PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – July 31, 2024 – Due to forecasted high temperatures for Wednesday, July 31, through Monday, Aug. 5, 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.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) issued the following statement in response to President Joe Biden’s call for Supreme Court reform.

 

“I welcome President Biden’s recommendations for Supreme Court reforms. Regretfully, the Supreme Court has lost much of its legitimacy with the American people, who are rightfully questioning whether the justices are abiding by basic ethics standards and carrying out impartial justice. Congress has a role to play and should start by passing a binding and enforceable code of conduct for justices. This should include robust disclosure of gifts, recusal from cases where justices or their spouses have conflicts of interest, and a ban on partisan political activity. These are basic standards the American people already expect. The highest court in the land cannot have the lowest ethics standards, which every other judge, Member of Congress, and executive branch official are bound to follow.

 

“Just as the president has term limits, the Supreme Court also should have term limits. Supreme Court justices should have a lengthy but not lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court. Justices should rotate off the court on a regular basis. This would allow each president to regularly appoint a certain number of justices and reduce the politicization and gaming of the Senate confirmation process. Importantly, the Senate should not hold a vacant court seat open for a year – as was wrongly done after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia – nor should the Senate rush through a confirmation after early voting had already started for a presidential election – as was wrongly done after the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

 

“I will support legislative efforts to ensure that no president – or justice – is above the law, and to reject presidential immunity in our legal system. Our nation was founded 248 years ago to break away from a tyrannical monarchy. Our constitutional system was founded upon the principle of equal justice under the law, with a carefully designed system of checks and balances. The Constitution itself provides that even presidents who are impeached and removed from office ‘shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indictment, trial, judgment, and punishment, according to law.’ Congress must act to make sure that future presidents are held accountable for misconduct and are not tempted to break the law for personal or political gain without fear of any consequences.”

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1321 calls for service, including 12 Emergency Petitions, from July 22 through July 28, 2024.

 

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public and 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:

7/26/24 – Dejuan Antwan Stafford, 39, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for two counts of CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and on arrest open warrants for Failure to Appear, Violation of Probation, CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

7/26/24 – Rachel Elizabeth Bowles, 39, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Travis Wimberly for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

7/26/24 - Michelle Dawn Odell, 48, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and on open arrest warrants through the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and the Maryland State Police.

 

7/27/24 – Kevin Wayne Key Jr., 34, of California, MD, by Deputy First Class Jessica Wilson for Assault First-Degree, Assault Second-Degree and Carrying a Dangerous Concealed Weapon.

 

7/27/24 – Michelle Dawn Odell, 48, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

DUIs:

7/19/24 – Franklin Lee Russell, 28, of Hollywood, MD, by Deputy Darrell Stewart for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Negligent Driving and Reckless Driving.

 

7/22/24 – Alexis Taylor Weston, 18, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Jordan Wagner for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Drugs and Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving and related charges.

 

7/23/24 – Shawn Michael Miles, 32, of Bel Alton, MD, by Deputy Tyler Nichols for Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Drugs and Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely and related charges.

 

SUMMONSES:

7/22/24 – Amber Michelle Hardesty, 40, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Detective Edward Vogt for a Theft Scheme of $25000 to $100000, Embezzlement-Misappropriate Funds, Embezzlement Executor/Administrative Guardian, Abuse/Neglect of Vulnerable Adult by Custodian and related charges.

 

7/26/24 Tylasia Nicole Adams, 21, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

 

WARRANTS:
7/24/24 – Leroy Junior Wagner III, 47, of Hollywood, MD, by Deputy Bianca Melton for Assault First-Degree.

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 welcomed Russell Strickland, Maryland Secretary of Emergency Management for a brief presentation at the start of his visit to St. Mary’s County.

 

For their main agenda item, the Commissioners approved the proposed amendment to 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 Capital Projects Grant Agreement for the legislative bond for the accessible water taxi for St. Clements Island.
• Approved the Amended Railroad Right-of-Way Easement Agreement between the Commissioners of St. Mary's County and the Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad.

 

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

 

The CSMC will not meet on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, or on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 20, 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.  

Detectives identify and arrest two suspects in the March armed robbery and carjacking case at St. Charles High School: Detectives assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, with the assistance of a school resource officer at St. Charles High School, have identified and arrested two suspects in connection with an armed robbery and carjacking case that occurred in the student parking lot at St. Charles High School. The facts of the case are as follows:

On March 6, 2024,  two St. Charles High School students were assaulted in the parking lot. After the assault, the suspects stole one of the victim’s cars and fled.

Detectives pursued leads and developed two individuals as suspects: Martino Marcus Young, age 19, of S.E. Washington D.C., and a 17-year-old male from Waldorf. The case was presented to a Charles County Grand Jury earlier this month which returned indictments of armed carjacking, armed robbery, robbery, firearms violations, and other related charges. Arrest warrants were obtained and with the help of the CCSO Warrant Fugitive Unit and the U.S. Marshals Capital Area Regional Task Force, both suspects were arrested on July 24. Search warrants were served and evidence linking the suspects to the case was recovered.

The juvenile was charged as an adult and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center. Young, who was initially arrested in Washington, D.C., was extradited to Charles County on July 29 and is awaiting bond review. Anyone with additional details is asked to call the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Robbery Unit at 301-609-6491. 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. The investigation is ongoing.

Patrol officers recover stolen vehicle and apprehend occupant who had active warrant for failure to appear in court for armed robbery case: On July 24 at 12:37 a.m., officers working on a detail relating to stolen cars observed a red Toyota Prius parked near Hamilton Place in Waldorf. Officers confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen in St. Mary's County, and as officers approached, the driver of the Prius began to move. Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the driver fled. Officers pursued the stolen car until it hit a curb on Ruston Place in Waldorf where the occupants jumped out of the vehicle and fled. A short time later, a suspicious activity call was dispatched in Bannister Circle, where witnesses observed two males jumping several fences in their backyards. Officers located one of the males, Anthony Kavon Brown, age 24, of Waldorf, who had the keys to the Prius. Brown was taken into custody.

Brown had active warrants for failing to appear in court for an armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms case. When Brown was initially charged with the robbery earlier this year, a judge released him from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring; however, Brown violated the terms of electronic monitoring by cutting off the device and never appeared in court. Brown was transported to a hospital where he was treated for an injury he received while jumping the fences. Upon his release from the hospital, he was transported to the Charles County Detention Center and charged with theft and failure to appear in court. Brown is currently being held without bond. Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to call PFC Mayhew at 301-609-3282 ext. 0519. 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. The investigation is ongoing.

The Board of Education of Charles County is seeking volunteers to serve on a committee tasked with studying Board member compensation. Board member compensation is outlined in Education Article §3-503 of the Annotated Code of Maryland, which was last updated in 2014. The committee will review the law and provide feedback on its compensation to include any change recommendations.

 

The Board will provide committee feedback to elected officials prior to the 2025 Legislative Session. At a 2023 Board Legislative Breakfast, Board members discussed with elected officials the compensation outlined in the law and how it could potentially change. It was recommended the Board seek community feedback and input on the law outlining its compensation.

 

Committee members must be able to attend two virtual meetings, tentatively set for 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21, and 4 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 5. Leading the committee is Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Staff Attorney Eric Schwartz. Additional meetings may be scheduled if needed.

 

The Board seeks two committee members per Charles County voting district, or two from Districts 1-4. Members will be chosen at random through an electronic sorting process. A representative from the CCPS employee union groups, the Education Association of Charles County, and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) will also serve on the committee.

 

A committee interest form is linked below. Deadline to submit the form is noon, Monday, Aug. 12. Committee members will be notified of their selection.

 

Interest Form

 

Under current state law, Board member compensation is set to $7,000 per year for the chairperson, and $6,000 per year for all other Board members. Board members receive this compensation from the school system on a quarterly basis.

 

The law also outlines allotments to Board members for travel expenses with a maximum of $1,500 for the chairperson, and $800 for all other Board members. Additionally, the law indicates that any student who completes a full term on the Board will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

 

Education Article §3-503 of the Annotated Code of Maryland can be viewed online here.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – National Night Out (NNO) is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community and by bringing police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

Want to join in the celebration? The following local communities will be celebrating National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO):

 

• Birch Way
• Breton Bay
• Cecil’s Mill
• Cedar Cove
• Clarks Rest
• Country Lakes
• Forest Way Cul-de-sac (Wildewood)
• Golden Beach
• Greenbrier
• Hollywood Shores
• Leonard’s Freehold
• Leonard’s Grant
• Leonardtown Villages
• Longview Beach
• Meadow Lake
• Myrtle Point
• Patuxent Homes
• Persimmon Hills
• South Woods Estates (River Bay)
• Spring Valley
• St. James Neighborhood
• St. Joseph’s Community
• The Woods at Myrtle Point 
• Town Creek
• Villages of Leonardtown
• Westbury
• Wildewood

“We are thankful to our partners in local law enforcement for their efforts to serve, protect, and engage the community,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy. “We hope all participating communities have a fun National Night Out!”

Does your neighborhood want to participate? Deadline to register is Friday, August 2, 2024. Contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff's Office (SMCSO) with additional inquiries via email to smcnno@stmaryscountymd.gov. Learn more about NNO at: https://natw.org.

On July 24, 2024, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Alcohol Enforcement Unit conducted several alcohol compliance checks within St. Mary's County.

 

The covert compliance checks involved using an underage Sheriff's Office Confidential Informant, hereafter referred to as CI. The CI was 19 years old and was accompanied by Sergeant Robbert Merritt, both of whom were dressed in athletic wear. The CI was directed to enter the store and request or retrieve an alcoholic beverage from the business location to purchase it.

 

Twenty alcohol retailers were visited, and 19 were compliant with Maryland law. However, one retail business failed to ask the CI for any identification, and the CI was able to purchase an alcoholic beverage illegally.

 

The following businesses asked for identification from the underage individual:

2000 Liquor: 21800 N Shangri-La Dr., Lexington Park, MD 20653

ABC Liquors: 22741 Three Notch Rd., California, MD 20619

Bradfords Neighborhood Market LLC: 23860 Hollywood Rd., Hollywood, MD 20636

California Wine & Spirits: 23123 Camden Wy., California, MD 20619

Cook's Liquors & Deli: 18400 Point Lookout Rd., Park Hall, MD 20667

Corner Liquors:  46920 South Shangri La Dr., Lexington Park, MD 20653

Early Bird: 23791 Mervell Dean Rd., Hollywood, MD 20636

H.V. Liquors: 22576 Macarthur Blvd. Ste. 322, California, MD 20619

Hermanville C-Store: 21151 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, MD 20653

Jughead Liquor Wine Beer: 16036 Three Notch Rd, California, MD 20619

Lex Wine & Spirits: 46400 Lexington Village Way, Lexington Park, MD 20653

Marketplace Wine & Spirits: 44920 Saint Andrews Church Rd., California, MD 20619

Ridge Market: 13270 Point Lookout Rd., Ridge, MD 20680

Rod'n Reel: 18161 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, MD 20653

Sign Of The Whale Liquors: 21899 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, MD 20653

St Mary’s Fine Wine And Spirits: 20141 Point Lookout Road, Great Mills, MD 20634

St. James Deli & Spirits: 19343 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, MD 20653

Twist Wine & Spirits: 22608 Three Notch Rd., Lexington Park, MD 20653

Wildewood Wine & Spirits: 23415 Three Notch Rd., California, MD 20619

 

The following business failed to ask for identification from the underage individual:

Baymart and Deli: 16591 Three Notch Rd., Ridge, MD 20680

 

The alcohol violation report was forwarded to the St. Mary's County Alcohol Beverage Board for review.

 

 

 On Sunday, July 28, 2024, while conducting proactive traffic enforcement in Lexington Park, Deputy Joseph Senatore initiated a traffic stop on a Ford F-150 for an equipment violation. Upon approaching the vehicle, Deputy Senatore observed a firearm in plain sight, leaning against the passenger’s left leg on the front passenger side of the truck.

 

The driver and the passenger were detained, and the truck was searched. The firearm was identified as a loaded 7.62 X 39mm Draco pistol with ammunition chambered. A subsequent check of law enforcement databases revealed the weapon was listed as stolen through the Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia.

 

The passenger of the vehicle, a 17-year-old juvenile, was arrested and charged as an adult with transporting a handgun in a vehicle, a loaded handgun in a vehicle, possession of a stolen regulated firearm, possession of a firearm by a minor, and related charges.

 

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

 

Calvert County Parks & Recreation is excited to announce the completion of four resurfaced tennis courts. The courts are dual lined for multi-use to accommodate both pickleball and tennis.

The resurfaced courts feature new, updated color schemes of blue and green, making it easier to see the ball. The courts are enclosed and illuminated by energy-efficient LED lighting, allowing for play in the evening and at night. This project was made possible with funding collaboration from United States Tennis Association Mid-Atlantic and the Calvert County Capital Improvement Plan. Hallowing Point Park is located at 4755 Hallowing Point Road, Prince Frederick.

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

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.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) Several people have been charged after the Maryland Department of State Police and partner law enforcement agencies address concerns over unlawful large-scale exhibition driving events throughout Maryland.

Since its formation in June 2024, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force has focused on investigating and addressing exhibition driving events, knowns as ‘takeovers’. These illegal activities involve blocking public roads for dangerous stunts, disrupting traffic, causing property damage and posing risks to the public.

In July, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force responded to three separate car rallies throughout Prince George’s County to include areas in Laurel, Greenbelt, Beltsville and Upper Marlboro.  Six individuals have been charged through a criminal summons or an arrest warrant as part of the task force's efforts in Prince George’s County.

The accused are identified as Terrell Marshall, 22, of Suitland; Alex Agustin, 22, of Laurel; Kyle Allen, 24, of Lanham; Jarard Walters, 21, of Essex; Malik Coleman, 24, of Baltimore and London Flores, 19, of Silver Spring.  All were charged in connection will illegal exhibition driving events in Prince George’s County.

Increased patrols in identified hotspot areas are being conducted along with comprehensive investigations to identify and charge those involved. This proactive approach includes enhanced traffic enforcement and the initiation of criminal investigations against the perpetrators.

 

The Maryland Car Rally Task Force includes the Maryland Department of State Police, the Maryland Transportation Authority Police, Baltimore City Police and police departments in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties. Concentrated enforcement and investigative efforts are strategically conducted in areas where these incidents are most prevalent.  The combined efforts continue to be instrumental in effectively addressing illegal exhibition driving across the designated regions.

 

The Maryland Car Rally Task Force is dedicated to mitigating the impact of these dangerous events on public safety to create a safer environment for all Maryland residents.

Charles County, MD – In a commitment to transparency and accountability, Charles County Sheriff Troy D. Berry is informing the public of recent actions involving a Charles County Sheriff’s officer.

On June 11, Sgt. Robert Smith, of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, was suspended with pay after the Agency was informed of charges being placed against him by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation stemmed from an off-duty incident in Mechanicsville, MD. On July 25, Sgt. Smith pled guilty to one count of driving while impaired in St. Mary’s County District Court. In accordance with Agency policy, upon learning of the investigation, the CCSO’s Office of Professional Responsibility launched an administrative investigation, which will be concluded now that the criminal proceedings have been resolved.

Sheriff Berry stated, “This officer’s actions are contrary to the values and professionalism of the Agency. I want to make our community aware of this incident and reassure them that we take these situations seriously and cooperate fully with investigating agencies. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is committed to maintaining the public’s trust.”

Charles County, MD – In a commitment to transparency and accountability, Charles County Sheriff Troy D. Berry is informing the public of recent actions involving a Charles County Sheriff’s officer.

On June 11, Sgt. Robert Smith, of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, was suspended with pay after the Agency was informed of charges being placed against him by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation stemmed from an off-duty incident in Mechanicsville, MD. On July 25, Sgt. Smith pled guilty to one count of driving while impaired in St. Mary’s County District Court. In accordance with Agency policy, upon learning of the investigation, the CCSO’s Office of Professional Responsibility launched an administrative investigation, which will be concluded now that the criminal proceedings have been resolved.

Sheriff Berry stated, “This officer’s actions are contrary to the values and professionalism of the Agency. I want to make our community aware of this incident and reassure them that we take these situations seriously and cooperate fully with investigating agencies. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is committed to maintaining the public’s trust.”

Effective July 26, 2024 the Charles County Department of Health has issued a health advisory for swimming, and other direct water contact due to high bacteria levels at Friendship Landing Boat Ramp located at 4715 Friendship Landing Road, Nanjemoy MD. The Charles County Department of Health advises against swimming, waterskiing, and other direct water contact activities. The advisory is in effect until follow-up testing shows water quality conditions are acceptable. 

 On Thursday, July 25, 2024, Patrol Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a business owner for the report of a suspicious incident that had occurred Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at approximately 9:45 p.m. in the parking lot of an establishment located in the 25000 block of Point Lookout Road in Leonardtown, MD.

 

Deputies spoke to the victims, who were employees of the business. They were advised that on Wednesday, as they were leaving work following their shifts, a coworker drove past, rolled down his vehicle window, and pointed a firearm at them.

 

In speaking with the business owner and the victims, Deputies were able to identify the suspect as Carl James Zimmerman, 19, of Hollywood, Maryland.

 

Zimmerman was located at his residence and arrested without incident. The weapon, a “bullpup” style 12-gauge shotgun that was legally registered to Zimmerman, was recovered. The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and charged with four counts of first-degree assault and four counts of second-degree assault. 

 

Those with additional information about this incident are asked to contact Deputy Mina Geric at Mina.Geric@stmaryscountymd.gov or 301-475-4200, ext. 8166.

CDS Violation: 24-54828
On July 16, 2024, DFC Strong responded to the 3400 block of Cox Road in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a 911 hang-up. Upon arrival, contact was made with Meagan Marie Bailey, 30 of Harpers Ferry, WV. Further investigation revealed several pieces of drug paraphernalia with residue were located inside the Bailey’s vehicle. Bailey was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

CDS Violation: 24-55082
On July 17, 2024, Calvert Deputies initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for an inoperable taillight near Armory Road and Main Street in Prince Frederick. Further investigation revealed a K9 sniff of the vehicle resulted in a positive alert. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a plastic tear-off with white residue, 64 Fentanyl pills, and $266 in US Currency. Sharon Oshee Pratt, 21 of Washington D.C., was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute, CDS Possession- Large Amount, and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. 

 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-55786
On July 21, 2024, deputies responded to the Tiki Bar located at 85 Charles Street in Solomons, for an active fight in progress. Upon arrival, deputies observed a white male, Craig Michael Conway, 53 of Arlington, VA, advancing on the security staff. Despite multiple loud verbal commands from deputies to back away, Conway continued to scream and push forward, causing a scene in front of onlookers. While being placed into custody, Alina Pitts, 30 of Arlington, VA repeatedly tried to interfere, ignoring deputy's commands to back away. Conway was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer, Intoxicated Public Disturbance, and Resisting/Interfere with Arrest. Pitts was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Second-Degree Assault, Obstruction & Hindering, Disorderly Conduct, Failure to Obey Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer, and Intoxicated Public Disturbance.

 

Property Destruction: 24-55936
On July 21, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to BAIA Coastal Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar located at 8323 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach, for a disorderly patron. The complainant advised an unknown male kicked in the restroom door and shattered one of the toilets. Toilet paper and blood were discovered all over the bathroom floor. The suspect, Kolten Takoda Ford, 26 of Chesapeake Beach, was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct and Malicious Destruction of Property/ Value less than $1000. The
estimated value of damaged property is $300.00.

 

Theft: 24-54423
On July 15, 2024, DFC Newton responded to the 5300 block of Huntingtown Road in Huntingtown, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between 7:40 p.m. on July 14 and 11:47 a.m. on July 15, an unknown suspect(s) stole a black and green Ryobi wet tile saw from a vehicle parked outside the residence. The estimated value of stolen property is $110.00.

 

Theft: 24-54824
On July 16, 2024, Master Deputy Cress responded to the 11800 block of Crown Drive in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) stole a package containing six iPhones off the front porch. The estimated value of the stolen property is $4,500.00.

 

Theft: 24-55324
On July 18, 2024, DFC Ostazeski responded to the 1200 block of Sollers Wharf Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) stole new vehicle registration stickers from the victim’s mailbox. The estimated value of stolen property is $187.00.

 

Theft: 24-55427
On July 19, 2024, DFC R. Jones responded to the Giant located at 11740 HG Trueman Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed Willard Douglas Bright, 60 of California, MD, walked out of the store with a cart full of merchandise passing all points of sale. The stolen items include 4 cases of Cesar dog food, Charmin toilet paper, Bounty paper towels, and a 1lb. container of strawberries. The estimated value of stolen property is $224.35.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 26, 2024) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) announces the temporary closure of drive-thru PCR COVID-19 testing services at the Health Hub on 21625 Great Mills Rd in Lexington Park from July 29 through August 2, 2024. 

PCR COVID-19 testing services will still be available, by appointment only, through SMCHD's School-Based Health Centers (SBHC) at:

• Margaret Brent Middle School SBHC: 29675 Point Lookout Rd, Mechanicsville
  • Call (240) 434-6060 for an appointment
• Spring Ridge Middle School SBHC: 19856 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park
  • Call (240) 434-6059 for an appointment

For more information about COVID-19 testing, visit smchd.org/covid-19.

On Tuesday, July 23, Danielle Mitchell, Assistant Deputy County Attorney, and Greg Waring, Chairman of the Charles County Charter Board, presented the proposed Charles County Charter Document to commissioners. If approved by voters on Nov. 5, the document would change the county government from a Code Home Rule system of governance to a Charter Form of government. The proposed charter includes a county executive position, an office of inspector general, and other changes.

Jacob Dyer, Acting Director of Fiscal and Administrative Services, also presented a briefing on the fiscal impact of a Charter Form of Government vs. a Code Home Rule Form of Government. According to the presentation, the estimated impact of transitioning from code home rule to a charter form of government is between $1.1 and $1.6 million. Those costs could be higher if renovations to the County Government building are needed.

Following these presentations, commissioners voted unanimously to dissolve the charter board.

Briefings

• Cathy Thompson, Assistant Chief of Planning; Rick Barnas and Steve Scott, representatives of the St. Charles Community; and Esther Reed, Charles County Archaeologist; briefed commissioners on a plan to preserve Hopewell Burial Ground in White Plains.

·       Commissioners held a joint meeting with the Charles County Board of Education to discuss the 2024 school allocation cycle. Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the analysis and allocated seats to future housing projects. 

·       Wes Adams, County Attorney; Jason Groth, Acting Director of Planning and Growth Management; Heather Kelly, Planning Supervisor; Raymond Shumaker, Chief of Codes, Permits and Inspection Services; and Andrew Balchin, Chief of Infrastructure Management; briefed commissioners on an update of the bonding process.

Department Highlights

Commissioners received updates on the activities of the following Charles County Boards and Commissions:

• Commission on Individuals with Disabilities
• Commission for Women
• Charles County Pension Plan
• Sheriff’s Office Disability Review Board

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Charles County Commissioners took the following actions on county boards and commissions:

• Appoint Mary Stokely as a Real Estate Sales Professional member, Cheryl Walker as the At-Large Member, and Laz Watkins as a Homeowners Association Resident member to the Homeowners Association Dispute Review Board.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

·       A budget amendment increase of $181,460 to cover pending Infrastructure Management Invoices.

·       A budget amendment increase of $479,000 to the inspection and review fund to cover cost overruns in the contract services account due to the heavy volume of inspections performed in Fiscal Year 2024.

·       A budget transfer request of $60,100 to convert a full-time reduced-hours Accounting Specialist position to a full-time position at the Charles County Sheriff’s Office.

·       A budget amendment increase of $110,000 to cover increased expenses for EMS Budget Contracts.

·       A budget amendment of $40,000 from the Drug Forfeiture Fund Balance to the Drug Forfeiture Training Budget to send 15 Emergency Support Team Personnel to a 5-day training program.

·       A budget amendment increase of $87,150 to carryover FY2024 funding to FY2025 to finalize the purchase of self-service kiosks for the Charles County Circuit Court.

·       A budget amendment increase of $115,660 to carryover FY2024 approved funding to the FY2025 budget to support a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Assessment for the Department of Human Resources.

·       A budget transfer request of $131,600 to cover the cost of operating costs associated with a property acquisition.

·       A budget amendment increase of $43,350 to increase the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy Budget to cover renovating the female locker room and bathrooms.

·       A lease renewal for the Centennial Street Satellite Building.

·       A letter authorizing transfer of Federal Earmarks for the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit Project.

·       A letter of support for the Neighborhood Business Works Business Boost Microgrant.

·       A request from the Commission for Veterans Affairs to use community support funds.

·       A proposed modification to Appendix F of the Charles County Road Ordinance.

·       A proposed revision to the Commissioner Expense Policy. Commissioners voted 3-2 to pass the revision.

·       A request for approval for comprehensive training for Charles County Boards and Commissions.

·       Multiple agenda items for continued work towards the finalization of the Mattawoman Wastewater Treatment Plant Flow Equalization Basin.  The Basin is expected to be complete in November 2025 (click below for more information).

• • Budget Transfer Request #330
  • Budget Amendment Increase #344
  • Budget Transfer Request #347 
  • Change Order #29
  • Change Order #30

 

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

 

Next Commissioners Session: Sept. 10-11

 

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

 

Warrant Unit seeks whereabouts of suspect in first-degree assault: On July 21 at 12:40 p.m., officers responded to the 2300 block of Alava Court in Waldorf for the report of an assault in progress. When officers arrived, the suspect, Gary Courtney Stewart, age 50, of S.E. Washington, D.C., had already fled the area. A preliminary investigation showed Stewart punched the victim in the face and then attempted to stab her. The victim was able to escape and call 9-1-1. Officers immediately obtained an arrest warrant and have been pursuing leads; however, Stewart has not been located. Stewart is 6’2” and weighs approximately 180 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair, and he may be armed with a weapon. Anyone with information about Stewart’s whereabouts is asked not to approach him but to call Sgt. Coulby at 301-932-3072. 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.

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced it has awarded $188,000 in grants to improve health and safety of neighborhoods across three Southern Maryland counties through the department’s Community Health and Safety Works (CHSW) program.

Local governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are eligible for CHSW grant funding to implement crime prevention strategies through physical design improvements, operational activities and other community-driven strategies. CHSW projects are required to be located in Baltimore City or an area designated as a Maryland Sustainable Community elsewhere in the state.

“One of DHCD’s key missions is creating lovable places in Maryland where pride-in-place is strong but reinvestment is needed,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “The projects funded through the Community Health and Safety Works program will not only make Maryland neighborhoods safer, cleaner and more lovable, but will support community-driven efforts that will have an impact on generations to come.”

CHSW awards fall into one of four competitive categories: 

1. Community Placemaking: Community-led collaborations that engage artists and designers to create lovable and safer spaces for community use. 
2. Environmental Health and Justice: Elimination of predatory and unhealthy practices such as illegal dumping, litter and traffic hazards and address urban heat islands and other conditions related to climate change. 
3. Cameras, Lighting, and Related Safety Services: Increased surveillance of illegal and dangerous activities in communities through lighting, camera strategies and related community safety services and technology. 
4. Technical Assistance for CHSW Initiatives: Nonprofit providers that will provide project design and implementation support to the awardees of CHSW project funding. Grant amounts are determined by the scope of services provided.

A total of 108 awards worth $9,750,000 were provided in the Fiscal Year 2024 round of funding across 20 Maryland counties and Baltimore City. 

In Southern Maryland, Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties received a combined $188,000 to support three projects.

Some awardees include: 

• St. Mary's County Community Development Corporation will use $53,000 to support the expansion of the Great Mills Road Cleanup which will provide frequent dumpster deliveries, greenery improvements and tools, street sweeping and operating support.
• The Arc of Southern Maryland will use $35,000 to install lighting around the perimeter of the parking lot and cameras and a card reader system for the building.

More information on the Community Health and Safety Works program and how to apply can be found here.

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LEONARDTOWN, MD - Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day visited Leonardtown’s Main Street and parts of Lexington Park on Tuesday during the department’s latest Day Trip stop.

The St. Mary’s County tour was the 13th stop in DHCD’s Day Trip series, which allows Secretary Day and senior staff to meet with local officials and share ways the department can help their communities. 

From Fiscal Year 2020 to 2024, DHCD has provided more than $32 million in financial support for affordable housing, improvements for broadband infrastructure and neighborhood revitalization in St. Mary’s County.

“St. Mary’s County and DHCD have worked well together over the years and I look forward to continued collaboration with our government and community partners here,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “Directly connecting with residents, community leaders and business owners today allows us to learn, provide solutions and ensure long-term success for St. Mary’s County and the State of Maryland.”

“St. Mary's County offers a unique blend of rural character, historic significance, and high-tech industry,” said St. Mary’s County Commissioner President James R. Guy. "We are grateful to Secretary Day, his team, and our local partners for a wonderful visit and their shared commitment to a vibrant Maryland and St. Mary’s. We look forward to continued partnership in addressing key issues such as affordable housing and revitalization, ensuring our community thrives while preserving its distinctive qualities."

Tuesday’s visit began with a walking tour of Leonardtown. In February, Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller and Secretary Day joined other state and local officials to celebrate Leonardtown’s official designation as a Main Street Maryland community. 

Created in 1998 and managed by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, the Main Street Maryland program builds partnerships with local governments, nonprofit organizations and businesses. In September 2023, the place that touts itself as “A Small Southern Maryland Town that’s Big on Charm” became the first designated Main Street Maryland Community in St. Mary’s County. It is also home to Southern Maryland’s only designated Arts & Entertainment district.

During the tour, Secretary Day presented a ceremonial check officially celebrating recent Main Street Improvement and Project Restore 2.0 grants awarded by DHCD. The grants are designed to spur community revitalization by attracting, retaining and expanding small businesses, as well as through the promotion of local, cultural attractions and events.

Afterward, the tour group traveled to Lexington Park, stopping at Lexwood Apartments before the day ended in Lexington Park with a community stakeholders meeting.

DHCD’s Day Trips series will continue this summer.

On Wednesday, July 24, The Charles County Board of Commissioners was joined by the Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism and the Charles County Economic Development Department to celebrate the county’s purchase of the former Sears Building at the St. Charles Towne Center. The building will be converted into a sports and wellness complex serving the entire community.

 

“Here in Waldorf, we have the lowest percentage of amenities per capita in the population center of our county. This purchase will change that equation significantly, bringing much-needed recreational opportunities to our residents,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II.  “We intend to work together to achieve this goal not on our own, but together in a public-private partnership that leverages our collective resources to get this outcome and spur new investments in this area.”

The purchase of the property, which totals 8 acres, was tied to the result of a comprehensive study conducted two years ago by the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism on county recreation opportunities. The study found a great need for increased sports and wellness activities, especially in the Waldorf area.

 

“The message was clear – there are not enough recreational spaces and places to enjoy leisure activities in Charles County,” Kelli Beavers, Director of Recreation Parks and Tourism, said.

 

In purchasing the facility, the county seeks to revitalize the former Sears location, which has been unused since 2020, and follow examples such as Annapolis Mall in Anne Arundel County revitalizing empty mall space for public use. Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall stated, “This acquisition is a significant milestone toward achieving the goals and objectives of our Board of Commissioners – to enhance the quality of life for everyone through increased recreation and leisure activities; and to expand economic development opportunities and growth in Waldorf. The purchase of this building, and the plans we have for it, are a critical piece in getting to that outcome.” 

 

The space is envisioned to include a 50-meter by 25-yard competition swimming pool that will create space for swimming, training, and competitive meets. The pool space will include a splash pad, diving areas, spa/whirlpool, sauna, and lap pool. In addition to the pool facilities, community members are invited to give input on what other amenities they would like to see in the facility.

 

“We envision this center offering an experience that is not just transactional as a shopping destination but a place where people can visit, play, stay, and enjoy,” Kelly Robertson Slagle, Director of Economic Development, said; “it will be a dynamic destination that draws people for various activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere that benefits everyone.”

 

Acting County Administrator Hall highlighted the contributions of leaders within her department, who were essential to identifying and taking many actions in a short time frame to purchase the property. “We could not have arrived here without the teamwork of so many people, including staff in the County Attorney’s Office; Public Works; Recreation, Parks and Tourism; Economic Development, and Fiscal and Administrative Services; who all participated in bringing this project to fruition.”

Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang sentenced Charmaine Miesha Brown, age 45, of Lusby, Maryland, to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for conspiracies to commit passport fraud and wire fraud, as well as bankruptcy fraud, and making a false statement in bankruptcy proceeding.  Brown was also ordered to pay $128,201.22 in restitution.

The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Karen L. Brown Cleveland of the U.S. Department of the State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Washington Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Colleen Lawlor of the Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General, Philadelphia Field Division; and Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari of the Department of Homeland Security.

As detailed in trial testimony, in January 2014, Charmaine Miesha Brown, a United States citizen, married Andrews Oduro Brown, a/k/a “Andrews Oduro,” a Ghanaian national who entered the United States in May 2013.  In 2021, Oduro obtained legal permanent resident status in the United States through his marriage to Brown. 

According to trial testimony, including testimony from Brown, and court documents, from December 2014 through April 2021, Brown and Oduro conspired to obtain United States passports for Oduro’s children, who were non-United States citizens, through false statements and fraudulent identity documents.

For example, the evidence established that on December 1, 2014, Brown submitted an application for a passport in the name of Brown’s child, Child C, who is a U.S. citizen, but bearing the photograph of Oduro’s child, Child A, who was born in Ghana and is not a U.S. citizen.  After the application was approved, Child A traveled from Ghana into the United States using the fraudulently obtained U.S. passport.  On March 16, 2015, Brown and Oduro applied for a passport in Child A’s own name and submitted a fraudulent Ghanaian birth certificate in support of the application, falsely stating that Brown was Child A’s birth mother.  As detailed at trial, on March 17, 2020, Brown and Oduro applied for a passport in the name of Child B, Oduro’s non-U.S. citizen child, and again submitted a fraudulent Ghanaian birth certificate in support of the application, falsely stating that Brown was Child B’s birth mother.  After the application was approved, Child B used the fraudulently obtained U.S. passport to travel into the United States.

 

Further, the evidence proved that from August 2016 through April 2021, Brown and Oduro conspired to receive payments from the state of Maryland’s Child Care Scholarship Program to which they were not entitled.  The Child Care Scholarship Program, formerly known as the Child Care Subsidy Program, provides direct payments for childcare services to providers of childcare to low-income families.  Brown falsely reported to the state of Maryland that a friend, Individual 1, was watching her children.  Brown also falsely represented that Oduro was an “absent parent,” when in fact Oduro lived in the same home.  The trial evidence, however, established that Individual 1 visited the United States in 2011 to 2012 before returning to Ghana and could not have provided the childcare services.  Instead, Oduro posed as Individual 1 and obtained payments from the state of Maryland between 2016 and 2021 to provide childcare to his and Brown’s own children.

           Finally, according to trial testimony and court documents, in 2018, Brown and Oduro defrauded creditors and the bankruptcy trustee by filing a fraudulent Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland.  Brown and Oduro filed the petition using the name and partial social security number of Individual 1, seeking the discharge of tens of thousands of dollars in debts and tax obligations to the state of Maryland that Oduro incurred using the name and PII of Individual 1.  Court records show that Brown filled out the petition documents.  In addition, Oduro appeared at the discharge hearing in the bankruptcy court and identified himself as Individual 1, presenting a Pennsylvania identification that Brown and Oduro had fraudulently obtained in the name of Individual 1.  According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, as a result of the fraudulent bankruptcy petition in the name of Individual 1, Brown and Oduro caused the entry of an order in June 2018 discharging debt that Oduro incurred in the name of Individual 1.

Andrews Oduro Brown previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit passport fraud, aggravated identity theft, and bankruptcy fraud.  Judge Chuang sentenced Oduro to 28 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and further ordered Oduro to pay restitution of $127,951.22.

 

U.S. Attorney Barron commended the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron thanked the Office of the U.S. Trustee for the District of Maryland, the Maryland State Department of Education, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Comptroller of Maryland, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, and the Dauphin County Staff for their significant assistance.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Coreen Mao and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Gustavo Ruiz, who prosecuted the federal case.

 

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

 State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Davon Natrell Stewart, 23, of Lexington Park, Maryland, was sentenced to prison after he was found guilty of sexual abuse of a minor and placed on the sex offender registry for Life.

Stewart was found guilty of sexual abuse of a minor after a two-day bench trial in November 2023 for an incident involving a Chopticon High School student. The offense occurred during the 2022-2023 academic school year while Stewart was employed with the St. Mary’s County Public Schools as a Safety and Security Assistant. The victim was a student enrolled at the same school.

“The Defendant abused his position of trust by using his authority to commit a sex offense on a child who was a student in the school he was supposed to serve and protect,” State’s Attorney Sterling said. “The exploitation of his position is deplorable—especially in a school, a place where children should always feel safe to grow and learn.”

Although the Maryland Sentencing Guideline range calls for a sentence between five and 10 years in prison, the State requested the Court to go above the guideline range. The State advocated for a sentence of 25 years, which is the maximum sentence for this offense, with 15 years of active incarceration to serve. The State further requested Stewart be placed on the sexual offender registry for Life.

The Court sentenced Stewart to 15 years in prison with five years of active incarceration and ordered him to register as a sexual offender for Life.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor, Chief of the Special Victims Unit, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Tyler Payne 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 NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place July 25-August 1, 2024 from 2 p.m.-11 p.m..

 

Pilots at NAS Pax River 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 where airspeed, altitude, and power are precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach a ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our personnel and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. 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

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Makeba Gibbs sentenced Daevian Davon Christian Hurd, 23, of Indian Head, to 5 years in prison for the Sexual Abuse of a Minor.

On July 31, 2023, Hurd entered a guilty plea to the above-mentioned charge.

On March 8, 2021, a detective with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office received a copy of an interview conducted with the victim by the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services. In the interview, the victim reported that she was sexually assaulted by Hurd on multiple occasions.

An investigation revealed that Hurd made sexual contact with the victim, touching her inappropriately over her clothes, at a residence in Indian Head on multiple occasions from 2018 through 2019. The victim was in third grade when the assaults began.

During the investigation, it was discovered that Hurd was incarcerated in Prince George’s County for separate sexual assault charges involving different victims that occurred in Prince George’s County.

On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to suspected tampering with the security seal on a narcotics box in a local medic unit. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division found that fentanyl vials in the medic box had been compromised, leading to further investigations that uncovered additional tampering incidents in multiple county medic units and EMS facilities.

 

Thomas Patrick Raley, 39, Chief of Emergency Medical Services for St. Mary’s County Government, has been identified as the lone suspect. The investigation is continuing in coordination with the Office of the State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County.

 

If you have information related to this case, please contact Sergeant Kevin Meyer at Kevin.Meyer@stmaryscountymd.gov or call 301-475-4200, ext. 8091.

 

 

Original Release

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Tampering of Emergency Medical Service Narcotics Boxes

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 19, 2024) - On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Government Department of Emergency Services contacted the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and reported suspected tampering with the security seal on a narcotics box in a local medic unit.

 

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division responded, and the investigation revealed that the seal on a medic box containing vials of fentanyl had been broken. Further investigation uncovered that the security packaging on fentanyl vials within the medic box had also been compromised. In response to these findings, detectives conducted simultaneous investigations at all county medic units. This effort led to the discovery of additional tampering incidents involving multiple narcotics boxes.

 

Despite the extensive scope of the investigation and the widespread evidence, detectives have identified a suspect, and charges are pending.

 

Questions regarding public health concerns should be directed to the Department of Emergency Services; representatives from the department will directly contact any individual whose care may have been impacted by this incident.

 

Residents with information about the criminal investigation are asked to contact Sergeant Kevin Meyer at Kevin.Meyer@stmaryscountymd.gov or call 301-475-4200, ext. 8091.       

 

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 St. Mary’s Little League 8-10 Softball, 8-10 Baseball, Juniors Softball, Juniors Baseball, and Majors Softball All-Star teams for qualifying for the state tournament in their age bracket.

 

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the transfer of both the housing and non-housing allocations of the County's portion of the 2024 Private Activity Bond authority.
• Approved the FY25 grant award for improvements to Chaptico Wharf.
• Approved the trial Acting Medical Duty Officer Policy for the EMS division of the Department of Emergency Services.

 

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

 

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 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.  

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1531 calls for service, including 12 Emergency Petitions, from July 15 through July 21, 2024.

 

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public and 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:

7/17/24 – Justin David Raley, 36, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and on a bench warrant for Failure to Appear.

 

7/19/24 – Suzanne Elaine Sontag, 48, of St. Charles, MO, by Deputy Erik Fleenor for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

 

7/19/24 – Robert Darnell Willett, 61, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, and on two bench warrants for Violation of Probation.

 

7/20/24 – John Thomas Hess Jr., 32, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Taylor-Lynn Kril for Assault Second-Degree on an incarcerated individual of the Division of Corrections.

 

7/20/24 – Jamaze Javon Wood, 25, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Taylor-Lynn Kril for Assault Second-Degree on an incarcerated individual of the Division of Corrections.

 

DUIs:

7/14/24 – Ronald Dewight Young, 56, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Erik Fleenor for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

 

7/20/24 – Edwin Eliseo Gurra Lewis, 34, of White Plains, MD, by Deputy Shanna Peters 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:

7/17/24 – Melody Lynn Bowen, 57, of No Fixed Address, by Deputy First Class Alexander Wynnk for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and two counts CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

7/18/24 – Roger Glenn Chin, 40, of No Fixed Address, by Deputy Elijsha Munn for Failure to Notify of Address Change, Tier III (Lifetime Offender).

 

7/19/24 – Sean Peter Fagan, 42, of California, MD, by Deputy Shanna Peters for two counts of Reckless Endangerment.

 

WARRANTS:
7/15/24 – Daejawhn Kyree Butler, 25, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Myles Chase-Johnson for Assault First-Degree, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Violent Crime, and Assault Second-Degree.

 

7/16/24 – Gary Michael Hyde, 43, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for two counts of Conspiracy to Distribute Narcotics.

 

7/16/24 – Dale Russell Maxwell Jr., 40, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Cody Donaldson for Firearm Possession After Being Convicted of a Violent/Felony Conviction, five counts of Possession of a Rifle/Shotgun with a Felony Conviction, and Illegal Possession of Ammunition.

 

7/18/24 – Joseph William Adams, 33, of Lexington Park, MD, by Corporal Glen Knott for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

 

7/18/24 – Cherry Bien Sy, 40, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Corporal Glen Knott for Robbery, Assault Second-Degree and Theft Less Than $100.

 

 

The Calvert County Department of Public Safety, Emergency Communications Division, has been awarded the prestigious Partner in Education Recognition (PIER) certificate by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). This honor underscores the department’s dedication to enhancing public safety and community education regarding 911 services.

The NENA PIER certificate signifies that the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) –where 911 emergency calls are received and processed – has completed specialized training to effectively communicate and educate the public about 911 services. This commitment leads to more efficient and effective emergency responses, ensuring that the community is well-informed and better prepared in times of emergency.

To qualify for the PIER certificate, PSAPs must meet rigorous criteria, including:

·         At least 70% of PSAP operations staff are NENA members.

·         Half of the operations management team hold Emergency Number Professional (ENP) certifications.

·         Half of the supervisory team have completed the 911 NENA Center Supervisor Program.

·         A telecommunicator training program that meets or exceeds recommended 911 minimum training guidelines.

·         At least 24 hours of continuing education every two years required for all telecommunicators.

·         Meeting or exceeding NENA and APCO standards for 911 call processing and quality assurance.

Additionally, PSAPs must achieve at least one of the following:

·         Half of the operations management team completed the NENA Center Manager Certification Program (CMCP).

·         Half of agency communications training officers (CTO) and training coordinators completed the NENA CTO Training Program.

·         Half of PSAP telecommunicators received the NENA Excellence in Dispatch (EID) Certificate.

·         At least six hours of NENA-delivered training provided for each PSAP operations staff within the last two years.

Each Calvert County PSAP operations staff had at least six hours of NENA delivered training within the last two years and half of the operations management team completed CMCP.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our Emergency Communications team to our citizens and highlights the education and professionalism our staff employ every day to keep Calvert County a safe place to live, work and visit,” said Public Safety Director Dave McDowell.

NENA, a nonprofit organization established in 1982, is dedicated to advancing public safety by promoting research, planning, training and education related to emergency 911 services. Its efforts are crucial in ensuring that emergency response systems remain reliable, efficient and capable of meeting the evolving needs of public safety.

The Calvert County Department of Public Safety, Emergency Communications Division, delivers comprehensive emergency communications services, including police, fire and EMS, to residents and visitors. Learn more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/EmergencyCommunications.

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.

 

Burglary: 24-52536
On July 8, 2024, Det. Buckler responded to Rubble Bee Recycling and Demolition located at 7665 Binnacle Lane in Owings, for a burglary investigation. Investigation revealed unknown suspects forced entry into the building and expelled two fire extinguishers causing damage to the interior offices. Further investigation revealed the cab windows of three earth-moving machines had been shattered. The estimated value of the damaged property is $6050.00.

 

CDS Violation: 24-53201
On July 10, 2024, members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) observed a vehicle and its operator, known to police to be suspended, traveling in the area of Lore Road in Solomons. Calvert Deputies were advised the driver’s license of the operator was not valid. Deputies initiated a traffic stop with lights and sirens activated in the area of northbound Rt. 4 and Creston Lane in Solomons. The driver, Kevil Casswell Gregory, 43 of Lusby, looked back at deputies and disregarded the attempted traffic stop, and began fleeing at speeds exceeding 100 mph in a 45 mph zone. As Gregory fled, deputies observed Gregory throwing bags of a white rocky substance (suspected crack cocaine) out of the window which struck the pursuing officer’s and innocent citizen’s vehicles while traveling down Rt. 4. While Gregory was traveling into St. Mary’s County over the Thomas Johnson Bridge, Gregory continued to throw several large baggies out of the vehicle into the Patuxent River below. Due to Gregory’s actions during the pursuit and failure to comply with law enforcement, a successful traffic maneuver was conducted that ultimately immobilized Gregory’s vehicle deterring him from being able to flee and be a danger to citizens. Gregory was placed into custody without incident. A search of Gregory’s person incident to arrest revealed, a rocky white substance (suspected crack cocaine) and a clear plastic baggie. Gregory was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Reckless Endangerment, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Fleeing and Eluding, Altering Physical Evidence, and CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics. 

 

CDS Violation: 24-53519
On July 11, 2024, Calvert Deputies initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for an inoperative brake light in the area of Calvert Towne Drive in Prince Frederick. The operator of the vehicle initially failed to stop and continued to drive and sped up in an attempt to elude law enforcement. Upon making contact with the driver, Delano O’Brien Gray, 39 of Lusby, Gray refused to exit the vehicle. Further investigation revealed a K9 sniff of the vehicle resulted in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed three plastic tear-offs containing a white residue, a digital scale with white residue (suspected cocaine), and a cut plastic straw with white residue. Gray was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Resisting/Interfering with Arrest, and Fleeing & Eluding. 

 

CDS Violation: 24-53658
On July 12, 2024, Deputy Wilder conducted a traffic stop in the area of the Exxon Gas Station located at 11850 HG Trueman Road in Lusby, on a suspicious vehicle parked on property in violation of a protective order. Contact was made with the driver, Matthew Scott Long, 39 of Lusby, who volunteered that he had violated the order. Long was advised he would be arrested for the violation. Deputies observed a smoking device stuffed with copper mesh covered in a
burnt residue in plain view inside Long’s vehicle. Long was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Violation of Protective Order and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. 

 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-53503
On July 11, 2024, Deputy Tunnell responded to the Calvert Pines Senior Center located at 450 W. Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a disorderly subject. Investigation revealed, that Christopher Alan Hall, 62 of Prince Frederick, was visibly intoxicated and had illegally entered the victim’s vehicle and removed his pants. Deputies arrived on the scene and observed Hall attempting to re-enter the vehicle by pulling on the door handle and repeatedly ignoring instructions to stop. Hall was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Intoxicated Public Disturbance, and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer. 

 

Indecent Exposure: 24-53220
On July 10, 2024, Deputy DeSantis responded to the area of Sollers Wharf Road and Pardoe Road in Lusby, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival, contact was made with Laitesha Jonelle Jones, 32 of California, MD, who pulled down her pants exposing herself to passersby along Pardoe Road. Jones was ordered to return to the vehicle but failed to comply with deputies orders. Jones was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Indecent Exposure and Fail to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer. 

 

Theft: 24-53283
On July 10, 2024, Master Deputy Cress responded to the District One station located at 10500 Southern Maryland Blvd. in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between July 6 and July 10, a white 2013 Hino 24-foot box Truck was stolen from a commercial storage lot in the 10400 block of Southern Maryland Blvd. in Dunkirk. The estimated value of stolen property is $30,000.00.

 

Theft: 24-53527
On July 11, 2024, DFC Mohler responded to the 50 block of Grovers Turn Road in Owings, for a theft report. The complainant advised while in Harris Teeter located at 10125 W. Ward Road in Dunkirk, an unknown suspect(s) stole the victim’s black and gray Coach wallet and all its contents from the victim’s purse in a shopping cart. The suspect then made numerous fraudulent charges with the stolen cards. The estimated value of stolen property is $1,913.00.

 

Trespassing: 24-53284
On July 10, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the Giant located at 655 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with Robert Allen Rice, 57 of no fixed address, who was lying on the sidewalk with his belongings in a Giant shopping cart. Investigation revealed Rice had been trespassed indefinitely from the property. Rice was transported to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and charged with Trespassing: Private Property. 

 

Indecent Exposure: 24-53277
On July 10, 2024, Deputy R. Contic responded to the Solomons Island Gazebo in Solomons, for the report of an indecent exposure. Investigation revealed that Darrion Markeese Pellman, 37 of Jacksonville, NC, removed his pants and was exposing his genitals. Pellman was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Indecent Exposure. Darrion Markeese Pellman

Narcotics Enforcement Section recovers large amounts of drugs/suspect charged with drug distribution: On July 3, as part of an ongoing drug investigation, detectives assigned to the Narcotics Enforcement Section served a search warrant at a home on Jameson Court in Indian Head. The suspect, Domonique Carlton Hawkins, age 31, of Indian Head, was taken into custody away from the home. During the search nearly $50,000 worth of cocaine, crack cocaine, and cannabis were recovered as well as drug packaging materials. Hawkins was charged with possession with the intent to distribute drugs, possession of drug manufacturing equipment, and other related charges. On July 10, a judge ordered Hawkins could be released from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring. The investigation is ongoing.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is expanding its Harm Reduction Program (HRP) services to the SMCHD Main Office in Leonardtown at 21580 Peabody Street. Services will also continue at the Health Hub in Lexington Park.

Community members can now access Harm Reduction services at both the SMCHD Main Office in Leonardtown and the Health Hub in Lexington Park, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Services are available on a walk-in basis. 

HRP uses practical strategies to reduce health risks and make treatment available for persons with substance use disorder. It emphasizes understanding a person's readiness for change and mitigating the harms of substance use disorder. HRP services now expanded to Leonardtown include:

• Evaluation and medication treatment for opioid use disorder
• Collection and safe disposal of used syringes
• Test Strips for fentanyl and xylazine
• Hepatitis C testing and treatment
• HIV testing and referral to treatment
• Linkage to treatment, recovery, and community support services
• Peer education
• Overdose response training and naloxone distribution
• Rapid Analysis of Drugs (RAD)
• Testing for sexually transmitted infections
• Referrals for wound care

“Harm reduction programs lower infection and disease transmission, prevent fatal overdoses, and make it more likely that people with substance use disorder will get connected to treatment and recovery support services," said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Expanding Harm Reduction Program services to our Leonardtown office makes it easier for our community members across the county to get the confidential help that they need.” 

More information about Harm Reduction services is available at smchd.org/harmreduction.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) are seeking applications from residents who are interested in serving as a volunteer member of the St. Mary’s County Planning Commission.

The Planning Commission is charged with reviewing certain development applications and plans for consistency with the St. Mary’s County Comprehensive Plan and various provisions of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. Generally, the Planning Commission meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. Applicants must have some business and/or planning experience. Learn more about the Planning Commission at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/plancom.

Interested citizens should complete the online application (include attached resume) at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on August 5, 2024.

Questions about St. Mary’s County Boards, Committees, and/or Commissions may be directed to Diane Gleissner at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1700 or Diane.Gleissner@stmaryscountymd.gov.

To highlight the deadly consequences of speeding, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the investigative findings of the fatal collision involving a motorcycle and a Hyundai Santa Fe that occurred on April 7, 2024, in Hollywood, MD. The motorcycle operator, Tiernan Anthony Stephenson, was pronounced dead at the scene, and a nine-year-old passenger in the Hyundai succumbed to injuries on April 12, 2024.

 

The investigation, conducted by the Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Unit, has determined the motorcycle operator’s excessive speed caused the collision. Footage from the helmet camera worn by Stephenson showed the motorcycle traveling 164 miles per hour immediately before impact.

 

Following the release of the investigative findings, Sheriff Steve Hall said, “The impact of this crash has left permanent scars on the families involved; it is devastating. Witnesses and first responders are profoundly shaken by what they saw on April 7. It has been said many times before, but our message begs repeating: driving the speed limit and maintaining focus on the road must be intentional and habitual. The social contract between all drivers is one of the most important we make; it is rooted in the truth that every life—yours, your passengers, and those of others on the road—matters to someone.”

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of all road users and urges drivers to adopt and maintain safe driving habits to prevent future tragedies.

 

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UPDATE: Second Victim Dies Following Motorcycle-SUV Crash

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 19, 2024) –The juvenile victim involved in the April 7, 2024, vehicle collision at Three Notch Road and Tom Hodges Drive in Hollywood, MD, succumbed to injuries and died at Children National Medical Center in Washington D.C. on Friday, April 19, 2024.

 

The collision remains under investigation.

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Original News Release

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 7, 2024)—At approximately 10:19 a.m., Sunday, April 7, 2024, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to the scene of an automobile collision involving a motorcycle and an SUV at Three Notch Road and Tom Hodges Drive in Hollywood.

 

Upon arrival, deputies determined that a 2006 Yamaha Motorcycle had collided with a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. The initial investigation determined that the motorcycle, driven by Tiernan Anthony Stephenson, 21, of Waldorf, MD, was traveling north on Three Notch Road when the Hyundai, driven by Stephanie Rose Robey, 36, of Hollywood, MD, pulled into the path of the motorcycle while attempting to cross the road from Tom Hodges Drive.

 

Mr. Stephenson struck the driver's side back door, was ejected from the motorcycle, and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle was transported to MedStar Washington Hospital Center, and a juvenile passenger in the SUV was transported via Maryland State Police Aviation Trooper 7 to Children’s Hospital and remains in critical condition.

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Unit has assumed the investigation. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or any events leading up to it and who has not already provided a statement is asked to contact Corporal Rachael Roszell at 301-475-4200, ext. 8108, or by email at Rachael.Roszell@stmaryscountymd.gov.

 

Delontey Montario Butler, 31, of Lexington Park, was arrested by deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office on Sunday, July 21. Butler was wanted on open warrants for home invasion, first-degree assault, and related charges.

 

The warrants stemmed from a 2023 incident in which Butler allegedly entered a residence, wielded a folding pocketknife, and lunged at the victim. The victim also reported that Butler produced a firearm from his waistband and threatened to shoot.

 

On Sunday, following an investigation into Butler's whereabouts, the suspect was apprehended in a residential area in the 46000 block of Radford Lane in Lexington Park after a short foot pursuit.

 

Butler faces charges including home invasion, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, firearm use during the commission of a violent crime, and additional related offenses. He was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services (DAHS) is pleased to welcome caregivers in our community to the St. Mary’s County Caregivers’ Support Group.

The St. Mary’s County Caregivers’ Support Group is designed to be a safe space for caregivers to share their experiences and learn about resources. This group is open to caregivers of all types, including those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia, diagnosed with Parkinsons, recovering from a stroke, or experiencing other physical, cognitive, or mental challenges.

This group will meet at 6 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month beginning July 23, 2024, at the Garvey Senior Activity Center, located at 23630 Hayden Farm Lane in Leonardtown. We want each person to feel welcome to attend and be encouraged through their caregiving journey.

For more information, contact the DAHS at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1057, or via email to Jennette.Beyer@stmaryscountymd.gov. For more information on home and community-based services offered by DAHS, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/HCBS.

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding President Biden:

 

“Joe Biden has time and again shown our nation the true meaning of a dedicated public servant. Over the last four years – and throughout his decades of prior service – he has delivered on behalf of the American people, working to better the lives of millions, while never forgetting where he came from and who he was fighting for. President Biden has always put our country first, and in making this decision, he has once again done what he thinks is best for the future of our democracy. His legacy will set an example of what we can accomplish on behalf of everyday Americans for generations to come. There’s still more work to be done – and I know the President is committed to seeing it through.”

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation announces the temporary closure of the Cove Point Park sports courts for demolition and replacement. The closure is anticipated to last several months.

Beginning on Monday, July 22, two tennis and pickleball courts closest to baseball fields three and four will close. The two courts nearest the parking lot will remain open for use during this period. The tennis and pickleball courts are expected to be completed in early October 2024.

Immediately following the demolition of the tennis courts, the basketball courts will be closed for demolition and construction will proceed to both the tennis and basketball courts simultaneously.  The basketball courts are expected to reopen in late October 2024, and will include a full scale, painted mural on the surface. Two Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) parking spots will be constructed near fields three and four, allowing access to the refurbished tennis/pickleball courts via a new accessible paved path.  Additionally, a wider path will be constructed leading to the basketball courts from the existing basketball parking area.

Cove Point Park is located at 750 Cove Point Road in Lusby and remains open for activities during this renovation period. Find Park amenities and maps at https://calvertcountymd.gov/covepoint.

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

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 Wednesday, July 17, 2024, Deputy Elijsha Munn responded to the Tackle Box in Lexington Park, MD, for a reported theft. Video surveillance footage showed an unknown suspect walking into the store, going behind the sales counter, taking a Ruger AR-15 rifle from the display rack, concealing it beneath his clothing, and exiting the store.

 

Images of the suspect were disseminated to officers, and while reviewing them, Deputy Bradley Kirscht recognized the suspect through prior involvement. The suspect, identified as Roger Glenn Chin, 40, is known to live in a homeless encampment in Lexington Park, MD. Deputies went to the encampment and located Chin in a tent, and he was arrested.

 

Detectives continued the investigation and learned Chin provided the firearm to Wayne Darnell Winters. On Thursday, July 18, 2024, deputies located Winters, 52, of Lexington Park, and recovered the weapon.

 

Chin was charged with possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm with a felony conviction, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, illegal transfer of a regulated firearm, and related charges.

 

Winters was charged with possession of a firearm with a violent felony conviction, possession of a firearm with a felony conviction, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, and related charges.

 

Both suspects were transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown to await bond hearings.

On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Government Department of Emergency Services contacted the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and reported suspected tampering with the security seal on a narcotics box in a local medic unit.

 

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division responded, and the investigation revealed that the seal on a medic box containing vials of fentanyl had been broken. Further investigation uncovered that the security packaging on fentanyl vials within the medic box had also been compromised. In response to these findings, detectives conducted simultaneous investigations at all county medic units. This effort led to the discovery of additional tampering incidents involving multiple narcotics boxes.

 

Despite the extensive scope of the investigation and the widespread evidence, detectives have identified a suspect, and charges are pending.

 

Questions regarding public health concerns should be directed to the Department of Emergency Services; representatives from the department will directly contact any individual whose care may have been impacted by this incident.

 

Residents with information about the criminal investigation are asked to contact Sergeant Kevin Meyer at Kevin.Meyer@stmaryscountymd.gov or call 301-475-4200, ext. 8091.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 19, 2024) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department will not be able to process vital record requests on Friday, July 19, 2024, due to the international IT issue affecting Microsoft. Normal operations are expected to resume on Monday, July 22, 2024.

To learn more about obtaining a vital record from the SMCHD, including document requirements, fees, and application downloads, please visit smchd.org/applications-forms-records.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, July 18, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 9-day trial and approximately two hours of deliberation, convicted Andre Taylor, 63, of the 1979 First-Degree Murder and First-Degree Rape of Vickie Lynn Belk.

Commenting on the case, State’s Attorney Tony Covington said, “I can’t give enough credit to the Assistant State’s Attorneys that put in ridiculously long hours and effort to achieve justice in this case.  John Stackhouse and Jonathan Beattie were phenomenal.  And the Sheriff’s Office in this cold case investigation, led by Detective Sergeant John Elliott and all the other police officers in this case should know I don’t take their work for granted.  These cold cases are rarely solved. They get solved with dogged determination and talent.  I am very grateful that Charles County, after 45 years, was able to bring some closure for the Belk family and justice for Vickie Lynn Belk.”

On August 28, 1979, Belk’s then-boyfriend reported her missing to the Prince George’s County Police Department after last seeing her the day before at their shared place of work in Washington, D.C. Belk had not returned to her apartment in Suitland, MD.

On August 29, 1979, a local teenager called 911 after noticing a body on the ground in a wooded location in the area of Metropolitan Church Road and Route 227. Officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to the location and discovered the body of a woman with a gunshot wound to the right side of the head and undressed from the waist down.

On August 30, 1979, Belk was positively identified as the woman who was discovered in the wooded area. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore ruled her cause of death to be from the gunshot wound. 

Investigators recovered, processed, and maintained evidence during the initial investigation; however, the case went cold. In the following years, several detectives worked on the case. In more recent years, Detective Sergeant John Elliott of the CCSO’s Criminal Investigations Division continued the investigation and worked with various agencies to pursue leads.

As forensic technology advanced, the evidence of the murder continued to be re-examined. In 2022, the CCSO’s Forensic Science Section re-evaluated the evidence and submitted Belk’s clothing for testing with newer technology. A profile was developed and entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a national DNA database.

On November 1, 2022, Noelle Gehrman, the Deputy Director of the CCSO’s Forensic Science Section, was notified of a DNA match between the profiles developed from the evidence obtained from the Belk case and Taylor.

While investigating Taylor’s background, detectives learned that he was arrested for violent crimes that occurred in Washington, D.C. It was also discovered that Taylor lived at a residence in Bryan’s Road around the time of the murder. The address was less than 4 miles from where Belk’s body was discovered. Taylor also had connections to the area of Washington, D.C. where it is believed that Belk was abducted.  

Detectives began trying to locate Taylor, but he had no known address since 2019. In collaboration with the United States Homeland Security Investigations, DC Metropolitan Police Department Homicide, and the U.S. Secret Service Baltimore Field Office, detectives of the CCSO were able to locate Taylor in Washington, D.C., where he resided.

On June 22, 2023, Taylor was arrested by detectives assigned to the CCSO’s Criminal Investigations Division, CCSO’s Warrant/Fugitive Unit, the United States Marshals Service, Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, and members of the Metropolitan Police Department.

In an interview with detectives, Taylor admitted to actions that amounted to the rape of Belk, but he denied having any part in her murder.

At the time of the murder, Belk was 28 years old, and Taylor was 18 years old. There is no evidence that indicates that Belk and Taylor knew each other before the incident.

A sentencing date has been set for September 6, 2024. Taylor faces Life in prison for First-Degree Murder and Life in prison for First-Degree Rape.

Project marks future phase of oyster restoration in the Chesapeake Bay

Oyster shells laid out for a 2016 planting at an oyster restoration sanctuary. Maryland DNR photo

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has announced that it has recommended awarding $10 million to fund new reef construction for a Maryland Department of Natural Resources oyster sanctuary in the Chesapeake Bay.

The four-year grant will provide infrastructure funding for building reef bases on about 50 to 75 acres within an existing oyster sanctuary, as well as ground-truthing to assess the area before construction. NOAA awarded the funding as part of its Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.

“This is an exciting time for oysters in the Chesapeake Bay,” Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz said. “Just as we’re finishing the tributary phase of sanctuary construction and seeding, this $10 million award will help us with future oyster restoration throughout Maryland.”

 

The construction will be part of a new project at one of several proposed sanctuaries. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources identified several possible sites, which will be presented at the August 19 meeting of the Oyster Advisory Commission to receive stakeholder feedback on the sites.

The grant comes as the Chesapeake Bay Program’s 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement hits its 10th anniversary. The agreement outlined a goal to restore oyster habitat and populations in 10 tributaries—five each in Maryland and Virginia—by 2025.

According to this summer’s Chesapeake Bay Oyster Restoration Update for 2023, four of Maryland’s five large-scale oyster sanctuaries are initially complete, and work on the last site in Manokin River is well underway and scheduled to be complete on target in 2025. Harris Creek, the first Maryland sanctuary to be targeted, is now considered fully and successfully restored.

Maryland now has more than 1,000 acres of restored oyster reefs, which is equivalent to 1.5 square miles or more than 800 football fields. Last year, the state had record-setting oyster spat plantings and an outstanding natural spatset.

The eastern oyster, the species found in the Bay, is a keystone species. Oyster reefs provide important habitat for Bay fish and crustaceans, and oysters serve as natural filters that remove excess nutrients. Scientists estimate that adult oysters can filter more than 10 gallons per day in the Chesapeake Bay.

Oysters are also an economic driver for the region. In the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 oyster harvest seasons, Maryland oystermen have brought in dockside values of $21.5 million and $31 million, respectively, a result of two years with the highest landfall of oysters since 1987.

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning has launched a new online flood mitigation map system, powered by Forerunner, providing residents with up-to-date details on flood risks for their properties. The platform aims to make it easier for the community to access relevant data and important documents.

The new system allows users to search for a property’s flood risk by address, providing information such as flood zone, Base Flood Elevation (BFE), Design Flood Elevation (DFE) and important flood compliance-related warnings. Each property has a public profile accessible to homeowners, contractors, insurance agents, realtors and others.

“Our department worked diligently to provide Calvert County residents this new online map system, with upgraded features that provide a more user-friendly way to access essential, time critical data regarding their property,” said Mary Beth Cook, Department of Planning & Zoning director.

Additionally, Forerunner offers a “get help” page, which allows users to contact their local floodplain management team directly with any questions. Users simply enter their information and the address of the property in question. For additional floodplain information and educational videos visit www.calvertcountymd.gov/Floodplain.

To explore the new flood mitigation map system, visit the Calvert County Government website at https://calvertcountymd.withforerunner.com.

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.

 Dr. Boris Lushniak, Commission Co-chair and Dean of the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health, presided at the July 11 meeting of the Commission on Public Health, where the Commission heard from Mr. Mark Luckner, Executive Director of the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission (CHRC), and Mr. Jonathan Dayton, Executive Director of the Maryland Rural Health Association. The Commission also received updates from staff and members on activities since the June meeting.

Executive Director Luckner highlighted the CHRC’s grant programs to complement and support public health initiatives, such as school-based care centers and social drivers of health like housing. He noted several areas for collaboration with the Commission on Public Health’s work to make recommendations. These include building strong relationships within communities, enhancing data sharing and outcomes tracking, and banding together to address systemic workforce shortages.  

Commissioners asked about ways to deepen coordination with local health improvement coalitions, improve outcomes sharing from CHRC’s grantees, and keep health equity at the forefront of the programs. Executive Director Luckner agreed that opportunities existed and felt that partnerships and local connections would be essential to achieving those goals, especially as these competitive grant applications exceed the agency’s annual budgets and must be prioritized based on several factors. The Commission’s statutory requirement to hold listening sessions across the state and solicit public input are among the many ways community members are being engaged.

Maryland Rural Health Association Executive Director Dayton’s presentation noted that 18 out of 24 of Maryland’s jurisdictions are considered rural, but only 25% of Marylanders live in rural areas. The Association partners with the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Office of Rural Health to deliver education and advocacy programming on the unique issues impacting rural communities, which often include transportation challenges, lack of access to broadband, and workforce shortages. Access to specialist and emergency care is particularly alarming and often requires rural patients to travel significant distances to get needed care. Executive Director Dayton also noted that trust in institutions is low in rural communities and is further complicated by varying levels of health literacy.

Noting the significant challenges of transportation and access, Commissioners and workgroup members asked follow-up questions about potential innovations from other states and the progress of rolling out broadband service coverage. Executive Director Dayton acknowledged the significant efforts to expand access at the state and federal levels. However, he provided examples where there was still not enough demand to support the infrastructure in some communities despite the interest and availability of technology. He committed to staying engaged with the Commission’s work and sharing additional findings from his national and regional counterparts.

Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, Deputy Secretary of Public Health Services at the Maryland Department of Health, briefed Commissioners that public health budgets were recently modified to reflect revised revenue figures. Agenda materials from the Maryland Board of Public Works’ July 17 meeting show multiple agencies’ budgets decreased to achieve an overall reduction of nearly $150 million. Of that $150 million in budget reductions, $26.07 million will come from MDH programs and line items. This includes a $12 million reduction (10% from base appropriation) in funding for the core public health services line item that supports local health department operations. Commissioners remarked that they understood the need to ensure fiscally sound budgets but expressed concern about the message this sent to local health departments during the Commission’s work to study the public health system.

The Commission on Public Health’s next meeting is on August 1 and will be held at the Prince George’s County Government Building in Upper Marlboro, MD. Dr. Meena Brewster will be the presiding co-chair. The meeting will be accessible online and recorded. For more information about the monthly meetings or other opportunities to provide input to the Commission about public health topics, please visit the Commission’s website at smchd.org/coph.

Comptroller Brooke Lierman voted today to approve Governor Wes Moore’s $148.3 million budget reduction proposal during a meeting of the Board of Public Works alongside Governor Moore and Treasurer Dereck Davis.  

“As the state's elected Chief Financial Officer, I understand fully that making strategic but tough fiscal decisions such as the budget reductions presented today are necessary for preserving the state's fiscal health,” Comptroller Lierman said. 

Ahead of the critical vote, the Board of Public Works heard testimony from Marylanders supporting and in opposition to the cuts. Comptroller Lierman expressed her appreciation for Marylanders who reached out to her and the agency to share how spending reductions would affect them and their work. Comptroller Lierman commended Department of Budget Management Secretary Helene T. Grady for her transparency, continuous engagement, and partnership and invited her to provide additional clarity around the process of identifying and selecting areas for reduction. 

Additionally, Comptroller Lierman highlighted the importance of preserving funding to support access to childcare and Medicaid programs here in Maryland. Earlier this year, the Office of the Comptroller published its first State of the Economy report, which found that Maryland’s Labor Force Participation rate fell four percentage points during the pandemic, and more than 181,000 people had not returned to the workforce, with childcare and health issues cited as contributing factors. 

“Revenues are relatively stagnant, and they have been for quite some time, but needs are growing, and we cannot meet those needs if revenues don't keep up. Revenues into the state increase when Maryland businesses are thriving, when more people are working, when they're getting raises because our businesses are doing well,” Comptroller Lierman explained.  

“People can’t work if they are sick and parents cannot work, or guardians or caregivers cannot work, the group cannot afford childcare for their children at home. So, these collective sacrifices that we are seeing today will allow the state to increase spending in our healthcare and childcare programs, and by investing in Maryland families, we will also grow our economy both in the near and long term.” 

The Board of Public Works also approved more than $288 million for 105 initiatives and projects throughout Maryland.  

Comptroller Lierman applauded the Maryland Transit Administration for the addition of 50 new hybrid-electric and 20 new battery-operated electric buses through an Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchase Agreement with The State of Washington. This was a direct result of MTA evaluating the state of good repair of their fleet, taking action to ensure the operational safety of their vehicles, and working to help the state reach its goal of reducing future greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent from 2006 levels by 2030.????? 

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

• Approved 105 items, representing a total State expenditure of $288,332,985.49. 

• Approved grant agreements for 21 recipients for 22 projects located in 5 counties and Baltimore City with a total value of $23,085,000. 

• 7 items awarding $13,578,444.97 to prime certified small business primes. 

• 2 items awarding $10,196,286 to certified minority business enterprise primes. 

• 1 item awarding $203,947.43 to Employment Works Program providers. 

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

• 1 item awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises. 

 The next meeting of the Board of Public Works is August 7. 

 The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office invites you, your family, and your community to the 2024 Annual National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, for an opportunity to meet and socialize with Sheriff’s Office personnel.

 

National Night Out is a nationwide community-building campaign encouraging residents to unite and form relationships with local law enforcement. The event allows neighbors to get to know each other and allows public safety officials to connect with the communities they serve.

 

Sheriff’s Deputies, Maryland State Police, elected officials, volunteer fire departments and rescue squads, and other community representatives will fan out across St. Mary’s County on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, from 6 to 8 pm in participating neighborhoods, including:

 

Birch Way

Cecil Mills

Cedar Cove

Clarks Rest

Country Lakes

Golden Beach

Hollywood Shores

Leonard’s Grant

Meadow Lake

Persimmon Hills

Spring Valley

St. James Neighborhood

Town Creek

Villages of Leonardtown

Westbury

Wildewood
The Woods at Myrtle Point

 

To register your neighborhood event or for more information about National Night Out, please visit the Sheriff’s Office website at https://www.firstsheriff.com/community/national-night-out or email us at smcnno@stmaryscountymd.gov. Preregistration is requested by Friday, August 2, 2024.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Webster Outlying Field Webster and Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised of a scheduled increase in aircraft flight activities associated with the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School training from Aug. 1 to Aug. 16, 2024.

 

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.

 

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (July 17, 2024) — Comptroller Brooke Lierman will make stops in Southern Anne Arundel and Calvert Counties on Friday, July 19, 2024, to continue her Take a Look with Brooke tour. During the daylong visit, Comptroller Lierman will meet with local lawmakers, members of the local business communities, as well as tour local projects under construction.

Who: Comptroller Brooke Lierman

What: Take a Look with Brooke Tour in Anne Arundel and Calvert Counties

When: Friday, July 19, 2024

Tour Schedule

Anne Arundel County

9 a.m. | Business Roundtable with Southern Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce

South County Café

5960 Deale Churchton Road

Deale, MD 20751

Calvert County

11:35 p.m. | Tour Calvert County Library, Twin Beaches Branch, and Meet with Calvert County Commissioners

4100 5^th Street

North Beach, MD 20714

1:20 p.m. | Tour Amory Square Retail Development and Pavilion Projects

429 Solomons Island Road

Prince Frederick, MD 20678

2:00 p.m. | Tour Chesapeake Hills Golf Club 

11352 H G Trueman Road

Lusby, MD 20657

3:15 p.m. | Tour Horsmon Farm 

1865 Horsmon Farm Lane

St. Leonard, MD 20685

Patrol officers de-escalate a dangerous situation and apprehend armed male: On July 13 at 10:50 a.m., officers responded to a house in La Plata for the report of a male who fired a gunshot at a television and threatened two people who were inside during an argument. Responding officers immediately established a perimeter around the house while another officer was able to make telephone contact with the armed subject. Through dialogue, the officers effectively persuaded the individual to exit the home peacefully where he was taken into custody. The two people who were also inside the residence were not injured. A firearm was recovered from the scene. The suspect, Alfredo Arroyo, 45, of La Plata, was charged with first-degree assault, malicious destruction of property, and other related charges.

De-escalation techniques are vital for police officers when arriving at potentially dangerous scenes, aiming to resolve conflicts swiftly and safely whenever possible. While quick reactions are sometimes necessary, officers trained in de-escalation can sometimes effectively defuse tense situations through communication and conflict resolution strategies. Officer Harden is investigating.  

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1372 calls for service, including 13 Emergency Petitions, from July 8 through July 14, 2024.

 

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public and 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:

7/05/24 – Cortez Khyree Williams, 34, of Washington D.C., by Deputy Myles Chase-Johnson for Assault Second-Degree on an incarcerated individual of the Division of Corrections.

 

7/08/24 – Latres Javontae Cockerham, 23, of California, MD, by Deputy Jordan Wagner for two counts of Assault Second-Degree on an incarcerated individual of the Division of Corrections.

 

7/08/24 – Delano Jurail Parham-Nash, 20, of No Fixed Address, by Deputy Jordan Wagner for two counts of Assault Second-Degree on an incarcerated individual of the Division of Corrections.

 

7/08/24 – John Otha Dickens, 34, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Michael Rycyzyn for two counts of Assault Second-Degree on a Division of Corrections employee.

 

7/08/24 – Javone Lawrence Warrick, 33, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Madison Devries for two counts of Assault Second-Degree on an incarcerated individual of the Division of Corrections.

 

DUIs:

7/08/24 – William Sylvester Douglas, 62, of Colonial Beach, VA, by Deputy Joseph Reppel for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Negligent Driving, and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

 

7/09/24 – Rachel Elizabeth Bowles, 39, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Julian Grant for Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Attempting to Drive a Vehicle While So Far Impaired Cannot Drive Safely, and related charges.

 

7/11/24 – Emily Jean Peregory, 30, of Charlotte Hall, MD, by Deputy Madison Devries for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, and Driving While So Impaired by Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely.

 

SUMMONSES:

7/12/24 – Andrea Ellen Nagers, 34, of Frankford, DE, by Deputy Zachary Wolfe for five counts of Theft of $100 - $1500 and Theft Scheme of $1500 to under $25000.

 

WARRANTS:

7/09/24 – Kerry Joseph Woods, Jr., 27, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for Theft of $1500 to under $25000, Unauthorized Removal of a Motor Vehicle, Assault Second-Degree, and related charges.

 

7/10/24 – Keith Michael Hughes, 59, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Corporal Gerard Muschette, for Sex Abuse of a Minor, Rape Second-Degree, and two counts of Sex Offense Third-Degree.

 

 State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling proudly announces the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP) awarded the State’s Attorney’s Office for St. Mary’s County a $586,299 Victims of Crime Act grant for fiscal year 2025.

The grant funds will supplement the Victim Services Division of the State’s Attorney’s Office by funding eight positions within the Division for a seamless continuation of victim services. Specifically, the grant will enable the Office to preserve one Director, one Deputy Director, five Victim Witness Advocate Coordinators, and one Senior Legal Assistant. The grant will also provide opportunities for crime victims to receive mental health services and allow Victim/Witness Advocates to obtain training opportunities essential to their jobs.

Since the beginning of State’s Attorney Sterling’s administration, the Office has successfully secured a total of $1,230,142 in grants dedicated to victim services for St. Mary’s County. This, in combination with other grants, brings the grand total of grant dollars received by the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office to $1,428,692.

State’s Attorney Sterling said, “These grants are vital to support the core functions, operations, and initiatives of our Office in providing critical programs and services to crime victims.”

Sterling further emphasized the strategic utilization of external resources to enhance and expand crucial initiatives for crime victims in our County.

Jessika Hall, Grant Coordinator for the State’s Attorney’s Office, successfully wrote and prepared the competitive FY25 VOCA grant on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy funded this project under subaward number VOCA-2023-0023. All points of view in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of any State or Federal agency.

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 Maryland Buy Local Week and National Parks and Recreation Month.

 

The Commissioners then held 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 FY2025 School Resource Officer Adequate Coverage Grant from the Maryland State Department of Education, Maryland Center for School Safety. 
• Approved the FY2025 GOCPP Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Grant Award.
• Approved the facility lease agreement for St. Mary's County Arts Council at the Carver Recreation Center.
• Approved proposed amendments to the St. Mary’s County Animal Ordinance.
• Approved the signing and re-recording of Ordinance 24-15 to correct a clerical error.

 

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

 

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 23, 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.  

Baltimore, Maryland – The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) has agreed to pay $500,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by failing to disclose current and pending support from foreign sources for faculty members who were principal investigators (PI) or co-PIs of federal research grant proposals.

 

            The settlement relates to research grant support UMD received from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Department of the Army between 2015 and 2020. These agencies require grant applicants to disclose all current and pending support received by the institution, its PIs, and co-PIs.  Current and pending support is defined as all resources from whatever source — including foreign government sources — that are made available to researchers in support of and/or related to their research endeavors. The agencies rely on the accuracy of these disclosures, in part, to avoid funding duplicative research projects and to ensure their highly competitive grants are awarded only to PIs who demonstrate they have the time and ability to perform the planned work. Non-disclosure of required information can result in missed opportunities for other applicants to receive funding for their own research.

 

            This investigation began as a proactive initiative spearheaded by the NSF Office of Inspector General (OIG) to determine if foreign gifts and contracts subject to Section 117 of the Department of Education’s Higher Education Act of 1965 were also being disclosed in federal grant proposals, as required.

 

            The United States alleged UMD knowingly failed to disclose current and pending foreign funding that three UMD researchers had sought and received, in five research grant proposals submitted to the NSF and Army. Specifically, the United States alleged UMD failed to disclose to NSF gift funding from Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. to a PI for research in “high energy density FeF3 conversion cathode materials and Li metal anodes.” Additionally, the United States alleged UMD failed to disclose to the NSF and Army grant funding to two other PIs from Taobao (China) Software Co., Ltd. (Alibaba), titled, “Large-Scale Behavior Learning for Dense Crowds”, and “Cyber-Manufacturing of Customized Apparel.”

 

            “Complete and accurate disclosures are essential to federal agencies that make decisions on awarding federal grants,” said Erek L. Barron, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland.  “Those individuals and universities that knowingly fail to do so skew the grant awarding process in their favor and will be held accountable.”

 

            “NSF plays a major role in the U.S. research enterprise, providing about 25% of all Federal support to America’s colleges and universities for basic research. Lack of institutional oversight of individuals receiving Federal funds poses a serious risk to the success of that enterprise. This investigation was one of NSF OIG’s proactive efforts focused on determining compliance with critical grant terms and conditions, including mandatory disclosures. As this case demonstrated, the failure of institutional oversight can foster noncompliance and present significant challenges to the integrity of the Federal research funding process,” said NSF Inspector General Allison Lerner. “We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and our investigative partners for their work in protecting federally funded research.”

 

            The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. 

 

            The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, with assistance from the NSF OIG and the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

 

            The matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas F. Corcoran for the District of Maryland.

 

The Calvert County Board of Education is accepting applications for the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC). The CAC provides a means for taking an active role in public education. The committee serves in an advisory capacity to the Board of Education. It conducts studies in areas of concern, provides community insight into pending policies and discusses a variety of issues affecting school system operations. The work of the committee is done in accordance with Policy #1210 and the corresponding procedures. The committee meets at 6:00 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month during the school year. Applicants must be residents of Calvert County and may not be full- or part-time employees of the school system. You can apply at https://forms.office.com/r/1bcCf9TbUU. Applications are due by July 31, 2024. For more information, contact Karen Maxey at 443-550-8006 or maxeyk@calvertnet.k12.md.us.

The Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department was called to an RV fire at 23285 Point Lookout Road, Leonardtown on Monday morning. 15 firefighters had the blaze extinguished in 3 minutes. The fire that began on the RV's interior was quickly discovered and extinguished.  One adult female and two children were inside.  The adult female sustained burns as a result of the fire and was flown for treatment and later released.  There were no working smoke detectors within the RV at the time of the fire.  The occupants were provided with smoke detectors while on scene. The total estimated loss is $250.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2024 session of Citizens Academy!

Citizens Academy provides participants with the opportunity to learn more about county government programs and services. The 2024 academy will run from September 3, 2024, to November 5, 2024. Classes will be held for the first 8 weeks on Tuesday evenings from 6–9 p.m. Participants are required to attend at minimum 7 of the 8 class sessions. Week 9 offers optional attendance (in-person or virtual) to the Commissioner's quarterly public forum. The program will culminate with a recognition ceremony during the Commissioner’s meeting on November 5.

“At St. Mary’s County Government, we strive for transparency and community engagement in everything we do,” said David Weiskopf, County Administrator. “This program gives our residents a chance to learn more about our county government programs and services, and how to get involved. The academy class fills every year, so don’t hesitate to register!”

Citizens Academy is open to St. Mary’s County residents, 18 years of age and older and limited to 25 participants. This program is free, but advance registration is required to participate; the deadline to register is 5 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024.

To register, or for more information, including the full list of 2024 session topics, dates, and locations, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/ca.

Topics covered in Citizens Academy include County Administration, Economic Development, Recreation & Parks, Land Use & Growth Management, Public Works & Transportation, Emergency Services, as well as information from our partners at the St. Mary’s County Sheriff's Office, St. Mary’s County Health Department, St. Mary’s County Library, the St. Mary’s County Department of Social Services, and the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (MetCom).

For more information, please contact the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1340.

 

Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff conduct the annual juvenile striped bass survey, to monitor the annual reproductive success of the species. Maryland DNR photo.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds recreational anglers that targeting striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries is prohibited from July 16 through July 31. 

This closure is necessary to protect the species, because when water and air temperatures rise in the hottest part of summer, fish are more vulnerable to dying after being caught and released.

While recent research has suggested that environmental factors, such as warm winters and low water flows are significant factors influencing spawning success, the summer closure of the recreational striped bass fishery is one of several management measures the department implemented to protect the resident stock of striped bass and decrease overall mortality in Chesapeake Bay.

Recent heat waves in Maryland have already triggered nearly a dozen “red flag” advisory days when anglers are encouraged not to fish for striped bass after 10 a.m. The Striped Bass Summer Fishing Advisory Forecast is an awareness campaign ??aimed at reducing striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season when catch-and-release fishing is allowed. 

Chesapeake Bay striped bass mortality distribution broken down by sector. In 2022, the distribution was 44% recreational harvest, 21% recreational dead discards, 31% commercial harvest, and 4% commercial dead discards. Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

A midseason closure was introduced in 2020 and aims to protect fish during the weeks when weather conditions cause stress on striped bass and the chance of death from catch and release is high. Recreational dead discards, when a fish dies after being caught and returned to the water, accounted for 21% of total fishing-related striped bass deaths in the Bay in the most recent stock assessment data published in 2022.

During the closure, DNR officials encourage anglers to pursue other fish instead of striped bass, such as invasive blue catfish and Chesapeake Channa, also known as snakehead, by using different fishing methods than those used for striped bass. These invasive species have no bag or size limits and their harvest contributes to a healthier ecosystem in the Bay. Tips and methods for fishing blue catfish can be found on the DNR website. 

The Chesapeake Bay recreational fishery will reopen from August 1 through December 10, at which time anglers may keep one striped bass per person, per day, with a minimum length of 19 inches and a maximum length of 24 inches.

 

Fugitive who violated terms of electric monitoring apprehended in Mississippi: On June 24, officers assigned to the United States Marshals Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force located and arrested Mack Lee Cleckley, age 40, of Waldorf, who had an active warrant for possession with the intent to distribute drugs in Charles County, MD. Cleckley was arrested without incident in Gulfport, MS. The circumstances of this case are as follows: 

In April 2024, Cleckley, who was being investigated for drug trafficking by detectives from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, was arrested and charged with possession with the intent to distribute drugs. A judge released Cleckley from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring. Cleckley cut the device off and left the area. He failed to appear in court for the drug case and a bench warrant was issued.

Working with the CCSO Warrant Fugitive Unit and the United States Marshals Capital Area Regional Task Force, officers tracked Cleckley to Mississippi. After his arrest, Cleckley was transported to the Pearl River County Detention Center where he was charged on his federal probation violation warrant and will await extradition back to Charles County Maryland. CPL. T.J. Rickard Jr. is investigating.

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day announced today the department has awarded $753,600 from three state programs to assist small businesses and support local revitalization projects and activities in Southern Maryland. Grants from the Business Boost Microgrant Program, the Main Street Improvement Grant, and Project Restore 2.0 will provide funds to six businesses, local governments, and place-based economic development organizations to spur community revitalization by attracting, retaining, and expanding small businesses, as well as through the promotion of local, cultural attractions and events.

“To ensure the continued quality of our communities and to improve the quality of life for all their residents, we must revitalize their hearts - downtowns, Main Streets, and other important community hubs and places,” said Secretary Day. “This important funding will strengthen these hearts by supporting the growth of small businesses that provide local services and job opportunities and the events and attractions that make Southern Maryland’s unique, varied communities such great and lovable places.”

The Business Boost Microgrant Program assists businesses seeking to expand or establish a location with preference given to home-based businesses establishing their first commercial location outside of the home. Applicants were also required to meet one or more of the priority impact attributes that contribute to Maryland’s economic growth, such as supporting minority and women-owned businesses, driving innovation or technology advancements, growing new industries, or leveraging existing regional strengths. Business Boost awarded $140,800 to assist three businesses, including Stylish Auto Dealer (Charles) in acquiring and enhancing a second auto repair shop and launching its auto wholesale business. The expansion includes the hiring of mechanics and shop personnel.

The Main Street Improvement Grant Program provides operating assistance to the local governments or economic development organizations in Maryland’s designated and affiliated Main Street Maryland communities and Baltimore City’s designated Main Street neighborhoods. Grants help awardees achieve their community revitalization and economic development goals, including creating and retaining small businesses and increasing tourism for local events and attractions. The program awarded $25,000 to the Town Commissioners of Leonardtown to support the town’s Main Street Manager position.

Project Restore 2.0 seeks to activate vacant buildings, support small businesses, and increase local economic activity by providing financial support to improve the vitality of Maryland’s commercial corridors. Unlike prior rounds of the program, $588,600 was awarded as a block grant to three place-based economic development organizations, nonprofit or local government entities that work to improve a specific jurisdiction within the state. The Board of County Commissioners for Calvert County, the Charles County Charitable Trust, Inc., and the Town Commissioners of Leonardtown will sub-grant the funds to for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, cooperatively-owned businesses, and social enterprises to start up or expand into vacant buildings in their jurisdictions.

Here’s what local leaders and awardees are saying about the announcement:

• “Leonardtown is honored to receive the Restore 2.0 grant this week continuing the important partnership with the Dept of Housing and Community Development and the State of Maryland in the effort to revitalize our downtowns and support our locally owned businesses,” said Leonardtown Mayor Dan Burris.
• “Thank you to the State of Maryland for giving us a huge boost in growing our business,” said Robin Michelle Delos, Owner of Stylish Auto Dealer. “The grant funds from the Business Boost Microgrant Program will assist us with acquiring a second auto repair shop and at the same time launching our auto wholesale business. This expansion includes hiring additional mechanics and shop personnel and by doing this, we will have an even bigger positive impact on our local community by creating more jobs with sustainable wages for Maryland workers to support their families.”

For more information about the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development business assistance and Main Street improvement programs, visit http://dhcd.maryland.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Due to extreme heat in the forecast for the beginning of this week, 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:

Monday, July 15 – Wednesday, July 17

Charlotte Hall Library 37600 New Market Road, Charlotte Hall 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.   Garvey Senior Activity Center 23630 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.   Leonardtown Library 23600 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.   Lexington Park Library 21677 FDR Blvd, Lexington Park 9 a.m.  – 8 p.m.

Loffler Senior Activity Center 21905 Chancellor’s Run Road, Great Mills 8 a.m.  – 4:30 p.m.   Northern Senior Activity Center 29655 Charlotte Hall Road, Charlotte Hall 8 a.m.  – 4:30 p.m.   Three Oaks Center 46905 Lei Drive, Lexington Park 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Times listed above are normal business hours and may change.

The heat indexes this week will be as high as 112 degrees Fahrenheit.  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.

On Sunday, July 14, 2024, at approximately 9:41 p.m., deputies from the Calvert County Patrol Bureau responded to the 1600 block of Mint Court in Prince Frederick, for the report of shots fired.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered a middle-aged male had been struck in the leg and a middle-aged female victim had been shot several times in the upper body.

A preliminary investigation revealed an unknown suspect (s) shot several rounds into the front of the residence ultimately striking both victims.

Both patients were transported to area trauma centers for injuries received.

At this time, the female patient is in critical condition, while the male victim is currently in stable condition.

Detectives are working to identify the suspect(s) responsible for this crime. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact Det. W. Freeland at Will.Freeland@calvertcountymd.gov or Det. M. Mudd at Michael.Mudd@calvertcountymd.gov.

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

Burglary: 24-51898
On July 5, 2024, DFC Huy responded to the 7600 block of Investment Court in Owings, for the
report of a commercial burglary. Investigation revealed unknown suspects forced entry into the
business and set off the fire extinguisher destroying the main office. The estimated value of
damaged property is $1,000.00.

 

CDS Violation: 24-52064
On July 6, 2024, DFC Daily responded to the area of MD 4 and Ward Road in Dunkirk, for the
report of a person passed out in a vehicle. Upon making contact with the driver, Thornton
Kahlil Kindrick, 29 of Washington, DC, a loaded handgun was observed in plain view. A
vehicle search revealed two bags of mushrooms and several containers of cannabis. Kindrick was
transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Loaded Handgun in
Vehicle, Handgun in Vehicle, Illegal Possession of Ammunition, and CDS: Possession-Not
Cannabis. 

 

Damaged Property: 24-50901
On July 1, 2024, Deputy DeSantis responded to the Weis located at 210 Village Center Drive in
Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised unknown suspects
splattered pink paint across the rear of the victim’s vehicle. The estimated value of damaged
property is $1,000.00.

 

Damaged Property: 24-52100
On July 6, 2024, Master Deputy Burggraff responded to the 600 block of Field Road in Lusby,
for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised sometime between July 4 and 5,
unknown suspects damaged the victim’s vehicle tire by cutting the sidewall. The estimated value
of damaged property is $100.00.

 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-50893
On July 1, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to Langley Lane and Solomons Island Road in
Solomons, for the report of a motor vehicle accident and possible impaired driver. Upon arrival,
contact was made with Wade Faron Robinson Robinite, 32 of Leonardtown. Robinite was
shouting profanities and making threats toward deputies, drawing the attention of citizens
nearby. Further investigation revealed Robinite was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Robinite was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with DUI,
Disorderly Conduct, Intoxicated Endangerment & other related charges.

O

bstructing Justice: 24-51683
On July 4, 2024, F/Sgt. McCarroll initiated a traffic stop along NB Rt. 4 and Norfolk Drive in
Owings, on a vehicle for a speeding violation and having expired registration. Contact was made
with the driver who refused to provide his identity, driver’s license, and vehicle registration. The driver was advised if he failed to provide the requested information he would be placed under
arrest. The driver failed to comply with the deputy's commands. Investigation revealed the driver
was later identified as Kenneth Sarpong- Kari Kari, 33 of Carlisle, PA, and his registration had
expired. Kari Kari was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with
Obstructing and Hindering and numerous traffic charges.

 

Theft: 24-51076
On July 2, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the 100 block of Alton Court in Prince Frederick, for
the report of a theft. The complainant advised a package was stolen from the victim’s mailbox
sometime between 2:15 pm – 3 pm on July 1. The package contained a Nintendo game cartridge.
The estimated value of stolen property is $20.00.

 

Theft: 24-51042
On July 2, 2024, Cpl. Durner responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office located at 30
Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown
suspect stole the real estate lock box and damaged a storm door to a home in the 4000 block of
27th Street in Chesapeake Beach, sometime between June 19 and June 30. The estimated value of
damaged and stolen property is $225.00.

 

Theft: 24-51088
On July 2, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the Dunkirk Giant located at 10790 Town
Center Blvd in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a female with a basket
full of groceries walked past all points of sale and fled the area. The estimated value of stolen
property is unknown at this time.

 

Theft: 24-51808
On July 5, 2024, Deputy Baxter responded to the 600 block of Beech Drive in Lusby, for the
report of theft. The complainant advised a kayak and life jacket were stolen from the backyard of
the residence sometime between 8:30 p.m. on July 3 and 6 a.m. on July 4. The kayak is described
as a red Wilderness Systems single-seater. The life jacket is brown and black. The estimated
value of stolen property is $650.00.

 

Theft: 24-52505
On July 7, 2024, DFC Huy responded to the 6200 block of 5th Street in Chesapeake Beach, for a
report of a theft. The complainant advised while at the McDonald's located at 7925 Bayside
Road in Chesapeake Beach, the victim’s purse and all of its contents were stolen. The purse is
described as a small purple crossbody. The estimated value of stolen property is $85.00.

 

Trespassing: 24-52200
On June 6, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the Winward Keys subdivision pool located at
4007 Windward Keys Court in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon
arrival, contact was made with Jose Albino Baca, V, 61 of Chesapeake Beach. Investigation
revealed Baca was intoxicated and was making inappropriate comments to juvenile females.
Baca was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and
charged with Disorderly Conduct, Trespassing: Private Property, and Resisting/Interfering with
Arrest. 

On July 11 at 1:45 p.m., officers received a report of a person who was making threats to harm themselves on several social media platforms. Officers were able to identify the person and locate a phone number. The officers contacted the person who continued to make statements and threatened suicide. Based on investigative techniques, officers were able to track the person to a location in Waldorf.  The officers responded to the area and spotted a vehicle they believed the person to be in. The person fled down a dead-end street, stopped their car, and stayed inside the vehicle. Two officers, who were trained in Crisis Intervention techniques, were on the scene and established a good rapport with the person, who was still inside their car. After communicating with the person for approximately one hour, the person exited the car and was safely taken to a hospital for treatment.

This is one of two incidents involving a mental health crisis officers handled recently. The second case involved a person armed with a knife and making harmful statements. Officers were able to disarm the person and take them to the hospital for treatment. These incidents highlight the critical role of Crisis Intervention Training in resolving potentially dangerous encounters peacefully.

“De-escalation and Crisis Intervention Training are vital components of law enforcement, equipping police officers with enhanced skills to handle potentially volatile situations calmly and effectively,” said Sheriff Troy Berry.  The commitment of the CCSO to Crisis Intervention Training, which was enhanced in 2017, emphasizes the Agency’s dedication to promoting safety, ensuring officers are well-prepared to handle a wide range of challenging situations with professionalism and empathy.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns and needs help, call the national crisis hotline at 9-8-8. 

Detectives investigating suspicious activity in Dorchester neighborhood: On July 10 at 7:30 a.m., officers responded to Dorchester Circle for the report of a suspicious person. A preliminary investigation showed a male drove up to a teenage girl and asked for her phone number. The girl walked away and notified a parent. On July 11, at 7:30 a.m., a man matching a similar description approached an adult female and made a sexual comment. He fled when he observed her getting her cell phone out. The male was described as a white or Asian man in his twenties, having dark blonde hair, was clean-shaven, and wearing glasses. The vehicle was described as an older model sedan or small SUV, possibly teal. It was also dirty and unkempt. Patrol officers and detectives have been working in that area and surrounding locations in overt and covert capacities; however, a vehicle has not been located and there have been no other similar cases reported at this time.  While detectives continue their investigation, anyone who has been approached by this person is asked to call Detective Sapienza at 301-609-6554. Further, people in the neighborhood with home security cameras are asked to review their camera history to ascertain if they have vehicle footage.    

 

Detectives arrest suspects in connection with prom night robbery: On May 10 at 7:30 p.m., two suspects approached a teenage male who was leaving a prom party on Devongate Street in Waldorf. The suspects placed one firearm to the victim's abdomen and another to his head and demanded the victim's designer watch. They fled in a dark-colored sedan. Through investigation, detectives identified two suspects and obtained arrest warrants for Ryle Michael Mili, age 24, of Waldorf, and Jeremiah Hames Jenkins, age 19, of White Plains. 

On July 7, officers assigned to the CCSO’s Judicial Services located Mili leaving his house in a vehicle on Harvest Fish Place in Waldorf. Officers initiated a traffic stop and took Mili into custody. During the traffic stop, the driver, Anthony Torren Jefferson, age 19, of Waldorf, was found to be in possession of a loaded gun with an extended magazine. Jefferson was also arrested.

A search warrant was obtained for Mili’s residence where investigators located evidence linking Mili to the citizen robbery. Detectives also recovered a loaded polymer 80 gun with an extended magazine, a drum magazine, and rifle ammunition.

Mili was charged with armed robbery, first-degree assault, use of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and other related charges. Jefferson was charged with illegal possession of a firearm, handgun on a person, and handgun in a vehicle.

On July 11, Jenkins was located and arrested. He was charged with armed robbery, first-degree assault, and other related charges. All three subjects are being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. 

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Detective Logsdon at 301-609-6436. 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. The investigation is ongoing.

On July 10, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the report of an assault on two women in Lexington Park by an unknown male who also purportedly exposed himself during the incident.

 

On July 11, new video evidence and information obtained by Deputies indicated that the original allegations were factually inaccurate. Deputies established that at approximately 8:15 p.m., on July 10, while walking near FDR Boulevard and South Shangri-La Drive, a single female victim was assaulted by a male suspect who made nonconsensual sexual contact with her. The victim pushed the suspect away, and he then displayed an edged weapon in a threatening manner. The victim was able to leave the area without further interaction with the suspect. Video surveillance showed no other victims and no exposure of genitals by the suspect, as was alleged.

 

Malik Antwann Price, 21, of Lexington Park, was identified as a suspect, located, and arrested on July 11. Price was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center and charged with First-Degree Assault, Second-Degree Assault, and 4th Degree Sex Offense.

 

The investigation into the disparities of the original statements given by the two females is ongoing.

 

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that following a four-day trial, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Marvin Orlando Johnson, 39, of Mechanicsville, Maryland of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence for the premeditated shooting and killing of his stepfather.

On May 24, 2023, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on Three Notch Road in Mechanicsville, Maryland for a report of a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. The victim was immediately pronounced deceased by responding law enforcement officers who observed the victim appeared to have been shot in the head while he was sleeping.

The Defendant will be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing where he faces a maximum penalty of Life plus twenty years in prison.

“My hope is the verdict provides peace and a sense of justice for this family who are living with the unimaginable nightmare of a beloved family member murdered at the hands of another family member,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “I would like to thank the members of the law enforcement and prosecutorial team who worked diligently in the successful investigation and prosecution of this tragic homicide.”

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Jeff Maylor and Assistant State’s Attorney Zach Varda prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Andrew Burgess of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Amy Lorenzini presided over the case.

Leonardtown, MD— Leonardtown has been awarded $288,600 from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Project Restore 2.0 grant program. This grant “activates vacant buildings, supports small businesses, creates jobs, improves commercial corridors, and increases local economic activity by providing financial support to place-based economic development organizations working to improve the vitality of Maryland’s commercial corridors,” (DHCD website). Leonardtown applied for the grant with two properties in consideration: 22720 Duke Street and 41656 Fenwick Street. Both of these properties are vacant and needing significant infrastructural improvements before businesses can move in and add to the economic vitality of the Town. Botanic Café will be expanding their thriving business into an adjacent space, which will allow more seating capacity, a larger kitchen to meet catering demands, and be available as a venue for rent. 41656 Fenwick Street was recently sold and purchased by a resident who owns multiple properties in Town. The space has room for two businesses and is in the heart of historic downtown Leonardtown. Mayor Dan Burris states, “Leonardtown is honored to receive the Restore 2.0 grant this week continuing the important partnership with the Dept of Housing and Community Development and the State of Maryland in the effort to revitalize our downtowns and support our locally owned businesses.” To learn more about Project Restore 2.0, please visit: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Pages/ProjectRestore/default.aspx For the Governor’s Press Release, please visit: https://news.maryland.gov/dhcd/2024/07/09/governor-moore-announces-16-2-million-tosupport-small-businesses-and-community-revitalization-across-maryland/

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Four of Naval District Washington (NDW) Fire Department personnel stationed at NAS Patuxent River were honored in a ceremony July 11 in front of family, friends and colleagues.

 

The gathered crowd were welcomed by NDW Fire and Emergency Services Chief Kevin Grinder in a bay of Fire Station 2, before honoring the newly promoted Fire Inspectors on the Pax River firefighting team.

“Each time a member is promoted it signifies a few things,” said Grinder. “First, it shows that they were successful in their previous position and that leadership knows they are up for taking on a new task, it shows they were motivated to take and successfully complete the required training, and third I shows their commitment to the department and the civilian and active duty military community we serve.”

 

Grinder then welcomed to the front Firefighters Robin Jones and Ray Currie, both promoted to Fire Inspector. The position requires them to be responsible for fire inspections, fire extinguisher and flightline extinguisher training, plans review, code enforcement, food truck inspections, burn permits, and a host of other tasks. Fire inspectors also assist in staffing and overtime mitigation and special events while continuing to ensure the safety of residents, visitors, and personnel at Pax River.

 

Grinder then moved on to accolades, recognizing two of NDW’s top performers of the previous year.

“Each installation was tasked with submitting nominees for the multiple categories of Commander, Naval Installations Command awards – firefighter of the year, fire officer of the year, inspector of the year, etcetera,” said Grinder. “These nominations were then sent to a panel that consisted of the deputy N3, emergency management director, and safety director, where they were reviewed and a winner in each category was selected and forwarded to CNIC as NDW’s nominee. Beginning in 2022 our management team felt that we also needed to recognize these individuals locally to show our appreciation for the work they perform.”

 

First to be honored was Fire Inspector Mike Fuhrman, announced as the Navy Fire Inspector of the Year 2023.

 

Fuhrman’s achievements were varied and many in earning this award. In the execution of his duties he single-handedly performed 297 inspections and ensured all deficiencies – 212 in total – were documented and brought to compliance, executed more than 157 hot work permits with zero mishaps, and worked with the Naval Air Warfare Center- Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) safety department to identify safe muster locations for military and base populations. He made professional development a priority, instructing a HAZMAT tech class for the region, became a Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute-certified fire investigator, maintained Maryland State EMT certifications, instructed all flight line fire extinguisher training at NAS Patuxent River, and conducted more than 20 fire safety presentations to more than 1,500 personnel at Pax River. Fuhrman also served as the lead fire department representative for the flight line, providing subject matter expert guidance to hangars and hot pits, was the liaison to the NAWCAD safety division providing practical fire education to their personnel, and was recognized by his supervisor as a “Superior Performer” earlier in the year for outstanding customer service to the base population.

 

“I never thought I’d be a fire inspector, I thought I’d be riding a truck forever,” Fuhrman said after being presented the award. “But I want to thank the chiefs and the guys and gals here, because they’re what really made this possible and it means a lot.”

 

Grinder then recognized Fire Chief Ryan Gallant as the Navy Civilian Fire Chief of the Year 2023.

Among his many achievements, Gallant managed fire safety for 31 bases, 200,000 personnel, and approximately $20 billion worth of assets, and overseeing 200 plans reviews and $1 Billion in renovation projects. He was cited for spearheading the implementation of a 60-hour workweek for inspectors, resulting in a maximized inspection output of 30%, a 40% reduction in backlogs, and a $200,000 savings in overtime. Gallant proactively engaged in 16 hours of Outward Mindset training, taking that training and mentoring eight peers on mindset transformation. He certified in tactical emergency care, enhanced active shooter response capabilities, and EMT-B.

 

Gallants skills were in high demand to critical assets and teams throughout the region. He supported the White House Secret Service Fire Auxiliary program, training 12 U.S. Secret Service agents in White House fire suppression and HAZMAT incidents, and served as the active shooter exercise liaison to the National Capital Region Fire Interoperability Planning Team. He also revamped the extinguisher course, training 500 employees in periodic checks and emergency operations, replaced 8,000 extinguishers in the region, and obtained $50,000for flight line extinguisher repairs.

 

“It’s tough competition once you’re standing up against other chief officers, because there are so many great ones in the region,” said Gallant upon receiving the award. “Thank you to everyone who does this job every day and helps us complete the mission, because it’s a daunting task.”

 

Capt. Douglas Burfield, NAS Patuxent River Commanding Officer, reinforced Gallant’s theme of mission preparedness as he addressed the awardees and the Fire and Emergency personnel in attendance.

 

“We don’t have an air station without a fire department,” said Burfield. “Whether it’s in a building, in the air, or on the ground, the work you do is essential to our mission here, and I want to thank you for the hard work you do every day to keep us safe and mission ready.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) today praised their colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee for promptly sending the nomination of Magistrate Judge Adam Abelson to the full Senate on a bipartisan vote for confirmation to fill a vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.

 

“Judge Abelson is an outstanding nominee for the federal judiciary. His commitment to public service and the rule of law is without question. We recommended Judge Abelson to President Biden for this position because of his strong experience, integrity and demonstrated belief in equal justice for all. We look forward to his timely confirmation by the full Senate so he may continue to serve the people of Maryland,” Senators Cardin and Van Hollen said.

 

If confirmed, Judge Abelson would fill the seat of former Chief Judge James K. Bredar, who took senior status on April 30, 2024.

 

U.S. MAGISTRATE JUDGE ADAM B. ABELSON

 

Judge Adam B. Abelson has been a United States Magistrate Judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland since 2023. Prior to his judicial service, Judge Abelson worked in private practice at Zuckerman Spaeder LLP from 2012 to 2023, rising from associate to partner. He served as a law clerk for Judge Andre M. Davis on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit from 2011 to 2012 and Judge Catherine C. Blake on the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland from 2010 to 2011. Judge Abelson received his J.D., magna cum laude, from New York University School of Law in 2010 and his B.A., cum laude, from Princeton University in 2005.

 

Before law school, Abelson served in Santiago, Chile as a research fellow for Human Rights Watch and the Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales. 

 

While a litigator with Zuckerman Spaeder LLP, Abelson represented clients in complex civil litigation, white collar criminal defense, and government investigations. He was named a 2020 Young Lawyer of the Year by The American Lawyer, one of five nationwide. He maintained an active pro bono practice and is deeply involved in the community and legal profession. He serves as Chair of the American Bar Association’s Working Group on Building Public Trust in the American Justice System, for which he worked to develop the ABA’s Ten Guidelines on Court Fines and Fees and coordinated its development of the ABA’s Principles on Law Enforcement Body-Worn Camera Policies.  He has served on the board of the Job Opportunities Task Force since 2017, including serving as the Vice Chair, and as a board member and officer of the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.

 

In September 2023, Judge Abelson was sworn in as a United States Magistrate Judge and sits in Baltimore.  As a sitting federal Magistrate Judge, Judge Abelson presides over criminal preliminary criminal proceedings, including initial appearances, detention hearings, and arraignments.  He handles federal misdemeanor offenses, and reviews applications for search and arrest warrants, pen registers, and trap and trace devices.  On the civil side, he presides over civil proceedings by consent of the parties, conducts settlement conferences in civil lawsuits, and decides discovery disputes and non-dispositive motions. 

Deputies from the Criminal Investigations Division and Patrol Division of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant on a residence in the 46000 block of Columbus Drive in Lexington Park at approximately 8:15 a.m. on July 11. The search resulted in the recovery of suspected crack cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, and a shotgun.

 

Dayton Caldwell Harris, 56, of Lexington Park, was arrested. Harris, who had been the subject of an ongoing investigation, is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony conviction.

 

Harris was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown. He has been charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Equipment for the Production of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, CDS: Possession – Not Marijuana, and Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm and is awaiting a bond hearing.

August 6th is National Night Out in Calvert County. Sponsored locally by the Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse, Inc. (CAASA) in partnership with the Maryland State Police, Barrack “U” and the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, this is a great opportunity for residents to promote the best of their neighborhoods. Local agencies will attend the events to share information/resources and the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police, Barrack “U” and the county’s Fire, Rescue and EMS personnel will be on hand at many of the locations. Twelve (13) neighborhoods will participate this year. Bayside Forest Broomes Island Calvert Pines Senior Center Calvertowne Gray-Ray American Legion Post Huntingtown Citizen’s Association *Queesberry Community – August 9th Northeast Community Ctr (Kellam Field) Oakland Hall Patuxent View Prince Fred. Village & Senior Apts. White Sands Yardley Hills “Calvert County has participated in National Night Out since the early 1990s and we are excited to continue the event this year.” We encourage residents to join in the fun with music, food and games!” Community coordinators have spent a tremendous amount of time organizing an enjoyable night for everyone”, stated JoAnn Faber Tyrrell, President, CAASA Board of Directors. National Night Out is designed to: (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and policecommunity partnerships, and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. For more information, contact CAASA at 410-535-3733. A detailed list of participating communities including times and locations can be found at Hope4Calvert.org

On Tuesday, July 9, Sheriff Troy Berry, Captain Cari Baker, and Captain Clarence Black of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office provided an update and participated in a discussion with the Board of Commissioners about the status of public safety in Charles County. This discussion was prompted after residents of the Stonehaven Community voiced safety concerns regarding the Independence Day holiday during a County Commissioners public comment session on June 25, which was followed by a special meeting held by Commissioners on June 26. Sheriff Berry shared that no significant issues emerged over the Independence Day weekend.

 

Briefings

·          Don Litten, Building Code Official, and Danielle Mitchell, Assistant Deputy County Attorney, held a briefing on a request to create a rental registry in Charles County. The request originated from a recommendation by the 2008 Rural Housing Improvement Initiative Task Force, which presented multiple recommendations, including a registration program.

The initiative was also discussed in 2011 and 2020/2021 but rejected due to cost concerns and other issues. The presenters asked for commissioner approval to develop a fiscal analysis option for program implementation and management, a rental housing survey, and plans for conducting stakeholder engagement meetings. Commissioners unanimously voted for the proposal to move forward.

 

·       Deborah Hall, Acting County Administrator, held a briefing on plans to renovate the Commissioner Meeting Room, also referred to as the county auditorium meeting space. The Commissioner Meeting Room was used for all public meetings until the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced a pivot into using the Government Building Conference Room, also known as the Blue Room, to hold both virtual and hybrid meetings. 

The Capital Services Division, supported by Media Services, Central Services, and an external consultant, is working to propose an option to renovate the space after a Capital Improvement Project that would analyze and design a solution for the auditorium was not included in the budget due to cost concerns. Top considerations for the renovation project include adding hybrid meeting capability to the auditorium, additional security measures, flexible seating options, and cost-effective solutions for the project.

 

·       Jenifer Ellin, Acting Deputy County Administrator, Renesha Miles, Chief Equity Officer, and Doria Fleisher, Community Engagement Coordinator, discussed Collaborative Community Improvement Projects. The projects would engage residents on their priorities regarding their specific neighborhoods, implement measurable projects that align with Commissioner Goals & Objectives, and help foster knowledge about available resources and programs. Presenters stated that the criteria to choose the community for the pilot program would be developed and presented later this fall.

 

·       Deborah Hall, Acting County Administrator, held a briefing that included officials from PPR Strategies on a plan for educating the community about the ballot question to change the form of government from  Code Home Rule to Charter.

 

• Amy Blessinger, Planner III, and Charles Rice, Planning Director, hosted a work session on Bill 2024-(07) Zoning Text Amendment #23-176 Aviation Business Park and Bill 2024-(08) Zoning Map Amendment #23-02 Aviation Business Park. The work session continued discussion on bills that would rezone properties around the Maryland Airport to Aviation Business Park Zone. The bills originally received a public hearing on April 9, 2024, and the record on the bills was held open for 60 days, closing on June 8.

 

Staff presented an amended map version that would remove 300 acres from the zone to address residents' concerns. Additional changes include removing hotel use and introducing additional educational uses in the zone. Commissioners provided feedback to further remove properties and voted 3-1 to send the amended bills back to the Planning Commission for additional analysis. Commissioner Thomasina O. Coates (District 2) recused herself.

 

Public Hearings

Commissioners held a public hearing on Proposed Bill 2024-12: Establishment of a Community Reinvestment and Repair Funds (CRRF). The bill would allow the county to take advantage of statewide tax revenue set aside by the Cannabis Reform Act of 2023. The fund is eligible for supporting community-based initiatives intended to benefit low-income communities and initiatives that serve disproportionally impacted areas as defined by the Cannabis Reform Act of 2023 and any related administrative expenses. Commissioners voted unanimously in favor of the bill.

 

Department Highlights

Commissioners heard updates on the activities of the Department of Public Works, Department of Economic Development, Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism, and the Office of the County Commissioners.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

·       A request for letters of support for Grant Applications by Hospice of Chesapeake. The first addresses dementia in Rural Communities, while the second focuses on targeted skills training and professional development based on the Clinical Ladders model.

·       A resolution to extend the temporary suspension of a code provision related to the 30-day maximum limitation for public events at agritourism businesses through Dec. 31, 2024.

 

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

 

Next Commissioners Session: July 23-24

 

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

The Board of Education of Charles County at its June 11 meeting approved an elementary school redistricting plan that will create an attendance zone for Margaret Jamieson Thornton Elementary School, set to open in August 2025. The plan also moves some students from existing school zones as a result of the redistricting process. The redistricting takes effect a year from now, with the start of the 2025-2026 school year.

The Board approved one of two redistricting recommendations provided by the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Elementary School Redistricting Committee – Proposal B. The Board did not approve the recommendation made by Superintendent of Schools Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., for a modified Proposal B that would have moved only 531 existing students.

The approved Proposal B plan moves 1,044 existing students from current attendance zones and impacts the following schools: Berry, Billingsley, William A. Diggs, Mary H. Matula, T.C. Martin, Arthur Middleton, Walter J. Mitchell, J.P. Ryon and William B. Wade elementary schools.

The approved plan not only creates an attendance zone for Thornton, but it alleviates some overcrowding and plans for anticipated student enrollment growth in neighborhoods under construction. The following is a summary of neighborhood blocks that will make up the zone for Thornton.

• Blocks 3871, 3881, 3859 and 3891 from Billingsley Elementary School.
• Blocks 2571, 2711 and 2643 from Arthur Middleton Elementary School.
• Blocks 2531, 2541, 2561 and 2551 from Mary H. Matula Elementary School.

Students who live in these blocks will attend Thornton effective with the 2025-2026 school year. The state-rated capacity of the new school is 778 students, but under the redistricting plan and created attendance zone, Thornton will open with an expected 618 students and room for future growth.

Parents can find the block number for their home address in ParentVue, under the student information menu area. The first four numbers listed under “grid code” are a residential block number.

Additionally, the following block moves were included in Proposal B and take effect August 2025.

Berry Elementary School

• Block 3781 moves from Berry to William A. Diggs Elementary School.

William A. Diggs Elementary School

• Block 3750 moves from Diggs to Billingsley Elementary School.

Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School

• Block 1821 moves from Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School to T.C. Martin Elementary School.

Billingsley Elementary School

• Blocks 2732 and 3862 move from Billingsley to Arthur Middleton Elementary School.
• Block 3830 moves from Billingsley to William B. Wade Elementary School.

J.P. Ryon Elementary School

• Block 2951 moves from J.P. Ryon to Arthur Middleton Elementary School.

Additional information about the redistricting process is posted on the school system website at www.ccboe.com.

In 2023, CCPS launched an elementary school redistricting process to create an attendance zone for Thornton. A redistricting committee was tasked to develop two different proposals for consideration by the Superintendent of Schools for a recommendation to the Board. In May 2024, Navarro presented a revised redistricting proposal – Proposal B with modifications – that did not move as many students as outlined in committee proposal B. The Board approved the committee’s Proposal B at its June 11 meeting.

Margaret Jamieson Thornton Elementary School is currently under construction off St. Charles Parkway in White Plains at 5860 St. David Drive, within the new Highlands neighborhood development. The 94,000-square foot building is set to open for the 2025-2026 school year. Cost of the new school, which marks the school system’s 23rd elementary school, is $45.4 million.

Earlier this year, CCPS announced that Brian King, Ed.D., would be the first principal at Thornton. King previously served as principal at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School.

On Monday, July 8, 2024, at 7:26 p.m., deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to 6790 Hallowing Lane in the area of the Benedict Bridge in Prince Frederick, for a 911 hang-up.

Upon arrival, deputies determined the call to be for a potential missing person.

Investigation revealed, Alex Garcia-Lopez, 19 of Huntingtown, was swimming in the Patuxent River approximately 10-20 yards from the shoreline and at one point went underwater and never resurfaced. Sheriff’s Office units along with Maryland State Police canvassed the area. Members of the Prince Frederick and Benedict Volunteer Fire Departments, DNR, the CCSO Drone Unit, and the Calvert County Dive Team, responded to the scene and searched the area with negative results.

The body of Alex Garcia-Lopez was recovered in the vicinity of where he went missing shortly after 6 a.m. on July 10, 2024. Notification of next of kin was made and the body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for further investigation.

Student in possession of cannabis: On July 9, school administrators were made aware of the odor of cannabis inside a room at La Plata High School. Upon further investigation, a bag containing pre-rolled cannabis joints, a bag of cannabis, and a bag of tobacco were recovered from a student’s backpack. The student, who is enrolled in the summer school program, was issued a civil citation for possession of cannabis. The student also faces school consequences. Anyone with information is asked to contact PFC Quigley at 301-609-3282 ext. 0722. 

(BALTIMORE, MD) – The Maryland Public Service Commission will hold a public comment hearing on the rate increase request filed in May 2024 by the Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO). The utility’s customer-members and other interested parties are welcome to take part in the hearing before Public Utility Law Judge Christine L. Burke.

 

The hearing will take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at SMECO's Headquarters, 15035 Burnt Store Road in Hughesville. The hearing will also have a virtual option for those unable to attend in person. To participate virtually, please sign up in advance to speak by sending an email to psc.pulj@gmail.com by noon on July 22. For those who just want to watch the hearing, please visit the Public Utility Law Judge's YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP

 

According to SMECO's application, the company proposes a rate increase of $37.9 million, which SMECO states would result in an approximately 11% overall bill increase for the average customer-member. SMECO serves approximately 176,000 residential, commercial and industrial customer-members in Calvert, Charles, Prince George's and St. Mary's counties.

 

The Commission will also accept written comments (until August 2, 2024) which can be sent by mail or submitted electronically at https://www.psc.state.md.us/make-a-public-comment/

 

Comments sent by mail should be addressed to: Jamie Bergin, Chief Clerk, Maryland Public Service Commission, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, 16^th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202. So that they are noted in the proper case file, all comments should reference Case No. 9738.

 On July 9, Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed a search and seizure warrant on a residence in the 21000 block of Dayflower Place in Lexington Park, MD, as part of an ongoing investigation. During the search, detectives recovered a 9MM handgun in a bedroom belonging to Zemar David-Tyshon Batts, 19.

 

Batts was subsequently arrested and charged with possession of a regulated firearm by an individual under the age of 21.

 

Additionally, a second firearm identified as having been stolen from Hagerstown, MD, in 2017 was found during the search; no charges were issued, and the investigation is ongoing. 

 

Batts was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown for processing. Following his appearance before the District Court Commissioner, he was released on his recognizance.

 

Calvert County Parks & Recreation is seeking qualified local artists to collaborate with park staff on a large-scale mural design for the renovated basketball courts at Cove Point Park. The final design will be abstract, geometric and brightly colored, similar to those found on https://projectbackboard.org/work.

Submissions should include a CV, a portfolio of previous work and a brief description of the artist’s vision for the basketball courts. Initial design concepts for the basketball courts will be considered but are not necessary.

 The deadline for submissions is July 24, 2024. For applications visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Mural. This contest is open to individuals of all ages. For questions about the project, contact 443-771-2049 or stephanie.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.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) is announcing upcoming construction and major repairs scheduled for the Delabrooke Bridge, located on Delabrooke Road, in Mechanicsville, from the intersection of Riverview Road north-eastward for approximately 500 ft, starting on Sunday, July 21, 2024, and continuing through Thursday, July 25, 2024, between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

During these times, Delabrooke Road will be closed to through traffic at the bridge crossing over Horse Landing Creek. Local traffic will be permitted only for access to residential entrances. Posted dates and times could be modified by weather conditions. 

Drivers are asked to please remain alert for equipment, work crews, and changing traffic patterns. Message boards and signage will be deployed in the area prior to and during the project to serve as an additional reminder.

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

New Master Angler Eric Packard fishes more than 200 days a year

Eric Packard holds a hickory shad. Photo courtesy of Eric Packard

Eric Packard of Calvert County has earned a Master Angler Milestone Award under the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) FishMaryland program. The award recognizes recreational anglers who catch ten trophy-sized fish of different species in Maryland. Packard is the eleventh Master Angler since the program began in 2019. 

In addition to being an extremely avid angler—fishing an average of 240 days per year—Packard serves as a commissioner on the Maryland Sports Fisheries Advisory Commission, representing the tidal and non-tidal recreational anglers in southern Maryland. 

“A cast not taken is a fish not caught,” said Packard. “So get out and take that cast, you can’t catch a Maryland citation-sized fish if you don’t. It all starts with a simple cast.”

The FishMaryland program includes dozens of species from both salt and freshwater. Packard submitted entries for all ten catches and received individual certificates for each catch. The department will present the Master Angler Milestone Award certificate and a gift card prize to Bass Pro Shops at its store in Hanover, Maryland. Packard caught his tenth FishMaryland eligible fish, a spotted seatrout, on July 2, 2024, off of Point Lookout.

Packard’s qualifying catches, in order, were:

• Chain pickerel – 26 inches
• Largemouth bass – 22.25 inches
• Chesapeake Channa (northern snakehead) – 30 inches
• Red drum – 45 inches
• Crappie – 15 inches 
• Spanish mackerel – 22 inches
• Hickory shad – 18 inches
• Carp – 31 inches 
• Striped bass – 43 inches
• Spotted seatrout – 24 inches

Packard fishes frequently in Southern Maryland and in other parts of the state in fresh, brackish, and salt waters. He fishes mainly by kayak and shore, but also fishes on power boats with his extensive network of fishing friends. He is a contributing writer to FishTalk Magazine, providing content about kayak fishing, shoreline fishing, and weekly reports on fishing around the Chesapeake Bay region, fresh, and saltwater. 

During the rare times when Packard is not fishing, he paints as a self-taught artist working in oil paintings, ink or pencil drawings, and pastels. Packard worked in IT for the national office of the United Association of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters before retiring. 

Packard has fished since youth and recalls his first time fishing alone in Kansas, where his father was stationed with the Army. “One day my mom said I could fish a nearby pond,” Packard said. “I remember finding a topwater bait hanging in a bush. I tied it onto my Zebco 77, took a cast, and a largemouth bass blew up on the bait. I believe I ran straight home to show my mom the fish! That fish was hooked and so was I.”

FishMaryland is Maryland’s recreational fishing award program and is a fun way to explore year-round recreational fishing and enjoy affordable, accessible, diverse, and high-quality fishing opportunities. More information on the Master Angler Milestone Award and the FishMaryland program is available on the program’s website.

 

Calvert County Parks & Recreation announces open registration for fall 2024 sports. Fall sports registration is open through Aug. 4 or until divisions are full. The following youth and adult sports signups are available:

Youth soccer offers separate divisions for boys and girls in pre-K (4 years old) through grade 12 (17 years old). Cost is $50 per player for Tykes Division (4- and 5-year-olds) and $73 for all other divisions. Residents can choose south, central or northern district for practice and games during signup. Volunteer coaches are always needed. For information on becoming a coach please visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CCPRVolunteer.

Youth field hockey for girls in grades K-8 is an introduction to the sport with basic concepts and skills for games. Cost is $71 per child and practice days are to be determined. Required equipment includes shin guards, mouthpiece and field hockey stick.

Youth and adult tennis lessons teach the fundamentals, tactical and physical skills of tennis. Registration opens at the end of July with lessons taught by Chie Tougas, one of only 30 coaches in the world to hold a Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) Master of Tennis in Junior Development. Tougas was a senior director at a U.S. Tennis Association training facility in College Park for 12 years and is a U.S. Professional Tennis Association Elite Tennis Professional and PTR Adult Professional. Tougas has worked with all ages and skill levels. Each session lasts four weeks and multiple sessions will be offered. Participants must bring their own racquets and water bottle.

Volleyball clinic is available with a cost of $40 for children ages 10 to 14 and teaches the fundamentals such as serving, setting, spiking, hitting and digging. Appropriate attire is suggested, and participants are required to bring their own water bottle. The clinic will be on Sunday mornings from 9 to 10:30 a.m. starting on Sept. 22.

Adult fall co-rec softball is available with a cost of $770 per team. Teams will play a minimum 18-game schedule and a double elimination tournament will be held at the end of the season. Games will be played on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Dunkirk or Hallowing Point Park with a tentative start date of Aug. 13. For more information and entry forms, email sports@calvertcountymd.gov.

Adult pickleball ladder leagues will be held at Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park. Each league will be a round robin format and will run for six weeks. The final week will be playoffs with the top four-point leaders. Registration will open at the end of July.

Register online at https://calvertcounty.perfectmind.com, by phone at 410-535-1600, ext. 2649, or through the Calvert County mobile app, available for download on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. You can also visit the main office located at 901 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick or any Calvert County community center to register.

For more program information, contact 410-535-1600, ext. 2649, or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ParksAndRecreation.

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

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, MD…Sheriff Troy D. Berry is pleased to announce the release of a program for body-worn cameras (BWC) for police officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office.

The Agency has been preparing for the BWC program and the funding has been fully authorized for implementation. “These devices not only protect the rights of citizens but also provide an unbiased record of our officers' actions. We welcome the implementation of body-worn cameras as a tool that not only safeguards the public but also ensures the highest standards of professionalism among our law enforcement personnel," said Sheriff Berry.

The Agency worked with a group of officers to test the functions, reliability, and viability of the cameras and ensure the infrastructure, technology, and staffing are in place for a successful deployment agency-wide.

During the initial phase of the program, the Agency established a policy committee that reviewed model policies from other successful BWC programs to develop a policy to ensure the Agency employs the best practices.  

The Charles County Government approved additional support staff positions needed to handle the administrative side of this large-scale program, which the Agency is in the process of filling. Concurrently, the CCSO’s Information Technology Division undertook extensive training, including practical exercises to prepare to effectively manage the needs of this new technology as it is deployed into the field.

The Agency has also been working with various stakeholders and community groups for input and discussion about the BWC program. Further, the Agency has established a list of FAQs to answer the most asked questions relating to body-worn cameras. These FAQs will be published on the Charles County Sheriff's Office website.    

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Body-Worn Cameras

1. When is the CCSO Body-Worn Camera Program going to start?

Deployment of body-worn cameras for CCSO officers began with a pilot program and the Agency expects all officers to be trained and have their new devices operational in 2025.

2. Who will wear the body-worn cameras?

CCSO officers will be issued a body-worn camera, and the camera will generally be worn when working on an operational assignment.

3. Will CCSO members receive training before using the body-worn camera?

Before being issued a body-worn camera, CCSO members will be required to complete training related to the operation of the device and review CCSO’s body-worn camera policy.

4. When will CCSO officers wear the body-worn camera?

Body-worn cameras are generally worn on duty for the entirety of the officer’s shift as a part of their uniform. 

5. When must an officer activate their BWC?

 

Officers will manually activate BWCs at the outset of a call for service, during encounters with members of the public that are investigative or enforcement in nature, or during any encounter that becomes confrontational in nature.  BWCs are automatically activated every time an officer turns on emergency equipment in a patrol car.

Officers will activate BWCs for legitimate law enforcement purposes only. The cameras record video from the 60 seconds before their activation. An officer who activates a BWC for a law enforcement purpose will not intentionally deactivate it without a clear investigative purpose.

When responding to K through 12 educational institutions, hospitals, or other medical facilities, officers will refrain from activating the camera unless necessary for law enforcement purposes.  To the extent possible, officers will protect medical privacy.

6. Will a person be made aware that they are being recorded?

CCSO officers are required to inform any person at the start of any recording that audio and video are being recorded by the officer's body-worn camera, unless unsafe, impractical, or impossible to do so.

7. Will members of the public be able to view body-worn camera recordings?

CCSO will release BWC footage consistent with the Maryland Public Information Act and other applicable State and Federal statutes and regulations and in consultation with the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office. Each video will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure a timely release without negatively impacting a criminal investigation or prosecution.  

External requests for recordings, other than from law enforcement agencies, will be processed in accordance with CCSO’s Public Access to Records policy. Any third party that is not a law-enforcement agency will pay any costs associated with the preparation, review, and production of body-worn camera videos.

Requests for video records should be sent to the CCSO’s Records Section via the Agency website at  https://ccso-md.nextrequest.com

8. How long will BWC footage be retained?

The retention time for footage will vary depending on the type of incident or investigation of which it is a part. 

 

9. Will my private information be redacted before the release of BWC footage?

 

Yes, private information will be redacted before a video’s release in compliance with all records release laws and regulations.

 

10. Can an officer delete recordings?

 

No, an officer cannot delete or alter recordings. 

“As we move forward, we are committed to leveraging these tools responsibly, ensuring they become an integral part of our commitment to justice and the shared goal of fostering safer, more secure neighborhoods for all,” Sheriff Berry said.

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – During their business meeting on June 25, 2024, the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) approved proposed updates to the local Building Code Ordinance to repeal and reenact Chapter 203 entitled, "Building Construction" and repeal Chapter 223 Article IV entitled, "Inspection Fees.” These changes will take effect on July 15, 2024.

The approved updates will incorporate the following codes:

• 2021 International Building Code (IBC)
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
• 2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
• 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
• 2018 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
• 2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
• 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC)

The 2018 IFGC, IMC, and IPC will be updated to the 2021 versions once adopted by the State of Maryland. These changes will become effective six months after the state’s effective date or publication date, whichever is later. Future editions of the referenced codes will also be incorporated and become effective six months after the state's effective date or publication date, whichever is later.

The new requirements will not apply to any building, structure, or appurtenances that are constructed, altered, moved, enlarged, replaced, repaired, located, removed, or demolished pursuant to a valid building permit issued after the effective date of this ordinance, provided that the application for the permit was filed before the effective date and that some commencement of work is evident within 12 months of the ordinance's effective date.

This update ensures compliance with State law and the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) as part of the adoption process for Maryland Building Performance Standards (MBPS). The Department of Land Use & Growth Management (LUGM) will ensure implementation and enforcement of the MBPS, including plan reviews, issuance of building permits, inspections, and the issuance of use and occupancy certificates.

 

Free public digital access is available to review the following:

• Maryland Building Codes: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/build/buildcodes.shtml.

• 2021 International Building Code: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IBC2021P2
• 2021 International Residential Code: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P1
• 2021 International Existing Building Code: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IEBC2021P1
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IECC2021P1 
• 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/ISPSC2021P1

To review the International Codes (i-Codes), visit: https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes/maryland.

Questions may be directed to LUGM at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1542 or via email to bpservice@stmaryscountymd.gov. Residents can learn more about the Department of Land Use & Growth Management at: https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov/lugm.

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The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1302 calls for service, including 11 Emergency Petitions, from July 1 through July 7, 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:

6/28/24 – Keith Sebastian Brown, 34, of Great Mills, MD, by Deputy Ryan McLean for Assault First-Degree and Assault Second-Degree.

 

DUIs:

7/01/24 – Patrick Clay Murphy, Jr., 34, of Bryans Road, MD, by Deputy First Class John Gardiner for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, and Driving a Vehicle While impaired by Alcohol.

 

7/01/24 – Roger Lee Pritchard, 58, of Charlotte Hall, MD, by Deputy Madison Devries 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, Reckless Driving, and Negligent Driving.

 

7/03/24 – Michael Joseph Horvat, 53, of California, MD, by Deputy Bianca Melton for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol and Negligent Driving.

 

7/06/24 – Travis Lowell Briscoe, 32, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Madison Devries for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, and related charges.

 

7/07/24 – John Wayne Caudle, 60, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Jordan Wagner for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, and related charges.

 

SUMMONSES:

6/30/24 – Ashley Dean Rose, 36, of Bushwood, MD, by Deputy Helen Deitrich for Motor Vehicle Unlawful Taking.

 

7/03/24 – Albert Steven Cherrico, 66, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Corporal Jason Smith for Theft Scheme $100 to under $1500 and Theft $100 to under $1500.

 

7/04/24 – Danielle Lynette Washington, 37, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Michael Rycyzyn for two counts of CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute-Narcotics and two counts of CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

 

WARRANTS:

6/27/24 – Harold Courtney Patterson, 41, of Lexington Park, MD, by Detective Edward Vogt for Failure to Register as a Tier II (25-year) Offender.

 

7/02/24 – Lucas Graham Hockaday, 23, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Jordan Wagner, for Theft Scheme $100 to less than $1500.

 

7/02/24 – Christopher Michael Sherman, 35, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Myles Chase-Johnson for Assault First-Degree and Reckless Endangerment. NO CURRENT PHOTO AVAILABLE.

UPDATE – 7/9/2024 – The missing person from the Benedict Bridge has been identified as Alex Garcia-Lopez. The search for Alex continues as of 5:30 a.m.

BENEDICT, Md. – On July 8, 2024, at approximately 7:20 p.m., police, fire and rescue personnel responded to a person possibly in the Patuxent River near the Benedict Bridge. 

Crews are searching for a missing 19-year-old Hispanic male wearing black swimming trunks, no shirt. He was last seen an hour before the call was dispatched.

Maryland DNR and the U.S. Coast Guard have been requested to the scene. Boats, dive teams, and air support also assisting with the search. 

If you see Alex, please call the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office at 410-535-2800.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md.— Seven Career & Technology Academy (CTA) students recently represented Calvert County and the state of Maryland at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC) and skills championships, held June 24th – 28th, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. CTA students competed in five different contests representing a variety of technical and professional skills related to their Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs. The students earned the right to compete at the national level after placing first in their respective contests at the state level in April. Across the five-day event, CTA and other Maryland SkillsUSA students challenged nearly 6,000 other student champions from all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. After five days of rigorous competition that included technical demonstrations, hands-on problem solving, resume submission, and interviews, six CTA students placed within the top ten in four competition areas: firefighting, power equipment technology, screen printing technology, and a competition titled “outstanding chapter,” which showcases through a presentation of artifacts and interviews the year-long efforts of the school’s student officer team to support all students at CTA in their development of professional, technical, and workplace skills. Recognition in the outstanding chapter contest not only celebrates the work of the officer team in their leadership, preparation, and presentation, but it also commends the efforts of the school’s chapter to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate in meaningful career-development activities as an integral part of their school programs. “We could not be prouder of the hard work of each of these dedicated students. Preparing for competition at this level takes a tremendous amount of time, effort, focus, and persistence. The results speak to just how impressive each of these young people are,” said Carrie Akins, Career and Technology Academy Principal. 1305 Dares Beach Road Dr. Andraé Townsel Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Superintendent of Schools P 443-550-8000 • F 410-286-1358 www.calvertnet.k12.md.us LIGHT THE FUTURE! SkillsUSA is a national co-curricular organization committed to supporting the professional development of students in CTE programs from middle school through post-secondary training. The organization’s mission is “to empower students to become skilled professionals, careerready leaders and responsible community members.” Participation in SkillsUSA is beneficial to staff and students alike and is central to CTA’s mission to prepare students for the workforce. CTA SkillsUSA lead advisor and Graphic Communications instructor Michelle Miller accompanied students to the national event for the first time this year. She shared, “SkillsUSA Nationals was an invaluable experience filled with professional development and inspiration. Engaging with industry professionals and staying updated on the latest trends ensures that I can provide relevant and current instruction to my students.” An important part of SkillsUSA is the meaningful connection and partnership between school, community, and industry. “In addition to congratulating our students, I want to sincerely thank the staff at CTA who have taught, coached, mentored, and supported students in these endeavors as well as the numerous community and business partners who participated in preparing students. Our community volunteers gave time and advice in addition to financial support for these student competitors. The way everyone works together to support our CTA students is a testament to what a great community we are a part of and something everyone can be proud of,” stated Akins. Congratulations to this year’s CTA SkillsUSA NLSC student competitors: Cody Davenport – Firefighting – Sixth place Jessica Cecil – Medical Terminology Sheala Jefferson, Alyssa Lane, and Amy Ontko (Team of 3) – Outstanding Chapter – Fifth place Thomas Marshall – Power Equipment Technology – Eighth Place Dantae McGowan – Screen Printing Technology – Seventh Place For more information about CTE programs in Calvert County Public Schools, visit https://www.calvertnet.k12.md.us/departments/instruction/career-and-technical-education 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – July 8, 2024 – Due to forecasted high temperatures for Monday, July 8, through Thursday, July 11, 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.

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LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 8, 2024) – On Saturday, July 6, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of shots fired in the 21000 block of Pacific Drive in Lexington Park.

 

Witnesses told deputies they saw individuals in two vehicles near Pacific Drive in the area of Columbus Drive as an occupant of one vehicle was shooting at the other vehicle. The vehicles were not located, and shell cases were recovered. No injuries were reported. One bullet was later located that had struck a residence in the area.

 

The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the case, and anyone with information about it is asked to contact Detective Benjamin Raley at Benjamin.Raley@stmaryscountymd.gov or by phone at 301-475-4200, ext. 8076.

 

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. If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 8, 2024) – On Sunday, July 7, 2024, while performing proactive patrol on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, Deputy Bradley Kirscht saw Robert Darnell Willett, 61, of Lexington Park, walking in the area. Deputy Kirscht recognized Willett as wanted on a warrant for CDS: Possession and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

Deputy Kirscht confirmed that the warrant was active and was advised Willet also had a criminal summons for theft charges. After being arrested, the subsequent search of Willett uncovered suspected crack cocaine and paraphernalia.

 

The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia to await a bond hearing.

Burglary: 24-49512
On June 26, at 3:21 a.m., Calvert Deputies responded to the report of an intrusion alarm at the
CVS Pharmacy, Inc. located at 7955 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach. Deputies arrived on
scene and confirmed forced entry to the front door and the ATM had been damaged and
attempted to be accessed by power tools. Deputies observed a vehicle fleeing the area at a high
rate. An MSP Trooper attempted a traffic stop on the fleeing vehicle with lights and sirens
activated, however, the suspect failed to stop and drove further into the neighborhood and
eventually got stuck at a dead end. The driver fled from the vehicle into a wooded area. The front
seat passenger, Aaron David Dickerson, 34 of Germantown, was positively identified as one of
the suspects in the CVS burglary. Dickerson was transported to the Calvert County Detention
Center and charged with Burglary-4
th Degree/Tools. Tevin Denzel Smith, 31 of District Heights,
was arrested on a warrant while conspiring to commit burglary at the CVS.

CDS Violation: 24-49427
On June 25, 2024, Deputy R. Contic responded to the 7-Eleven located at 35 Dalrymple Road in
Sunderland, for the report of a suspicious person. Upon arrival, contact was made with Kathleen
Rene Magruder, 36 of Lexington Park, who was displaying signs of impairment and was unable
to safely operate a motor vehicle. A vehicle search revealed numerous cut straws, plastic
containers with CDS residue, copper wire pads, and 2 crack pipes all covered with a white
powdery residue (suspected crack cocaine). Magruder was transported to the Calvert County
Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of
Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-49562
On June 26, 2024, DFC Lee initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of Chapline Rd and N.
Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for multiple traffic violations. Contact was made with
the driver Brian Edward McKay, 45 of Huntingtown, and occupants Sommer Lee West, 39 of
Huntingtown, and Charles Melvin Gross, 69 of Huntingtown. McKay was displaying signs of
impairment and was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. A K9 sniff was conducted on the
vehicle by K9 Rio resulting in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed cut straws, steel push
rods, a glass pipe stem, glass pipes, and copper wire all covered with white powdery residue
(suspected crack cocaine). McKay was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and
charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. West and
Gross were also transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with multiple
counts of CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-50200
On June 28, 2024, DFC Grierson responded to the 7600 block of C Street in Chesapeake Beach,
for the report of trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with a male who initially provided a
false name. The male was later identified as Brian Keith Sipe, Jr., 34 of Chesapeake Beach.
Investigation revealed Sipe had two open warrants through Anne Arundel County and Baltimore
City. A search of Sipe incident to arrest revealed a glass smoking device with suspected crack
cocaine residue, 6 cut straws, copper mesh, a plastic blade, an arm tie, syringes, and a gum wrapper
with suspected heroin inside. Sipe was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and
charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, and Obstructing/
Hindering. 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-50426
On June 29, 2024, DFC Grierson responded to the area of Sam Owings Road in Owings, for the
report of a disorderly subject. Investigation revealed Hector Salvador Chumil-Ixcaya, 30 of
Greenwich, CT, was stumbling in the travel portion of the roadway. Chumil-Ixcaya was
instructed multiple times to stay out of the roadway, to which he failed to comply. ChumilIxcaya ran back into the travel portion of the roadway where deputies apprehended and transported him to the Calvert County Detention Center. Chumil-Ixcaya was charged with
Failure to Obey a Reasonable/ Lawful order of a Law Enforcement Officer and Disorderly
Conduct. 

Damaged Property: 24-49379
On June 25, 2024, DFC Aley responded to the TJ Maxx located at 140 W Dares Beach Road in
Prince Frederick, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised while their
vehicle was parked, it was keyed by an unknown suspect. The estimated value of damaged
property is $1,000.00.

Damaged Property: 24-49542
On June 26, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to the area of Senora Lane and White Rock Circle
in Lusby, for the report of vandalism and property destruction. The complainant advised
unknown suspect (s) defaced the roadway and nearby speed limit sign with profane language in
spray paint. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-49131
On June 24, 2024, DFC Grierson responded to the North Beach Welcome Center located at 9023
Bay Avenue in North Beach, for the report of a disorderly subject. The complainant advised a
disorderly male was yelling at town employees and had ripped the soap dispenser off the bathroom
wall. Contact was made with, Jose Albino Baca V, 61 of Chesapeake Beach, who continued to
yell profanities drawing the attention of civilians on the boardwalk and in the park. Baca was
apprehended and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly
Conduct, Intoxicated Public Disturbance, and Malicious Destruction of Property/ Value less than
$1000. 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-50203
On June 29, 2024, Master Deputy Wilder responded to Spring Cove Marina located at 455 Lore
Road in Solomons, for the report of a disorderly subject. The complainant advised an intoxicated
male was yelling and cursing at patrons on the pier. Investigation revealed Benjamin Joseph
Culbert, 34 of Lusby, was asked to leave the establishment multiple times and refused to
comply. Culbert was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with
Trespassing- Private Property and Disorderly Conduct. 

Theft: 24-49359
On June 25, 2024, DFC Aley responded to the Calvert Medical Imaging Center located at 130
Hospital Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an
unknown suspect (s) stole the Imaging Centers money bag, sometime between 10 a.m. on June
20 and 3 p.m. on June 21. The estimated value of stolen property is $1,653.97.

Theft: 24-49682
On June 26, 2024, Deputy Baxter responded to the 700 block of Rattlesnake Road in Lusby, for
the report of a theft. The complainant advised while at Drum Point Clubhouse located at 465
Overlook Drive in Lusby, their wallet and its contents were stolen. The estimated value of stolen
property is $170.00.

Theft: 24-50059
On June 28, 2024, Master Deputy Aurich responded to A2O Fit located at 10406 Southern
Maryland Blvd in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised unknown
suspect(s) stole 5 exercise mats from the side parking lot. The estimated value of stolen property
is $300.00.

Trespassing: 24-49284
On June 25, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to Giant Food located at 11740 Rousby Hall Road
in Lusby, for the report of trespassing. Investigation revealed Darla Jean Honaker, 67 of Lusby,
entered the store after being trespassed indefinitely. Honaker was asked to vacate the premises to
which she refused to comply. Honaker was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center
and charged with Trespassing: Private Property and Failure to Obey Reasonable/Lawful order of
a Law Enforcement Officer. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Due to the high temperatures expected this week into 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:

Monday July 8 – Friday July 12 Charlotte Hall Library 37600 New Market Road, Charlotte Hall 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Monday-Thursday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday

 

Garvey Senior Activity Center 23630 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Monday-Friday

 

Leonardtown Library 23600 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Monday-Thursday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday

 

Lexington Park Library 21677 FDR Blvd, Lexington Park 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Monday-Thursday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday

 

Loffler Senior Activity Center 21905 Chancellor’s Run Road, Great Mills 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Monday-Friday

 

Northern Senior Activity Center 29655 Charlotte Hall Road, Charlotte Hall 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Monday-Friday

 

Three Oaks Center 46905 Lei Drive, Lexington Park 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Monday-Friday

 

Saturday, July 13 & Sunday, July 14

Charlotte Hall Library 37600 New Market Road, Charlotte Hall 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday

 

Lexington Park Library 21677 FDR Blvd, Lexington Park 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Sunday 

 

Leonardtown Library 23600 Hayden Farm Lane, Leonardtown 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday

 

The heat indexes this week will be as high as 106 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to take frequent breaks if you are working outside and to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. 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. Visit https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov/em for more information on preparedness.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 8, 2024) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) has partnered with Assisted Management Solutions and Data Research Group to launch the St. Mary’s County Public Health Corps. The Corps is a new opportunity for community members to develop skills in public health emergency preparedness and response, explore their interests in a public health career, and give back to their community as a public service volunteer. Assisted Management Solutions and Data Research Group have developed a technology platform to support the St. Mary’s County Public Health Corps. Community members can register as volunteers and begin learning and contributing to their county.

The Corps technology platform uses Data Research Group’s CRM, FlashPoint, to streamline community member registration and ongoing communication. SMCHD will offer training opportunities to volunteers to develop their skills in topics such as emergency preparedness and response and will mobilize volunteers to assist local public health needs, including for special events or community emergencies. The technology portal:

• Tracks training and service hours completed by Public Health Corps members
• Includes in-app license (certification) and skills verification
• Is compatible with smartphones and tablets
• Has an easy sign-up and communication process

To register for the St. Mary’s County Public Health Corps:

• Volunteers must be at least 18 years old
• No medical experience is necessary, though there are specific volunteer categories for volunteers who have different types of clinical training
• Free training will be provided through the technology platform and in-person
• Work is volunteer-hour eligible  

“For many generations, our exceptional community has been one in which neighbors pitch in to help neighbors. The new local Public Health Corps builds upon this spirit by giving us a way to get trained and ready for future public health needs while also developing a pipeline for our own local healthcare and public health workforce,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “The St. Mary’s County Public Health Corps is about jobs development, public service, and community resiliency. Our SMCHD team is pleased to partner with Assisted Management Solutions and Data Research Group in launching the technology to support the Corps.”

“It has been a pleasure working with the SMCHD team on this development effort,” said Lisa Gregory, President of Assisted Management Solutions. “SMCHD staff have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to this project and we hope community members wishing to volunteer or engage in the health profession will find this new platform user-friendly and beneficial.”

“We are pleased to partner with SMCHD on this very important effort,” said Ed Burg, CEO and President of Data Research Group. “We are coupling the time-honored tradition of serving in the public health corp with 21st-century technology. Our aim is to more effectively engage with local individuals who have the experience and the desire to serve as volunteers in a number of different capacities.”

Visit smchd.org/phc for more information about the St. Mary’s County Public Health Corps.

LEONARDTOWN, MD –The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will host a Public Forum on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the CSMC meeting room, located on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building, at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

 

Public Forums allow residents to speak directly to the Commissioners on topics of their choosing. Residents may offer appreciation, questions, or suggestions in a mutually respectful format. Those wishing to speak at the forum will receive up to three minutes to address the Commissioners.

Anyone wishing to provide more detailed feedback to the CSMC can do so at any time via:

• Email to: csmc@stmaryscountymd.com
• Mail to: Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, P.O. Box 653, Leonardtown, MD, 20650

 

Public Forums are televised live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 and streamed live at: www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

 

For information regarding the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, including meeting dates, documents, contact information, and more, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/csmc.

 

Follow SMCG on social media for regular updates at https://x.com/StMarysCoGov and https://www.facebook.com/StMarysCountyGovernment. 

(UPPER MARLBORO, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal crash that claimed three lives this morning in Prince George’s County

 

The deceased are identified as Isaiah Hazel, 23, of Upper Marlboro, Khyree Jackson, 24, of Waldorf and Anthony Lytton, Jr., 24, of Upper Marlboro. Hazel and Jackson were pronounced deceased on the scene by emergency medical service personnel.  Lytton was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center where he was later pronounced deceased by hospital personnel.

 

All three victims were occupants of a maroon Dodge Charger involved in the crash. Hazel was the driver.  Jackson was the front seat passenger and Lytton was seated in the rear of the vehicle.

 

Shortly after 3:14 a.m. this morning, troopers from the Forestville Barrack responded to a crash on northbound Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue and Presidential Parkway north of Dower House Road in Upper Marlboro. The three vehicles involved in the crash were a silver Infinity Q50, a silver Chevrolet Impala and a maroon Dodge Charger.

 

The preliminary investigation indicates the driver of the silver Infiniti, later identified as Cori Clingman, 23, of Upper Marlboro, was traveling northbound on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue in Prince George’s County.  Investigators believe Clingman attempted to change lanes while driving at a high rate of speed when she struck the Dodge Charger and then struck the Chevrolet Impala. The Charger subsequently traveled off of the right side of the roadway and struck multiple tree stumps where the vehicle came to rest.

 

Clingman had two other passengers in her Infinity at the time of the crash. No one was injured in her vehicle.

 

The Chevrolet Impala was occupied solely by the driver. He was also uninjured in the crash and refused medical treatment at the scene.

 

Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration personnel assisted with road closures. The northbound lanes of Route 4/Pennsylvania Road were reopened at 10:20 a.m. today.

 

Investigators believe alcohol may have been a contributing circumstance in the crash.

Charges are pending the investigation and consultation with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation.

Charles County Crime Solvers offering a cash reward in road rage stabbing case: On June 30 at approximately 10:57 p.m., officers responded to a residence in Waldorf for the report of a stabbing. When officers arrived, they located an adult male with several stab wounds. The victim was transported to a hospital with serious injuries. A preliminary investigation revealed the victim, a food delivery driver, was stopped at a red light on St. Patrick's Drive at Crain Highway in Waldorf when two vehicles pulled up and positioned themselves on either side of the victim’s car. The occupants of both cars began arguing with the victim. The victim and the occupants of the suspect vehicles got out of their cars at which time the victim was stabbed multiple times. He got into his car and drove to his house where a family member called 9-1-1. The suspects fled.

 

 

 

Through investigation, officers were able to locate surveillance footage showing the two suspect vehicles involved. One of the vehicles appears to be a dark SUV and the other appears to be a dark sedan. While detectives pursue leads, anyone who may have witnessed this assault or who has information about the case is asked to call Detective Baxley at 301-609-6504. 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 using the P3Intel mobile app. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for the tip that leads to an arrest in this case. The investigation is ongoing.

On April 1, 2024, the Department of Public Works began removing unauthorized signs alongside county roadways. Removed signs are being stored at the Appeal Landfill, located at 401 Sweetwater Road, for two weeks; individuals and businesses may reclaim their signs for a $6 fee per sign. Any signs remaining after two weeks will be discarded.

Those who repeatedly violate the signage permit will incur a $25 fine per sign, whether or not the signs are retrieved. The fine will be issued from the County Attorney’s Office as a civil citation.

Unpermitted signs obstruct motorists' views at intersections and contribute to roadway clutter. The Board of County Commissioners urges all residents to comply with the sign regulations outlined in the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance, available at https://ecode360.com/29293346Z.

If you require a sign permit, the process is designed to accommodate legal and safe placement. For information on necessary permits for various types of work, visit the county’s “Do I Need a Permit?” page.

We appreciate the community’s support and cooperation as we work to ensure pleasing aesthetics, safer roadways and intersections free of obstructions.

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 Public Works, Solid Waste Division, will host free paper shredding events for county residents and businesses. Shredding documents helps prevent identity theft by destroying confidential and/or sensitive information.

The following shred events will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.:

• Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Northern Middle School located at 2954 Chaneyville Road in Owings
• Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, at Huntingtown High School located at 4125 Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown
• Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at Appeal Landfill located at 401 Sweetwater Road in Lusby

Proof of Calvert County residency or business location is required. Paperclips and staples are acceptable. Binders and binder clips are not acceptable.

Businesses are allowed up to five banker boxes of paper per business (or the equivalent volume of five banker boxes in alternate containers). There is no limit for residents. Certificates of destruction will be provided if requested.

Shredding events are held monthly. For information about other recycling events, contact the Calvert County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division at 410-326-0210 or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Recycle.

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.

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
352 AM EDT Fri Jul 5 2024

MDZ016>018-VAZ055>057-051900-
/O.UPG.KLWX.HT.Y.0005.240705T1600Z-240706T0000Z/
/O.NEW.KLWX.EH.W.0002.240705T1600Z-240706T0000Z/
Charles-St. Marys-Calvert-Stafford-Spotsylvania-King George-
Including the cities of St. Charles, Waldorf, Lexington Park,
California, Chesapeake Beach, Huntingtown, Dunkirk, North Beach,
Lusby, Prince Frederick, Falmouth, Fredericksburg, and Dahlgren
352 AM EDT Fri Jul 5 2024

...EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 8 PM EDT
THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to
  112 expected.

* WHERE...In Maryland, Charles, St. Marys and Calvert Counties.
  In Virginia, Stafford, Spotsylvania and King George Counties.

* WHEN...From noon today to 8 PM EDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...Extreme heat and humidity will significantly
  increase the potential for heat related illnesses,
  particularly for those working or participating in outdoor
  activities.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

&&

$$

Hazardous Weather Outlook
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
408 AM EDT Fri Jul 5 2024

ANZ530>543-DCZ001-MDZ008-011-013-014-016>018-504-506-508-
VAZ053>057-527-061000-
Chesapeake Bay north of Pooles Island MD-
Chesapeake Bay from Pooles Island to Sandy Point MD-
Chesapeake Bay from Sandy Point to North Beach MD-
Chesapeake Bay from North Beach to Drum Point MD-
Chesapeake Bay from Drum Point MD to Smith Point VA-
Tidal Potomac from Key Bridge to Indian Head MD-
Tidal Potomac from Indian Head to Cobb Island MD-
Tidal Potomac from Cobb Island MD to Smith Point VA-
Patapsco River including Baltimore Harbor-
Chester River to Queenstown MD-Eastern Bay-
Choptank River to Cambridge MD and the Little Choptank River-
Patuxent River to Broomes Island MD-
Tangier Sound and the inland waters surrounding Bloodsworth
Island-District of Columbia-Cecil-Southern Baltimore-
Prince Georges-Anne Arundel-Charles-St. Marys-Calvert-
Central and Southeast Montgomery-Central and Southeast Howard-
Southeast Harford-Fairfax-Arlington/Falls Church/Alexandria-
Stafford-Spotsylvania-King George-
Central and Southeast Prince William/Manassas/Manassas Park-
408 AM EDT Fri Jul 5 2024

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for the Maryland portion of the
Chesapeake Bay, Tidal Potomac River, and I-95 corridor through
central Maryland, northern Virginia, and District of Columbia.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight

Hot and very humid conditions result in an increased risk of heat
illnesses for those outdoors today. An Excessive Heat Warning is
in effect for the Fredericksburg area and Southern Maryland. A
Heat Advisory is in effect elsewhere.

Special Marine Warnings may be needed this evening as strong
thunderstorms move across portions of the waters.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Saturday through Thursday

Hot and humid conditions likely continue Saturday.

Scattered severe thunderstorms are possible Saturday afternoon
and evening. Damaging wind gusts are the primary threat. Isolated
instances of flooding are possible as well.

Search warrant served at a house in Stonehaven neighborhood; two suspects charged in connection with a shooting and MD State Fire Marshal’s Office recovers cases of regulated fireworks: On July 4, members of the CCSO Emergency Services Team, along with CCSO detectives and the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, served a search warrant in the 11200 block of Thackeray Lane in White Plains, MD. The search warrant was related to a shooting that occurred in June on Argyle Avenue in Waldorf in which the suspects purposely shot several rounds at a house, grazing a woman who was inside. The shooting was the result of a disagreement relating to a stolen cell phone. Since then, investigators pursued leads and gathered evidence to positively identify the suspects.

As a result of their investigation, detectives obtained arrest warrants for two suspects: Spencer Moore and Jenboi Moore. They were located inside the house during the search warrant along with Stephan Williams. A loaded semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine and a “switch”– an illegal device that can turn a semiautomatic gun into a fully automatic machine gun– and a loaded AR-style pistol were recovered. Detectives learned Williams is prohibited from possessing firearms. Further, during the search, Jenboi Moore spat on a detective.   

Arrests:

• Spencer Jacari Moore, age 20, of White Plains, was charged with first-degree burglary, six counts of first-degree assault, and six counts of reckless endangerment.
• Jenboi Moore, age 19, of White Plains, was charged with attempted first-degree burglary, six counts of first-degree assault, six counts of reckless endangerment, and assault in connection with spitting on the detective.
• Stephan Jacari Williams, 19, of Forestville,  was charged with illegal possession of firearms. Williams is prohibited from possessing firearms.  

The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office assisted with the investigation, seized several cases of fireworks, and charged Spencer Moore on a civil citation for illegal possession of regulated fireworks. The house in which the search warrant was served has been a source of ongoing complaints in the Stonehaven Community.

“Today’s arrests are the culmination of a thorough investigation and cooperation between our CCSO officers, detectives, various components of the Agency, and our law enforcement partners. The coordination and assistance shown in this incident highlights our commitment to safe communities, and to seeking justice for victims,” said Sheriff Troy D. Berry. Anyone who has additional information about this case is asked to call Detective Burgess at 301-609-6494. 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.

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

 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Monday, July 1, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge William R. Greer, Jr. sentenced Johnny Darrell Hammonds, 54, of White Plains, to 25 years in prison for 4 counts of Solicitation of Child Porn. Upon release, Hammonds will be on supervised probation for five years.  

On May 3, 2024, Hammonds entered a guilty plea to the aforementioned charges, as well as admitted to violating his probation in a separate case involving the sexual solicitation of a minor.

On July 27, 2023, an officer of the Charles County Sherriff’s Office received an anonymous tip that Hammonds was sexually harassing the tipster. The tipster also reported that Hammonds was using the social media site, Quora, to send communications.

An investigation into the tip revealed that Hammonds was using Quora to reach out to minors and leave inappropriate comments that were sexual in nature. Hammonds also exchanged inappropriate messages with four minor female victims and asked them to send sexually explicit photographs.  

In 2010, Hammonds was convicted in Charles County Circuit Court for the sexual abuse of a 16-year-old victim. In 2021, he was convicted in Charles County Circuit Court for a separate incident involving the sexual solicitation of a minor and the failure to register a social media account with the Maryland Sex Offender Registry.

Hammonds, a Tier III Level Sex Offender, is required to report all his social media accounts to the Maryland Sex Offender Registry. However, Hammonds failed to report his Quora profile to the Maryland Sex Offender Registry. Additionally, Hammonds was ordered not to have contact with minors including through electronic means.

 

 

 

Sentence

C-08-CR-24-000051

Count 1

• 10 years in prison

Count 3

• 10 years in prison
• Consecutive to Count 1

Count 5

• 10 years in prison with all but 5 years suspended
• Consecutive to Counts 1 and 3

Count 9

• 10 years in prison with all suspended
• Consecutive to Counts 1, 3, 5
• 5 years supervised probation

 

C-08-CR-21-000227

Violation of Probation: 8.5 years in prison concurrent with C-08-CR-24-000051

 

Charles County Crime Solvers offering cash reward in fugitive case: Charles County Sheriff’s investigators are seeking the whereabouts of Anthony Kavon Brown, age 24, of Waldorf, who has active felony warrants for armed robbery and illegal possession of a firearm. After Brown’s initial arrest relating to the robbery, a judge released him from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring. He violated the conditions of the monitoring and has not been seen since.  Brown failed to appear in court on June 18 for the robbery charge at which time a Charles County Circuit Court judge issued a bench warrant for Brown's arrest.

 

 

Brown is 5’9”, 120 lbs., and has multiple tattoos on his neck, face, and arms. He frequents Indian Head, Marbury, Newburg, and Waldorf and he has ties to Prince George’s County, St. Mary's County, and Northern Virginia. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Pancotti at 240-619-9046. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online or by using the P3Intel mobile app. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to his arrest.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 3, 2024) – During the early morning hours of July 3, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Davione Syheme Mason, 23, of Lexington Park, MD, on a search and seizure warrant at a residence in the 46000 block of Flower Drive in Lexington Park. The warrant was served by detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division with assistance from the Emergency Services Team.

Detectives identified Mason as a suspect following a June 26, 2024, shooting incident in the 46000 block of Columbus Drive in Lexington Park. No injuries were reported, but the investigation revealed a bullet hole in a nearby residence, and several shell casings were located at the scene.

Mason was charged in the arrest warrant with Handgun on Person, Loaded Handgun on Person, and Reckless Endangerment for this incident. 

The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown where he is currently being held pending a bond hearing.

 

ANNAPOLIS, Md (July 3,2024) — The Maryland Board of Public Works (BPW) which is comprised of chair, Governor Wes Moore, Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman, and Treasurer Dereck Davis approved more than $523 million for 136 initiatives and projects across Maryland. Chief Deputy Treasurer Jonathan D. Martin attended today's Board of Public Works meeting on behalf of Treasurer Dereck Davis.

During the meeting, the BPW considered an emergency procurement contract award of $2.7 million to Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects to provide comprehensive design services for the HVAC and structure renovation of the William Donald Schaefer Tower in Baltimore. Comptroller Lierman, in her remarks, highlighted concerns about the decision to renovate the building, stressing the need to fully understand the project justification in light of its high cost.

“I have to question whether it is worth it for us to put $110 million into this building rather than moving the employees to other buildings,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I'm happy to vote yes on it, but $110 million is three elementary schools, so I'm cognizant of it being a lot of money. I just want to understand what kind of comparison or economic analysis we have done to make sure that's the right course for the future of the state office buildings in downtown Baltimore."

In response to questions from Comptroller Lierman, Department of General Services (DGS) Secretary Atif T. Chaudhry acknowledged the high expense but defended the recommendation to renovate the building rather than relocate by highlighting the building’s size, location, and relatively new age. Comptroller Lierman emphasized the importance of becoming compliant with the Climate Solutions Now Act, while being strong fiscal stewards.

Comptroller Lierman thanked Governor Wes Moore and Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold for their collaboration and partnership to move forward with the Red Line project.

“Implementing a safe and equitable transportation system has long been a priority of mine in Baltimore,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I am really focused on that and the transit spending, so I wanted to thank you for providing the backup for the $60 million investment."

Despite her overall support of the Red Line project, Comptroller Lierman highlighted a concern surrounding the reliance on contractors to complete the project.

“I just want to note for the record, I remain concerned with the sort of continued reliance on contractors, and the hourly consultant rates we pay,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I continue to look forward to seeing some of this coming in-house so that we can continue to do the work and build our expertise at MTA."

In all, the BPW approved 136 items, representing a total State expenditure of $523,879,608.04.  A comprehensive list of items approved are as follows:

• 13 items awarding $44 million to prime certified small businesses;
• 4 items awarding $20 million to prime Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs);
• 19 items awarded with established participation goals for MBEs; and
• 3 with goals for Veteran-owned Small Business Enterprises.

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works is July 17.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – July 3, 2024 – Due to forecasted high temperatures for Thursday, July 4, through Sunday, July 7, 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.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 3, 2024) – On June 25, 2024, at 3 p.m., the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) Alcohol Enforcement Unit conducted a series of alcohol compliance checks.

 

The covert compliance checks involved using an underage Sheriff's Office Confidential Informant (CI). The CI is 18 years of age and was wearing athletic pants and a shirt and was informed to enter the restaurant or retail store and retrieve or order an alcoholic beverage from the business location to check the licensed establishment's underage compliance. The CI was accompanied by Sergeant Robert Merritt of the Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division; Sgt. Merritt was also wearing civilian attire.

 

Twelve businesses were visited, and 11 were found to be following Maryland law. One business failed to ask for identification and/or corroborate the CI’s age, and the CI was illegally served an alcoholic beverage.

 

The following businesses asked for identification from the underage individual:

Fiesta Café: 28255 Three Notch Rd. #2, Mechanicsville, MD 20659

Heavy Hitters Bar & Grill: 30125 Three Notch Rd., Charlotte Hall, MD 20622

Hole in the Wall: 24702 Sotterly Rd., Hollywood, MD 20636

Il Piccolo Morso: 22845 Washington St., Leonardtown, MD 20650

Korner Karryout: 27350 Three Notch Rd., Mechanicsville, MD 20659

Last Drop Country Bar: 23955 Mervell Dean Rd., Hollywood, MD 20636

Local 235: 25188 Three Notch Rd., Hollywood, MD 20636

Old Line Restaurant and Pub: 30080 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall, MD

Snellman's General Merchandise: 25201 Sotterly Rd., Hollywood, MD 20636

Toots: 23971 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood, MD 20636

Wicomico Shores Golf Course: 35794 Aviation Yacht Club Rd., Mechanicsville, MD 20659

 

The following business failed to ask for identification from the underage individual:

Noli's: 26005 Point Lookout Road, Suite A, Leonardtown, MD 20650

 

The alcohol violation report was forwarded to the St. Mary's County Alcohol Beverage Board for review.

This holiday weekend, Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) anticipates more boaters on the water, and subsequently an increase in boating incidents and fatalities.

Because of the high volume of activity during the July 4 holiday, it’s statistically one of the most dangerous times on Maryland’s waterways. Boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major issue not just in Maryland, but nationwide. In response, in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, NRP will once again participate in the national Operation Dry Water, which includes heightened awareness and enforcement from July 4-6.

“The Fourth of July weekend is the busiest boating holiday of the year,” said Natural Resources Police Col. Orlando Lilly. “NRP’s presence on the water will be significant, with saturation patrols spanning nearly every county in the state. It’s our goal to ensure the safety of everyone on the water, and our involvement in Operation Dry Water gives us opportunities to educate boaters on the dangers of drinking and operating, as well as removing unsafe and impaired operators from our waterways when necessary.”

Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating incidents, while more than 90 percent of Maryland’s fatal boating accident victims in the past five years were not wearing a life jacket.

During this period of heightened awareness and enforcement, NRP will prioritize educating boaters about safe practices, including the importance of sober boating. Boaters should expect increased patrols and vessel checks to prioritize the safety of those on the water.

NRP reminds boaters that the best way to enjoy a safe holiday weekend on the water is to remain sober – always have a “sober skipper” on board – and wear a life jacket at all times. 

In Maryland, an individual convicted of operating a vessel on the waters of Maryland while under the influence of alcohol, or any narcotic, drug, or barbiturate, can face up to one year of imprisonment and revocation of their boating license.

More information about boating safety and regulations in Maryland along with Maryland boating accident statistics can be found by visiting dnr.maryland.gov/nrp.

Woman charged in connection with hit and run, assault, fleeing and eluding, negligent driving, and driving while impaired: On June 30 at 2:05 a.m., officers responded to Mall Circle for the report of a hit and run crash. While officers were on the scene, the driver of the striking vehicle was observed in the parking lot. Officers attempted to contact the driver, but she fled. As officers attempted to stop her and prevent her from leaving the mall parking lot, the driver collided with two patrol cars, injuring one officer. The driver continued to flee, left the parking lot, and fled to Billingsley Road where she stopped. The driver, LaTanya Lisa Lee, age 31, of Upper Marlboro, was arrested without further incident and charged with assault, fleeing and eluding, negligent driving, driving while impaired, and other related offenses. Lee was released from the Charles County Detention Center on June 30 on an unsecured $3,500 bond. PFC Karopchinsky is investigating.

The Charles County Historic Preservation Commission hosted its Historic Preservation Awards at the Pleasant Hill House in Pomfret, Maryland, on June 23rd, 2024.  During the event, the 2024 Charles County Preservation Award winners were announced.

 

The Historic Preservation Awards are presented to an eligible individual, business, organization, or project that deserves recognition for outstanding achievements in historic preservation.  Awards are presented in two categories: Preservation Service and Preservation Projects.  The Preservation Service Award recognizes outstanding achievement in and support for furthering the aims of historic preservation in Charles County, including education, research, development, planning, advocacy, and community leadership.  The Preservation Project award recognizes excellence in the preservation and restoration of historic buildings, interpretation of architectural features in new construction, and adaptive reuse of historic structures. 

 

The first Preservation Service Award was presented to the Charles County Archaeological Society of Maryland, Inc. in recognition of 15 years of contributions to archaeological project work and education in Charles County.  A second award was presented to Lucille Ward Walker for her work in spearheading the creation of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, one of two National Heritage Areas in the state of Maryland. Charles County is part of this new National Heritage Area.

 

The Preservation Project award was given to a team of individuals and organizations who preserved and restored a mid-19th-century corn house that was originally located on the Dyson Farm in White Plains. The corn house, which was slated for demolition, was instead preserved when it was moved to Rich Hill in Bel Alton and restored as part of the grounds of that historic house. Those involved in the project were Rachel Cohen and Ram Adar, the original owners of the corn house; Tim Lessner of Lorenzi, Dodds, and Gunnill, Expert House Movers of Sharpstown, Maryland, S.D. Lohr, Inc., who did the restoration work; students from the Ancient Studies Department of the University of Maryland Baltimore County, who provided help with the archaeological study performed at Rich Hill before the corn house was moved there; and the Friends of Rich Hill, who will interpret the corn house in its new location.

 

In addition to the Preservation Service and Project Awards, plaques were presented to three properties that were recently granted County Landmark status by the Charles County Commissioners. These were the St. Nicholas Creek Burial Ground in Benedict, the site of interment for 23 enslaved individuals during the late 18^th and early 19^th centuries; the Twiford Store in Marbury, which was the center of the community during the early 20^th century; and the Joseph C. Parks house in Bryans Road, which was the home of J.C. Parks, the superintendent of the Charles County Colored Schools between 1919 and 1961.

 

The Charles County Commissioners established the Historic Preservation Commission in 2009. The Commission recommends properties for local historic landmark designation, reviews exterior changes to locally designated landmarks, and supports documentation of historic resources throughout the County. 

 

For more information, please contact Esther Doyle Read at ReadE@Charlescountymd.gov or Cal Carpenter at CarpentC@Charlescountymd.gov.

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1350 calls for service, including 15 Emergency Petitions, from June 24 to June 30, 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:

6/30/24 – Jessie Rae Colburn, 37, of No Fixed Address, by Deputy First Class Michael Rycyzyn for Theft: $1500 to under $25000 and related charges.

 

DUIs:

6/29/24 – Patrick O’Neal Johnson, 56, of Waldorf, MD, by Deputy First Class Raymond Allebach for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

 

6/30/24 – Holly Nicole Rawlings, 28, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Julian Grant for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol and Attempting to Drive a Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely.

 

SUMMONSES:

6/25/24 – Charles Dallas Biagi, 36, of Charlotte Hall, MD, by Deputy Elijsha Munn for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

6/26/24 – Kenjewell Faye McCullough, 44, of  Hollywood, MD, by Deputy First Class Austin Edelen for Aggravated Animal Cruelty and related charges.

 

6/28/24 Kevin Jerome Chase, 54, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

WARRANTS:

6/24/24 – Phyllis Jean Clark, 58, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

 

6/24/24 – Dennis William Lewis, 62, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for Arson Threat.

 

6/24/24 Derrin Roberto Perez-Perez, 25, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Erik Fleenor for Escape-Second Degree.

 

6/25/24 – Joseph Henry Payne, 47, of Great MD, by Detective Edward Vogt for Failure to Register as a Tier II (25-year) Offender.

 

The Maryland Office of the Comptroller has issued an updated report for adult-use cannabis sales tax revenue collected between January and March 2024 in the Capital and Central regions. The amended report does not change the overall revenue collected statewide in the first quarter of the calendar year, which was previously reported on June 26.

Region	Revenue Collected
Capital	$3,710,720
Central	$6,742,083
Eastern	$1,564,534
Southern	$618,218
Western	$2,035,554
Total	$14,671,110

 

Table 1: Q1 cannabis tax revenue collected by region. All numbers are rounded to the nearest whole dollar.

 

Adult-use cannabis and cannabis products are taxed at a rate of 9%. The revenue is distributed to several funds as required by the Cannabis Reform Act of 2023, which legalized the personal use of cannabis for adults over the age of 21. Under state law, the Comptroller of Maryland is responsible for collecting and dispersing sales and use tax revenue generated from the retail sale of adult-use cannabis in the state.

 

Quarterly revenues from adult-use cannabis will be divided among the following funds:

 

Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF): $4,156,888

35% of quarterly revenues fund community-based initiatives serving areas disproportionately impacted by the enforcement of cannabis prohibition prior to July 1, 2022. Funds from the CRRF will be distributed to each county based on percentages formulated by the Office of Social Equity.

 

Maryland Counties: $593,841

5% of quarterly revenue is allocated to Maryland counties based on the percentage of revenue collected from that county. Counties will then distribute 50% of funds to municipalities with cannabis dispensaries that contribute to sales and use tax revenue.

 

Cannabis Public Health Fund: $593,841

5% of quarterly revenues will be distributed to the Cannabis Public Health Fund to address the health effects associated with the legalization of adult-use cannabis.

 

Cannabis Business Assistance Fund: $593,841
35% of quarterly revenues will be distributed to the Cannabis Business Assistance Fund through FY 2028 to assist small, minority–owned, and women–owned businesses entering the adult–use cannabis industry. 

 

General Fund: $5,938,412

The remainder of quarterly revenues, after required disbursements, will be allocated to Maryland’s General Fund

 

Additionally, $2,794,286 will be allocated to the Maryland Cannabis Administration to support operational costs.

 

The Office of the Comptroller releases quarterly reports on the tax revenue generated from cannabis sales in the state that are available at https://marylandtaxes.gov/cannabis/reports.php

 

Please visit the Maryland Cannabis Administration for more information on cannabis laws, regulations, data, and related topics.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – July 2, 2024 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4, 2024, in observance of Independence Day. In addition:

·       The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county customer convenience centers will be closed on Thursday, July 4.

·       The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be closed on Thursday, July 4.

·       The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed on
Thursday, July 4.

·       Calvert County’s senior centers will be closed, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered on Thursday, July 4. Meal delivery is scheduled to resume on July 5.

·       There will be no county bus service on Thursday, July 4. Regular service will resume on Friday, July 5. Bus service is fare free as of July 1, 2024.

·       Calvert Library locations will be closed Thursday, July 4, and will reopen at 9 a.m. Friday, July 5. 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 Thursday, July 4.

·       Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be open on Thursday, July 4, and will be closing at 3 p.m.

·       The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed on Thursday, July 4. Animal Control Officers will be available for emergencies at
410-535-3491.

·       All community centers will be closed on Thursday, July 4.

·       Chesapeake Hills Golf Course will be open on Thursday, July 4, and will be closing at 4 p.m.

·       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 on Thursday, July 4.

• Flag Ponds Nature Park and Kings Landing Park will be open with regular hours of operation on Thursday, July 4. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp and 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 closing at 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 4.

·       Breezy Point Beach will be open with extended holiday hours on Thursday, July 4, 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 – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services is pleased to announce this year's Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) distribution event, set to take place at the Garvey Senior Activity Center on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, from 8:30 to 11 a.m.

Eligible senior participants will receive a total of $50 on an electronic benefits (debit) card equipped with a QR code. These cards can be used in any dollar increment up to $50 at participating vendors. A limited number of cards are available and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. All funds must be redeemed by November 30, 2024.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the SFMNP, participants must meet the following criteria:

• Be 60 years of age or older
• Provide photo ID indicating proof of St. Mary’s County residency
• Meet the income limits outlined below

Maryland 2024 SFMNP Income Limits

Household Size	Annual Income
1	$27,861
2	$37,814
3	$47,767
4	$57,720

Proxy Designation

If a participant cannot attend the distribution event, a proxy may apply on their behalf. The following documentation is required on the day of distribution:

• A completed and signed copy of the current SFMNP application by the senior participant
• A copy of the senior participant’s residency ID
• The proxy’s photo ID

 

Proxy forms are available for pick-up at the Garvey Senior Activity Center, located at 23630 Hayden Farm Lane in Leonardtown. Please note that sending a proxy does not guarantee card receipt, as SFMNP cards are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information about the SFMNP Distribution, please contact the St. Mary's County Department of Aging & Human Services at 301-475-4200, ext. 1063.

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s (SMCG) Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) is pleased to share its 2024-2029 Strategic Plan with the public. This plan, approved by the Commissioners of St. Mary's County on June 25, 2024, outlines the department’s goals and objectives through 2029. 

The 22-page document provides an overview of the department’s five administrative divisions and their roles in serving the community to advance the mission of R&P and SMCG. It details the planning process, goals, and action items, and how R&P will ensure proper implementation, accountability, and regular reviews to keep the public informed about progress.

We invite all residents to read the plan to learn more about the services offered at our 8 recreation facilities, 23 parks, 18 playgrounds, 15 public landings, the Three Notch bike trail, 4 museums, and Wicomico Shores Golf Course.

You can read the full Strategic Plan online at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate/strategicplan. Or watch a short video on it at: https://youtu.be/-059A_r2_l0.

For more information, please contact the St. Mary's County Department of Recreation & Parks at 301-475-4200 or visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate. Follow R&P on social media for updates at: Instagram.com/stmarysrecandparks and Facebook.com/StMarysMDRecreation.

 

Assault: 24-47643
On June 18, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the 2100 block of Margaret Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of an assault in progress. Deputies arrived on scene and observed two males involved in a physical altercation. Investigation revealed Eli Matthew Arthur Blush, 34 of St. Leonard, had assaulted the victim following a road rage incident. Blush brandished a box cutter while sitting in his vehicle. Blush exited his vehicle and began to physically assault the victim. Blush was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with FirstDegree Assault, Second-Degree Assault, and Disorderly Conduct.

CDS Violation: 24-48222
On June 20, 2024, Calvert Deputies initiated a traffic stop in the area of Art’s Automotive
located at 95 Dalrymple Road in Sunderland, on a vehicle for multiple traffic violations in
addition to eluding uniformed officers. Upon making contact with the driver Bobby Lewis King, Jr., 39 of Sunderland, drug paraphernalia was observed in plain view. Further investigation revealed a plastic container with suspected crack cocaine rocks and two glass pipes with white residue were located inside the vehicle. King was arrested for DWI, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, and other traffic related charges. The passenger, Shannon O’Neal Wills, 46 of Sunderland was arrested and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-48427
On June 21, 2024, Deputy R. Jones initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for an equipment violation in the 12000 block of Rousby Hall Road in Lusby. Upon making contact with the driver, Bryan Keith Williams, 60 of Lusby, a glass smoking device (crack pipe) was observed in plain view. A vehicle search revealed a wad of copper fibers and a crack pipe with suspected crack cocaine residue. A search of William’s person revealed a white rock-like substance (suspected crack cocaine) and 2 packages of Suboxone. Williams was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with two counts of CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Damaged Property: 24-47570
On June 18, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to the 1600 block of Parran Road in St. Leonard, for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised an unknown subject struck and damaged the victim’s mailbox. The estimated value of damaged property is $80.00.

Damaged Property: 24-47564
On June 18, 2024, DFC Contic responded to Sunrise Gardens in North Beach, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised multiple items had been damaged, between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on June 16. The damaged items include solar spotlights, antennas, and wires. The estimated value of damaged property is $600.00.

Damaged Property: 24-48062
On June 20, 2024, Deputy Grabill responded to Bayside Chevrolet located at 109 Auto Drive in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed an unknown
suspect broke into the victim’s vehicle and caused damage to the vehicle’s sunroof, center
console, steering wheel, and seats. The estimated value of damaged property is $4,111.60.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-47315
On June 17, 2024, Deputy McCourt responded to the 200 block of Thunderbird Drive in Lusby, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival, contact was made with Gwendolyn Marcella Blacknall 57, of Lusby. Blacknall was throwing multiple household items outside and into the roadway. Blacknall was yelling and screaming causing a disturbance in front of nearby citizens. Blacknall refused to comply with deputies commands. Blacknall was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Litter/Dump Under 100 lbs., and Failure to Obey a Reasonable/Lawful Order of a Law Enforcement Officer.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-48669
On June 22, 2024, DFC Strong responded to the Rod N Reel Marina, located at West 4055
Gordon Stinnett Ave in Chesapeake Beach MD, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon
arrival, contact was made with John Leland Morgan, 60 of Chesapeake Beach. Morgan was
jumping from random boats to avoid security while taunting, screaming profanities, and making threats towards deputies. Morgan was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Trespassing: Boat, Trespassing: Private Property, and Resisting/Interfere with Arrest.

Theft: 24-47745
On June 18, 2024, Deputy Baxter responded to Fastop located at 4990 St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed a suspect described as a white male with a buzz cut, appearing to be in his late 30s to early 40s, entered thes store and stole merchandise. The suspect filled up a 44-ounce fountain drink, grabbed a bag of beef jerky then fled the store. The estimated value of stolen property is $12.71.

Theft: 24-47658
On June 18, 2024, DFC Idol responded to the 7-Eleven located at 685 Prince Frederick Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown black male stole (2) 1 Quart Lucas 5W-30 Motor Oils from the store. The estimated value of stolen property is $25.00.

Theft: 24-48345
On June 21, 2024, Deputy DeSantis responded to Sneade's Ace Home Center located at 11861 HG Trueman Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed Ted William Taylor Jr., 34 of no fixed address, entered Sneades and stole an Echo CS-590 chainsaw (valued at $450.00), passed all points of sale, and was picked up by a black truck. DFC McCourt located the black truck and initiated a traffic stop in the area of Santa Fe Trail and Piute Court in Lusby. Deputies observed the stolen chainsaw in the back seat of the vehicle. Taylor was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft: $100 to Under $1500-Shoplifting.

Weapons Violation: 24-47949
On June 19, 2024, DFC Plant responded to a traffic complaint in which the operator of an orange Ford Crown Victoria brandished a firearm during a road rage incident on Rt. 4 in the area of the Kenmar Liquor Store in Prince Frederick. Investigation revealed, Jervonta Leon Thomas, 23 of St. Leonard, sped up alongside the victim’s vehicle and pointed a handgun in their direction. The suspect vehicle was located unoccupied in the parking lot of the Prince Frederick Walmart. Contact was made with Thomas inside the Walmart. A vehicle search revealed a polymer 80 Glock style 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a31 round magazine, and (6) 9mm ball ammunition. Thomas was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with First-Degree Assault, Loaded Handgun on Person, Handgun on Person, and Handgun in a Vehicle, Loaded Handgun in a Vehicle, Use of an Assault Weapon, and Firearm without a Serial #.

NAS Patuxent River will observe holiday routine July 4 for the Independence Day holiday. Pax River's Gate 1 will be open 24/7, while Gates 2 and 3 will be closed that day.

Pax River will observe a modified holiday routine for July 5; Gate 1 remains open 24/7, Gate 2 will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., and Gate 3 will be closed July 5.

The Visitor Control Center/Pass and ID Office will be closed July 4 and 5.

Traffic Operations Officers Seek Identity of Potential Witness to Fatal Crash: Traffic Operations officers are continuing to investigate a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on Chapel Point Road near Purcell Road. Investigators are seeking the identity of a woman who may have witnessed the crash; she is described as a white female driving a 2024 Nissan Rogue with Virginia registration plates. The crash occurred on June 25 at 4:40 p.m. and involved a 2007 Honda CBR600 motorcycle, operated by Nicolas Conrad Slough, 24, of Bel Alton, who left the roadway and struck a tree. Slough was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced deceased.  Anyone with information about the identity of the potential witness of this crash or who has information related to the investigation is asked to contact PFC A. Fenlon #544 at 301-609-6227.

Today, Dr. Carey M. Wright begins a four-year term as State Superintendent of Schools, a full circle moment for the Maryland born, raised and trained education leader. Dr. Wright, a former Mississippi State Superintendent of Education who previously served as Interim Maryland State Superintendent, was appointed by the Maryland State Board of Education in April to a full term. 

Dr. Wright’s strategic priorities include improving student outcomes in collaboration with local school systems, leaders and educators; aligning statewide literacy instruction to the Science of Reading; enhancing assessment and accountability models; and seizing the potential of the landmark Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation. 

"This is a golden moment in public education that calls for transformational change with all boats rowing in the same direction,” said Dr. Wright. “From the highest levels of state government to our local school systems, we are all guided by our north star of improving student outcomes and working with teachers and leaders to make that happen.”

As the longest-serving State Superintendent in Mississippi history, Dr. Wright led the implementation of successful literacy reforms that resulted in unprecedented student achievement gains, known colloquially as the “Mississippi Miracle.” Dr. Wright was appointed Interim Maryland State Superintendent last October. Under her leadership, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) successfully managed a transition of superintendent administrations, worked in concert with the State Board to take significant actions necessary towards  improved math and literacy rates, and built foundational relationships with key stakeholders.

Dr. Wright has implemented a strategic agenda grounded in the Science of Reading. In January, the State Board set an aspirational target for Maryland to be among the top 10 states for literacy instruction by 2027.

MSDE has also launched a $6.85 million, four-year philanthropic partnership with the nonprofit Ibis Group to increase literacy outcomes statewide. 

Prioritizing collaboration and open dialogue, she organized the Accountability and Assessment Task Force earlier this year to strengthen the correlation between school ratings and student academic performance. 

“We have the momentum to make changes across Maryland,” said Dr. Wright,  “and elevate public education for every child in every school and classroom.?”

At a Glance: Dr. Carey M. Wright

• Maryland Born, Maryland Raised, Maryland Trained: Prince George’s County native, product of Prince George’s County Public Schools and three-time University of Maryland alum. Served in various teacher and administrator roles in Montgomery, Prince George’s and Howard County school systems. 
• National Education Leader: Acclaimed expert in literacy instruction and raising student achievement. Former DC Public Schools Chief Academic Officer; former member, National Assessment Governing Board, which sets policy for NAEP, the Nation’s Report Card.
• Trailblazer: Longest-serving Mississippi State Superintendent (2013-2021). Only the fourth woman to lead the Maryland State Department of Education. Holds the distinction of leading two different state education agencies.

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for the month of July: 

 

Thursday, July 4 (Independence Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.
• The Charles County Landfill, Piney Church Road Mulch Facility, and all recycling centers will be closed.
• Curbside recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed one day for the remainder of the week, Friday, July 5 through Saturday, July 6.
• Crain Memorial Welcome Center and Stagg Hall will be open and operating.
• Nanjemoy Community Center and all senior centers will be closed
• VanGO services will not be operating.
• Port Tobacco Recreation Center, Elite Gymnastics & Recreation Center, Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• All pools will be open noon to 5 p.m. for open swim (Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, North Point, and Thomas Stone High Schools). With $2 admissions.

 

Friday, July 5

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.
• The Charles County Landfill, Piney Church Road Mulch Facility, and all recycling centers will be open.
• Curbside recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed one day from Friday, July 5, through Saturday, July 6.
• Crain Memorial Welcome Center and Stagg Hall will be open and operating.
• Nanjemoy Community Center and all senior centers will be closed.
• VanGO services will operate full weekday service.
• Port Tobacco Recreation Center, Elite Gymnastics & Recreation Center, Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• All school-based community centers and the Elite Gymnastics and Recreation Center will operate summer camps as scheduled.
• Waldorf Senior & Recreation Center and all school-based community centers are closed.
• All pools will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. for open swim (Lackey, Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, North Point, and Thomas Stone High Schools).

 

This schedule is subject to change. For more information on county operating schedules, click here.

 

Operating status for other County affiliated agencies:

• Charles County Parks and Tourism Facilities: www.CharlesCountyParks.com/about-us/operating-status
• Charles County Public Library: www.ccplonline.org

• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org
• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

 

For questions about County Government holiday closures, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.