicle traveling above the posted speed limit on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, MD.  During the stop, Deputy Kirscht verified the identities of the operator and the front-seat passenger.

The passenger, identified as Vincent Lavey Harrington, 23, of Bowie, MD, was found to have felony warrants in St. Mary’s County and Charles County. A subsequent search of Harrington revealed a bag containing suspected Ecstasy/MDMA tablets and a loaded handgun.

Harrington was arrested and charged with Illegal Possession of a Firearm after having been convicted of a crime of violence, Illegal Possession of Ammunition, Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm, CDS: Possession - Not Cannabis, and related charges.

Harrington was also served the active arrest warrant through St. Mary’s County and transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, MD.

CDS Violation- 24-42444 On May 29, 2024, Deputy DeSantis initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation along S. Solomons Island Road in the area of Flag Ponds Parkway in Lusby. Contact was made with the driver, Leroy Robert White, 67 of Lexington Park, and a passenger who initially refused to identify himself. Deputy Parrott and DFC Hendrickson arrived on scene to assist with the traffic stop. Further investigation revealed K9 Atlas conducted a K9 sniff of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed, multiple bags containing suspected Cannabis totaling 212 grams, empty tear-off plastic bags bearing graphic logos, and four cell phones. A search of the passenger later identified as Sidney Antwan StrainCarter, 35 of Lexington Park, revealed a SAR 9mm handgun containing a full magazine with 18 9mm rounds in addition to $8,403.00 in US Currency. Strain-Carter was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Use of a Firearm in a Drug Trafficking Crime, Use of a Firearm During a Felony/Violent Crime, Loaded Handgun on Person, and Manufacturing CDS-Cannabis. White was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Manufacturing CDS-Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-43307 On June 2, 2024, Deputy Madura responded to the Fastop located at 8054 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach, for a possible assault. Contact was made with the complainant who advised Donald David Chew, Jr., 51 of Pasadena, was being aggressive and threatened to assault the victim. Chew failed to obey deputies commands and was placed into custody. A search of Chew at the Detention Center revealed a controlled dangerous substance on his person. Chew was charged with Disorderly Conduct, Intoxicated Public Disturbance, and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-43510 On June 2, 2024, DFC Crum initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle exceeding the legal speed limit in the area of NB Rt. 4 and Ward Road in Dunkirk. The vehicle failed to stop and continued traveling northbound on Rt. 4. DFC Crum activated his emergency air horn on two occasions to get the driver to pull over. Upon making contact with the occupants of the vehicle, DFC Crum observed a pill bottle in plain view. Further investigation revealed the pill bottle contained suspected cocaine. A vehicle search revealed multiple purple plastic tubes containing suspected cocaine. The passenger, Lealyson Page Wright, 32 of Upper Marlboro, was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and was charged with CDS Possession: Not Marijuana and CDS Possession: Paraphernalia. 

Damaged Property: 24-41723 3 On May 27, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to Emmanuel Church Road and Barakat Court in Huntingtown, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised that the Cheltenham Knolls brick sign and stop sign at the beginning of the neighborhood were both defaced with profane language in black and red spray paint. The speed limit sign was also defaced. The estimated total of property destruction is unknown at this time. 

Damaged Property: 24-41705 On May 27, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the 1600 block of Heather Lane in Huntingtown, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised that the neighborhood sign and stop sign at the neighborhood entrance had been defaced with spray paint. The estimated value of damaged property is $200.00.

Damaged Property: 24-42004 On May 28, 2024, Master Deputy Wilder responded to the Chesapeake Bio Lab located at 146 Williams Street in Solomons, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised the key card scanner to access the research pier was damaged. The scanner was observed lying on the river bottom about 10 ft from the dock. The estimated value of property destruction is $8,000.00.

Damaged Property: 24-43266 On June 1, 2024, DFC Aley responded to the 200 block of Jendan Way in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised an unknown substance was poured on the victim’s vehicle between 6 p.m. and 9:30 pm, while it was parked outside the residence. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Property Destruction: 24-43157 On June 1, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to Driftwood Beach located at 995 Beach Drive in Lusby, for the reported malicious destruction of property. The complainant advised the men’s restroom had been vandalized. Deputy Jones observed multiple rolls of toilet paper hanging from the roof, in the toilet, in the sink, and on the ground. The estimated value of damaged property was $125.00.

Malicious Destruction of Property: 24-41944 On May 28, 2024, Deputy Brown responded to the area of Moravia Road and Catalina Drive in Lusby, for an unknown male staggering in the street throwing metal objects at passersbys. Upon arrival, Anthony Joshua Pace, 26 of Lusby, was observed lying in the middle of the street covered in dirt, shirtless with no shoes next to broken American Flags attached to wooden dowels. Investigation revealed Pace had damaged multiple properties in the area including breaking out multiple vehicle windshields, ripping satellite dishes down, breaking sliding glass doors, and forcing entry to at least two residences. Pace was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property Valued less than $1,000.00.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 24-41741 On May 27, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to the 5400 block of Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick, for the reported vehicle theft. The complainant advised a custom-built green 1978 Kawasaki KZ1000 motorcycle had been stolen from the victim’s property. The estimated value of stolen property is $8,500.00.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle: 24-41607 On May 27, 2024, at 1:02 a.m., Calvert County Patrol Bureau deputies were alerted to a tag reader referencing a stolen vehicle traveling eastbound on Route 260 from Rt. 4 in Dunkirk. The vehicle, a blue Audi A7 was confirmed to be stolen and was located by DFC Idol travelling over 100 mph. A traffic stop was attempted, however, the driver failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated. The suspect continued to flee at speeds over 100 mph and subsequently crashed just north of the Calvert County line in Anne Arundel County in the median of Rt. 4 and Lower Pindell Road in Lothian. The suspect struck a guardrail, left the roadway, and came to a rest in a wooded area where the suspect then fled on foot. Deputies conducted an extensive search with K9 units and drones for over 2 hours with negative results. Police recovered a Glock 19 handgun as well as drugs from the stolen vehicle. The firearm with an extended magazine was loaded and confirmed stolen through Virginia. There was no description of the driver. Police continue to investigate.

Theft: 24-41780 On May 27, 2024, Deputy Jones responded to the 700 block of Lazy River Road in Lusby, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised a vehicle in the driveway had been broken sometime between 5:30 p.m. on May 26 and 5:50 p.m. on May 27. Coins had been stolen from the vehicle and bottle rockets were left in the center console. The estimated value of stolen property is $25.00.

Theft: 24-42047 On May 28, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the 4200 block of Hunting Creek Road in Huntingtown, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised that a company-issued truck, left unlocked with the keys inside parked in the 700 block of Monarch Lane in Huntingtown, had items stolen from the vehicle. The items stolen were vehicle keys, a registration card, and an insurance card. The estimated value of stolen property is $231.00.

Theft: 24-42298 5 On May 29, 2024, DFC R. Jones responded to the Solomons Nursing Center, located at 13325 Dowell Road in Solomons, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised she had five $20 bills stolen from her wallet. The estimated value of stolen property is $100.00. 

Theft: 24-42047 On May 28, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the 4200 block of Hunting Creek Road in Huntingtown, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised that a company-issued truck was broken into while parked in the driveway of a residence located near the 700 block of Monarch Lane in Huntigntown. The stolen items include the vehicle's keys, registration card, and insurance card. The estimated value of stolen property is $231.00.

Theft:24-42572 On May 30, 2024, Deputy Daily responded to the playground area of the Victoria Station neighborhood located on Cannery Road and Lakeshore Drive in Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between May 25 and May 27, an unknown suspect cut two eyebolts holding an 18-foot chain and padlock, then stole the chain. The estimated value of stolen property is $150.00.

Theft: 24-43137 On June 1, 2024, Master Deputy Wilder responded to the 5200 block of Apple Way in St. Leonard, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between 8:30 p.m. on May 24 and 10 a.m. on May 25, a wallet was stolen from a vehicle parked in a locked detached garage on the property. Multiple credit cards were inside the wallet. The victim noticed suspicious spending on his accounts and $400 withdrawn from a bank account. The estimated value of stolen property is unknown at this time.

Traffic Arrest: 24-42553 On May 30, 2024, Deputy Newton observed a yellow sports bike with no tags in the area of Rt. 260 and Brickhouse Road in Dunkirk. Deputy Newton attempted a traffic stop with lights and sirens activated, however, the driver accelerated and fled into Anne Arundel County. Approximately five minutes later, the yellow sports bike was observed coming back into the county. A traffic stop was initiated on Grovers Turn Lane. Deputies were able to stop the bike without incident and placed the driver, Arimel Dominic Newman, 56 of Owings, into custody. Newman was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Attempting to Elude Uniformed Police by Failing to Stop Vehicle, Driving an Unregistered Vehicle on a Highway, and other traffic violations.

Traffic Arrest: 24-43077 On June 1, 2024, Deputy Wilder responded to the 11700 block of Mill Bridge Road in Lusby, for the report of a pedestrian struck. Investigation revealed a female victim was struck by a vehicle and the driver fled the scene. The victim was able to obtain a vehicle and suspect description as well as a tag number. The suspect vehicle and driver were later located by Deputy Brown at an address in Lusby. The driver, Timothy Michael Dent, 60 of Lusby, was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Failure to Immediately Return and Remain at the Scene of an Accident Involving Bodily Injury.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, June 6, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 4-day trial and approximately two hours of deliberation, convicted Deanthony Lamont Warrick, 35, of Indian Head, of the First-Degree Murder of Jasmine Lakesha Hicks and related charges.

On April 12, 2023, officers responded to a residence in Bryans Road for the report of an unconscious female in the yard. Upon arrival, officers discovered victim Hicks lying in the yard with several stab wounds. Unfortunately, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

An investigation into the murder revealed that Warrick and the victim were outside of Warrick’s residence prior to the stabbing. Warrick and the victim began engaging in a verbal altercation about items that were stolen from Warrick by another individual. During the altercation, Warrick began stabbing the victim repeatedly. At one point, Warrick told the victim “Don’t make me kill you.” After stabbing the victim several times, Warrick fled the area.

The murder was captured on a nearby surveillance video. Warrick also confessed to the murder during the course of the investigation.

A sentencing date has been scheduled for August 6, 2024, at 2 p.m. Warrick faces Life in prison for First-Degree murder, plus additional time for the lesser related charges. 

Guilty

• First-Degree Murder of Jasmine Lakesha Hicks
• Wear and Carry of a Dangerous Weapon Concealed on or About His Person
• Wear and Carry of a Dangerous Weapon with the Intent and Purpose of Injuring Jasmine Lakesha Hicks
• Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance to wit: Phencyclidine, with intent to distribute the said controlled dangerous substance
• Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance to wit: Phencyclidine
• Possession of a Regulated Firearm, to wit: Taurus 9mm handgun, after being convicted of a crime of violence

Jeffrey C. Thomas has been selected as the Lower Eastern Regional Office nominee for Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year. He will join other investigators chosen throughout the state for the 2023 James C. Robertson Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year Award during the Maryland State Fireman's Convention in Ocean City this month. 

Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Thomas was nominated by his supervisor, Deputy Chief Matt Stevens, and his peers of the Lower Eastern Region, which comprises Dorchester, Wicomico, and Somerset counties.

He began his employment with the Office of the State Fire Marshal on July 2, 2008, later graduating from the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy. He was initially assigned to the Upper Eastern Regional Office in Easton, where he demonstrated exceptional service until October 2014, when he transferred to the Lower Eastern Regional Office in Salisbury to be closer to his family.in Salisbury shortly after being hired. 

A testament to his expertise and dedication, Thomas was accepted into the OSFM canine program in April 2014, where he graduated from the ATF's National Canine Division with an accelerant detection canine, "Billie."  Deputy Thomas and K9 Billie served with distinction until Billie's retirement in October 2022. Deputy Thomas promptly returned to the national canine program, graduating with K9 Deacon in November 2022, where he continues to serve. 

In 2023, Deputy Thomas and K9 Deacon responded to 12 statewide calls, showcasing their specialized skills in fire investigations. Additionally, they actively participated in public education and community risk reduction events, emphasizing their commitment to public safety.

"Master Deputy Thomas's dedication to his colleagues is a testament to his character. He consistently goes above and beyond to assist them, even after hours, demonstrating his willingness to support the team in any capacity. His adept management of complex criminal cases and completion of numerous fire safety inspections underscore his versatility and proficiency within the agency, making him a valuable asset to the team." wrote Stevens in his nomination of Thomas. 

Thomas was the lead investigator on 24 investigations and achieved a 40% closure rate on incendiary cases in 2023, reflecting his effectiveness in resolving intricate investigations. He completed 25 job-related training courses totaling 111 hours and conducted 126 fire safety inspections. 

Deputy Thomas assumed the role of the senior investigator in the Lower Eastern Regional Office, demonstrating his readiness to shoulder additional responsibilities. His exemplary leadership qualities have been evident in his role as acting Regional Commander, where he manages complex scenes and ensures operational continuity.

Outside of his professional responsibility, Deputy Thomas spends time with his family and enjoys the natural beauty of the eastern shore through hunting and fishing.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, June 6, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Makeba Gibbs sentenced Nijuan Wilson, 17, to Life in prison with all but 30 years suspended for the First-Degree Murder of Deangelo Beale. Wilson will be on supervised probation for five years upon release.

On May 24, 2024, Wilson entered a guilty plea to the aforementioned charge.

On June 9, 2023, officers responded to an apartment complex in Waldorf for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they located victim Deangelo Beale in the parking lot suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Unfortunately, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Another individual, Marquise Jackson, was later discovered deceased in connection with the incident.

An investigation revealed that during the morning hours of June 9th, Beale and Jackson were at the same nightclub in Washington, D.C. and got into an argument. After leaving the nightclub, Jackson and four other suspects robbed Beale of his belongings and abducted Beale at gunpoint. Beale was brought to his apartment in his vehicle. Three of the suspects exited the vehicle and entered Beale’s apartment, holding Beale’s girlfriend, who shared the apartment, at gunpoint and demanding property. Jackson and another suspect, later determined to be Wilson, stayed in the vehicle with Beale.

At some point, Beale was able to take one of their firearms inside the vehicle and shoot Jackson. The suspects inside of the apartment heard the commotion then came outside and shot Beale, killing him. The suspects were able to flee the area in Beale’s vehicle and drop Jackson off at a nearby hospital. Jackson was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Before giving Wilson his sentence, the Honorable Judge Gibbs told him, “Your actions were callous, cruel, senseless, and tragic. You ruined a lot of lives, including yours.”

Lunch on Us, the free summer meal program Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) holds for children ages 2 to 18, returns June 24. It will be held Monday through Thursday at designated locations through Aug. 8 – except for July 4 when sites will be closed in observance of Independence Day.

Lunch on Us provides hot meals for children to consume on site. Children do not have to be CCPS students to receive a meal and do not have to show any form of identification at the meal sites. However, in order to receive a meal, the child must be present. CCPS food and nutrition services staff members will oversee the operation of each meal site.

Meal sites open from June 24 through Aug. 8 (closed July 4).

· Indian Head Elementary School — 12:30-1:30 p.m.

· J.C. Parks Elementary School — 12:30-1:30 p.m.

· Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School — 12:30-1:30 p.m.

· Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary School — 12:30-1:30 p.m.

· Eva Turner Elementary School — 12:30-1:30 p.m.

· Milton M. Somers Middle School — 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

· St. Charles High School — 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Meal site open from June 24 through July 3.

· Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School — 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

For more information about the Lunch on Us program, visit https://www.ccboe.com/departments/student-services/community-resources/summer-meals-2024.

Children who need breakfast or want a cold lunch can get a free meal from the Meals on the Move food truck operated by CCPS FNS staff. To learn more about the new summer meal program, click here.

About CCPS

Charles County Public Schools provides 27,765 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 38 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality

education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Kathy Kiessling, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event.

CCPS provides nondiscriminatory equal access to school facilities in accordance with its Use of Facilities rules to designated youth groups (including, but not limited to, the Boy Scouts).

USDA’s nondiscrimination statement

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or

2. fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or

3. email: Program.Intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Members of the Charles County Board of County Commissioners and the Charles County Resilience Authority joined officials from the University of Maryland, The City of Annapolis, and Anne Arundel County to celebrate the launch of the Maryland HydroNet.

The Maryland HydroNet, a project of the University of Maryland’s Climate Resilience Network, currently consists of six sensors: four in Downtown Annapolis in Anne Arundel County and two in Charles County at the Nanjemoy Environmental Education Center and Southern Park in Newburg. Installation of the initial set of sensors occurred between April and May of this year, and more sites are planned across the state.

“The University of Maryland’s Climate Resilience Network and our partnership in this Network is rooted in recognizing that no one should be left behind,” stated Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II, Esq., in his official remarks. “This is one of many reasons our local government is actively working with the University of Maryland and others to establish a network of sea-level monitoring sensors around the state.”

The Maryland HydroNet consists of sensors created by Hohonu, a public-private company that started at the University of Hawai’i. These sensors measure water levels by the second and provide readings and trends in water levels over periods ranging from one day to three months. Data from the sensors can be viewed online at no cost. Click here to view the latest readings from Charles County.

“We’re really trying to increase identification throughout the region to give you live data where you need it most,” said Brian Glazer, CEO of Hohonu.

Installing the sensors could help local leaders better predict when, where, and how much flooding could occur in each area to combat the effects of climate change.

“We are trying to do something about it by coming together as a team,” said Darryll J. Pines, University of Maryland President. “When all of these groups work together: Academia, non-profits, and government, we can make sure that folks in Annapolis and everywhere are able to lead stable and productive lives of dignity with pride and hope for the future.”

Commissioner Vice President Ralph E. Patterson II and Jennifer Ellin, Acting Deputy Administrator and a member of the Resilience Authority of Charles County’s Board of Directors, also represented Charles County at the event. Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman and Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley also participated and shared remarks on the significance of this partnership. 

To view photos from the event, click here.

Officers locate suspect wanted in connection with a non-fatal shooting on Jessie Lizzy Place in Nanjemoy: On June 5, officers assigned to the CCSO Warrant Unit and members of the U.S. Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Task Force arrested Tehran Lebrons Butler, age 18, of Nanjemoy, who was wanted in connection with a non-fatal shooting that occurred in May. On May 27, at 1:30 a.m., patrol officers responded to the 9100 block of Jessie Lizzy Place in Nanjemoy for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located the victim who had a gunshot wound to the face. Officers learned the identity of the shooter, who was known to the victim. The suspect fled into a wooded area prior to police arrival. Officers established a perimeter, but the suspect was not located. The victim was transported to a hospital and treated for injuries that were not life-threatening. A warrant charging Butler with attempted murder, first-degree assault, and other related charges was issued and officers began an immediate search for the suspect and followed leads. Investigators served a search warrant on Jessie Lizzy Place and later located Butler in Bryans Road, MD. He was arrested without incident. The investigation is ongoing.  

The Calvert County Department of Technology Services advises residents the county’s Geographic Information System (GIS) is scheduled for an upgrade on Friday, June 7, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The upgrade period is expected to last for two days; during this time, GIS maps will be unavailable. The upgraded GIS is expected to be accessible again by Monday, June 10, at 7 a.m. Public Safety services will be unaffected by the outage.

The GIS upgrade will provide enhanced features and improved performance to include:

·         Faster application performance and response times

·         Improved data visualization and analysis features

·         Enhanced security measures to protect data

·         Staff-focused Enterprise GIS website

·         Additional mapping applications

The Department of Technology Services appreciates your patience and understanding while the GIS is upgraded. The scheduled upgrade and downtime were planned to minimize impact on daily operations.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Multi-year analysis to look at questions around juvenile recruitment, environmental factors

Crew on the winter dredge survey boat sort through blue crabs found in the Choptank River. Data from this survey will be included in the stock assessment. Photo by Joe Zimmermann, Maryland Department of Natural Resources

A team of researchers is preparing for a large-scale analysis of the blue crab population in the Chesapeake Bay that will help guide future management of the crab fishery and investigate factors that influence the animal’s survival and reproduction.

The stock assessment comes as a response to ongoing questions about the regional population of the iconic crustacean, particularly around the recent juvenile recruitment, or the amount of young crabs in the system. This number has been below average for five consecutive years, including the results of the 2024 blue crab winter dredge survey.

“One of the big reasons we’re doing the stock assessment is that recruitment hasn’t been as good as we expected based on the last assessment,” said Mike Wilberg, a professor at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science who is leading the assessment. “We want to take a look at this and figure out why things aren’t going the way we expect.”

Stock assessments are a common method that fishery managers use to examine the historic and current condition of a species and produce estimates for a sustainable harvest. It also determines reference points that are benchmarks of a healthy population to guide management.

A multi-year effort that takes in extensive amounts of data, the stock assessment is set to be completed and published in March 2026. Planning began in 2022, and the team will begin preliminary data analysis and model development this summer, before developing the final model and putting the assessment through peer review in late 2025.

This project intends to expand and improve upon the 2011 stock assessment on blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay, which Wilberg describes as “about seven blue crab generations ago.”

Mandy Bromilow, DNR’s blue crab program manager, said a lot has changed in that time, and there hasn’t been an overall reexamination of the data that contributed to the last assessment.

“We haven’t had a real evaluation of the assumptions we have in the model, and there are new analytical methods that could be applied to the data,” she said. “We want to look at the data and techniques to make sure we’re using the best models and data to assess the blue crab population.”

The 2011 assessment helped establish reference points for female blue crabs, or sooks. Maryland and Virginia regulations restricted the harvest of female blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay because of these findings and the importance of females for the reproductive success of the species.

Wilberg said this previous assessment may have been “overly optimistic,” and Glenn Davis, a DNR fisheries biologist that conducts data analysis on blue crabs, said the new assessment might look at establishing reference points for male crabs as well as considering other factors.

“I think there’s a lot of hope and a lot of potential to broaden the scope of the assessment and figure out some of these things, like habitat, ocean currents, or predation, that may have contributed to the failure of the recruitment in recent years,” Davis said. “These are things that have developed or changed a lot in the past 10 years.”

A Maryland DNR biologist gathers juvenile blue crabs for measurement in the 2024 winter dredge survey. The abundance of juveniles has been a concern for scientists in recent years. Photo by Joe Zimmermann, Maryland DNR

The Chesapeake Bay Stock Assessment Committee held a 2022 workshop that identified environmental factors warranting analysis in the stock assessment, including hypoxia, water temperature, habitat availability, and predation.

Wilberg said the effects of invasive blue catfish are “on the top of my mind.” A 2023 VIMS study estimated that blue catfish prey on 441 tons of blue crab in the James River alone each year. The stock assessment team will look at survey data and abundance of blue catfish, as well as evaluating the percentage of the blue crab population that might be prey to these invasives.

“The study that VIMS did definitely shows that blue cats are eating a lot of blue crabs,” he said. “There’s no question they eat blue crabs, we just don’t know if they have a Bay-wide effect.”

The stock assessment involves researchers from several research institutions and government groups across Maryland and Virginia, including the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Morgan State University, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, and the Potomac River Fisheries Commission.

The undertaking won’t involve collecting new data, but will instead consist of combing through vast quantities of existing information and creating models that will identify patterns and associations.

In what Wilberg described as a “leaving no stone unturned” approach, data sets will come from the Maryland DNR and VIMS winter dredge survey for blue crabs, as well as the VIMS’ trawl survey, harvest data, Maryland sentinel fishery data and many other sources.  Wilberg said the stock assessment will take into account data from at least the 1990s, but it may go as far back as catch data from the 1950s and VIMS survey data from the 1960s.

“Either way, that is a large sample,” said Wilberg, who previously was engaged by DNR to lead Maryland’s oyster stock assessment. “Especially considering most blue crabs don’t live more than two years, we get a really good snapshot of how the population is changing.”

While the stock assessment may not provide all the answers about what is affecting blue crabs, it should provide a path forward for management, Wilberg said.

“The main goal with this stock assessment is to try to develop better reference points for sustainable management of blue crabs—how many blue crabs should we have in the water, which relates to how many we can harvest,” he said. “It might give us a better idea of what to expect for the next 10 years in the fishery.”

By Joe Zimmermann, science writer with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter is pleased to announce a special adoption promotion which seeks to find loving, forever homes to adult animals housed at the shelter. To help unite these wonderful animals with forever homes, the shelter is hosting a special promotion event and waiving fees for any adoptable animal over one-year-old. This initiative seeks to alleviate overcrowding at the shelter and will run through Saturday, June 22.

The shelter is brimming with a variety of adult animals available for adoption, each with their own unique personalities and stories, waiting to bring joy and companionship to your home. By adopting an adult pet, you give them a second chance at life and receive numerous benefits including a predictable personality, lower maintenance and instant companionship.

If adoption is not an option, residents are encouraged to consider fostering. Fostering helps animals adjust to a home environment and opens space in the shelter for more animals in need. It’s a rewarding way to make a significant impact without a long-term commitment.

While the adoption fee is waived, normal adoption procedures still apply. Please visit CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com/Adoption to complete a pre-screening application. The shelter will not guarantee or hold animals for adoption if another qualified individual is prepared to adopt the animal, and the availability of animals offered at the shelter changes daily.

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter, located at 5055 Hallowing Point Road, in Prince Frederick, is an open-admission animal shelter managed by the Animal Shelter Division of the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. The shelter is currently operating by appointment only. Please call 410-535-7387, to schedule an appointment or learn more about available animals. For more information about adopting from the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter visit www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com. Find adoptable pets on Facebook at www.facebook.com/calvertcountyanimalshelter and on Instagram at @calvertcountyanimalshelter.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

 The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources Division, in partnership with the Calvert Nature Society recently honored Calvert Stewards volunteers at a recognition picnic on May 19, 2024, at Kings Landing Park. Eighteen volunteers received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for their dedication and commitment.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award, established in 2003, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated ongoing volunteer service over a period of 12 months. Additionally, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) awarded certificates to 13 volunteers who each contributed more than 100 hours of volunteer service in 2023. Three volunteers will have a brick engraved in their honor placed at the Battle Creek Nature Center to recognize their extensive lifetime service: Jason Avery and Andrew Miller have contributed more than 1,000 hours and Mary Hollinger has contributed 2,000 hours of service.

“The efforts of all volunteers are second to none,” said BOCC President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance. “Without volunteers, many projects and programs would go unfinished. We are grateful to have so many citizens who put in exceptional effort to give back to the community.”

“Thank you to all our Calvert Stewards for your volunteer efforts throughout the years,” said Calvert Nature Society President Joyce Baki. “To our award winners, thank you for your extreme effort over the past year to earn this prestigious recognition. You truly deserve it.”

The Calvert Stewards volunteer program offers opportunities for public service in education, research and stewardship, supporting the missions of the Natural Resources Division and the Calvert Nature Society. In 2023, 108 volunteers recorded 5,940 hours, which if assigned a monetary value, would surpass $200,000, underscoring the invaluable nature of their volunteer time.

The following volunteers were recognized for contributing more than 100 hours in 2023: Karen Anderson, Jason Avery, Janet Barnes, Riley Brown, Alexander Caniglia, Amber Ewing, Mary Hollinger, Tonyia Johnson, Angela Mitchell, Maggie Silverman, Craig Simmons, Joanne Simmons and Kathy Wood.

The following volunteers received 2023 Bronze Level PVSA certificates and pins:

• Teens (50–74 hours): Damien Nordon
• Young Adults (100–174 hours): Jaycee Hollinger
• Adults (100–249 hours): Karen Anderson, Janet Barnes, Angela Mitchell, Maggie Silverman, Joanne Simmons, Craig Simmons, Kathy Wood

The following volunteers received 2023 Silver Level PVSA certificates and pins:

• Teens (75–99 hours): Oliver Diamond
• Adults (250–499 hours): Jason Avery, Tonyia Johnson

The following volunteers received 2023 Gold Level PVSA certificates and pins:

• Young Adults (250+ hours): Riley Brown, Alexander Caniglia, Amber Ewing
• Adults (500+ hours): Mary Hollinger

The Calvert Nature Society is dedicated to protecting Calvert County’s natural heritage and fostering an environmentally literate and aware community. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it supports the Calvert County Parks & Recreation Natural Resources Division through various outreach initiatives.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation strives to enhance the health, economy and well-being of the Calvert County community through sustainable practices, leisure opportunities and environmental stewardship. For more information about Parks & Recreation facilities and programs, visit online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ParksandRecreation.

La Plata High School Student in possession of cannabis and nonprescribed amphetamine pills: On June 5 at 7:35 a.m., a staff member at La Plata High School reported the odor of cannabis coming from a school bathroom. Administrators investigated and found a student in possession of a vape pen containing suspected cannabis THC and a bag with Adderall (amphetamine) pills that were not prescribed to the student. The school resource officer recovered the items. The student was issued a juvenile civil citation for possession of cannabis and was charged on a Juvenile Offense Report for possession of the nonprescribed amphetamine pills. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact M/Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475.

Billingsley Elementary School student in possession of an altered toy gun resembling a real semi-automatic handgun: On June 4, at 8:30 a.m., school staff at Billingsley Elementary School were alerted that a student was possibly in possession of a handgun. School administrators recovered the gun, which was a toy gun altered to resemble a real semi-automatic handgun. In accordance with MD law, due to the student’s age, they cannot be charged; however, the student faces school disciplinary sanctions. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0580.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Leroy Christopher Neal, 48, of Mechanicsville, Maryland, was found guilty of first-degree murder and related firearm charges for the killing of a 46-year-old man that occurred on November 4, 2023.

Following a three-day trial, Neal was convicted by a St. Mary’s County jury of first-degree murder, use of firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and handgun on person.

Neal faces a maximum penalty of life plus 25 years in prison and will continue to be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Jeff Maylor and Kirstin Riddle prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Kortnie Marsch of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

Comptroller Brooke Lierman joined Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller and Treasurer Dereck Davis for a meeting of the Board of Public Works on Wednesday to approve more than $1.1 billion for 150 initiatives and projects throughout Maryland. Wednesday’s meeting also included the annual bond sale. 

Comptroller Lierman commended the Moore-Miller administration on their announcement Tuesday to help Maryland reach its climate change goals and his approach outlined to state agencies. 

“I appreciate you requiring agencies to submit the plans and to identify how the steps are taken to implement the climate reduction plan,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I look forward to working with you and the Treasurer as a member of this body because we know that state procurement can play a really crucial role in the effort when we align our purchasing decisions with our sustainability and emission reduction goals. I think it also assures taxpayers that consideration of the impact of climate change and environmental threats are an integral part of the procurement proposals and decisions, including the many aspects of the state’s infrastructure.” 

The Comptroller then shared that the Office of the Comptroller will release a report Thursday afternoon on the procurement economy in Maryland, with research conducted by a team of economists from Drexel University. The report will highlight the impact of local, state, and federal procurement on Maryland’s economy as well as opportunities and challenges linked to the participation of Maryland-based firms. 

After a discussion and testimony on a request from the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services to award Centurion of Maryland a contract for medical and mental health services in its prison facilities throughout the state, Comptroller Lierman took time to remind vendors and agencies of the role of the Board of Public Works, and the importance of following administrative and judicial processes that exist for the benefit of Maryland taxpayers. 

“The Maryland State Board of Public Works exists to resolve the contracts. However, we won’t allow the state to be taken advantage of and for Marylanders to suffer when vendors bring forward frivolous appeals. So, we will continue to bring a keen eye and our judgment to the contracts that are coming to us. And we will look forward to doing that with the Governor and the Treasurer in the future.” 

On an item regarding her own agency, Comptroller Lierman said a modification to a contract with Revenue Solutions Inc. for a new Integrated Tax System Solution was necessary to implement new, revenue-generating legislation enacted during the 2024 session of the Maryland General Assembly.  

After a short recess, the three-member board ratified a request from the state treasurer concerning the sale of $1.2 billion in general obligation bonds, including $1 billion in tax-exempt bonds and $200 million in taxable bonds. The bonds will be sold in three bidding groups. 

The summary figures for the Board of Public Works are as follows: 

• Approved 150 items, representing a total State expenditure of $1,141,860,215.74 

• Approved grant agreements for 14 recipients for 15 projects located in 8 counties and Baltimore City with a total value of $20,766,000. 

• 9 items awarding $16,231,306.45 to prime certified small business primes 

• 6 items awarding $14,775,673.46 to certified minority business enterprise primes. 

• 3 items awarding $919,708.49 to Employment Works Program providers. 

• 11 items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises. 

• 4 items awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises. 

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works is July 3. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) is proud to announce that County Administrator, David Weiskopf was recognized as the Public Servant of the Year by the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce at their annual business dinner on June 4, 2024.

The Public Servant award recognizes an individual who exemplifies exceptional service to the business community and the broader public. Eligibility for the award extends to employees, elected, or appointed officials at federal, state, or local public agencies. Recipients of the award are distinguished by their superior customer service and their understanding of the critical role that the business community plays in the overall well-being of the community.

"This recognition is a testament to David’s exceptional dedication and leadership,” said Commissioner President, James Randy Guy. “His tireless commitment to enhancing our community and helping residents and businesses has made a lasting impact. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and grateful for his continued service."

David Weiskopf has demonstrated these qualities throughout his career. Weiskopf joined SMCG in 2008 as the Deputy County Attorney and has since served as County Attorney, Acting County Administrator, and County Administrator. Key community projects completed under Mr. Weiskopf's leadership, include:

• Implementation of the Emergency Medical Services Billing system.
• Purchase and renovation of the Willows Recreation Center, now home to the St. Mary’s County Gymnastics Academy and other recreation programming for the community.
• Grand openings of new public facilities and spaces, including the Animal Adoption & Resource Center, the Barns at New Market, the Mobile Library, and the Community Gardens at Lexington Manor Passive Park.
• Expansion of FDR Boulevard, including the grand opening of Section 3A, provides traffic relief and increased connectivity for businesses and residents.
• Launch of the St. Mary’s County Government Leadership Development Program.

"I am deeply honored to receive the Chamber’s Public Servant award. Service has always been at the core of my values, and I am incredibly thankful for this recognition,” said Weiskopf. “This is not just a reflection of my individual efforts, but a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire team of leaders and employees at St. Mary’s County Government. Their commitment to excellence and our community has been instrumental in our collective success.”

Mr. Weiskopf’s exceptional service is further evidenced by his Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating of AV Preeminent, which signifies the highest level of professional excellence as rated by his peers. Additionally, he was honored with the 2020 Daily Record’s Leadership in Law Award, recognizing his dedication to the legal profession and commitment to the community.

Beyond his administrative duties, Mr. Weiskopf serves as chairperson for several committees, including the Retiree Benefit Trust Committee, Sheriff’s Office Retirement Plan Board, Length of Service Awards Program, and the St. Mary’s County Government 457(b) Governance Committee. He also contributes to various boards and commissions for the Maryland State and County Bar Associations, teaches Organizational Leadership at the University of Maryland Global Campus, and serves on the Maryland Comptroller’s Local Government Advisory Council.

St. Mary’s County Government congratulates Mr. Weiskopf on this well-deserved recognition and extends its gratitude for his unwavering dedication to public service and the community.

On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Richard Allen Roloson, 65, of Lexington Park, while canvassing Great Mills Road for a suspect involved in a trespassing complaint. Roloson, who was also the subject of a separate complaint for panhandling and trespassing, was found hiding in the area.

Upon making contact with Roloson and confirming his identity, deputies discovered that he was wanted on an open warrant. During a subsequent search, deputies located suspected cocaine and paraphernalia on his person.

Roloson was arrested and transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown. He has been charged with CDS Possession: Not Marijuana and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 Calvert County Government is pleased to announce the launch of its new mobile app to provide residents with convenient access to essential county government services and information right at their fingertips. Available for free download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the Calvert County Government mobile app offers a variety of features designed to make it easier for residents to engage with their local government.

The app includes several key features to enhance transparency, accessibility and communication:

·         Push notifications for important updates, closures, weather alerts and other timely announcements

·         Access to county government meeting agendas, minutes and livestreams

·         Event listings for meetings, county recycling events, election date information and community activities

·         Activity registration for Parks & Recreation sports leagues, recreational activities and community programs

·         Information about local indoor and outdoor attractions, free and low-cost activities, places to eat and locations to explore in Calvert County

·         Feedback and concerns submitted directly through the app, ensuring your voice is heard and addressed

Stay informed with personalized notification settings by clicking on the gear icon located in the top right corner of the app home screen. Users can customize preferences to receive push notifications within the app or opt for text and email alerts for important updates such as emergency and weather notifications, local news and highlights and agenda and calendar notifications.

For questions or feedback about the mobile app, please contact the Department of Communications & Media Relations at communications@calvertcountymd.gov.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) has been awarded $5 million in grant funding through the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission (CHRC) Health Equity Resource Communities (HERC) program, which aims to reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes in underserved communities. Funding will be spread out over five years to help sustain operations at the St. Mary's County Health Hub, including behavioral health walk-in crisis services and a variety of programs to promote health and wellness for St. Mary's County community members.

SMCHD is one of eleven grant awardees in the state; CHRC received 59 eligible applications.  The new HERC funding builds upon the success of prior grant funding SMCHD had received from CHRC, and is made available under the Maryland Health Equity Resource Act approved by the Maryland General Assembly in 2021.

The Health Hub currently offers walk-in evaluations of mental health and addiction, crisis counseling, primary care medical services, and many additional community services that address the non-medical parts of people’s lives affecting their health. The Health Hub team also helps people connect to health and wellness services in the community that they may need.

“This new HERC grant is critical to continuing services at the Health Hub. While our prior grant funding was ending we were able to demonstrate the incredible value of what the Health Hub team does for our community," said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “The Health Hub is a collaboration of our whole agency team and many community partners. It improves access to health care, is a major resource for a person in crisis, and helps people succeed in both health and overall wellness. We are so grateful for this support from CHRC to continue serving our St. Mary's County community members.”

To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit hub.smchd.org.

To learn more about the CHRC, please visit health.maryland.gov/mchrc.

A Leonardtown man was arrested after setting a hotel room on fire yesterday evening, displacing 46 guests and causing three-quarters of a million dollars in damage. 

Just after 8:00 p.m. on June 3, 2024, St. Mary's Sheriff's Office responded to the Super Eight Motel at 22801 Three Notch Road in California for a reported disturbance. An employee called 911 and reported the occupants of room 310 were arguing and causing a disturbance. They also reported they had broken the windows and barricaded the door.

Deputies arrived within minutes and observed Anthony Cleaver Mason, 64, inside the room attempting to start a fire. Deputies activated the fire alarm and began evacuating the motel while requesting the fire department.

Forty-eight firefighters from various departments, including Bay District, Hollywood, NAS Patuxent River, Leonardtown, Ridge, Valley Lee, and Solomons, responded and discovered fire showing, along with multiple people injured after jumping from the third floor. 

One adult female and her child were assisted out of the hotel, where the female then suffered a medical emergency. She was transported to an area hospital. The child was evaluated and released into family custody.

Deputies placed Mason into custody on the scene, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal was requested to investigate. Deputy State Fire Marshals concluded Mason was responsible and that the fire caused an estimated $750,000 in damages. 

Mason was charged with two counts of second-degree arson, reckless endangerment, and malicious burning first-degree. 

He is currently being held at the St. Mary's County Detention Center without bond.

LEONARDTOWN, MD - St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ (SMCPS) Judy Center Early Learning Hubs and Food and Nutrition Services is pleased to announce its free summer meals program in partnership with the St. Mary’s County Library, the Department of Social Services, and a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture. Children and their families will be able to access a free and nutritious meal Monday-Friday for 10 weeks during the summer. Meals for children 18 and under are free. The cost of meals for adults accompanying their children will be covered by the St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services. Details about the Judy Centers’ Lunch and Learn Program and Lunch at the Library are included below.

Beginning on Monday, June 10, 2024, to Friday, July 5, 2024, all Fridays in July, and again on August 2, 2024, to August 16, 2024, the Lexington Park Library will host Lunch at the Library. Students and their families may visit the library from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. to receive a nutritious meal.

Beginning on Monday, July 8, 2024, to Thursday, August 1, 2024, the SMCPS’ Judy Center Lunch and Learn will operate at Lexington Park Elementary School (LPES) from 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Meals will be served at the Lexington Park Library on Fridays in July. Children and their parents/guardians may visit the site for a nutritious meal and a fun learning activity provided by Judy Center staff and their partners. Schools are closed on Fridays in July and families will have access to Lunch at the Library from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Beginning on Monday, June 10, 2024, and ending on August 12, 2024, Food and Nutrition Services will provide breakfast and lunch 5-day meal packs for children 18 and under weekly on Mondays at four locations with two pick-up times. Meal packs will be available to children who are not participating in Lunch and Learn or Title I Summer School programs where meals are provided. Pre-registration is required to receive these meals. Please use this link to register Summer Meals Registration Locations and pick-up times are listed below.

Day: Monday from June 10-August 12, 2024

Pick-Up: Times 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Locations:

Chopticon High School

2530 Colton Point Road

Morganza, MD  20660

Leonardtown High School

23995 Point Lookout Road

Leonardtown, MD  20650

Oakville Elementary School

26410 Three Notch Road

Mechanicsville, MD  20659

Spring Ridge Middle School

19856 Three Notch Road

Lexington Park, MD  20653

For additional information regarding lunch please contact Food and Nutrition Services at foodservice@smcps.org.  

 This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Charles County, MD… On June 1, at 7:30 p.m., patrol officers responded to Inheritance Drive in Brandywine following reports of an exceptionally large party, traffic complaints, and disorderly behavior.

Upon arrival, officers observed approximately 200 cars parked on the street and in yards throughout the neighborhood. Hundreds of people, possibly between 600-800, were attempting to attend a pool party at a single family home. The promotors of the party rented the pool from the homeowner and advertised the location on various social media platforms. 

Security personnel for the promotors began shutting the event down after it became clear there were too many people. CCSO officers assisted with traffic control. During the dispersal, one individual was arrested for an assault that occurred as the event was shutting down.

The CCSO recognizes the concerns surrounding promoters renting residential properties in neighborhoods for large scale events which are advertised on the internet. This is an ongoing issue nationwide.

However, addressing this recurring problem requires more than a law enforcement response; it necessitates local and state legislation to effectively manage and or regulate the use of residential properties for promotors of extraordinarily large events.

The CCSO is working with county officials regarding this particular event and a future event which is currently being promoted and will continue to work with local authorities, and legislators to find long-term solutions that will protect neighborhoods and maintain public safety.  

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding the naval air station and the Webster Outlying Field are advised that noise-generating, low altitude testing events are scheduled to take place June 5 to June 14, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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.

Effective June 5, 2024 NAS Patuxent River NAS Patuxent River will open Gate 2 to traffic starting at 5:30 a.m.

Non-commercial vehicle traffic will also be able to utilize the Commercial Vehicle Inspection (CVIS) lane at Gate 1 during high traffic hours of 6 a.m.-9 a.m. Sentries at the CVIS lane will be responsible for enforcing all appropriate entry control point standards same as the other inbound lanes. Non-commercial drivers behind a commercial vehicle being inspected in the CVIS lane must wait until the inspection is complete before they can proceed to show their ID and can expect a delay in that instance.

NAS Pax River is taking these measures to improve traffic flow into the base as much as possible.

Calvert County has been awarded a $1.1 million grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Home Stretch for Difficult to Serve Properties program. This funding aims to provide high-speed internet access to underserved households throughout Calvert County and the state.

Calvert County officials are pleased to announce the opening of a 30-day enrollment period from June 4 through July 5, 2024, as part of this grant award to facilitate residents’ access to this expanded broadband service. To view the Comcast Services Extension Map, submit a question or sign up for email updates, visit www.calvertcountymd.gov/2919/Comcast-Buildout.

In May 2024, Gov. Wes Moore announced $19.6 million in awards through the new Home Stretch for Difficult to Serve Properties program, part of the state’s Connect Maryland initiative and funded through the U.S. Treasury’s American Rescue Plan Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund. Calvert County is among the 18 jurisdictions to receive funding in this round of awards. The Home Stretch for Difficult to Serve Properties grant program addresses challenges such as distance from existing broadband infrastructure, aiming to encourage internet service providers to expand their coverage to underserved areas. For more information on the Home Stretch initiative and the Office of Statewide Broadband, visit dhcd.maryland.gov/Broadband.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) has been awarded a $1.2 million rebate through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program. The funding will support the replacement of six CCPS school buses with zero emission, clean electric school buses. CCPS will receive two of the electric buses, with the remaining four electric buses to be designated to Charles County bus contractors.

Through the EPA Clean School Bus Program, nearly $3 billion has been provided to school systems to fund school bus replacements. Since the 2021 launch of the program, about 8,500 school buses have been replaced. With funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the EPA Clean School Bus Program provides $5 billion over five years (fiscal year 2022 through fiscal year 2026) to replace existing school buses with zero emission and clean school buses.

School systems must apply for the funding annually. For the 2023 rebate program, the EPA selected 530 applicants for funds totaling nearly $900 million to support the purchase of about 3,400 buses, of which 92% will be electric. This is the first year CCPS was awarded funds through the program.

The buses are likely to be in operation by the end of next school year. Routes will be selected by mileage range, but the electric buses will most likely operate in Waldorf, La Plata and Indian Head. To learn more about the program, visit https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office seeks assistance identifying and locating the individuals shown in these pictures in connection with the discovery of a card skimming device found at the Dollar General Store in Charlotte Hall in May.

If you know who these individuals are, please contact Deputy Anthony Cucinotta at Anthony.Cucinotta @stmaryscountymd.gov or 301-475-4200, ext. 8174. Please reference case number 27790-24.

Original News Release:

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 30, 2024) – On Sunday, May 26, 2024, Deputy Anthony Cucinotta responded to a call from an employee at the Dollar General Store, 30547 Potomac Way, Charlotte Hall, MD, reporting a suspected skimming device attached to a debit/credit card machine.

The employee indicated that on May 25, the machine at one register was malfunctioning. Upon inspection, a plastic piece mimicking the keypad was found taped over the machine's keypad. The initial investigation revealed that this piece was deliberately placed to defraud customers.

Surveillance footage showed two individuals entering the store on May 24 at approximately 11:51 a.m. They separated, with one person attaching the device to the machine. Both suspects then exited the store and left on foot.

The individual who placed the skimming device is described as a white or possibly biracial male with bushy hair, a dark mustache, a dark-colored tattoo on the left side of his neck, and a piercing in his left ear. The second individual is described as a white or Middle Eastern male with darker skin, long dark hair, and a goatee.

Anyone with information about the suspects or this incident is urged to contact Lieutenant Ed Evans at 301-475-4200, ext. 8018, or Edward.Evans@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Customers who made purchases at Dollar General in Charlotte Hall between May 24 and 26 should check their bank or credit card statements for fraudulent activity. If you suspect you have been a victim, please call the Sheriff's Office non-emergency number at 301-475-8008 to file a report.

 On Saturday, June 1, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a man with a gun at George B. Cecil Park in Valley Lee, Maryland.

Witnesses stated that following an altercation, a male subject pointed a firearm at a group of people gathered at a pavilion in the park.

The suspect, identified as Javonte Taevon Fenwick, 18, of Hollywood, MD, fled the scene but was apprehended shortly thereafter by deputies near Flat Iron Road.

Fenwick was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown. He has been charged with first-degree assault, use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime, second-degree assault, and illegal possession of a regulated firearm. Fenwick is currently awaiting a bond hearing.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) announces it is accepting applications through Friday, June 7, for a new Student Safety and Well-being Advisory Committee. The BOCC adopted a resolution outlining the creation, authority, membership and administrative duties of the committee on May 29.

The committee will serve in an advisory capacity to the BOCC and is charged with pursuing community and expert input to make recommendations that ensure the safety and security of students and staff. The committee will coordinate through the Office of the County Administrator for staff support as needed.

The Student Safety and Well-being Advisory Committee will consist of 15 voting members to serve voluntarily without compensation. Voting members will consist of a BOCC appointee; two residents each from Districts 1, 2 and 3; a representative of the Calvert Education Association; a representative of the Calvert Association of Educational Support Staff; two representatives of the Sheriff’s Office; a representative of the Maryland State Police Barrack U; one member with background in mental health and well-being; one member with background in treatment of substance abuse; and one representative of the Maryland Center for School Safety.

Nonvoting members will include the Deputy County Administrator, the Community Resources Director, the Communications & Media Relations Director and the Superintendent of Calvert County Public Schools.

Those interested in serving may complete an online application form through the county government website at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/MemberApplication by Friday, June 7. More information about the committee is available online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/SSWAC.

The committee’s formation was prompted by comments received from parents, students, teachers, staff and the Sheriff’s Office regarding increased violence and harmful behaviors taking place within county schools. The committee is intended to facilitate collaboration among members of the community and government agencies that may provide resources to enact the committee’s recommendations.

For questions, please contact SSWAC@calvertcountymd.gov.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Assault: 24-41149

On May 24, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the 5500 block of Macs Hollow Road in Prince Frederick, following a 911 hang-up. Investigation revealed Paul Darnell Gantt, 39 of Prince Frederick, assaulted a victim known to him, then proceeded to take the victim’s phone and threw it into the woods. Gantt was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Second-Degree Assault and Robbery.
 

Burglary: 24-40255

On May 22, 2024, at approximately 4:37 a.m., Calvert County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Thursday's Bar and Grill located at 1751 Horace Ward Road in Owings, for a reported alarm/burglary.  Upon arrival, deputies observed that the front glass door was fully shattered and the ATM was missing. Further investigation revealed, that the front glass door to Cheema Wine and Spirits located at 1756 Horace Ward Road in Owings, was also damaged (estimated value unknown at this time).  The estimated value of damaged property to Thursday’s is $10,000.00. The estimated value of stolen property is $2,840.00.

CDS Violation: 24-39901

On May 21, 2024, DFC Hendrickson conducted a traffic stop in the area of Traskers Blvd. in Prince Frederick, after observing a vehicle with multiple equipment violations. Further investigation revealed a K9 sniff resulted in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed multiple glass pipes containing suspected crack cocaine, vials of suspected cocaine, cut straws with suspected cocaine residue, and a paper fold containing suspected crack cocaine. Passengers Erica Marie Brooks, 30 of Huntingtown, Brianna Stephanie Quarles, 28 of Prince Frederick, and McKinley Theodore Brooks, Jr., 32 of Huntington, were all transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. Quarles was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis. Both Erica and McKinley Brooks were charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.
 

CDS Violation: 24-40363

On May 22, 2024, Deputy Chase observed a suspicious vehicle parked on Serenity Court in Prince Frederick. Investigation revealed a K9 sniff of the vehicle resulted in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed, 86g of Cannabis in plastic sandwich bags, THC gummy edibles, four cellular telephones, two digital scales containing Cannabis residue, along with other CDS paraphernalia. Bronzton Xavier Carrington, 20 of Prince Frederick, was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Cannabis.
 

CDS Violation: 24-40829

On May 23, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to the Wawa in Prince Frederick, after receiving a complaint of two subjects asleep in their vehicle. Upon arrival, the vehicle was observed traveling northbound on Rt. 4. Deputy Morrison observed multiple traffic violations and initiated a traffic stop at Ward Road in Dunkirk. The vehicle finally came to a stop in the Apple Greene Shopping Center where the driver, Joseph Carl Meade, 55 of Bowie, fled on foot. Additional deputies responded along with Prince George’s County Police Department’s Helicopter and located Meade in a field adjacent to Ward Road. A search of Meade’s person revealed a glass pipe with burnt ends and a burnt piece of steel wool. A search of Meade’s vehicle revealed a metal pipe with residue. Meade was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, DUI, and multiple traffic citations.
 

CDS Violation: 24-39901

On May 25, DFC Hendrickson responded to NB Rt. 4 and Main Street in Prince Frederick, for report of a suspicious person. Contact was made with Lionel Mackall Jr., 42 of Prince Frederick. Further investigation revealed Mackall was possessing a pipe with a white powdery residue, two copper scrubbers, and a plastic tie-off containing crack cocaine. Mackall was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.
 

Kidnapping: 24-41585

On May 26, 2024, DFC Hendrickson observed a motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed northbound on Rt. 4 in the Prince Frederick area. A traffic stop was initiated, and the motorcycle rapidly accelerated traveling at speeds over 100 mph. Deputies initially lost sight of the bike. S/DFC Idol later located the bike passing Mt. Harmony Elementary and observed it turn southbound on Rt. 4 in the area of Briscoes Turn Road, where the driver lost control of the bike causing a rear passenger to fall off the motorcycle. Deputies stopped to assist the female passenger who was evaluated and transported to Capital Regional Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Investigation revealed the female was begging her boyfriend to stop the motorcycle but he refused to do so and refused to let her get off. The driver was identified as Austin Page Catterton, 25 of Owings. Deputies responded to Catterton’s residence and found Catterton hiding in a truck bed inside the garage. The motorcycle was also located in the garage. Catterton was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Kidnapping and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer.
 

On May 25, 2024, Deputy Mister responded to the 3700 block of Huntsman Drive in Huntingtown, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. on May 24, unknown suspects spray-painted both signs at the entrance to the neighborhood. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,500.00.

Property Destruction: 24-41419

On May 26, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the Walnut Creek Subdivision in Huntingtown, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed unknown suspects spray-painted the entrance sign and a banner for high school graduates. A book drop box at the playground was also defaced. The estimated value of damaged property is $1,500.00.

Theft: 24-39646

On May 20, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a checkbook was stolen from inside a book bag while at the Southern Branch of the Calvert Library located at 13920 HG Truman Road in Solomons. The estimated value of stolen property is $15.00.

Theft: 24-39851

On May 20, 2024, DFC Strong responded to the 7800 block of Eagle View Drive in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his black and red Ninebot electric scooter and lock had been stolen from the bike rack at the Northeast Community Center located at 4075 Gordon Stinnett Avenue in Chesapeake Beach. The estimated value of stolen property is $500.00.

Theft: 24-40301

On May 22, 2024, Deputy Sylver responded to the 7500 block of Broomes Island Road in St. Leonard, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised the Broomes Island location sign and pole had been stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $200.00.

Theft: 24-40402

On May 22, 2024, Cpl.Ward responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised that a purse and all its contents were stolen from the Calvert County Nursing Center located at 85 Hospital Road in Prince Frederick. The estimated value of stolen property is $615.00. 

Theft: 24-40371

On May 22, 2024, DFC R. Contic responded to the Walmart parking lot located at 10600 Town Center Boulevard in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his rear registration plate had been stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $50.00.

Theft: 24-40709

On May 23, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to the 300 block of Jendan Way in Prince Frederick, for a theft report. The complainant advised a handicap placard had been stolen out of his vehicle sometime between May 21 and the morning of May 22. The estimated value of stolen property is $10.00.

Trespassing: 24-41379

On May 26, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to Outback Steakhouse located at 80 Central Square Drive in Prince Frederick, for a trespassing complaint. Upon arrival, Robert Allen Rice, 57 of fixed address, was observed lying on furniture at the front entrance of the restaurant. Rice had been previously trespassed from this location. Rice was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.
 

Weapons Violation: 24-40531

On May 22, 2024, Calvert deputies observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate in the area of Rt. 231 and JW Williams Road in Prince Frederick. A traffic stop was initiated and revealed the driver, Travon Aronde Berry, 26 of Waldorf, had an open warrant for his arrest. Investigation revealed ammunition was found inside the vehicle. Berry is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to prior criminal convictions. Berry was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center served his open warrant and charged with Illegal Possession of Ammunition.
 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) made the following remarks on former President Donald Trump’s 34-count felony conviction.

"For the first time in American history, a former President has been convicted of a felony.  No one is above the law, not even Donald Trump.  An impartial jury of citizens delivered a verdict in this criminal case by applying the facts to the law, using our time-honored adversarial legal process in the courtroom before an independent judge.  Government officials take an oath to preserve and protect the Constitution against all enemies, both foreign and domestic.  Let each one of us remember this sacred oath is not to pledge our fealty to one person or one political party, but to pledge our allegiance to the United States of America and the rule of law. It is inappropriate and dangerous for elected officials to attack our judicial system as a whole because they disagree with the outcome of Donald Trump’s criminal trial.”