The St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (MetCom) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Potomac River Fisheries Commission (PRFC) reflecting the commitment of both organizations to collaboratively promote and enhance the health of local ecosystems, including the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers, the Chesapeake Bay and their respective tributaries.

Oyster revitalization provides broad ecological benefits, but it requires considerable funding and resources. To help expedite progress, MetCom has voluntarily agreed to provide supplemental financial support in the form of annual grants to the PRFC for oyster revitalization projects within the tidal Potomac River. The grant funds will be used to purchase and plant wild oyster seed, spat-on-shell (SOS), and oyster shells in designated Special Management Areas (SMAs) and other suitable sites within the PRFC jurisdiction to increase biomass and suitable substrate for reproduction events. Scaled to a funding level of $10,000 per year, it is anticipated that the PRFC could plant over 700 bushels of wild oyster seed or 350,000 seed oysters equating to an estimated 2.6 million eyed larvae and up to 2 acres of oyster ground.

The typical oyster site-specific project can cost between $50,000-$100,000.

The primary goal is to help enhance the ecological health of our local rivers by increasing the population of Eastern Oysters, which play a critical role in improving water quality, water clarity (by filtering algae, sediment and other pollutants) and by providing food and habitat for various species. We are excited about this new partnership which is in line with our mission to be environmental stewards in the operation and maintenance of the public wastewater conveyance and treatment systems. Gerald Meyerman, MetCom Chairman stated that; “We purposefully chose to fund the effort on SMAs because they are managed more conservatively than public oyster bars and would therefore provide more of an environmental benefit to our waterways.” These types of projects will have limited harvesting windows (some partially or permanently closed) and restrictions on various types of gear allowed to be utilized (e.g., only hand-operated gear not mechanical – rakes, diving, and hand tongs).

In accordance with Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s July 20, 2023 Executive Order 01.01.2023.12,“ . . . Increasing the abundance of the Eastern Oyster, a critical species for Maryland's economy and water quality, is a priority of the Moore-Miller Administration; . . . Oysters play a valuable role in creating reefs that clean water and provide habitat for critical species, including crabs and striped bass.”

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Clean out your barn, basement, garage, and other home storage areas in preparation for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day!

St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will offer Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the St. Andrews Landfill, located at 44837 St. Andrews Church Road in California, Maryland. This event provides the opportunity for residents to safely dispose of potentially toxic or dangerous materials.

Hazardous waste items accepted for collection include acids, ammonia, bleach, cleaners, fuels, gas/oil mixtures, gasoline, household and lawn pesticides, mercury thermometers, photography chemicals, pool chemicals, solvents, wood preservatives, paint thinners and alkyd (oil-based) paint. Unacceptable items include ammunition, asbestos, explosive materials, latex paint, medical waste, pharmaceuticals, radioactive materials, and picric acid.

For more information, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/dpw or contact DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3550.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, September 27, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 10-day trial, convicted Vincent Anthony Fisher, II, 49, of two counts of First-Degree Arson and two counts of Second-Degree Murder of Rashawn Cline and Dashawn Cline.  

On March 31, 2022, officers and fire department personnel responded to a townhome in Waldorf for the report of a residential house fire. Upon arrival, the home was fully engulfed in flames. Fisher was located outside of the residence and was suffering from injuries from an assault that took place before the fire. After extinguishing the fire, fire department personnel located two deceased victims, later identified as 27-year-old Rashawn Cline and her eighteen-month-old daughter, Dashawn Cline, in an upstairs bedroom.

An investigation revealed that Fisher, who lived at the residence, was involved in a physical altercation with two other males, one being another resident of the house, before the fire started. The altercation began inside the residence but continued outside after Fisher jumped out of his second-story window. When the altercation was over, Fisher remained at the house with the victims while the other males left. Soon after the males left, Fisher intentionally started a fire on a mattress located in the living room of the residence before going outside.  The fire extended to the remaining rooms of the first floor and upstairs to the second floor, where the victims were located. The fire completely destroyed the residence.

Video footage from a neighbor’s house captured Fisher walking toward the home before the fire started.

Two lighters were discovered in Fisher’s pants when he was apprehended. During the course of the investigation, it was also found that Fisher had Phencyclidine (PCP) in his system during the incident.

Before the incident, Fisher was told by another resident that he could no longer live at the townhome due to his drug use. Fisher started the fire on the last night he could stay at the residence.    

A sentencing date for Fisher has been set for December 19, 2024. He faces up to 140 years in prison.

Charles County Government October Holiday Schedule

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for October: 

Monday, Oct. 14 (Columbus Day/ Indigenous Peoples' Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville will be closed.

• All school-based community centers are closed.

• All indoor pools will be open noon - 5 p.m. for open swim (Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center, and North Point). Lackey is CLOSED
• The Waldorf Senior and Recreation Center will be open for recreational activities only.
• Port Tobacco Recreation Center will be open for scheduled programs.

Thursday, Oct. 24

• The Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services and treasury offices are closed at 11:15 a.m. for staff training. 

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.

Patrol deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office arrested Davonn Lionell Atkins, 25, of Leonardtown, on Thursday, September 26, 2024, on an open warrant for first-degree assault and recovered an unregistered handgun.

Acting on a tip about Atkins's location, Deputies were patrolling the area of Sunnyside Road and Pin Cushion Road in Leonardtown when they spotted Atkins driving a vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. After taking Atkins into custody on the outstanding warrant, deputies searched his car and located an unregistered loaded handgun. Further investigation revealed that Atkins did not have a permit to carry the weapon.

Atkins was transported to the St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center. He has been charged with wear, carry, and transport of a handgun on his person, possession of a loaded handgun on his person, possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle, and handgun wear, carry, and transport on public roads.

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will begin pavement repairs on the MD 4 Bridge over the Patuxent River (Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge) at the Calvert/St. Mary’s County line. The night-time work will begin Sunday, September 29.

Crews will make repairs along the concrete bridge deck and replace the navigational lights under the bridge. The State Highway Administration will close one lane and alternate traffic in the open lane using an overnight flagging operation, Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following morning. This work will continue through late October, weather permitting.

Portable variable message signs are placed along area state routes to make travelers aware of the lane closure. Work will be performed by contractor PDI Sheetz Construction Corporation of Linthicum Heights, Md.

Overnight travelers should plan extra travel time to cross the bridge. This work is necessary to ensure a safe and reliable transportation system. Customers may contact the District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or toll-free at 1-800-331-5603 for additional information.

Drivers are asked to stay alert, stay focused, look for reduced speed limits as well as driving pattern changes, and slow down in construction zones. Motorists in need may dial #77 on their mobile devices for roadside assistance.

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, visit Project Portal or the homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov. 

Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II Town Hall Meeting

October 16, 2024

Time: 7 p.m.

In Person: Ultimate Cuts (3073 Leonardtown Road, Waldorf, MD 20601)

Topic: Charter Government

Commissioner Gilbert “BJ” Bowling (District 1) Town Hall Meetings

October 24, 2024

Time: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

In Person: Bryans Road Volunteer Fire Department (3099 Livingston Road, Bryans Road, MD 20616)

Topic: The event is a dual Food Giveaway & Town Hall. The food giveaway is scheduled to start at 5 p.m., and the town hall to follow at 6 p.m.

Livestream (connectivity dependent): https://www.facebook.com/bj.bowling.52

Patrol deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office (SMCSO) responded to a motor vehicle theft report in the 21000 block of South Essex Drive in Lexington Park at approximately 10:44 a.m. Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

Upon arrival, the victim told deputies her vehicle was locked and running while she briefly entered a business. When she returned, she witnessed two individuals attempting to enter her car forcibly.

The victim provided descriptions of the suspects, and deputies from multiple SMCSO divisions launched an extensive search; one suspect was found in a nearby residential area. Following a brief foot chase, Jaden Xzavier Mason, 19, of no fixed address, was apprehended. A subsequent search of Mason revealed suspected crack cocaine and a fixed-blade weapon.

Mason was charged with attempted theft of $1500 to less than $25000, possession of burglar's tools with intent to use in the commission of a crime, CDS: possession – not cannabis, CDS: possession of paraphernalia, and related charges. The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center to await a bond hearing.

The investigation continues, and the second suspect, shown in the attached photo, described as a young black male wearing a white T-shirt and jeans is being sought.

Those with information about this incident are asked to contact Deputy Joseph Senatore at 301-475-4200, ext. 8163, or by email at Joseph.Senatore@stmarycountymd.gov.

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

On September 26, 2024, at approximately 8:43 a.m., members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to the area of Bayside Road and Bristol Drive in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. Upon arrival deputies determined that the pedestrian sustained life-threatening injuries and requested the Crash Reconstruction Team respond to investigate.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2017 Toyota 4Runner, operated by Steven O’Neill, 42 of Chesapeake Beach, was traveling southbound on Bayside Road. A pedestrian, identified as Chloe Clagg a 20 of Chesapeake Beach, MD, was running across Bayside Road into the travel lane. Clagg was struck by the 4Runner. Clagg was transported to Capital Region Shock Trauma in serious condition. O’Neill was not injured.

F/Sgt Thomas Phelps of the Crash Reconstruction Team is conducting the investigation of the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or events leading up to the incident is asked to contact him at 410-535-2800 or by email, Thomas.Phelps@CalvertCountymd.gov.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) invites residents to attend a public input meeting to discuss the Chesapeake Hills Golf Course. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024, from 7-9 p.m. in the Chesapeake Hills Golf Course Clubhouse banquet room, located at 11352 HG Trueman Road in Lusby.

This meeting provides an opportunity for residents to engage with CCPR leadership and staff, share feedback and learn more about ongoing and future plans for the golf course. The agenda includes updates on course conditions, recent improvements and upcoming projects. Attendees will also have the chance to ask questions, voice concerns and offer suggestions regarding operations, amenities, and community involvement.

This event is open to all interested residents, golfers, and community members. No RSVP is required.

To learn more about Chesapeake Hills Golf Course or to reserve a tee time, visit www.ChesapeakeHills.com or call 410-326-GOLF (4653). 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 connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

On Tuesday, Sept. 24, The Board of County Commissioners hosted members of the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) during their 2024 Consolidated Transportation Program Tour. As a part of their tour, officials presented the fiscal 2025-2030 Consolidated Transportation Program Report, which includes updates on transportation projects across the state, including the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit Project. After the presentation, residents were invited to comment publicly on the state’s transportation plan.

During the morning session, Commissioners held a work session on the 2025 Preliminary State Legislative Proposal Package. The session, led by Danielle Mitchell, Assistant Deputy County Attorney, finalized the package of legislative proposals to be sent to Annapolis during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly Session starting in January. Commissioners approved eight bills, including a bill that would require citizens to provide identification for a civil violation for smoking cannabis in public. Commissioners will wrap up their work on the 2025 State Legislative Proposal Package during a later session.

Briefings

·       Jacob Dyer, Acting Director, and TaTanya Bowman, Assistant Chief of Budget, Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, held a briefing on the General Fund for the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2024. At the end of this presentation, the Commissioners approved the year-end fund balance reserves as presented by staff.

·        Jenifer Ellin, Acting Deputy County Administrator, and Kelli Scherer, Budget Analyst II, held a briefing updating commissioners on the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Additionally, a budget transfer request of $315,400 was requested to cover additional costs for the School-Based Community Health Clinic at Indian Head Elementary School. Commissioners approved the request.

Annual Updates

Commissioners heard updates on the activities of the Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) and the Gaming Permit Review Board.

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Commissioners took the following actions on Charles County Boards and Commissions:

• Reappoint Dawud Abdur Rahman and William Murray and to appoint Ryan Sekuterski to the Planning Commission.
• Reappoint Tia Spencer-Blake and to appoint Espirita Garrison as the District 2 Representative and Quantral Fletcher as the at large member to the Charles County Police Accountability Board.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A budget transfer request of $88,870 to fund the county matching portion of an MD Bikeways Grant to study the first phase of the Indian Head Rail Trail extension. Funding would come from using funds initially slated for the Newburg Sub-Area plan, which will not be completed before the 2026 Comprehensive Plan.
• A change order of $165,264.55 to cover construction administration services provided by MW Studios during the construction of the new animal shelter.
• A settlement agreement related to the Mattawoman Flow Equalization Basin project.

Viewing option of the meeting and the public hearing: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: Oct. 1-2

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 25, 2024) – Following an investigation into attempted carjackings over the past weekend, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Calvert and Charles County Sheriff’s Office’s Emergency Services Teams, executed simultaneous search and seizure warrants on multiple residences in St. Mary’s County today. Four juvenile male suspects, ranging in age from 15 to 17, were taken into custody and charged with conspiracy to commit carjacking.

During the execution of a search warrant at one residence, deputies recovered two firearms: a Taurus G2c with obliterated serial numbers, chambered with a 9mm round and containing a magazine with two rounds, and a Glock Model 19 equipped with a conversion device, known as a "switch," which alters the firearm from semi-automatic to fully automatic. The Glock was loaded with an extended magazine containing 21 rounds. Additionally, deputies seized approximately 1614 suspected fentanyl pills, six individually packaged bags of suspected cannabis, and a scale.

The juvenile, age 17, was charged as an adult with 11 criminal counts, including two counts of CDS: possession with intent to distribute, two counts of use of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, CDS: possession of a large amount, CDS: possession – not cannabis, two counts of possession of a regulated firearm by a person under 21, illegal possession of ammunition, possession of a rapid-fire trigger activator, and possession of a machine gun.

Sheriff Steve Hall said, “The swift execution of these search warrants and the recovery of weapons and drugs highlights the critical work our deputies are doing to keep St. Mary’s County safe. We are unwavering in our commitment to hold accountable those who threaten the safety of our community.”

Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from publicly identifying a juvenile, even when charged as an adult, due to legal protections safeguarding the juvenile’s identity throughout the judicial process.

Original News Release

Sheriff’s Office Investigating Two Attempted Carjackings, Urges Drivers to Stay Alert

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 22, 2024) – Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office are investigating two attempted carjacking incidents that occurred Saturday night in separate locations in California, Maryland.

The first incident occurred around 9:34 p.m. near the intersection of FDR Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard. A female driver reported that several black males approached her vehicle, and one of the suspects, dressed in all black and wearing a blue surgical mask, showed a handgun and demanded her car. The victim was able to drive away safely, and no injuries were reported.

The second incident occurred at approximately 11:42 p.m. at a convenience store located at 22711 Three Notch Road. The male victim had just made a purchase and was getting into his car when four black males, also dressed in all black and wearing face masks, surrounded his vehicle and demanded his car. The victim drove out of the parking lot, and the suspects left the area on foot. No injuries were reported.

Both incidents are being actively investigated. The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the cases, and anyone with information related to these incidents is asked to contact Sergeant Keith Moritz at 301-475-4200, ext. 8093, or by email at Keith.Moritz@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges motorists to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings, especially in parking lots or unfamiliar areas. If you notice anything unusual or feel unsafe, call 911 immediately. Your quick action can help prevent potential crimes and ensure your safety.

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, Oct. 19, 2024, at Northern Middle School located at 2954 Chaneyville Road in Owings
• Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at Huntingtown High School located at 4125 Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown
• Saturday, Dec. 14, 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.

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PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland and Wallops Island, Virginia are advised that noise-generating nighttime testing events are scheduled to take place Oct. 3 to Nov. 15, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m.

In an effort to lessen the disturbance of these missions, pilots have been instructed to fly the lowest altitude portion of their flights prior to midnight, when possible.

These flights are conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration and Navy regulations, and are subject to scheduling shifts based on a number of factors.

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.

Following an extensive investigation into a July 6, 2024, shooting in Lexington Park, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed arrest warrants for two suspects on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

Zemar David Tyshon Batts, 19, of Lexington Park, and a 15-year-old male juvenile were arrested without incident at separate residences in Lexington Park. Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from publicly identifying a juvenile, even when charged as an adult, due to legal protections safeguarding the juvenile’s identity throughout the judicial process.

The juvenile, charged as an adult, and Batts both face two counts each of attempted first-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and first-degree assault. In addition, Batts has been charged with two counts of firearm use during the commission of a felony or crime of violence and possession of a regulated firearm by a person under 21. The juvenile is also charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit first-degree assault.

Sheriff Steve Hall said, “These arrests are a testament to the unwavering determination and investigative work done by our office. The safety of our community remains our top priority, and we are steadfast in this commitment.”

The suspects are being held at the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown pending bond hearings.

-----

Original News Release

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Shooting Incident

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.

Charles County Department of Public Works has announced that the Oil and Antifreeze drop-off location at Gilbert Run Park (13140 Charles Street, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622) will relocate to the Gilbert Run Park Recycling Center, which is adjacent to the park, beginning Friday, November 1, 2024. The drop-off point will be accessible during the center's normal operating hours, which are Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Motor Oil, Transmission Fluid, Gear Oil, Hydraulic Oil, and Power Steering Fluid are acceptable materials at all Charles County Oil and Antifreeze recycling sites. The Department of Public Works would like to remind residents to transport materials in leak-free and rust-free containers to avoid accidental spillage and to empty containers into the correctly assigned tank to avoid contamination.

Residents are reminded to pour fluids into the properly marked tank. Please do not pour gasoline, oil mixtures, refrigeration oil, solvents, brake fluid, or cooking oil into the tanks. Doing so could contaminate the storage tanks. Do not pour oils into a full tank to avoid environmental contamination of the ground and surrounding area. If a spill does occur, call 301-932-5656 to report the spill as soon as possible.

The facility is closed for New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. For more information, visit the Charles County Environmental Resources page or call the recycling information hotline at 301-932-5656.

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 7-1-1 (Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258).

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 Homegrown School Lunch Week and National Service Dog Month.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement to support the rehabilitation of 80 existing affordable rental units in Lexington Park.
• Approved the PILOT agreement and excise tax waiver to support the development of 40 new affordable rental townhomes in Lexington Park.
• Held a public hearing on the proposed changes to the St. Mary’s County Public Ethics Ordinance.
• Approved the Land Water Conservation Fund Grant application to assist with the construction of playgrounds at St. Clements Shores Park and Cecil Park.
• Approved the budget amendment request to support the design of a new visitor's center and activity areas at Myrtle Point Park.
• Approved the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program three-year grant application.
• Approved the reorganization of the Department of Land Use and Growth Management.
• Approved the quit claim deed transferring all interest the CSMC may have in Cherry Street, located in the Piney Point Shores Subdivision, to Benchmark Property.

The CSMC then voted on the 2025 Legislative Proposals as presented by the County Attorney’s Office. The Commissioners will host a joint public meeting with the St. Mary’s County Legislative Delegation on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, to consider these proposals.

The Commissioners wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The Commissioners reconvened at 6 p.m. to host the Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary, Paul Wiedefeld and his team for the Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) Tour meeting. The CTP is Maryland’s six-year capital budget for transportation projects and infrastructure. During the meeting, the Secretary and MDOT staff presented information on the draft CTP, including upcoming projects and priorities specific to St. Mary’s County.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on October 1, 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 St. Mary’s County Government 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 www.stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

Calvert County invites all residents and businesses to show support for military veterans during the week of Nov. 4-11, 2024. Join us in lighting buildings and homes in green to raise awareness and express our profound thanks for the sacrifice and service of our veterans.

Operation Green Light, a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the National Association of Counties, unites counties across the country to support those who have bravely served in the armed forces. This campaign serves as a powerful platform to increase awareness about the unique challenges faced by veterans and the wealth of resources available to them.

            Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by changing at least one light bulb in their home or building to a vibrant green. This can be as simple as replacing an exterior or interior light that neighbors and passersby see. By shining a green light, we send a clear message to our veterans that they are not only seen but also deeply appreciated and supported.

To assist residents in showing their appreciation, the Veterans Affairs Commission (VAC) will be distributing green lightbulbs at the Calvert County Fair located at 140 Calvert Fair Drive in Prince Frederick, from Sept. 26-29, 2024. For more information on resources for Calvert County veterans visit the VAC webpage at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/VAC.

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

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – The NAS Patuxent River Restoration Advisory Board‘s next public meeting is for October 9, 2024 at 6 p.m. at NAS Patuxent River’s Frank Knox Building 21866 Cedar Point Rd, Patuxent River, MD 20670 Room 100.

RAB is a link between the community and government decision-makers. The U.S. Navy and the appropriate regulatory agencies are responsible for making decisions about the environmental restoration program. Part of the decision-making process is to consider comments from the public and respond to them.

The goal of a RAB is to encourage regular communication during the environmental restoration process by:

• Making information about the investigation and cleanup actions available to members of the public
• Gaining effective input from stakeholders on cleanup activities
• Increasing the installation’s responsiveness to the community’s environmental restoration concern

RAB is part of the partnership working for effective and efficient cleanup of NAS Patuxent River. The Pax RAB was formed in January 1995. It is co-chaired by an elected community member and a Navy representative.

RAB members are considered a key source in efforts to communicate openly and effectively with the community at large. They are provided with information about the ER Program and their input on remediation decisions is actively sought. The RAB contains representatives from the Navy, Environmental Protection Agency, Maryland Department of the Environment, local government officials, and community members.

Re: Request to Return $22.5M in Funding to Calvert County Public Schools for Fiscal Year 2025 Dear Governor Moore, The State of Maryland reduced funding to Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) in the amount of $22,457,474 due to the end of the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements with both Constellation Energy Generation’s Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant and BHE GT&S’s Cove Point LNG. The end of these agreements caused an unrealistic wealth assessment for Calvert County which skewed the results of the State of Maryland’s funding formula for CCPS.

Going into FY25, the Board of County Commissioners was facing a difficult budget year which forced us to reduce spending across all program areas and hold the local contribution to CCPS at Maintenance of Effort (MOE). We received the final State Aid calculations from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in May 2024. We began discussions with CCPS and the Calvert County Board of Education immediately to strategize on how CCPS could absorb the State’s reduction in funding with the least impact to the staff and students and allow CCPS to fund the state-mandates for the Blueprint for Maryland’s future. We delayed almost all County Capital Improvement Projects for several years and looked at local tax increases to bridge the funding gap. When we were notified of pending staff layoffs by CCPS, we scheduled an emergency meeting where we provided additional funding to CCPS for a total of $164.7 million for FY25 from Calvert County’s fund balance and directed CCPS to use their fund balance to cover the remaining deficit. To balance our local budget, we were forced to increase local real property and income taxes.

We are pleased to report that negotiations are now complete and new PILOT agreements are in place for both facilities effective July 1, 2023. Cove Point LNG’s new agreement is in effect through June 30, 2039, and Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant’s new agreement is in effect through June 30, 2027.

We were also pleased to see that the State of Maryland realized a surplus from last fiscal year with approximately $479 million in uncommitted surplus.

We formally request the State use part of the uncommitted surplus to return the $22.5 million in funding to Calvert County Public Schools for FY25 now that the PILOT agreements have been restored. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS CALVERT COUNTY, MARYLAND

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Winston Warren Smith, 39, of Lexington Park, Maryland, faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison after admitting guilt to the attempted second-degree murder of another bar patron.

In April 2024, Smith was involved in an incident at a bar located on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, Maryland. After a verbal argument turned physical, both Smith and the victim were asked to leave the bar. Smith exited the establishment first. Once the victim made it outside, Smith and an accomplice attacked the victim, and Smith stabbed the victim multiple times with a knife.

Within minutes, law enforcement officers from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene and located the victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. First responders arrived and quickly rendered aid to the victim. Before the victim was transported to shock trauma, the victim told investigators that he was involved in an argument over a spilled drink. Smith was later identified as the individual who stabbed the victim and was subsequently arrested.

Smith will be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing where he faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.

Assistant State’s Attorneys Zachary Varda and Kirstin Riddle prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Benjamin Raley of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Michael J. Stamm presided over the case.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman today released a report showing the State of Maryland collected more than $22.3 million in adult-use cannabis sales tax revenue between April and June 2024, a 52 percent increase in revenue compared with revenue collected January through March of 2024. 

“The market for cannabis continues to grow in Maryland and has shown capacity to create new jobs, new investment, and new opportunities, particularly for areas that are marginalized and left behind by a changing economy,” Comptroller Lierman said.  

Table 1: Q2 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 among several funds, including the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF). The CRRF will receive $7,824,954 or 35% of cannabis sales and use tax revenue collected during the quarter.

"These revenue numbers are a clear indication of the potential for Maryland's cannabis industry to drive economic growth while prioritizing equity," Office of Social Equity Executive Director Audrey Johnson said. "The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund ensures that communities historically impacted by the prohibition can directly benefit from this new industry, furthering our commitment to restorative justice and economic opportunity."

In addition to the CRRF, revenues will be allocated to the following funds: 

Maryland Counties: $1,117,851 

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: $1,117,851 

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: $1,117,851 

5% 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: $11,178,504 

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

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. 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, and Congressman Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), a member of the House Financial Services Committee, have reintroduced the 8-K Trading Gap Act. This bicameral legislation prevents executives and other corporate insiders, including foreign issuers, from profiting off the gap between the occurrence of a significant event – such as bankruptcy or an acquisition – and its legally-mandated disclosure to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the general public. Under current law, companies have four days to file the 8-K disclosure form with the SEC, but they are not barred from trading in advance of the filing – giving them an unfair advantage. The 8-K Trading Gap Act would close this gap by requiring the SEC to write a rule to prohibit insiders from making trades during this four-day period.

“The 8-K trading gap gives corporate executives a major loophole to cash in on their stocks when major changes are about to hit – before shareholders and the public are made aware. With the 8-K trading gap, insiders get a several-day head start to make lucrative financial moves prior to a major stock price-altering announcement. Our legislation will close this harmful loophole to prevent insiders from benefitting from this unfair advantage while ensuring a fairer market for the public,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“The integrity of our capital markets rely on transparency and equal access to information and trading opportunities for all market participants,” said Congressman Brad Sherman. “As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Capital Markets, investor protection is at the forefront of my priorities. Our capital markets remain the envy of the world because Congress passed laws to make them transparent and fair. This bill is a vital step toward safeguarding our markets and ensuring that everyone plays by the same set of rules.”

This legislation has been endorsed by the Healthy Markets Association.

The text of the bill is available here.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that squirrel, rabbit, fall turkey, and other small game seasons are either underway or set to open in the coming weeks. Some of these species offer generous seasons and bag limits and are abundant throughout Maryland.

“Small game hunting can be an enjoyable way to spend time afield for both new and experienced hunters alike,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said. “Squirrels and rabbits, in particular, are common throughout Maryland and can provide memorable experiences once located.”

Squirrel season opened September 2 with a bag limit of six per day (The Delmarva fox squirrel is not included in this season; this subspecies remains protected to ensure continued population recovery). Focusing on areas with large mast-producing trees, such as oaks and hickories, is always a good bet when looking for squirrels. 

Rabbit season begins on November 2 with a bag limit of four per day. Rabbits prefer brushy and weedy areas such as overgrown fields and hedgerows. Both rabbit and squirrel seasons are open until February 28. 

For hunters in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties, the fall turkey hunting season will open on November 2 and continue through November 10 with a bag limit of one turkey per hunter. Summer surveys showed good turkey reproduction in the western mountains this year, which should translate into larger flocks. 

Bird hunters should note that the bobwhite quail season remains closed on public lands east of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay.

Complete hunting regulations, check-in procedures and information on public land hunting can be found in the Guide to Hunting and Trapping in Maryland.

 The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office requests the public's assistance in gathering any surveillance footage that may aid in the ongoing investigation into attempted carjacking incidents that occurred Saturday in California, MD.

Residents and businesses in California, at or near FDR and MacArthur Boulevard, 22711 Three Notch Road or 22610 Three Notch Road, are asked to review their video surveillance systems for any suspicious activity on Saturday, September 21. Even small details could provide valuable information to investigators.

If you have any relevant footage or notice anything unusual in your recordings, please contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office at 301-475-8008. You can also anonymously submit video footage through our online portal at https://cityprotect.com/forms/stmarysmd.com/anonymous. Your cooperation can help bring closure to these cases and enhance the safety of our community.

In addition, the Sheriff’s Office urges drivers to remain vigilant about locking their car doors every time they exit their vehicle. Whether at a gas station pump, ATM, or running into a store for just a moment, securing your vehicle is essential to deterring theft.

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Original News Release:

Sheriff’s Office Investigating Two Attempted Carjackings, Urges Drivers to Stay Alert

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 22, 2024) – Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office are investigating two attempted carjacking incidents that occurred Saturday night in separate locations in California, Maryland.

The first incident occurred around 9:34 p.m. near the intersection of FDR Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard. A female driver reported that several black males approached her vehicle, and one of the suspects, dressed in all black and wearing a blue surgical mask, showed a handgun and demanded her car. The victim was able to drive away safely, and no injuries were reported.

The second incident occurred at approximately 11:42 p.m. at a convenience store located at 22711 Three Notch Road. The male victim had just made a purchase and was getting into his car when four black males, also dressed in all black and wearing face masks, surrounded his vehicle and demanded his car. The victim drove out of the parking lot, and the suspects left the area on foot. No injuries were reported.

Both incidents are being actively investigated. The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the cases, and anyone with information related to these incidents is asked to contact Sergeant Keith Moritz at 301-475-4200, ext. 8093, or by email at Keith.Moritz@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges motorists to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings, especially in parking lots or unfamiliar areas. If you notice anything unusual or feel unsafe, call 911 immediately. Your quick action can help prevent potential crimes and ensure your safety.

 The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is beginning construction on a $6.8 million replacement of the MD 5 (Point Lookout Road) bridge over Hilton Run in St. Mary’s County. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Originally constructed in 1936, the bridge is safe for the traveling public but is nearing the end of its useful service life. In addition to removing and replacing the existing bridge, the project will:

• reconstruct approximately 1,055 feet of roadway approaching the new bridge;

• install traffic barriers and a new stormwater management facility and

• upgrade signage, pavement markings and landscaping.

Upon completion, the new two-lane bridge also will include wider shoulders. The MD 5 bridge replacement project is part of the State Highway Administration’s system preservation program, which supports safety and mobility for Maryland’s travelers and maintains the state’s transportation network.

MD 5 project location

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During initial weeks of construction, crews will direct traffic using a daytime flagging operation as they deliver and install equipment. A temporary signal will be installed and remain in place throughout the construction phase to alternate traffic through a single lane.

Crews will work behind concrete barriers to replace the bridge in stages during off-peak travel periods. Work times may be adjusted pending the project schedule. Contractor Martins Construction Corporation, of Falls Church, Va., will perform the work. Learn more about the project here?.

The State Highway Administration appreciates customers’ patience during construction as we work to improve Maryland’s transportation system. Drivers are asked to stay alert, stay focused and be aware of reduced speed limits and changing driving patterns in the work zone. Slow down and move over in work zones. It’s the law. Motorists in need may dial #77 on their mobile devices for assistance.

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to the Project Portal, or visit the homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov.

On Sunday, September 22, at approximately 10:36 p.m., St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting in the 22000 block of Valley Estates Drive in Lexington Park.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Deputies immediately rendered first aid until emergency medical services arrived. The victim was transported to a regional hospital for treatment and is currently listed in stable condition.

During the investigation, deputies identified a nearby residence with multiple bullet holes. No other injuries were reported.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the case. Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Detective Warren Forinash at 301-475-4200, ext. 8072, or via email at Warren.Forinash@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – It’s time to clean out your filing cabinets and desks to get rid of confidential, private, or important personal documents that you no longer need to keep! 

The Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) will host their biannual Community Shredding Event on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 8 a.m. – noon at the St. Andrews Landfill, located at 44837 St. Andrews Church Road.

This community event gives residents the opportunity to have their confidential, private, and important documents destroyed by a professional shredding service at no cost. This type of shredding turns sensitive documents into confetti-sized pieces, ensuring that confidential material cannot be copied. All paper material shredded during the event will then be recycled.

Please refrain from bringing materials that are not confidential in nature, such as newspapers and magazines (acceptable for recycling at the six Convenience Centers) as they will cause the truck to fill up more quickly. The shredder can handle simple staples, paper clips, spiral notebooks, and thin metal prongs, however it cannot accept 3 ring binders.  Please limit the number of boxes you bring to 3 standard bankers’ boxes (10"H x 12"W x 15” D) per person so we can serve as many residents as possible.

For more information, please call DPW&T at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3550, or visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov.  

The County Commissioners will be holding this public meeting “virtually” and in-person. The public can watch this meeting on Comcast 95 (SD) and 1070 (HD), Verizon FIOS 10, Roku or Apple TV streaming devices (Charles County Government), and the web at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/VOD. Residents without internet service can listen to the meeting at 301-645-0500.

VIRTUAL COMMISSIONERS’ PUBLIC COMMENT SIGN-IN BEGINS

8 a.m. – To register to speak virtually at the Commissioners’ public comment session, call 240-776-6709. Virtual registration for the public hearing ends at 4 p.m.

IN-PERSON COMMISSIONERS’ PUBLIC COMMENT SIGN-IN BEGINS

4:30 p.m. – In-person registration opens to sign in to provide public comment to the commissioners

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Charles County Commissioners’ Meeting

OPEN SESSION

9 a.m. – The Open Session of the Commissioners’ Meeting begins at the Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata).

• Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance
• Roll Call
• Commissioner Comments
• Approval of the Minutes: Sept. 17, 2024
• Announcement: Next Scheduled Session: Oct. 1-2, 2024
• Briefing and Request for Approval: FY2024 Fourth Quarter General Fund Review
• Briefing and Request for Approval: Update on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
• Work Session: 2025 Preliminary State Legislative Proposal Package

CLOSED SESSION

The Closed Session will begin at 11 a.m. (virtual and limited in-person). All or a portion of this session may be closed pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(1)(3)(7) of the General Provisions Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

OPEN SESSION

2 p.m. – The Open Session of the Commissioners’ Meeting continues at the Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata).

• Roll Call
• Annual: Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) Tour 2024.
  • The Board of County Commissioners welcome public comments related to the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) Tour after the presentation. Each speaker will be called up to share their comments in the order that they signed up, and will be limited to three minutes, after which the Clerk will call up the next person on the list. This time is allocated only for listening to feedback, not for answering questions or responding to concerns that are raised.
  • In-person: Speaker sign-up will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata).
  • Virtually: Call (240) 776-6709, between 8 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, to register to speak. Once registered, citizens will receive a virtual link to present comments. If you are not available to speak when your name is announced, we have the right to move on to the next caller. Each speaker will be allotted three (3) minutes.

OPEN SESSION

4:30 p.m. – The Open Session of the Commissioners’ Meeting continues at the Charles County Government Building (200 Baltimore Street, La Plata).

• Roll Call
• Approval items
• Action on Boards and Commissions
• Annual Update
  • Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP)
  • Gaming Permit Review Board
• Commissioners’ New Business
• 5 p.m. Commissioners’ Public Comment Session
  • Link to submit and/or view public written comments.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office are investigating two attempted carjacking incidents that occurred Saturday night in separate locations in California, Maryland.

The first incident occurred around 9:34 p.m. near the intersection of FDR Boulevard and MacArthur Boulevard. A female driver reported that several black males approached her vehicle, and one of the suspects, dressed in all black and wearing a blue surgical mask, showed a handgun and demanded her car. The victim was able to drive away safely, and no injuries were reported.

The second incident occurred at approximately 11:42 p.m. at a convenience store located at 22711 Three Notch Road. The male victim had just made a purchase and was getting into his car when four black males, also dressed in all black and wearing face masks, surrounded his vehicle and demanded his car. The victim drove out of the parking lot, and the suspects left the area on foot. No injuries were reported.

Both incidents are being actively investigated. The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the cases, and anyone with information related to these incidents is asked to contact Sergeant Keith Moritz at 301-475-4200, ext. 8093, or by email at Keith.Moritz@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office urges motorists to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings, especially in parking lots or unfamiliar areas. If you notice anything unusual or feel unsafe, call 911 immediately. Your quick action can help prevent potential crimes and ensure your safety.

Damaged Property: 24-69870 On September 9, 2024, Deputy Baxter responded to the 500 block of Durango Road in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised that sometime during the early morning an unknown suspect(s) shattered the victim’s vehicle window. The estimated value of damaged property is $300.00.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-70543 On September 11, 2024, DFC Ostazeski responded to the area of Chesapeake Avenue and Highland Terrace in St. Leonard, for the report of a disorderly subject. Upon arrival, contact was made with Deborah Thelma Covert, 71 of St. Leonard. Covert made multiple loud statements to dismiss deputy’s orders while neighbors looked on. Covert was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Failure to Obey a Reasonable/ Lawful order of a Law Enforcement Officer and Disorderly Conduct.

Indecent Exposure: 24-69810 On September 9, 2024, DFC R. Jones responded to the Exxon located at 11805 HG Trueman Rd in Lusby, for the report of an indecent exposure. The complainant advised a white male was seen touching and exposing himself behind a dumpster. Upon arrival, contact was made with Mark Johan Bysheim, 65 of no fixed address, who admitted to the act. Bysheim was transported to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and charged with Indecent Exposure.

Indecent Exposure: 24-71003 On September 13, 2024, Deputy Parrott responded to the roundabout located off Southern Connector Blvd in Lusby, for the report of an indecent exposure. Investigation revealed multiple calls were received regarding a male exposing himself. Contact was made with Mark John Bysheim, 65 of no fixed address, who admitted to the act. Bysheim was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Indecent Exposure.

Theft: 24-69916 On August 9, 2024, DFC Huy responded to the Dunkirk Walmart located at 10600 Town Center Blvd in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a black male wearing a gray sweatshirt, black pants, and a beanie walked out of the store passing all points of sale with 3 multiple items. The suspect was later identified as Frederick Alric Echols, 54 of La Plata. Echols was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft less than $100 Shoplifting. The estimated value of stolen property is $28.55. 

Theft: 24-70734 On September 12, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to the 2800 block of McDuff Drive in Chesapeake Beach, for report of a theft. The complainant advised sometime between 5 a.m. and 5 p.m. an unknown suspect(s) stole the front and rear license plates off a vehicle while parked in the Sunderland Park and Ride located at 6400 Solomons Island Road in Sunderland. The estimated value of stolen property is $40.00.

Theft: 24-71310 On September 14, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to 200 block of Stafford Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised sometime around 10:30 p.m. on September 12, an unknown subject(s) damaged the victim’s mailbox beyond repair and damaged two vehicles on the property as well as the screen door to the residence. A Strong Way fan was stolen from the porch. The estimated value of damaged property is $595.00. The estimated value of stolen property is $549.00.

Trespassing: 24-69972 On September 10, 2024, DFC Idol responded to Calvert Health Medical Center located at 100 Hospital Rd in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. Investigation revealed Mike Jerome Mobley, 58 of Laurel, was advised by hospital security to leave the property after attempting to assault the staff and his disorderly conduct. Mobley refused to comply and was found sleeping on a curb in the parking lot. Mobley was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Failure to Obey a Reasonable/ Lawful Order and Trespassing at a Public Agency During Hours.

 Trespassing: 24-70356 On September 11, 2024, Cpl. Durner responded to the parking lot of Patuxent Plaza in Solomons, for the report of trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with a Mark Johan Bysheim, 65 of no fixed address. Bysheim had thrown trash all over the parking lot and was harassing customers outside the 7-11. Bysheim had been previously trespassed from the property. Bysheim was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Trespassing: Private Property. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 19, 2024) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous calls and information concerning threats of potential gun violence at the county fair this weekend.

We want to assure the public we are taking these threats seriously and are thoroughly investigating the situation.

Fairgoers can expect to see an increased presence of law enforcement throughout the fair. We encourage attendees to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities by calling 911.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded to a report of a robbery at a business in the 21600 block of Great Mills Road at approximately 1:45 p.m. on Thursday.

According to the caller, the victim of the robbery was assaulted by four suspects in the parking lot of the establishment and had his backpack forcefully removed before the suspects fled the scene. One suspect fled on a bicycle, while the remaining three fled on foot.

Deputies swiftly located a juvenile suspect matching the suspect description provided by witnesses and the victim in a nearby residential area. While being taken into custody, the juvenile, known to law enforcement due to recent apprehensions for vandalism and motor vehicle theft, assaulted deputies.

The search for the remaining suspects is ongoing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Corporal Shawn Shelko at 301-475-4200, ext. 8147, or by email at Shawn.Shelko@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning invites public feedback on proposed amendments to the Calvert County Comprehensive Plan and Huntingtown, Solomons and St. Leonard town center master plans. Residents, businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to review and comment on the proposed amendments. The proposed amendments are available online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ComprehensivePlan and www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/TownCenters.

All who live, work, shop or visit Calvert County are encouraged to read the proposed amendments and submit comments. The proposed amendments are intended to eliminate the town center Architectural Review Committees, allow a maximum density of no more than four units per acre in town centers, and rezone several properties near existing infrastructure in the southern portion of the county to the Heavy Industrial District.

Public comments can be received no later than Monday, Nov.18, 2024. Public comment may be submitted by email to TownCenterUpdate@calvertcountymd.gov, by fax to 410-414-3092, hand delivery to 205 Main St. in Prince Frederick or by mail Attn: Mr. John Toohey, Chair, Calvert County Planning Commission, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

All comments will become part of the public record. Public record documents will be made available to members of the public upon request.

The proposed amendments are being made in conjunction with Calvert County Zoning Ordinance Update to comply with the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, which requires that the Zoning Ordinance and the town center master plans are consistent with the Calvert County Comprehensive Plan.

Planning & Zoning is distributing the proposed amendments to relevant agencies and neighboring jurisdictions for review for a 60-day comment period. This action complies with the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, which requires notification at least 60 days before the public hearing. Public hearings are scheduled for the following dates:

·         Nov. 20, 2024: Planning Commission public hearing

·         Dec. 10, 2024: Board of County Commissioners public hearing

These dates are subject to change. For more information on public hearings, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PublicHearings.

The amendment adoption process has several steps following the 60-day review and public hearing. The Planning Commission will review and consider comments on the proposed amendments. They will then prepare its recommendation and hold a public hearing before sending its recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for consideration.

The BOCC will hold a public hearing on the proposed amendments to receive and consider written and oral public comment. The BOCC may then adopt the Calvert County Comprehensive Plan and the amended Huntingtown, Solomons and St. Leonard town center master plans, modify the plans, remand the plans back to the Planning Commission or disapprove the plans.

The dates and times for any public hearings and deadlines for comment will be announced in future news releases, on the county website and on the county Facebook page.

Questions may be directed to Tay Harris, long range planner, at 410-535-1600, ext. 2333, or Tay.Harris@calvertcountymd.gov.

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

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With the 2024 general election approaching on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, the Calvert County Board of Elections is making sure residents have the information they need to vote. Whether planning to vote by mail, during early voting or in person on Election Day, here’s what voters need to know to make sure their votes are counted.

Voter Registration and Polling Places: Before voting, it is important that voter registration is up to date and to verify polling locations. Both tasks can be completed quickly and easily by visiting the Maryland Voter Services website at voterservices.elections.maryland.gov.

The last day to register or update voter information is Tuesday, Oct. 15. If this deadline is missed, registration can still be completed at any county polling location during early voting or on Election Day.

Confirm Election Day polling locations online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PollingPlaces or through Maryland Voter Services at https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/PollingPlaceSearch.

Sample Ballots: Sample ballots will be mailed out to voters by Oct. 4. These ballots provide a preview of what will appear on the actual ballot, including all the candidates and measures for your precinct. Reviewing and completing the sample ballot in advance can make the voting process easier and faster. Bringing the sample ballot to the polling place when voting is permitted. Sample ballots are available online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Vote.

Early Voting: To avoid Election Day crowds, early voting is a great option. Early voting runs from Thursday, Oct. 24, through Thursday, Oct. 31, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day, including weekends. Vote early at any of the following locations:

·         Community Resources Building, 30 Duke St., Prince Frederick

·         Southern Community Center, 20 Appeal Lane, Lusby

·         Ward Farm Park Vote Center, 10455 Ward Rd., Dunkirk

Learn more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/EarlyVoting.

Vote by Mail: For those that prefer to vote by mail, a mail-in ballot request must be received by the Election Board (not just mailed) by Tuesday, Oct. 29. For voters requesting an internet-delivered ballot, the deadline is Friday, Nov. 1. If opting to pick up a ballot in person, the deadline is Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Request a vote by mail ballot online at vote.md.gov/NeedBallot, or call the Calvert County Board of Elections at 410-535-2214 to request a form.

Once the ballot is received, it must be postmarked by Nov. 5 or placed in a designated drop box by 8 p.m. on Nov. 5. Drop boxes are available at the following locations:

·         Calvert Library Fairview Branch, 8120 Southern Maryland Blvd., Owings

·         Community Resources Building, 30 Duke St., Prince Frederick

·         Northeast Community Center, 4075 Gordon Stinnett Ave., Chesapeake Beach

·         Southern Community Center, 20 Appeal Lane, Lusby

If voting by mail, be sure to follow all instructions provided with the ballot. Learn more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/VoteByMail.

Election Day: On Tuesday, Nov. 5, polling places across Calvert County will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. To avoid the busiest times, consider voting between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If a completed sample ballot has been filled out in advance, bringing it along can help streamline the voting process.

Transportation: Calvert County’s fare-free public transportation will be running during both early voting and Election Day to help voters get to the polls. Check routes and schedules at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/BusSchedules.

Additionally, point-to-point paratransit services are available for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The Office on Aging coordinates with Lifestyles, Inc., to provide transportation

to polling locations for those who qualify, based on a sliding scale. Please note that paratransit services will be available to all polling locations except Plum Point Elementary. For more information or to schedule paratransit services, contact the Office on Aging at 410-535-4606.

Election Results: Once polls close on Nov. 5, preliminary results will be available through the Calvert County Government YouTube channel and on Comcast channels 99 and 1070. All results are preliminary until all mail-in and provisional ballots are counted and certified by the Board of Elections.

Public Demonstration of Election Systems: The Calvert County Board of Elections will hold a public demonstration of the voting system to be used in the 2024 General Election on Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 1 p.m. at the Community Resources Building, located at 30 Duke St., Prince Frederick. This demonstration provides an opportunity for residents to learn about the voting equipment and how it operates. For more information, contact the Election Board Office at 410-535-2214.

Stay Informed: For more information on the 2024 General Election, including how to register, where to vote and how to vote early or by mail, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Vote or contact the Calvert County Election Board at 410-535-2214. You can also stay updated by following the Calvert County Election Board on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertElectionBoard. Learn more about voting in Maryland at https://elections.maryland.gov/elections/vote2024.

The Calvert County Election Board office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 30 Duke St. in Prince Frederick, lower level. The office will be closed for Columbus Day on Monday, Oct. 14.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 19, 2024)— The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office received a report this morning that a student at Chopticon High School told another student he had a firearm.

Deputies responded immediately, locating the student who made the statement. In coordination with high school administrators and the Board of Education Safety and Security team, deputies thoroughly searched the student and the school premises. No firearm or other weapons were found during the investigation. The student who made the statement will face criminal charges.

The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact Corporal Artina Alvey at 301-475-4200, ext. 8107, or by email at Artina.Alvey@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

On Tuesday, Sept. 17, Commissioners discussed the provisions of the proposed charter, as requested by Commissioner Gilbert “BJ” Bowling (District 1.) Wes Adams, County Attorney, answered questions posed by the Commissioners about various aspects of the proposed charter document. Topics included public safety, checks and balances between the proposed county council and county executive positions, and tax concerns.  Commissioners agreed to a process to submit any questions or concerns about the potential document to the county attorney to be answered in an open session. The proposed Charter was placed on the 2024 presidential ballot on Nov. 5, 2024, after the Charles County Charter Board presented the document to commissioners in July after a year-long development process. If approved by voters, the Charter would take effect in 2026. 

Briefings

·       John Hartline, Executive Director, and Calvert County Commissioner and  Earl “Buddy” Hance, also the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland Chairman, held a briefing on activities of the Tri-County Council. The discussion covered funding for the council, workforce development discussions, and Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission activities.

Public Hearings

            Commissioners held a public hearing on Docket 90 Amendment PDZA #24-90(23), Villages of Wooded Glen and Piney Reach Master Plan. The Amendment would relocate the proposed site of a Middle School from a location on St. Charles Parkway to an alternate site along Piney Church Road. The amendment would also grant an exception to the 85% rule, which requires no construction on the Villages of Piney Reach until 85% of all residential buildings are completed in the Village of Wooded Glen. Additional amendments were also proposed for a prior remediation requirement for a vegetated buffer along MD Route 488. Commissioners voted to keep the record open for another 15 days and hold another work session on the issue within 35 days.

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Commissioners took the following actions on Charles County Boards and Commissions:

• Reappoint Damion Trasada as an At-Large Member on the Board of Appeals.
• Appoint Edward Holt and reappoint Jon Zanelotti as the interim chair on the Board of Electrical Examiners.
• Appoint Dee Sapp and Erica Thomas as At-Large members on the Commission on Individuals with Disabilities

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A letter of support for the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Application for a site at Rich Hill.
• An agreement for cost-sharing with the Maryland State Highway Administration for pedestrian improvements at the Middletown Road and Billingsley Road intersection.
• State and Federal Lobbyist contract agreements with GS Proctor.
• A budget amendment increase of $65,310 to carry over funds to complete a media campaign for the proposed 2024 Charles County Charter.

Viewing option of the meeting and the public hearing: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: Sept. 24-25

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

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Maryland State Police are warning residents to be aware of an internet scam involving Gmail accounts that is currently active in Maryland.

Throughout August and September, the Maryland State Police Financial Crimes Unit received reports of several internet-based scams specific to Gmail accounts. The reports indicate that the scammer sends an email to the potential victim’s Gmail account with a photograph of their residence from Google Maps. The scammer then demands that the potential victim send money to them via Bitcoin.

The scammer attempts to blackmail the potential victim into believing that they have engaged in viewing pornography or that the scammer has gained personal information from their computer that can be used against them. In some instances, the scammer will give two options: sending money via Bitcoin or the scammer will release the information they say they have obtained.

The Maryland State Police continue to investigate these internet scams. Residents are urged to be cautious of unsolicited emails sent to their Gmail. Some ways to protect yourself from internet scams:

• Be careful with links and websites: Don’t click on links in emails or on websites that you don’t trust. Malicious websites can look similar to legitimate ones. Look for slight variations in spelling or logos.
• Don’t share personal information: Don’t share personal or financial information online unless you’re sure the website is secure.
• Stop, breathe, and ask: Often scammers rush potential victims and push lots of emotional buttons to get you to stop thinking rationally. Never let strangers force you into fast decisions.

Those who believe they have been the victim of a scam are encouraged to contact their local police department or the closest Maryland State Police barrack. If you believe you have fallen victim to any type of online crime, file a complaint at ic3.gov.

Greenbelt, Maryland – On Monday, September 16, 2024, the Honorable Deborah L. Boardman sentenced Ejike Asiegbunam, age 55, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland to 21 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  Judge Boardman also ordered Asiegbunam to forfeit $1,662,732 that Asiegbunam personally received as a result of the fraud.

The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General.
 

According to Asiegbunam’s plea agreement, Asiegbunam conspired with others to sell fraudulent nursing diplomas and educational transcripts to individuals (“purchasers”), and assisted the purchasers in fraudulently obtaining nursing licensure, which the purchasers needed to obtain employment in the healthcare field.  Asiegbunam owned and operated Nursing School 2, which was not licensed to offer LPN degrees.  In addition, many students received RN degrees from Nursing School 2 without attending labs, classes, or completing required clinical assignments. 

Specifically, between approximately January 2018 and June 2021, Asiegbunam and his co-conspirators recruited potential purchasers in Maryland and elsewhere who were looking to obtain nursing degrees.  Asiegbunam sold purchasers false and fraudulent Nursing School 2 documents, which Asiegbunam signed as the owner of Nursing School 2.  In addition, students paid Asiegbunam and others to complete required prerequisites to enter the nursing program at Nursing School 2. Asiegbunam generally charged purchasers between $15,000 and $22,000 for false and fraudulent Nursing School 2 documents.  Asiegbunam also generally charged approximately $5,000 to complete online prerequisites.  In total, Asiegbunam sold false and fraudulent Nursing School 2 documents in exchange for at least $1,390,332. 

In addition, between in or around February 2018 and December 2018, Asiegbunam conspired with Johanah Napoleon, who resided in Florida, to sell false and fraudulent RN degrees from Palm Beach School of Nursing, located in Florida, to individuals located in Maryland and New York.  Asiegbunam would send student grades from Maryland to the registrar for the Palm Beach School of Nursing in Florida, via interstate wire, and in exchange would receive transcripts purportedly from the Palm Beach School of Nursing (despite the individuals not attending the school).  When Asiegbunam sold a student a degree from Palm Beach School of Nursing, the student paid the school directly, and the school, in turn, paid Asiegbunam 40 percent of the tuition as payment for recruiting the student.  In total, Asiegbunam received approximately $272,400 from the Palm Beach School of Nursing. 

By providing false and fraudulent documents, Asiegbunam and his co-conspirators assisted the purchasers of the false and fraudulent documents to obtain fraudulent nursing licenses from state licensing agencies, including the Maryland Board of Nursing, and ultimately employment in the healthcare field.  The scheme thus allowed individuals who had not completed the necessary coursework to apply for licensure and to practice as nurses.  The scheme therefore exposed patients in Maryland and elsewhere to potential harm and Asiegbunam and his co-conspirators consciously and recklessly exposed these patients to the risk of death or serious bodily injury. 

United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the FBI and the HHS-OIG for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes, who is prosecuting the federal case.

If you have information to report regarding this case or any other case involving falsified medical degrees, please call the FBI hotline: (410) 277-6999.

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.

Classroom teachers can apply for one of six mini grants offered by the Maryland Retired School Personnel Association (MRSPA). The mini grants — awarding up to $500 per teacher — may be used on special projects or activities that are not funded through the school system, PTA or PTSO. The grants are sent to the winning teacher’s school for use in the current school year.

Completed mini grant applications must be email to mrspa@mrspa.org by Nov. 1. with winners notified in January. To learn more about the program, visit www.mrspa.org. To obtain an application, click here.

Questions can be directed to MRSPA at 410-551-1517 or mrspa@mrspa.org.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will host FREE drive-thru flu vaccine clinics for children ages six months to 18 years. No appointments are necessary. 

Clinics have been scheduled for the following dates and locations:

Great Mills High School

• Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

St. Mary’s County Health Hub

• Tuesday, October 8, 2024, from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
• Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm

SMCHD Main Office in Leonardtown 

• Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

“Annual flu vaccinations are the most effective tool we have for preventing infection and serious illness from seasonal influenza,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We hope parents will take advantage of these convenient drive-thru clinics to get their children vaccinated and help us prevent influenza complications in our community. Local pharmacies and medical practices are also offering flu vaccine and the updated COVID-19 vaccine.” 

For more information about seasonal flu, please visit smchd.org/flu.

For questions about vaccinations, please call SMCHD at 301-475-4330.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Members from the Maryland Car Rally Task Force, working in collaboration with the Maryland State Police Special Operations Division, and allied police agencies disrupted seven unlawful exhibition driving events throughout multiple Maryland counties, including Howard, Anne Arundel, and Baltimore, Saturday night.

Police responded to several locations where up to 200 participants gathered in parking lots attempting to shut down intersections throughout the region. Police responded to the following locations at the approximate times:

• 10:20 p.m.: 9305 Snowden River Parkway, Columbia, MD
• 11:44 p.m.: 415 George Clauss Blvd, Severn, MD
• 12:20 a.m.: 3750 Commerce Dr, Halethorpe, MD
• 12:40 a.m.: 3030 Liberty Heights Ave, Baltimore, MD
• 12:50 a.m.: 2331 Cleanleigh Dr., Parkville, MD
• 1:28 a.m.: 200-600 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD
• 1:50 a.m.: E. Fayette St. at Central Ave., Baltimore, MD

Arrests were made that evening with additional participants having been charged from prior events. The individuals arrested and/or charged include:

Dublen Sarceno Lima, 28, of Beltsville, MD – charged with driving/attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol per se, reckless driving, and other traffic violations.

Richard Garrett, 22, of Manassas Park, VA – charged with disturbing the peace/hindering the peace, disorderly conduct, and malicious destruction of property.

De’Lontay Coles, 19, of Silver Spring, MD – charged with disorderly conduct, fireworks discharge without a permit, riot, unlawful assembly, negligent and reckless driving, willfully damaging a highway, and other traffic violations.  

During the event, the Baltimore Police Department additionally charged two juveniles, who are not being identified at this time, with possession of firearms.

Since 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.

Increased patrols in identified hotspot areas have been 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, Prince George’s County Police, Baltimore City Police and police departments in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard and Montgomery counties. The combined efforts continue to be instrumental in effectively addressing illegal exhibition driving across the designated regions.

By collaborating our concentrated enforcement and investigative efforts strategically, particularly in areas where these incidents are most prevalent, the task force aims to mitigate the impact of these dangerous events on public safety and, thereby fostering a safer environment for all Maryland residents.

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 a proclamation in recognition of Constitution Week.

The Commissioners then received an update on the 77^th Annual St. Mary’s County Fair from the St. Mary’s County Fair Association and presented a commendation to Fair Association President, John Richards for his 50 years of service on the Board.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Newtowne Players’ request for an annual nonprofit performing arts theater beer and wine license.
• Approved the Payment in Lieu of Taxes Agreement with Cedar Lane Senior Living Community, LLC.
• Received a presentation on the State of Agriculture in St. Mary’s County.
• Approved the fiscal year (FY) 2026 Waterway Improvement Fund Grant Application.
• Received an update on the county’s broadband infrastructure.
• Approved the Memorandum of Understanding for Piney Point Elementary School’s HVAC Systemic Renovation.
• Approved the FY2026 - FY2031 State Capital Improvements Program to be submitted to the Interagency Commission on School Construction.

The County Attorney’s Office then presented the 2025 Legislative Proposals to the CSMC.

The Commissioners wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 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 www.stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1345 calls for service, including 12 Emergency Petitions, from September 9 through September 15, 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:

9/10/24 – Pamela Leonard, 56, of no fixed address, by Deputy Aaron Ocasio-Rivera for fourth-degree burglary, CDS: possession – not cannabis, CDS: possession of paraphernalia and related charges.

9/11/24 – Kenneth Eugene Smith, 45, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Paul Rodriguez for first- and second-degree assault.

DUIs:

n/a

SUMMONSES:

9/11/24 – Charles Dallas Biagi, 38, of Charlotte Hall, MD, by Deputy Myles Chase-Johnson for motor vehicle unlawful taking and related charges.

WARRANTS:

9/09/24 – Michael Anthony Carlucci, 50, of Waldorf, MD, by Deputy Anthony Cucinotta for negligent manslaughter, criminal negligent manslaughter, and related charges.

9/10/24 – Katia Lucero Polanco-Perez, 21, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Dianne Hersh for theft scheme of $100 to under $1500 and related charges.

9/11/24 – David Allen Hostetler, 28, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy First Class Jessica Wilson for failure to notify change of address as a Tier III (Lifetime) offender.

9/11/24 – Dametries Latrell Jennings, 44, incarcerated individual, by Deputy Joseph Reppel, Circuit Court Indictment for first- and second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, and illegal possession of ammunition.

9/11/24 – Eric Rico Miller, 52, incarcerated individual, by Deputy Joseph Reppel, Circuit Court Indictment for three counts of firearm possession after being convicted of a crime of violence, three counts illegal possession of a regulated firearm, two counts rifle/shotgun possession with a felony conviction, and four counts of illegal possession of ammunition.

9/11/24 – Terrell Brian Moore, 38, incarcerated individual, by Deputy Joseph Reppel, Circuit Court Indictment for first and second-degree assault and dangerous weapon concealment.

Christmas Connection is a volunteer and interagency partnership that provides holiday cheer to seniors and families in need during the holiday season. The Charles County Department of Aging and Human Services heads the "Adopt-a-Senior" portion of the project and is seeking volunteers to prepare and deliver holiday food baskets to seniors who have who have been determined to be financially needy and without family support during the holiday season.

If a senior resident needs a holiday food basket, they may contact the Department of Social Service to see if they qualify.

Individuals wishing to volunteer should call the Aging and Human Services Division at 301-934-6737 or hammonju@charlescountymd.gov by Friday, Nov. 1. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

In preparation for the General Election, the League of Women Voters of St. Mary’s County, St. Mary’s County NAACP Branch 7025, the Center for the Study of Democracy at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and the St. Mary’s County Library have partnered to host candidate forums for the three Board of Education races on the ballot. 

All Board of Education candidates have been invited to participate in the forums on the dates below, scheduled over two dates to accommodate candidate schedules:

Thursday, October 3: Board of Education District 2.

Wednesday, October 9: Board of Education At Large.

The forums will start at 5:30 PM in the Lexington Park Library, Rooms A & B.  All candidates have also been invited to participate in a “Meet and Greet” beginning at 5:00 PM in the Library Lobby on both evenings.  Tables will be available for candidate materials.  However, no campaign materials; i.e., flyers, signs, hats, pins, t-shirts, etc., will be allowed in the meeting room during the forum.

The format of each forum allows each candidate to open with a 3-minute statement.  Audience members will then have approximately 30 minutes to address questions to one or more candidates. (All questions must be submitted in writing; the forum moderator will direct questions to the candidates). The forum will conclude with 2-minute closing statements from each candidate. 

Questions for the candidates may be submitted in person during the forum.  Questions may also be submitted prior to the forum, online at https://forms.gle/m1V89db5STZa5jPP9.

All questions submitted are reviewed by a three-member panel who screen for relevance, civility, and non-repetition.  Questions may be rephrased at the discretion of the panel.

The forums will be livestreamed and can be viewed on St. Mary’s County Library’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@StMarysCountyLibrary/streams.

Please join us to learn more about your candidates for the St. Mary’s County Board of Education. 

Self-serve sand and sandbags are available at the following locations during regular business hours for Calvert County residents who need them to protect property in preparation for possible flooding conditions.

·       Appeal Convenience Center (200 Sweetwater Road, Lusby)
Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

·       Barstow Convenience Center (350 Stafford Road, Barstow)
Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 7 p.m.

·       Mt. Hope Convenience Center (96 Pushaw Station Road, Sunderland)
Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Staff is available at each site to assist. Sandbags are limited to 20 per household.

Stay tuned to local radio and TV stations for official weather information, alerts and warnings; follow instructions and advice given by emergency officials. Residents are encouraged to sign up for alerts at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Alerts and to download the Calvert Prepare and Calvert County Government mobile apps for the most current updates and preparedness information.

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

(Nanjemoy, Maryland) – On Monday, September 16, 2024, at approximately 2102 hours, Troopers from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to Maryland Route 224 south of Woodbury Road for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the circumstances, a Collision Reconstruction Specialist (CRS) was requested and TFC M. Posch, of the MSP Leonardtown Barrack responded to assume the investigation.

A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the Collision Reconstruction Specialist indicates a 1983 Chevrolet Camaro operated by Timothy Proctor Sr. (64 yoa) of Waldorf, MD was traveling on northbound Maryland Route 224 south of Woodbury Road at a high rate of speed. Mr. Proctor lost control and the Chevrolet traveled off the roadway. The Chevrolet collided head-on with a tree. Emergency Services responded to the scene and pronounced Mr. Proctor deceased. Speed and driver error appear to be the factors in the collision. 

Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact the Duty Officer at the MSP La Plata Barrack (301) 392-1200. The investigation is continuing. (24-MSP- 030400)

Update: The suspect was released from the hospital earlier today and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center; he has several outstanding warrants from different law enforcement agencies. The officer involved in this case is Cpl. Levy, a five-year veteran assigned to Patrol Operations/K9.

Officer-involved non-fatal shooting of stabbing suspect armed with a knife: On September 12, at approximately 11:51 a.m., officers responded to the 14700 block of Bassford Road in Waldorf after developing information that a suspect, who had active arrest warrants stemming from a violent assault and stabbing of his elderly relative’s caregiver, was inside a house. A preliminary investigation is as follows:

After learning of the suspect’s whereabouts, officers established a perimeter around the house. The suspect, Patrick James Roberts, Jr., age 28, exited and was armed with a large knife. He fled into a wooded area where a police K9 and handler pursued; the K9 was off leash. While the K9 attempted an apprehension, the suspect, who still had the knife in his hand, engaged the K9. The K9 officer discharged his firearm, striking the suspect once in the stomach. The knife was recovered, and officers rendered first aid to the suspect. The suspect was transported to a hospital and treated for injuries that did not appear to be life-threatening. The officer involved was not injured, and the police K9 was checked and found to be unharmed.

Active Warrants: On September 8, officers responded to Bassford Road for the report of a stabbing. The suspect, Patrick James Roberts, Jr., was in the process of stealing a wallet from his elderly relative. A caregiver who was in the home tried to intervene, but Roberts pulled out a knife and stabbed him in the abdomen. The caregiver was flown to a hospital and admitted with serious injuries. After stabbing the caretaker, Roberts stole the wallet and his relative’s vehicle and fled. Officers obtained arrest warrants for first-degree assault, second-degree assault, theft, and unlawful taking of a vehicle.

Investigation: The Charles County Sheriff’s Office’s Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating the shooting and, in accordance with Agency policy, the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office has been notified. The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the completion of the investigation. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

The Calvert County Family Network (CCFN) has released its 2024 Community Needs Assessment, focusing on the well-being of children, youth and families. This comprehensive report examines local data in relation to Maryland’s Eight Results for Child Well-Being, which include: Babies Born Healthy, Healthy Children, Children Enter School Ready to Learn, Children are Successful in School, Youth will Complete School, Youth have Opportunities for Employment or Career Readiness, Communities are Safe for Children, Youth and Families, and Families are Economically Stable. The findings from this assessment will serve as a foundation for CCFN’s five-year community plan. By incorporating community input, this strategic plan will outline targeted initiatives to address key areas of need, driving improvements in overall well-being.

"The assessment gives us a clear picture of what the community needs, which helps us plan better services for kids, teens, and families in the county," said Community Resources Director Jennifer Moreland. "This data shows us the key areas where support is most crucial, so we can make sure resources go where they'll make the biggest difference."

The 2024 Community Needs Assessment can be viewed online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CommunityNeedsAssessment.

CCFN is Calvert County’s Local Management Board (LMB). LMBs operate in each Maryland jurisdiction, partnering with local leaders, public and private agencies and businesses to build communities where all children, youth and families can thrive. For more information about the Calvert County Family Network, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CCFN. To contact the Family Network Coordinator, call 410-414-5997.

Learn about other resources and community partners on the Department of Community Resources Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CalvertCommunityResources.

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.

Calvert County has been recognized as the No. 1 Digital County in the United States for populations up to 150,000 by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo). This prestigious award marks the second consecutive year that Calvert County has earned this top ranking, reflecting its ongoing commitment to technological excellence and innovation in government services.

The Digital Counties Survey is an annual assessment that identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties. The survey evaluates counties on their efforts to streamline the delivery of government services, leverage data analytics for informed decision-making, enhance cybersecurity, and apply innovative technologies to meet county priorities.

Calvert County’s continued leadership in digital innovation has been driven by several key initiatives. The CDG and NACo recognized the Department of Technology Services implementation of a comprehensive Data Classification Policy to organize and protect data, as well as the launch of several OpenAI-powered chatbots.

Calvert County’s top ranking is the result of efforts from multiple departments. This includes strides to expand broadband connectivity, led by the Office of the County Administrator, as well as efforts from the Department of Communications & Media Relations to enhance citizen engagement with improved website accessibility, innovative outreach programs and the launch of a county government mobile app. The Department of Community Resources collaborated with internal and external partners to provide cybersecurity training for older adults and distribute Chromebooks to residents in need, advancing the county’s efforts to bridge the digital divide among county residents. Parks & Recreation further enhanced the digital experience for residents with a new online booking system, while Planning & Zoning, Economic Development and Community Resources have implemented systems focused on improving citizen and business experience. The Department of Public Safety’s work to ensure the resilience of public safety systems was also a key factor in securing this honor.

"This award acknowledges the hard work and dedication throughout county government to enhance our technology systems," said Technology Services Director Stephen Pereira. "This year, the recognition particularly highlights our efforts to curtail spending and drive value through existing resources. It also shows our alignment with industry best practices, the goals of county leadership and our strength in cross-department collaboration. We are honored and thrilled to receive this recognition once again, as it reflects our ongoing commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of our community."

Winners were announced in five population-based categories:

• Alameda County, California (1,000,000 or more)
• Jefferson County, Colorado (500,000-999,999)
• Chesterfield County, Virginia (250,000-499,000)
• Arlington County, Virginia (150,000-249,999)
• Calvert County, Maryland (up to 150,000)

To learn more about the Calvert County Department of Technology Services and its impact on the community, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/TechnologyServices. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

CDS Violation: 24-67918 On September 2, 2024, Deputy Sylver initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding in the area of Rt. 4 and Calvert Beach Road in St. Leonard. Upon making contact with the driver, Keith David Hebbard, 41 of Lusby, a significant odor of an alcoholic beverage was emitting from Hebbard’s person. Hebbard advised he did not possess a driver’s license and had two knives in his pockets. Deputies observed a loaded handgun magazine, a Glock 48 9mm handgun, and an opened bottle of Bacardi in plain view. A vehicle search revealed 132 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 7 shotgun shells, 6 open and empty liquor bottles, a Glock 48 9m handgun, one magazine containing 9 rounds of 9mm ammunition, one Smith and Wesson magazine with 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a cut straw with a white powdery residue (suspected cocaine) and $852.00 in US currency. Hebbard was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Handgun in a Vehicle, Illegal Possession of Ammunition, Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm, DWI, Concealing a Dangerous Weapon, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, and other traffic related charges.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-68806 On September 5, 2024, Cpl. Bowlan responded to the Tavern located at 4975 St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard, for the report of trespassing. Contact was made with William George Parker, 39 of Prince Frederick, who had been indefinitely trespassed from the establishment. Parker then walked over to the Fastop located at 4990 St. Leonard Road. While speaking with Parker, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emitting from his person. Parker was advised to vacate the property of the Fastop as they do not allow loitering. Parker refused to obey the deputy's commands and was placed into custody. Parker was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Failure to Obey a Lawful Order and Intoxicated Public Disturbance. 

Disorderly: 24-69095 On September 6, 2024, DFC Crum responded to Calvert High School located at 520 Fox Run Blvd. in Prince Frederick, for the report of a fight in progress. Investigation revealed multiple subjects were screaming and acting disorderly. Staff members on the scene were attempting to disperse the crowd. DFC Crum observed a male yelling at school staff members and aggressively assaulting them. The male later identified as Jayvion Marquise Buck, 18 of Lusby, was advised to leave the premises but continued to yell profanities in front of multiple bystanders attending the football game. Due to the Buck’s statements and disorderly conduct, he was placed into custody. Buck was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct.

Damaged Property: 24-68133 On September 3, 2024, Master Deputy Wilder responded to the 600 block of Clubhouse Drive in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised sometime between February 1 and September 3, an unknown suspect(s) tried to pry open the victim’s sliding glass door. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Damaged Property: 24-68440 On September 4, 2024, Deputy Baxter responded to the 12800 block of Lake View Drive in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised that sometime between 7 p.m. on September 3 and 12 p.m. September 4, an unknown suspect(s) shattered the back window of the victim’s vehicle while parked in the driveway of the residence. The estimated value of damaged property is $500.00.

Theft: 24-68150 On September 3, 2024, DFC Plant responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the reported theft. The complainant advised sometime between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., an unknown suspect stole the victim’s rear vehicle tag while parked at the Sunderland Park & Ride, located at 6425 N Solomons Island Rd in Sunderland. The estimate value of stolen property is unknown at this time.

Theft: 24-68446 On September 4, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the 6300 block of 15th Street in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a hit and run. The complainant advised an unknown suspect struck a vehicle parked in the victim’s driveway and stole the front registration plate causing minor front end damage. The estimated value of damaged and stolen property is $300.00.

Theft: 24-69070 On September 6, 2024, DFC Grierson responded to Giant located at 11740 Rousby Hall Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect walked past all points of sale without paying for items in the suspect’s grocery cart. The suspect can be described as a white female wearing a pink tank top, black leggings, and black heels. The estimated value of stolen items is $852.00.

Theft: 24-69135 On September 6, 2024, DFC T. Bowen responded to Fastop located at 8834 Chesapeake Ave in North Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect entered the store and attempted to purchase an 18-pack of Twisted Tea. The clerk scanned the male’s ID and advised she could not sell him the alcohol because he was under 21. The male then fled the store with the Twisted Tea and got into a gray Honda with VA tags. The estimated value of stolen property is $20.00.

Trespassing: 24-67922 On September 2, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to the Safeway located at 80 West Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with Antoinette Lajuan Montgomery, 60 of Prince Frederick. Montgomery had been previously trespassed from the property. Montgomery was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation announces the Battle Creek Cyprus Swamp Sanctuary will close temporarily for renovations to the parking lot and storm management system beginning Sept. 23.  The start date of renovations is weather dependent and subject to change. The sanctuary, including its trail system, is expected to remain closed for two weeks or until renovations are fully completed.

These necessary upgrades will enhance the sanctuary’s infrastructure, providing better management of stormwater runoff and safeguarding the rare bald cypress swamp. The nearby Gatewood Preserve and Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm will be open dawn to dusk for those who enjoy an outdoor hike.

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary is 100-acre nature sanctuary located at 2880 Grays Road in Prince Frederick. It is home to one of the northernmost stands of bald cypress trees in North America, offering a unique glimpse into a rare and ancient ecosystem.

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.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) will host a joint public meeting with the St. Mary’s County Legislative Delegation on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 6 p.m., in the CSMC meeting room, located on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown, MD.

The purpose of this meeting is to consider requests by the CSMC and proposals by local organizations and members of the public for enactment of legislation during the 2025 Regular Session of the Maryland General Assembly.

A copy of the legislative proposals will be available in the County Attorney’s Office and online at: www.stmarysmd.com/docs/LegislativeProposals2025.pdf. Meeting information and related documents can be viewed online at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/publichearings.

Citizens are encouraged to attend and participate in the public meeting. Those wishing to address the Commissioners and members of the St. Mary’s County Legislative Delegation may participate in-person or provide their feedback via:

• Email to csmc@stmaryscountymd.gov
• Mail to P.O. Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650

CSMC meetings are open to the public and may be viewed live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) TV Channel 95 or at www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov .

(NANJEMOY, MD) — Maryland State Police are investigating a triple fatal crash that occurred shortly before 8 a.m. this morning in Charles County.

The driver of a senior-living assisted facility transportation bus, identified as Charlie Parker, 84, of Mechanicsville, Maryland was pronounced deceased on the scene. Two passengers on the bus, identified as Darlene Burrell, 64, and Cassandra Brown, 61, both of Waldorf, Maryland, were also pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of a dump truck involved was reported uninjured in the crash.

Shortly before 8 a.m., troopers from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to the area of Port Tobacco Road and Bowie Road for a report of a two-vehicle crash. According to a preliminary investigation, the bus was traveling westbound on Port Tobacco Road, when for unknown reasons, lost control and struck the dump truck, traveling eastbound, head-on. Investigators do not believe that impairment was a factor in this crash.

All lanes on Port Tobacco Road were closed for the crash investigation but have since reopened. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation. 

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported shooting at the intersection of Midway Drive and Wasp Drive in Lexington Park on Friday, September 13, at approximately 9:50 p.m. Upon arrival, deputies located Jovan William Medley, 18, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, Medley was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the case, and anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective David Lawrence at 301-475-4200, ext. 8130, or by email at David.Lawrence@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

Baltimore, Maryland – Frederick Douglass Moorefield, Jr., age 63, of Arnold, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to federal charges of conspiracy to engage in animal fighting, specifically the fighting of dogs, and interstate travel in aid of racketeering.

The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington Field Office- Criminal and Cyber Division; Special Agent in Charge Charmeka Parker of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General; Defense Criminal Investigative Service – Mid-Atlantic Field Office; U.S. Marshal for Maryland Clinton Fuchs; and Anne Arundel County Police Chief Amal E. Awad.

According to the guilty plea, federal agents began investigating Moorefield’s connections to dogfighting after officers from Anne Arundel County Animal Control responded to a report of two dead dogs found in a plastic dog food bag in Annapolis, Maryland in November 2018.  Investigators found mail addressed to Moorefield inside the bag, and a necropsy determined that the dogs bore wounds and scarring patterns consistent with their having been used in dogfighting.

Moorefield was affiliated with a dogfighting enterprise known as the “DMV Board,” which operated in and around Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.  Numerous other members of the DMV Board have been convicted on dogfighting charges in the Eastern District of Virginia.  Moorefield operated under the kennel name “Geehad Kennels” and used his home in Arnold, Maryland to keep, train, and breed dogs for dogfighting for over 20 years.

A review of Moorefield’s phone and iCloud account showed numerous message exchanges regarding dogfighting with other members of the DMV Board.  In addition to arranging fights and wagers, Moorefield and other members of the DMV Board discussed the breeding and training of fighting dogs, procuring supplies for the maintenance and feeding of fighting dogs, and criminal investigations and prosecutions of dogfighters.  In some exchanges, Moorefield and others discussed the indictments of DMV Board members and speculated about the identity of a “snitch” in the group.

Moorefield’s messages also contained several exchanges arranging—or “hooking”—dogfights.  In these conversations, Moorefield would “call out a weight” by identifying the weight and sex of the dog he wanted to sponsor in a fight.  Other dogfighters would then propose a fight against their own dogs or match Moorefield with another of their contacts who had a dog in the same weight class.  The dogfighters would then agree on wagers and set a date for the fight, usually six to eight weeks after the match was made.  In addition to stating the amount to be paid to the winner of the fight, dogfighters agreed on forfeit—or “fit”—payments to be made in the event that a dogfighter backed out of the fight before it was scheduled to take place.

After hooking a fight, Moorefield trained his dogs in a process known as a “keep.”  Moorefield’s typical keep schedule for a dog involved physical training (using treadmills, weighted collars, and other accessories), a diet plan, and the use of steroids.  Moorefield obtained steroids and other veterinary drugs through various contacts in his dogfighting network, not through legitimate veterinary prescriptions.

When Moorefield sponsored a dog in a fight, the fight ended only when a dog died or when the owner forfeited the match—either through the dog “quitting” the fight or the owner “picking up” the dog.  In the event that one of Moorefield’s dogs lost a fight but did not die, Moorefield killed that dog.  One method of killing employed by Moorefield involved the use of a device consisting of jumper cables connected directly to an ordinary plug.  Moorefield plugged the device into a wall socket and attached the cables to the dog, electrocuting it.

Between January 2019 and October 2023, Moorefield sent and received monetary payments through CashApp related to his participation in dogfighting.  In some instances, transactions were given misleading labels in order to disguise the true nature of the transferred money, such as a transaction in which Moorefield received $1,000 labeled as a “housewarming gift” from a known dogfighter in 2022, even though Moorefield has lived at the same address for over two decades.

When agents searched Moorefield’s residence on September 6, 2023, they recovered five pitbull-type dogs from large metal cages in a windowless room of Moorefield’s basement.  Agents also found several containers of animal medication, dog food, and protein powder in the same room, as well as the jumper-cable device referenced above, which Moorefield used to kill dogs that were no longer fit for use in dogfighting.  Agents seized a large piece of folded-up carpet from a shed on the property, and this carpet appeared to be stained in several places with blood.  Moorefield used the carpet as the floor of an arena to stage dogfights or “rolls” (brief test fights between dogs to evaluate the dogs’ fighting ability).

When interviewed by agents, Moorefield stated that he had only recently obtained—within the past week—four of the five dogs found on the property.  The dog that Moorefield did not obtain recently was diagnosed as exhibiting calloused skin and an old injury, in addition to being infested with fleas.  That dog had to be humanely euthanized after exhibiting extreme aggression toward both human caretakers and other dogs.  Moorefield bred and/or trained all five dogs recovered from his property for the purposes of sponsoring them in dogfights. 

At the time Moorefield was charged in this case, he was the Deputy Chief Information Officer for Command, Control, and Communications for the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Moorefield faces a maximum of five years in prison for conspiring to engage in an animal fighting conspiracy.  U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett has scheduled sentencing for December 2, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. 

United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the FBI, the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of the Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Anne Arundel County Police Department, Anne Arundel County Animal Control, and thanked the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia for their valuable assistance in the investigation.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander Levin and Darryl Tarver, who are prosecuting 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.

UPDATE: The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim of the fatal pedestrian crash on Church Street from September 12, 2024, in Prince Frederick. The deceased individual has been identified as Travis Gregory Pope, 36 of Prince Frederick. 

On September 12, 2024, at approximately 8:04 p.m., members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau and Crash Reconstruction Unit responded to the area of northbound Solomons Island Road and Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the report of a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. A preliminary investigation indicates that a 2017 Hyundai Accent, operated by Asaun Jaziah Hudson, 23 of St. Leonard, was traveling north on Solomons Island Road approaching Church Street in Prince Frederick. An unknown black male approximately 30 – 35 years of age was walking eastbound across Rt. 4 from Hallowing Point Road to Church Street.

The Hyundai Accent struck the pedestrian causing serious injuries. The unknown male was transported to Calvert Health Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. Hudson was not injured in the crash. Initial findings indicate that speed was not a factor in the collision, however, alcohol does appear to be a contributing factor with the pedestrian.

At this time, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office is actively attempting to identify the unknown 30-35-year-old black male. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or events leading up to it is asked to please contact DFC Daily at Michael.Daily@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-2800. Please reference case 24-70790.

This morning, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office became aware of and began actively investigating a vague Instagram post threatening school violence. The threat, which does not identify a specific school, is currently believed to be targeting a university in Illinois that shares a similar phone number with a St. Mary’s County public school.

At this time, there are no credible threats to public or private schools in St. Mary’s County. However, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office takes all threats of this nature seriously. In coordination with school officials, the Sheriff's Office will continue to investigate this matter vigorously to ensure the community's safety.

The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

On September 12, at approximately 11:51 a.m., officers responded to the 14700 block of Bassford Road in Waldorf after developing information that a suspect, who had active arrest warrants stemming from a violent assault and stabbing of his elderly relative’s caregiver, was inside a house. A preliminary investigation is as follows:

After learning of the suspect’s whereabouts, officers established a perimeter around the house. The suspect, Patrick James Roberts, Jr., age 28, exited and was armed with a large knife. He fled into a wooded area where a police K9 and handler pursued; the K9 was off leash. While the K9 attempted an apprehension, the suspect, who still had the knife in his hand, engaged the K9. The K9 officer discharged his firearm, striking the suspect once in the stomach. The knife was recovered, and officers rendered first aid to the suspect. The suspect was transported to a hospital and treated for injuries that did not appear to be life-threatening. The officer involved was not injured, and the police K9 was checked and found to be unharmed.

Active Warrants: On September 8, officers responded to Bassford Road for the report of a stabbing. The suspect, Patrick James Roberts, Jr., was in the process of stealing a wallet from his elderly relative. A caregiver who was in the home tried to intervene, but Roberts pulled out a knife and stabbed him in the abdomen. The caregiver was flown to a hospital and admitted with serious injuries. After stabbing the caretaker, Roberts stole the wallet and his relative’s vehicle and fled. Officers obtained arrest warrants for first-degree assault, second-degree assault, theft, and unlawful taking of a vehicle.

Investigation: The Charles County Sheriff’s Office’s Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating the shooting and, in accordance with Agency policy, the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office has been notified. The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the completion of the investigation. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

The Justice Department announced today that it filed a complaint and proposed consent decree  in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland to resolve allegations that the Johns Hopkins Health System Corporation (Johns Hopkins) violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by denying people with disabilities equal access to medical care by excluding their necessary support persons.

“Patients with disabilities deserve equal access to healthcare,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland. “Appropriate medical care often requires them to be accompanied by essential support persons. Johns Hopkins’ recommitment to meeting the needs of its patients with disabilities and ensuring that they are treated with dignity and respect is a welcome outcome of this agreement.”

“Patients with disabilities may need the assistance of a support person, like a family member or aide, to have equal access to health care, especially during emergencies,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Policies and training go hand in hand when it comes to ensuring that health care providers and their employees are protecting patient rights and not excluding support persons improperly. Ensuring equal access to medical care is a priority for the Justice Department.”

Some individuals with dementia, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities may require the assistance of a support person (such as a family member, personal assistant, or other individual knowledgeable about them) when accessing medical care. Support persons can help individuals with disabilities to communicate, such as providing their medical history and answering questions, and to understand what is happening, such as medical instructions they are given during their care and discharge. The complaint alleges that Johns Hopkins failed on numerous occasions to follow its own policies for visitors and support persons by not permitting patients with disabilities to be accompanied by their support persons. As a result, these patients were unable to receive equal care. 

Under the proposed consent decree, which the court must approve, Johns Hopkins has agreed to pay $150,000 to compensate multiple affected individuals. Johns Hopkins will also update its support person policies to ensure ADA compliance, train its employees on its support person policies and the ADA, and report any future complaints regarding support persons to the Justice Department.  The claims resolved by this Consent Decree are allegations and not an admission of liability by Johns Hopkins. 

This matter was handled jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section.  U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah A. Marquardt and Trial Attorney Stephanie Berger of the Civil Rights Division, who handled the case.

Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires private hospitals and other health care providers to provide individuals with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of their goods and services.  For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office’s civil rights work, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/civil-rights.  ADA complaints may be filed online at https://www.ada.gov/file-a-complaint/.  Anyone in Maryland may also report civil rights violations by emailing USAMD.Civilrightscomplaint@usdoj.gov.

Patrol deputies and detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on a residence in the 45000 block of Woodstown Way in California, Maryland, on September 12, leading to the arrest of a 17-year-old juvenile on multiple weapons charges.

Following a joint investigation by the Patrol and Criminal Investigations Divisions, deputies obtained a search and seizure warrant for the residence and the suspect. During the search, law enforcement officers located a loaded P80 9MM handgun with no serial number, equipped with an extended KRISS Vector magazine, capable of holding 40 rounds, and loaded with 20 rounds.

In Maryland, juveniles are prohibited from possessing regulated firearms. The suspect was taken into custody and charged as an adult with possession of a firearm by a minor, possession of a firearm without a serial number, having a handgun on a person, and having a loaded handgun on a person.

The juvenile has been transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Sept. 12, 2024 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appointed members to a newly established Student Safety and Well-being Advisory Committee. The following individuals will serve on the committee:

• Dana Jones - Chair
• Guy Stephens and Leslie Irvin - District 1 Representatives
• Brandon Temple and Debora Harris - District 2 Representatives
• Marcus Newsome and Sinetra Bowdry - District 3 Representatives
• Jason Oates - Calvert Education Association Representative
• Kadesha Pledger - Calvert Association of Educational Support Staff Representative
• 1^st Sgt. Vincent O’Donnell and Cpl. Nick DeFelice - Sheriff’s Office Representatives
• Sgt. Kemery Hunt - Maryland State Police Representative
• Katelyn Liptak - Mental Health and Well-being Professional Representative
• Denise Dickerson - Substance Abuse Treatment Professional Representative
• Joseph Pignataro - Maryland Center for School Safety Representative 

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

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

Nonvoting members include Deputy County Administrator Linda Turner, Community Resources Director Jennifer Moreland, Communications & Media Relations Director Eryn Lowe and Superintendent of Calvert County Public Schools Dr. Andraé Townsel.

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

The BOCC directed the creation of the Student Safety and Well-being Advisory Committee on May 7, 2024, and adopted a resolution outlining the creation, authority, membership and administrative duties of the committee on May 29. Membership applications were accepted through early June from the general public to represent each of the three commissioner districts. A total of 42 applications were received; applications were evaluated and rated and applicants were interviewed by panelists from the Office of the County Administrator, Department of Community Resources, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and Calvert County Public Schools.

More information about the committee is available online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/SSWAC. For questions, please contact SSWAC@calvertcountymd.gov.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 12, 2024) - The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run brings together participants from around the United States and more than 40 countries to support the Special Olympics athletes. This year, the local Torch Run will be on Friday, September 27, at 9 a.m., at Lexington Manor Passive Park in Lexington Park, and all are welcome to participate. The 5k run/walk course suits all fitness levels, and strollers and pets on leashes are welcome.

Registration for the event begins at 8 a.m., with the race starting at 9. Participants must wear an official 2024 Torch Run hat or t-shirt, which can be purchased for $20 on-site or in advance at the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters at 23150 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown; please bring cash only. For more information, contact Sergeant Dale Smith at Dale.Smith@stmaryscountymd.gov.

The mission of the Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for persons eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities, and the Sheriff’s Office is proud to support the hard work of our St. Mary’s County athletes and looks forward to seeing the community at the Torch Run in September.

For additional information about this year’s Torch Run, please visit our webpage: www.firstsheriff.com/community/Torch-Run.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined Gov. Wes Moore and Treasurer Dereck Davis in approving more than $232 million for 93 initiatives and projects throughout Maryland, during Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting.

Comptroller Lierman and Gov. Moore voted to approve a request from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for $8.7 million in Program Open Space funding to acquire a 42-acre parcel within the Savage River State Park and Savage River Complex in Garrett County. Treasurer Davis abstained from the vote.

The property has more than 18 cabins, 8 yurts and a multi-trail system and is expected to generate more than $1 million in revenue for the state, which Gov. Moore said exceeds the anticipated expenses after the initial start-up costs.

Before casting her vote, Comptroller Lierman expressed her excitement that the purchase would provide opportunities for more visitors to enjoy nature in Western Maryland, fulfilling the true intent of Maryland’s Program Open Space.

“If you go online during the peak of the summer heat, you will find every campsite reserved, and state parks completely full across the State of Maryland. Which means that there's no public space, no big, beautiful tree-lined parks for people to escape to in the heat of the summer,” Comptroller Lierman said. “So, to me, this property and this purchase is so exciting, because we are both completing the donut hole of Savage River Forest, but also because we are opening up additional space to Marylanders for eternity.”

On another item, Comptroller Lierman lauded an increase of 24 Residential Child Care (RCC) Program beds to increase in-state residential capacity to meet the needs of young people currently housed in hotels and hospital overstays, an issue that Comptroller Lierman has followed closely since her time as a delegate in the Maryland General Assembly.

In all, the BPW approved 93 items, representing a total State expenditure of $232,610,635.94. A comprehensive list of items approved are as follows:

Approved grant agreements for 12 recipients for 13 projects located in 6 counties and Baltimore City with a total value of $10,002,000.
9 items awarding $7,498,415.61 to prime certified small business primes
3 items awarding $3,250,098.14 to certified minority business enterprise primes
2 items awarding $5,904,344.79 to Employment Works Program providers
6 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 October 2.

Following an investigation into allegations of tampering with Emergency Medical Services narcotic boxes and vials of fentanyl, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, along with detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) arrested Thomas Patrick Raley, age 39, of Leonardtown, MD, on a warrant, on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

In July, the Sheriff’s Office was alerted to suspected tampering incidents involving the security seal on a narcotics box in a local medic unit. Detectives from CID discovered fentanyl vials in the medic box had been compromised, leading to further investigation uncovering additional tampering incidents in multiple county medic units and EMS facilities. As the investigation progressed, Raley was identified as the sole suspect, leading to the filing of numerous criminal charges.

Raley was charged with 34 criminal counts, including one count each of theft scheme of $1500 to under $25,000, theft scheme of $100 to under $1500, and second-degree burglary; three counts of theft of $100 to less than $1500; four counts of theft less than $100; two counts rogue and vagabond; 21 counts of CDS: possession – not cannabis; and one count CDS: possession of controlled paraphernalia for purposes of illegally administering a controlled dangerous substance.

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

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July 23, 2024, News Release

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Names Suspect in Tampering Investigation

LEONARDTOWN, MD (July 23, 2024) - 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.

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July 19, 2024 News 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 National Recovery Month, National Suicide Prevention Month, Underground Railroad Month, and National Senior Center Month.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the CSMC meeting schedule for calendar year 2025 and budget calendar for fiscal year (FY) 2026.
• Approved the Lease Addendum for the Hayden Farm property.
• Approved the FY24 Federal Older Americans Act Notice of Grant Awards.
• Approved the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) grant award.
• Discussed updates on the progress of the Child Care Facility project.

The Commissioners wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The CSMC then attended the annual State of the County luncheon, hosted by the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce to launch the FY 24 State of the County video and participate in a Q&A session with attendees. Learn more at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/stateofcounty.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 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 www.stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

On Tuesday, Sept. 10, the Charles County Board of Commissioners and the Charles County Board of Education met for a joint meeting at the Charles County Board of Education building in La Plata.  Commissioners and school officials discussed educational finance forecasting for the Blueprint for Maryland’s future. They identified funding challenges, reviewed services that the Blueprint may not fully fund, and developed a multi-year strategic budget planning process for the school system.

Commissioners then met during the afternoon to hold their annual hearing on the preliminary state legislative proposal package. Commissioners and Charles County legislative delegation members heard from residents on 26 proposals for consideration as bills that are introduced during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly Session. A work session is tentatively scheduled on Sept. 24 for Commissioners to finalize which proposals will move forward for submission to the state delegation.

Briefings

• Amy Blessinger, Planner III, held a briefing on Proposed Bill 2024-13 Zoning Text Amendment 24-184, Additional Transitional Provision for the Waldorf Activity Center Zones. The bill would create new five-year transitional provisions to modify specific zoning requirements in the Waldorf Central Zone and Action Urban Center Zone in the Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Corridor (WURC). Provisions include modifying mixed-use building requirements and removing requirements to purchase Transferable Development Rights, also known as TDRs. The changes would be re-evaluated towards the end of the 5-year period.  Revisions would also be made to improve the clarity of the zoning requirements. Commissioners voted to introduce the bill and scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024, at 6 p.m.

·       Ms. Kelli Beavers, Director; Mr. Sam Drury, Deputy Director; Mr. Tim Drummond, Chief of Parks; Ms. Ashley Chenault, Chief of Tourism, Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism; Ms. Dina Barclay, Director; Ms. Laura Gustafson, Deputy Director, Department of Community Services; and Ms. Cathy Thompson, Assistant  Chief of Planning, Mr. Jeffry Barnett, Chief of Transit, and Mr. Jason Groth, Acting Director, Department of Planning and Growth Management, updated commissioners on how their departments are working to improve Quality of Life in Charles County.

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A budget amendment increase of $87,100 to allow the Department of Planning & Growth Management to carry over unspent contract services budget funds. The carry-over would support scanning costs that occurred in July due to the timing of a document scanning contract.
• A budget transfer request of $228,500 in construction costs to evaluate pump stations and implement improvements to the Charles County Detention Center Pump Station. Funding is available through the Detention Center Pump Station Rehabilitation Project.
• A revised Fiscal 2025 CORE Funding Agreement between the county and the Charles County Health Department. The revision added $487,497 and local funding to cover cuts in funding made by the state.
• The Fiscal 2026 Budget Calendar. The calendar includes important dates to request funding for elected officials and agency staff. The first budget work session is scheduled for March 25, 2026. The Operating and Capital Budgets public hearing is scheduled for April 30, 2025. The final adoption of the Fiscal 2026 budget is scheduled for May 13, 2025.
• A deer cooperator permit letter for Shlagel farms.
• A request for the Legacy of Honor Project to Display a Missing Man Table on Sept. 20, 2024. The display table coincides with the 48^th annual National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which Congress established to honor American Prisoners of War and those declared Missing in Action.
• A temporary suspension of Park and Recreation Fee increases in response to citizen concerns about costs. Fees will be assessed later in the year.

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

Next Commissioners Session: Sept. 17-18.

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

Two St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies were honored as Deputies of the Year at the 2024 Maryland Sheriff’s Association Professional Development Seminar in Ocean City, MD, on Monday, September 9, 2024. Detective Sergeant Austin Schultz received the Crime Prevention Award, and Deputy Joseph Senatore was recognized with the Traffic Safety Award.

Detective Sergeant Austin Schultz earned the large agency Crime Prevention Award, which recognizes individuals who make outstanding contributions to crime prevention through public safety education, innovative security techniques, effective policing strategies, or a notable single act of crime prevention. D/Sgt. Schultz was praised for his exemplary leadership, embodying the Sheriff’s Office vision of innovative, community-oriented policing. As a founding member of the Criminal Intelligence Unit, he spearheads the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) Program, a collaboration with community partners to reduce gun violence. By engaging at-risk individuals and offering resources and support, Schultz’s work has provided alternatives to those involved in firearm and group violence, significantly enhancing public safety.

Deputy Joseph Senatore received the large agency Traffic Safety Award, which recognizes officers who contribute to traffic safety through purpose-driven enforcement that addresses community issues through enforcement, commitment, and education. Since completing his Field Training Program in January 2023, Senatore has led traffic safety efforts, notably in the “Slow Down St. Mary’s” initiative targeting speeding and reckless driving. His proactive approach, including over 1,500 vehicle stops and nearly 2,400 traffic violations, has helped reduce accidents and make local roads safer. Beyond enforcement, Senatore showed his dedication by assisting a traffic violator to get to a necessary medical appointment, highlighting his commitment to the community’s well-being.

“Detective Sergeant Austin Schultz and Deputy Joseph Senatore’s dedicated service is not only recognized by our community and office; law enforcement agencies representing the entire state of Maryland selected them for special recognition,” said Sheriff Steve Hall. “They exemplify the very best of our agency’s commitment to public safety and community service.”

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md.— Each year, the most qualified and dedicated members of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) from across the country join each other at the prestigious National Leadership Conference (NLC). Having qualified from the Maryland State Leadership Conference, in their respective competitive events, 12 Northern High School and 7 Northern Middle School students earned their spots at the conference, which was held in Orlando, Florida in June. Guided by their trusted advisers, Nancy Wilt-Tassa and Wendi Ring at the high school level and Athena Lewis at the middle school level, students made the most of their time in Orlando. Two high school students had stand-out achievements during the competition. Olivia Herrin, current NHS senior and NHS FBLA Vice-President, as well as the Maryland FBLA Vice-President, maximized her time and effort at NLC, earning the esteemed position of FBLA National Secretary. This marks Northern’s first ever FBLA National Officer, which is an incredible accomplishment for Olivia, NHS, and CCPS. Members from Northern’s FBLA chapter and students from FBLA chapters all over Maryland helped Olivia at her campaign booth, where they worked in shifts to assist Olivia in building good will with members, state officers, and even voting delegates. Additionally, Olivia prepared her campaign helpers thoroughly by providing them with guidance in how to effectively hand out flyers, interact with different individuals, network with state delegates, and facilitate fun trivia games. In addition, Gentry Bowie, who is an NHS senior and NHS FBLA Co-President, as well as the current Maryland FBLA Parliamentarian, also took advantage of the conference’s remarkable opportunities, placing fourth in her competitive event, business communication. To place top ten nationally, out of over 100 competitors, Gentry spent hours studying business communication concepts like standard English conventions, verbal and nonverbal communication, and report applications. Gentry studied from a business communication textbook for at least one hour each day for the three weeks leading up to the conference, which demonstrates her significant dedication and initiative to succeed. At the middle school level, current ninth grader at Northern High School, Fitz Human brought home sixth place in the middle school career exploration contest. This contest provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge around competencies in many career areas and competition consists of an objective test. The goal of the contest is to inspire students to learn about themselves, their options, and to create a plan to reach career goals. 

Congratulations to all the following students who earned the ability to compete at the national competition this past summer: Gentry Bowie (Senior) Events: Business Communication and Community Service Project Chloe Chen (Freshman) Events: Middle School Community Service Project and Middle School Exploring Business Issue Isaiah Craft (Sophomore) Introduction to Information Technology Lochlan Fitzgerald (Freshman) Events: Middle School Community Service Project and Middle School Elevator Speech Sophia Hein (Junior) Event: Graphic Design Olivia Herrin (Senior) Events: Job Interview and Partnership with Business Sarah Hutchinson (Senior) Events: Advertising and Community Service Project Fitz Human (Freshman) Events: Middle School Career Exploration and Middle School Annual Chapter Activities Mikaella Jones (Senior) Event: Community Service Project Logan McDonald (Senior) Events: Public Policy and Advocacy and Partnership with Business Madison Miller (Freshman) Event: Middle School Marketing Mix Challenge Madison Montgomery (Class of 2024) Events: Public Speaking and Local Chapter Annual Business Report Jessica Nguyen (Sophomore) Event: Graphic Design

Ollie Reist (Freshman) Event: Middle School Marketing Mix Challenge Sally Shnawa (Junior) Event: Introduction to Social Media Strategies Isaac Simpson (Freshman) Events: Middle School Annual Chapter Activities and Middle School Exploring Business Issue Jasmine Simpson (Class of 2024) Events: Economics and Local Chapter Annual Business Report Isabella Siracusano (Freshman) Events: Middle School Marketing Mix Challenge and Middle School Community Service Project Maddie Thomas (Senior) Events: Accounting II and Partnership with Business

Suspect wanted in connection with violent domestic assault arrested: On September 10, during the evening hours, Edwin Argueta-Tobar, 34, of Waldorf,  turned himself in to the Chares County Sheriff’s Office. Argueta-Tobar had an active warrant for first-degree assault and second-degree assault in connection with a violent attack on a woman known to him. The facts of the case are as follows:

On September 7 at 9:30 p.m., officers responded to the 5000 block of Hawthorne Road in La Plata for the report of a domestic-related assault. Upon arrival, the victim reported she left her residence to take some items outside when the suspect, Edwin Geovany Argueta-Tobar, 34, of Waldorf, approached her from behind, pulled her, punched her several times in her face, and held a knife to her stomach. Argueta-Tobar had been hiding outside the victim’s residence to attack her. The suspect fled before police arrival in a blue and black Nissan passenger car which had initially been parked out of view of the victim. Officers canvassed the area and obtained an arrest warrant charging the suspect with first-degree assault, and second-degree assault. Argueta-Tobar is a Hispanic male, 5’10”, 165 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information about Tobar’s whereabouts is asked to call 301-932-2222 or 9-1-1. 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. Officer Harden is investigating. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Board of Elections will conduct a public logic and accuracy demonstration on the DS200 ballot scanner unit on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 10 a.m. for the 2024 Presidential General Election. This public demonstration will be held at the Board of Elections office, located at 23250 Hollywood Road in Leonardtown.

Additionally, the St. Mary's County Board of Elections has announced the following canvassing dates for 2024 Presidential General Election mail-in and provisional ballots:

• Pre-Election Day Mail-in Ballot Canvass: Tuesday, October 15, 2024, through Thursday, October 17, 2024*, at 9 a.m. (results will not be released until election night)
• After Election Day Mail-in Ballot Canvass: Thursday, November 7, 2024, through Friday, November 8, 2024*, at 10 a.m.
• Provisional Ballot Canvass: Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 10 a.m.
• After Election Day Final Canvass: Friday, November 15, 2024, at 10 a.m.

*Dates are subject to change based on the number of mail-in ballots received. Updates will be posted online at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/elections.

All canvassing will be held at the St. Mary’s County Board of Elections office in Leonardtown. For more information on the St. Mary’s County Board of Elections, voter registration, ballot drop box or polling place locations, and more, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/elections.

Questions may be directed to Wendy Adkins at wendy.adkins@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling (301) 475-4200 ext. 1613.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place Sept. 16-Sept. 30, 2024 from 4 p.m.-11 p.m..

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

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

BALTIMORE (September 9, 2024) — Today, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) announced a $40.3 million, five-year grant award from the U.S. Department of Education, part of $149 million in federal funds to support initiatives focused on third-grade literacy proficiency across 23 states.

MSDE will receive $4.1 million in the first year of the Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) grant and approximately $9 million in subsequent years to fund the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions and supports. This initiative is designed to help students meet key literacy milestones and ensure equitable access to high-quality instruction and resources.

“Investments in reading by third grade will benefit students throughout their elementary, middle and high school years,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “This grant will enhance the resources available to school systems, schools and early care programs, helping to improve literacy outcomes and strengthen students’ core academic skills.”

“When students are ready to read, they are ready to learn – we must ensure our educators have the skills and resources to teach all students to read by third grade,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board President. “Focused on core literacy instruction in our schools, this grant from our federal partners amplifies our state’s investment in public education through Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.” 

The development and mastery of early literacy skills are a strong predictor of later school reading and math achievement. Reading proficiently is increasingly important after third grade; students who have not achieved grade-level literacy are at higher risk of not finishing high school college and career ready.

The CLSD grant will enable MSDE to advance evidence-based literacy instruction in collaboration with higher education partners. This is the largest number of grant awards ever made under the CLSD program. 

In January, the State Board of Education called for the statewide adoption and implementation of literacy instruction based on the Science of Reading, an evidence-based instructional philosophy that emphasizes skills development in phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension to build strong literacy skills. 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.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 9, 2024) – On Sunday, September 8, 2024, at approximately 4:17 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Medical Services were dispatched to the northbound lanes of the 22000 block of Three Notch Road for a motor vehicle crash involving multiple vehicles, including one with entrapment.

Upon arrival, deputies found four vehicles involved in the collision. Due to the severity of the incident, the SMCSO Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and assumed the investigation.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Andrew Jason Causey, 44, of Solomons, was driving a red 2014 Ford Focus southbound in the northbound lanes of Three Notch Road when he struck a 2022 black Ram 1500, driven by Daniel James Heath, 35, of Hollywood, in a head-on collision. A third vehicle, a 2023 white Chevrolet Tahoe, could not avoid the crash and struck the Ram, causing minor damage. A fourth vehicle, a 2013 silver Hyundai Sonata, sustained minor damage after being hit by debris.

Causey was extricated from his vehicle by the Bay District Fire Department and flown to an area trauma center with life-threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported.

Preliminary findings indicate that speed does not appear to be a factor in the crash. It is currently unknown if drugs or alcohol were involved.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or the events leading up to it is asked to contact Corporal Vincent Pontorno at 301-475-4200, ext. 2337, or via email at Vincent.Pontorno@stmaryscountymd.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) will visit St. Mary’s County on September 24, 2024, as part of its annual Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) Tour. The meeting will take place at 6 p.m. in the Commissioners meeting room, located on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. This meeting is open to the public and provides the opportunity for residents and stakeholders to hear firsthand about Maryland’s capital budget for transportation projects. Residents may also watch the meeting live on TV Channel 95 or at www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

The CTP is Maryland’s six-year capital budget for transportation projects, encompassing a wide range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s transportation infrastructure. During the meeting, the Secretary of Transportation and representatives from MDOT’s various modes will present information on the draft CTP, including upcoming projects and priorities specific to St. Mary’s County.

“This meeting offers the opportunity for our community to engage directly with state officials on the transportation projects that will shape the future of St. Mary’s County,” said Commissioner President, James Randy Guy. “These discussions are critical as we work collaboratively with the state to ensure that our local transportation needs are met.”

The annual CTP Tour provides an open forum for local governments and the public to discuss transportation needs and priorities. The feedback gathered during these meetings is instrumental in shaping the final CTP, which will guide Maryland’s transportation investments over the next six years. For more information about the MDOT Consolidated Transportation Program or to view the draft CTP, please visit MDOT's CTP website at https://www.mdot.maryland.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 7, 2024) – During proactive traffic enforcement on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, Deputy Joseph Senatore of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office observed the driver of a Blue Ford Mustang fail to stop at a white-painted stop line and make an abrupt right turn onto Great Mills Road and travel westward at a high rate of speed. Deputy Senatore initiated a traffic stop on the Mustang, at which point the driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot.

After a brief foot pursuit, the driver was apprehended and identified as Deandre Terille Taylor, 35, of Bushwood. A K-9 unit was requested to search Taylor’s vehicle, and K-9 Kyra alerted positively for narcotics. A subsequent search of the car revealed $595.00 in cash, though no controlled dangerous substances (CDS) were located at the time.

While in custody, Taylor complained of a medical emergency and was transported to a hospital for evaluation. He left the hospital shortly after arriving. In the interim, deputies searched the area where Taylor fled, recovering a large quantity of CDS, including 80.6 grams of suspected crack cocaine, 0.8 grams of powdered cocaine, and 2.0 grams of fentanyl.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division, who had already been actively investigating Taylor for suspected drug distribution activities, obtained search and seizure warrants for two residences and his person. The warrants were executed on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at homes in the 42000 block of Calvert Circle in Mechanicsville and the 20000 block of Wolftrap Street in Lexington Park.

At the Calvert Circle residence, detectives recovered $12,972 in cash, seven individually packaged bags of suspected crack cocaine totaling approximately 218 grams, 2.0 grams of suspected fentanyl, and various CDS paraphernalia. At the Wolftrap Street residence, detectives recovered 1,263 grams of suspected marijuana, a digital scale with suspected cocaine residue, shotgun shells, .44 magnum ammunition, and additional CDS paraphernalia. Taylor was not located at either residence.

On Friday, September 6, 2024, an arrest warrant was issued, and Taylor was found in Clements and taken into custody without incident. Taylor is being charged with four counts of CDS possession with intent to distribute, four counts of CDS possession - not cannabis, possession of narcotics production equipment, CDS possession of paraphernalia, and multiple traffic violations.

The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Sean Patrick Kraese, 24, of Piney Point, Maryland, was convicted on multiple counts of animal cruelty and obscene material charges related to performing sexual acts on his pet dog.

In June of 2022, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office received complaints from neighbors regarding numerous dead animals, burn piles, and bone piles on Kraese’s property that were producing a noxious odor. Detectives executed a search warrant on Kraese’s residence, seized his phone, and discovered numerous deceased small animals and bones on his property. After an inspection of his phone, investigators learned Kraese produced videos depicting himself performing perverted acts with his dog. Kraese’s online activity revealed that he openly participated in the “zoophilia” community by distributing those obscene videos to others and offering the video recipients the opportunity to participate in similar acts with his dog.

“The Defendant’s actions were not only disturbing, but a profound betrayal of the trust and responsibility we have for animals. The exploitation and abuse of animals for sexual gratification reflects a deep moral failing and an utter disregard for the dignity of all living things,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “By holding the Defendant accountable for his depraved behavior, we reinforce our commitment to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.”

On August 20, 2024, following a bench trial, Kraese was convicted of distribution of obscene material, possession of obscene material with intent to distribute, and two counts of aggravated animal cruelty. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 1, 2024, where Kraese faces a maximum penalty of seven years in prison.

Sergeant Keith Moritz of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Sarah Proctor and Assistant State’s Attorney Zachary Varda prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

At approximately 6:34 p.m. on Thursday, September 5, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office received multiple calls reporting an active shooter at Lancaster Park in Lexington Park.

Within minutes, deputies arrived on the scene and immediately secured the area, ensuring the safety of park visitors. An extensive search of Lancaster Park and the surrounding areas was conducted. No evidence of a shooting was found, it was confirmed there were no injuries, and it was determined that the report was unfounded. The incident was concluded at 7:17 p.m.

UPDATE: 6:18 p.m. September 5th, the subject has been located and is in police custody.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, and Calvert County Sheriff’s Office are actively investigating recent social media threats made against children and police officers.

On Thursday, September 5, 2024, Kevin Lee Bonnie, 21, posted multiple online statements expressing intent to harm law enforcement officers and children waiting at bus stops. He has had recent interactions with law enforcement officers in Charles and St. Mary’s counties, though his current location is unknown.

Bonnie is described as a white male with brown hair and blue eyes. He is 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighs approximately 140 pounds. Bonnie may be driving a dark 2020 Chevy Sonic with Maryland license plate 4GG3607.

Community members should not approach the subject but call 911 immediately if spotted.

The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement agencies are taking every precaution to ensure the community's safety.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place Sept. 16-Sept. 30, 2024 from 4 p.m.-11 p.m..

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

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

(DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD) —Following the arrest of Adin Tyrone Carr, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force served search warrants at two residences, leading investigators to uncover 14 firearms early this morning in Prince George’s County.

In June 2024, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force began investigating illegal street exhibitions and takeovers throughout Prince George’s County. During these investigations, Adin Tyrone Carr, 20, of District Heights, Maryland, was identified as being in possession of a firearm. Investigators observed Carr holding an AR-style pistol while hanging out of the passenger side of a window during one of these street exhibitions.

In collaboration with the Maryland Attorney General’s Office, a deeper investigation into Carr was initiated. It was discovered that Carr, who is underage, was legally prohibited from possessing firearms. Carr was subsequently charged with handgun on person, handgun in vehicle, possession of a firearm by a minor, and regulated firearm: illegal possession.

On September 4, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force, Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division (Southern Region), Special Operations Division, and Field Operations Bureau, as well as the Prince George’s County Police Department, Maryland Transportation Authority Police, Rockville City Police Department, Howard County Police Department, and the Regional Auto Theft Task Force (RATT), served two search and seizure warrants at residences in Rockville and District Heights, uncovering 14 firearms, including eight handguns and six long guns.  

Carr was located at the District Heights residence and subsequently arrested on scene. According to a preliminary investigation, an additional firearm was located on Carr at the time of his arrest. Further firearm charges are pending consultation with the Attorney General’s Office.

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.

PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for communities around the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. The exercise will occur during the week of September 10, 2024, to assess the ability of the State of Maryland to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the State of Maryland.”

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions.  The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 4:30 p.m. on September 12, 2024.  The meeting will be conducted in person at the Crown Plaza Hotel, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis, MD.  Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC. 
 

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

MaryAnn Tierney

Regional Administrator

FEMA Region 3

615 Chestnut Street, 6^th Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announces that the State’s Attorney’s Office for St. Mary’s County secured a $96,777 Gun Violence Reduction Grant (GVRG) to address challenges evolving from the rise in gun-related crimes.

“This grant empowers us to stay one step ahead of the new generation of technologically dependent and digitally advanced criminals, specifically in cases involving gun violence. As a prosecuting office, we must utilize, and master available tools for the successful prosecution of gun violence cases by meticulously tracking and investigating evidence, which often includes a timeline far earlier than when an actual crime occurs,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “This grant will allow us to continue to enhance public safety and ensure justice for our communities and the victims affected by gun violence.”

In 2023, Sterling, in her first year as State’s Attorney, embraced the emerging advancements in digital evidence by launching an Evidence Review Unit. The unit tackles the challenges of managing digital evidence, including body-worn camera, surveillance footage, social media records, and cell phone data, as technology continues to evolve. This grant will ensure a seamless continuation of the office’s digital Evidence Analyst position, which aims to bolster the successful prosecution of criminals who illegally utilize firearms in St. Mary’s County.

The nearly $100,000 grant, awarded by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP), marks the second year in a row Sterling’s office successfully competed for and earned this grant to aid in the reduction of gun violence. This award, in combination with five others, brings the grand total of grant dollars awarded to Sterling’s office to $1,525,469.

Jessika Hall, Grant Coordinator for the State’s Attorney’s Office, successfully wrote and prepared the competitive FY25 GVRG 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 GVRG-2025-0017. 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.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined federal and state partners Wednesday to announce Maryland is joining the Direct File program that will allow an estimated 700,000 Marylanders to prepare and file their federal and state tax returns online for free. 

Comptroller Lierman was joined for the announcement by Maryland Governor Wes Moore, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, U.S. Representative Steny Hoyer, U.S. Representative John Sarbanes, and Maryland Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo.  

“Partnering with the IRS to offer Direct File to eligible Maryland taxpayers in the 2025 tax season is an exciting opportunity and fundamental to our core priority of modernizing our agency to make government work better for all Marylanders,” Comptroller Lierman said. “In countries across the globe, residents enjoy much simpler return-free tax systems. While our state and nation are not there yet, with Direct File and our agency’s new Maryland Tax Connect system for individuals coming this term, Maryland will have the most transparent, efficient, and modern system in the nation.” 

“Today, we take a big step forward to make tax season easier, simpler, and more affordable for all Marylanders,”?said Governor Moore.?“I want to thank the Biden-Harris Administration, Code for America, and our state, federal, and community partners for their support. This program has saved Americans millions of dollars in tax filing fees, and it’s going to deliver big results for the people of Maryland. Together, we will leave no one behind.” 

Direct File was established in response to a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act requiring the IRS to explore the feasibility of a public online filing service. In 2024, the IRS launched Direct File as a pilot program, in which 12 states participated. The IRS announced in May that the Direct File program would be a permanent filing option. Maryland will join the program, allowing residents with relatively straightforward returns to use Direct File to file their taxes beginning in 2025. Direct File will streamline the filing process for both state and federal returns, decrease processing times, and reduce filing costs. 

“Tax preparation for the average working American can come with high costs and countless hours filing returns. Fulfilling tax obligations shouldn’t be more difficult than the hours you spend working,” said Senator Cardin, a member of the Senate Finance Committee. “Direct File was extremely successful in making tax filing more affordable and accessible. Implementing a permanent Direct File program in Maryland will help lift a significant tax burden and benefit thousands of Maryland taxpayers.” 

“Thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, more than 700,000 Maryland taxpayers will be able to file their taxes online for free, directly with the IRS this coming Filing Season. Direct File will save Marylanders time and money and help ensure they receive the tax benefits they are owed,” said U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen. “After a successful pilot this Filing Season, we are pleased to expand the program as a permanent offering and welcome Maryland as the latest new state to offer this free option to taxpayers.”   

“Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we provided new resources for the IRS so it can better serve everyday Americans with initiatives like Direct File. Our state’s participation in this proven program will offer hundreds of thousands of Marylanders a convenient and free way to do their taxes next year – meaning less time filling out complicated returns and more money in their pockets,” said U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, who as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee oversees funding for the Treasury Department and IRS. 

“Americans want – and deserve – a free, easy, accurate, and secure option to file their taxes,”?said?Congressman Steny H.?Hoyer, Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government.?“As House Majority Leader last Congress, I helped secure funding for Direct File in the Inflation Reduction Act to provide them that opportunity. Direct File is yet another example of Democrats’ commitment to lowering costs for Marylanders and all Americans, and I am proud that Maryland will join nineteen other states in participating in the program?this?next tax filing season. I?appreciate?the IRS and our partners in the Biden-Harris Administration for making this option permanent and available?for?all taxpayers.” 

“The Direct File pilot program has proven its ability to ease the burden of tax season by saving taxpayers time, effort and money when filing. I appreciate the IRS’s work to expand this program across the country and am glad that starting in 2025, Marylanders will be able to use this new tool and experience a smoother, more affordable tax season,” said?Congressman Sarbanes. 

The Comptroller’s Office is partnering with the nonprofit, Code for America, to build a platform that will securely transfer information from a federal tax return to a state tax return. This will enable Marylanders with relatively simple tax returns to save time on paperwork and wait times for a refund, save money on hiring a tax professional or using expensive tax preparation software, and safeguard personal information that could be at risk when filing a paper return.?? 

“Code for America is committed to ensuring taxpayers across Maryland have access to free, easy online state tax filing,” Amanda Renteria, CEO of Code for America said. “Through our FileYourStateTaxes tool, more people will be able to file a return and gain access to tax benefits that help working families. We look forward to applying the mindful use of technology to the tax filing process in Maryland and providing this revolutionary service to the state’s people.” 

During the 2022 federal fiscal year, more than 150 million individuals submitted federal income tax returns to the IRS electronically, which translates to 94% of filings that year. In Maryland, 2.9 million of the more than 3.1 million individual filings in Maryland, or 92%, were submitted to the Comptroller’s Office electronically.  

Electronic filing allows for quicker processing of returns, as well as delivery of refunds directly to taxpayers’ bank accounts. 

Eligibility requirement for tax year 2024 (filing year 2025) will be released in January 2025 ahead of tax season.  

The Office of the Comptroller has 11 branch offices throughout the state that are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.  

Marylanders can find and schedule appointments at their nearest taxpayer services office or schedule a virtual appointment by visiting https://www.marylandtaxes.gov/locations.php.  

Taxpayers can also call 1-800-MD-TAXES or email taxhelp@marylandtaxes.gov for assistance. 

– The Town Council of the Town of Chesapeake Beach announces the upcoming review of concept plans for improvements to the Chesapeake Beach Water Park at the September 10, 2024, Town Council Work Session. The concepts, that are developed with input from a third-party geotechnical analysis, aim to make the necessary improvements to the twenty-nine-year-old Park, while accounting for the site and subbase conditions that have led to increased infrastructure failures and continued degradation. To complete the analysis, engineers completed several eighty-foot borings to test the existing subbase and subsoil conditions under the park. As a result of this examination, the findings conclude that attempting to repair the existing park as is would be "futile, dangerous and only continue to contribute to the park's subbase degradation." Therefore, replacing the park to include demolition of existing features with reinforcement to stabilize the subbase is required as the conditions are "no longer conducive to repair and have become a confined space hazard." Confined spaces present many hazards, including loss of life through physical conditions that can cause workers to be crushed, buried, drown or asphyxiated. To view the full letter from the Town Engineer summarizing the conditions, please click here. The results of the third-party engineering analysis confirm the conditions the Town’s Public Works Administrator and Public Works staff have increasingly experienced in their work to maintain the Water Park, as conveyed in several Town meetings. The conditions are a result of a design that is oversized for the infrastructure required to support its operation due to being constructed in a drained and filled wetland. “We have learned from the known site conditions and look forward to a new and improved Water Park that is not only safe for the public but also safe for Town staff to access and maintain,” stated Jay Berry, Town of Chesapeake Beach Public Works Administrator.

The Town Council work session will start at 6 PM at the Chesapeake Beach Town Hall on September 10, 2024, and will be live-streamed on the Town’s channel here. During the meeting, the concept plans will be viewable to the public. Plans incorporate Town citizen feedback, offering three scenarios with varying features, including slides, a lazy river, pools, and an interactive splash pad. The Town will seek Town citizen feedback in moving forward with a concept that meets their needs. To view quick facts previously released about the status of the Water Park, please click here.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 4, 2024) – The driver and sole occupant of the 2021 Nissan Armada involved in Sunday evening's fatal car crash has been identified as 64-year-old Melvin Leon Elem of Baltimore, MD.

Original News Release:

Single-Vehicle Collision Results in Fatality in Charlotte Hall

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 2, 2024) – At approximately 7:01 p.m. on Sunday, September 1, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported single-car collision in the center median in the area of Route 5 and Oak Station Drive in Charlotte Hall, MD.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 2021 Nissan Armada with extensive damage, indicating that the vehicle had flipped over. The sole occupant, an adult male, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver's identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Due to the nature of the accident, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Unit has assumed the investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that speed and alcohol were contributing factors in the collision.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the events leading up to it and has not yet provided a statement is asked to contact Corporal Dale Reppel at 301-475-4200, ext. 8059, or via email at Dale.Reppel@stmaryscountymd.gov.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, August 29, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Monise A. Brown sentenced Pio Arnoldo Flores, 56, of Bryantown, to 12 years in prison for the Sexual Abuse of a Minor. Flores will be on supervised probation for five years upon release from prison. Flores will also have to register as a Tier III sex offender after his release and comply with lifetime sexual offender supervision conditions.

On April 16, 2024, Flores pled guilty to the aforementioned charge.

On November 14, 2023, officers with Charles County Sheriff’s Office made contact with the then 16-year-old victim after receiving a report from the Department of Human Services alleging child sexual abuse. The victim reported that Flores began assaulting her in April 2020 when she was 13 years old. An investigation revealed that Flores began touching the victim inappropriately, which eventually progressed to sexual acts with the victim. The assaults ended in October of 2023. 

Flores knew the victim since she was an infant.

At sentencing, the Assistant State’s Attorney assigned to the case told the judge that Flores committed “the worst of the worst acts that constitute Sex Abuse of a Minor.” She also stated that “the psychological scars will affect this young lady for the rest of her life.”

Sentence

Count 1: Sex Abuse of a Minor

• 20 years with all but 12 years suspended
• Five years of supervised probation

• Hold a valid and unrestricted dental license in the State of Maryland
• Have a demonstrated commitment to serving underserved populations
• Possess the ability to deliver conservative dental services in a clinical setting
• Have appropriate malpractice insurance
• Remain as a “business in good standing” with the State of Maryland
• Agree to comply with all relevant federal, state, and local regulations

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is accepting applications from high school seniors interested in participating in the Maryland General Assembly Student Page Program. Each year, CCPS selects three high school seniors and one alternate to represent the school system in the program.

Student pages spend two nonconsecutive weeks working with the General Assembly during its legislative session in Annapolis. The session runs annually from January to April. Pages serve one week during the first seven weeks of the session, and the second week during the last six weeks.

The program is an opportunity for students interested in government who want to experience the legislative process. Duties include keeping bill books up to date, distributing materials on the floor to members, assisting visitors and delivering messages to members. Interested students must meet the following qualifications:

· Reside in Maryland and attend a Maryland public or non-public high school.

· Be registered as a high school senior and be at least 16 years old.

· Have or obtain a social security number.

· Have an interest in government and history.

· Have an average or above average scholastic record, and a record of good conduct.

· Be reliable and courteous.

· Have parental or guardian permission and signature to participate.

Students must apply by completing an official application, and an essay explaining their interest and qualifications for the program. These forms can be obtained from the county coordinator by email at llove@ccboe.com or by phone at 301-934-7389.

The application and essay template are also available at www.ccboe.com. To access the application and essay template, click here. Both completed documents must be submitted by email to llove@ccboe.com on or before 3 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3.

A panel of CCPS staff will review applications and essays, and hold Zoom interviews for the program Wednesday, Oct. 16. Candidates will receive further information about their interviews after all applications and essays have been received by the deadline.

Students who are selected to participate will be notified by Nov. 15 by the representatives of the offices of the Maryland President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House.

Next week, the MDOT State Highway Administration will implement its next phase of Operation Clean Sweep, a statewide effort to remove litter on State roads throughout Maryland.

The State Highway Administration team will perform litter removal and mowing operations along highly traveled State-maintained roadways during the first week of September (Tuesday September 3 – Friday September 6, 2024). Drivers are reminded to remain alert for work crews and to reduce speeds when approaching these maintenance operations. 

Customers can help by reporting litter on state roads by clicking here or they may also contact the SHA District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or toll-free at 1-800-331-5603. 

Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) received a 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The award was bestowed specifically for the organization’s work in the Innovation in Economic Development Week category, impacting 25,000 - 200,000 residents. The department will be acknowledged and honored at the IEDC 2024 Annual Conference in Denver, CO, September 15-18.

"Charles County Economic Development is setting the standard of excellence for economic development with its ?Business Appreciation Week 2024 and “With Love From Charles” Digital Gift Card Launch. This award highlights their commitment to the community and demonstrates the transformative impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “It is with great pride that IEDC presents this award to the Charles County EDD, celebrating their leadership and innovation in the field of economic development."

“We are absolutely thrilled to announce this year's award winners. These exceptional projects showcase remarkable dedication and ingenuity within the field," said Kevin Kramer, Chair of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee. “Charles County EDD’s contributions will leave a lasting impact and demonstrate its commitment to creating positive change for its residents.”

Every year, IEDC looks specifically for economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that have demonstrated consistent, exemplary performance in the economic development profession, led the execution of projects that significantly impact revitalizing communities, and played a major role in shaping and improving the practice of economic development.

“We are deeply honored to receive the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from IEDC,” said Economic Development Director Kelly Robertson-Slagle. “This recognition reflects the collective efforts and innovative spirit of our team, as well as the unwavering support of our community. Our initiatives, such as Business Appreciation Week 2024 and the ‘With Love From Charles’ Digital Gift Card Launch, are a testament to our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Charles County. We look forward to continuing our work to drive economic growth and foster a thriving community.”

About Charles County Economic Development Department

Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) supports and promotes the economic vitality of Charles County, Maryland, a dynamic and fast-growing metro area region in Washington, D.C. It serves as the first point of contact for local businesses and companies seeking to locate or relocate to Charles County.   

With a strong collaborative network of businesses, education, and governmental partners, the organization assists companies through various services, including site selection, workforce training, incentive packaging, introductions to business contacts, permit expeditions, and capital sourcing.  

EDD seeks to attract entrepreneurs, talented professionals, and companies from crucial growth industries to the region by marketing Charles County's business, workforce, and lifestyle assets. In addition, the EDD provides resources and support for existing businesses to help them grow and expand in Charles County.?  

About the International Economic Development Council

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,300 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in the full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and other institutions. When IEDC succeeds, its members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at www.iedconline.org today!

LEONARDTOWN, MD (September 3, 2024) – As the nation recognizes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this September, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) is spotlighting its innovative Co-Responder Program, a critical initiative designed to address mental health crises.

Since its inception in September 2021, the SMCSO’s Co-Responder Program has been at the forefront of mental health intervention in St. Mary’s County. Under the leadership of Alexis Higdon, the Community Mental Health Liaison, this program pairs sworn SMCSO Crisis Intervention Team members with a mental health professional on calls involving individuals in crisis. This unique approach allows for immediate mental health assessments and timely interventions, including connecting individuals with behavioral health care services. Over the past three years, more than a hundred individuals have received timely mental health care assistance from this program. The co-responder program is a vital part of the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to reducing the risk of suicide and improving mental health outcomes in St. Mary’s County.

To further support well-being, the SMCSO website, www.firstsheriff.com/community/resources, offers a comprehensive list of resources, contact information, and details for support services, including behavioral health, crisis management, financial assistance, and many other needs. Those needing immediate emotional support should call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Maryland is among 30 states that will take possession of a portion of $190 million in unclaimed property funds as part of a settlement against the State of Delaware related to the proper remittance of MoneyGram Payment Systems, Inc.’s (MoneyGram) official checks. In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously that unclaimed official checks issued by MoneyGram are governed by the Federal Disposition of Abandoned Money Orders and Traveler’s Checks Act and should be remitted, or sent back to the state where those instruments were purchased.  

MoneyGram had previously remitted those funds solely to Delaware, where the company is incorporated.  Maryland was part of a 30-state coalition of plaintiffs that sued Delaware for the return of the proceeds of unclaimed official checks that were purchased outside of Delaware.  

Following the Supreme Court’s decision, the parties negotiated a settlement of the return of the funds. Under the terms of the settlement, Delaware will transfer more than $102 million of the monies that MoneyGram reported to Delaware from 2011 to 2017 to the coalition states, based on each monetary instrument’s place of purchase. Of this amount, Maryland will receive $4.6 million. 

In addition, from 2018 to 2022, MoneyGram deposited the proceeds of unclaimed official checks totaling $89 million into an escrow account, which will be distributed among all 50 states based on where each unclaimed asset was purchased. Of this amount, the coalition states will receive nearly $55 million of the escrowed monies, plus interest. Maryland’s share of the escrowed monies is $3.5 million, not including interest. 

“We appreciate the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, which led to this settlement and which will ensure that MoneyGram’s unclaimed checks will be remitted to the states where they are purchased,” Comptroller Brooke Lierman said. “The Office of the Comptroller does all we can to reunite Marylanders with the money that rightfully belongs to them, so they can invest in themselves, their families, and communities for a more prosperous future.”  

The settlement agreement ends the litigation before the United States Supreme Court.  

The Office of the Attorney General joined this litigation, on behalf of the Comptroller of Maryland, and on behalf of Marylanders whose unclaimed property was being held by another state. 

“It is only fair that money spent in Maryland that isn’t claimed as intended is returned to Maryland,”?Attorney General Anthony Brown said. “The Supreme Court’s decision and the resulting settlements reinforce how government works for and in defense of the best interests of its people. I am glad the case was brought to a successful conclusion, and I applaud the state’s efforts to reunite this money with its rightful owners.”?  

Maryland and other states will continue their outreach efforts to return unclaimed property to owners. The Comptroller encourages residents to search its database for any unclaimed property. Individuals who may have a claim to funds, including funds received as part of the settlement involving MoneyGram official checks, may search their names at https://www.marylandtaxes.gov/unclaimed-property/ or email unclaim@marylandtaxes.gov.  

When claims are verified, Maryland will return the proceeds of the official checks to the rightful owners.  

“We look forward to continuing our year-round outreach to find the owners of these misplaced funds and building on our strong track record of reuniting Marylanders with their money, no matter how much time has passed,” Unclaimed Property Division Director Mahesh Seegopaul said. 

The Maryland State Comptroller’s Unclaimed Property Division brought in $315 million in unclaimed property and returned $81 million to rightful owners in fiscal year 2023. The Office of the Comptroller reunites Marylanders with unclaimed assets without charge to individuals or business entities as part of its decades-old program.  

To learn more about unclaimed property and to use the state’s free online search tool, visit https://www.marylandtaxes.gov/unclaimed-property/ 

At approximately 7:01 p.m. on Sunday, September 1, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported single-car collision in the center median in the area of Route 5 and Oak Station Drive in Charlotte Hall, MD.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 2021 Nissan Armada with extensive damage, indicating that the vehicle had flipped over. The sole occupant, an adult male, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver's identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Due to the nature of the accident, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Unit has assumed the investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that speed and alcohol were contributing factors in the collision.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the events leading up to it and has not yet provided a statement is asked to contact Corporal Dale Reppel at 301-475-4200, ext. 8059, or via email at Dale.Reppel@stmaryscountymd.gov.

At approximately 1:37 a.m. on September 1, 2024, patrol units from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian in the area of Three Notch Road and Carpenter Lane, Charlotte Hall, MD, with CPR in progress. 

The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, operated by Samuel Robert Simmons, 41, of Saint Inigoes, was traveling southbound on Three Notch Road when a vehicle in front of him swerved to avoid a pedestrian walking in the right lane. Simmons also attempted to swerve but was unable to avoid striking the pedestrian, identified as Lew William Chavis, 39, of Gaston, S.C. Chavis was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Initial findings suggest that speed was not a factor in the collision.

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

Bowhunting opportunities continue into February 

Photo by Mary Pat Bozel, submitted to the 2021 Maryland DNR Photo Contest.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will open the archery hunting season for white-tailed and sika deer on Sept. 6. The season runs intermittently through Jan. 31, 2025.

 Archers may use vertical longbows and vertical recurve bows Feb. 1 and Feb. 3-4, 2025 during the third annual Primitive Deer Hunt Days. Hunters should consult the 2024-2025 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping for specific dates and closures in their region.

“Archery season is always exciting because it signifies the changing of the seasons, enabling hunters to really get on the ground (or in the stand) and take advantage of our abundant hunting opportunities,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said. “For many, archery season provides a fresh start for both new and experienced deer hunters. It allows folks to get outdoors, become reacquainted with nature, and if they’re lucky, put some meat in the freezer.” 

For the 2024-25 deer season, the statewide bag limit for white-tailed bucks is two deer total (no more than one per weapon season). Hunters have the option to take one additional bonus buck in Region B (the state’s central, southern, and eastern regions) after purchasing a Bonus Antlered Deer Stamp.

The antlerless archery deer bag limits differ between deer management regions. In Region A, comprising Western Maryland, up to two antlerless deer may be harvested during archery season, and no more than two total for all weapon seasons combined. Only one antlerless deer per day may be harvested in Region A. An additional antlerless deer may be harvested in Region A during the Primitive Deer Hunt Days. 

In Region B, the antlerless archery limit is 15, except for in the Suburban Deer Management Zone, where the archery antlerless limit is now unlimited. This zone comprises Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties.

Hunters intending to pursue sika deer must purchase a sika hunting stamp in addition to the archery stamp. Sika stamps may be purchased on the department’s online licensing system, at a licensing agent, or by calling the department’s Licensing and Registration Service at 866-344-8889. 

New for the 2024-25 season, non-residents may purchase the sika hunting stamp for $200. The sika deer archery season bag limit is three with no more than one being antlered. An antlered sika is defined as a deer with at least one antler visible above the hairline. The sika deer archery season is open in every county.

Multiple Sundays are open to archery hunting in most counties, including on some public lands. Hunters can consult the 2024-2025 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping for additional information on Sunday hunting and other deer hunting opportunities.

An antler-point restriction remains in effect. Deer hunters may harvest one antlered white-tailed deer within the yearly bag limit that does not meet the requirement of having at least three points on one antler. Any additional antlered deer taken within the established bag limit must meet the minimum point restriction. Licensed junior hunters and apprentice license holders who are 16 or younger are exempt from this restriction.

Hunters should carefully inspect all tree-stands and always wear a full-body safety harness while in the stand and while climbing in or out. The department strongly recommends using a sliding knot, commonly known as a prusik knot, attached to a line that is secured above the stand that allows the hunter to be safely tethered to the tree as soon as they leave the ground.

Hunters should report deer taken with a long, compound, or recurve bow as harvested with a vertical bow when checking in their deer. Crossbow hunters should register their deer as taken with a crossbow. This information helps biologists collect information on preferences and trends in how deer are harvested.

Hunters are encouraged to help others by donating deer taken in Maryland to food banks. A state tax credit offers hunters an incentive for donated deer. Other local or state programs are also available so hunters should check with their deer processors.

For the first time in over three and half years, the Office of the State Fire Marshal welcomed its newest, non-lateral, sworn investigator. Deputy State Fire Marshal Sierra Hawkins graduated from the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission Academy in Sykesville earlier today. 

Friends, family, and command staff attended the graduation and witnessed Hawkins take the solemn oath to serve and protect the residents of Maryland. Next week, she will begin the agency's intense field training program, which could take nearly six months before she investigates fires and explosions autonomously.

Hawkins, at 23, is one of the youngest investigators appointed in the agency's history and our first non-lateral since the fall of 2020. She graduated from the University of New Haven with a major in Fire Science and a minor in English and interned with the Southern Regional Office in 2022.

"I am pleased to welcome DSFM Hawkins to our family, and on her career protecting the citizens from fire and explosions," said Chief Deputy and Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "Over the past year, she has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to public safety and the law enforcement profession and completed a rigorous training curriculum at the Academy. I am confident she will continue to embody our agency's longstanding legacy of providing high quality, professional investigations and code enforcement to those we serve." 

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is committed to recruiting individuals from all backgrounds with the necessary qualifications to serve our diverse and inclusive community. Deputy Hawkins is the first black female to hold the Deputy State Fire Marshal position in the agency's 130-year history.

Hawkins has been assigned to the Lower Eastern Regional Office, which consists of Dorchester, Wicomico, and Somerset counties.

She will continue her studies in fire, arson, and explosion investigations by attending numerous courses at the National Fire Academy, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, National Center for Explosives Training Center, the International Association of Arson Investigators, and National Association of Fire Investigators.

CDS Violation: 24-63671 On August 19, 2024, Deputy Sylver initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 4000 block of St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard. Contact was made with the driver, Candida Ann Marie Bowen, 36 of St. Leonard. Further investigation revealed a K9 sniff of the vehicle resulted in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed multiple water bottles containing urine, several paper folds containing suspected heroin, and a small baggie of marijuana. Bowen was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-64372 On August 22, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the 1200 block of Gowan Court in Prince Frederick, for the report of a disorderly suspect. Multiple complainants advised an unknown 2 heavily intoxicated male was knocking on people's doors. Upon arrival, contact was made with Christopher Alan Hall, 62 of no fixed address. Hall was observed laying on the sidewalk yelling at nearby citizens. Hall was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. A secondary search of Hall’s person revealed a small baggie of marijuana. Hall was charged with Intoxicated Public Disturbance and Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement.

Theft: 24-63689 On August 20, 2024, DFC Plant was alerted to stolen tags while in the parking lot of CalvertHealth Medical Center located at 100 Hospital Road in Prince Frederick. Contact was made with the operator of the vehicle, Ronald Anthony Davis, 38 of Aquasco. Investigation revealed the tags were stolen through Fairfax County. Davis was transported to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and charged with Theft: Less than $100.

Theft: 24-64165 On August 21, 2024, Deputy Chase responded to the Calvert County Sheriff's Office, located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised on August 17 sometime before 2 p.m., an unknown suspect(s) stole a purse from the victim’s vehicle. The purse contained a wallet with multiple forms of identification, a bottle of lotion and medications. The estimated value of stolen property is $280.00.

Theft: 24-64359 On August 22, 2024, Master Deputy Cress responded to the BP Gas Station, located at 2975 W. Chesapeake Beach Road in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown female entered the store and stole a bottle of tequilla. The estimated value of stolen merchandise is $33.00.

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning invites county residents to participate in the next phase of the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance update process. Comments from the initial review were considered and used to develop the second draft, which reflects the community’s input.

Planning & Zoning is seeking public comment on the second draft of updates to the Calvert Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map. The record of public comment for the first draft is closed with the publication of the second draft. Citizens who previously submitted comments are encouraged to review the new draft and provide additional feedback if they feel their initial comments have not been fully addressed.

The draft ordinance and map and a schedule of the process are available online at www.calvertcountymd.gov/ZoningOrdinanceUpdate.

Public comments for the second draft must be received no later than Friday, Sept. 27, 2024. Public comment may be submitted by email to ZOupdate@calvertcountymd.gov or by mail Attn: ZO Update, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

The second draft and all comments received by the Sept. 27 deadline will be reviewed by the County Attorney, Board of County Commissioners and Planning Commission prior to public hearings. Public hearings are scheduled for the following dates:

·         Nov. 20, 2024: Planning Commission public hearing

·         Dec. 10, 2024: Board of County Commissioners public hearing

(These dates may be subject to change.)

The Calvert County Zoning Ordinance regulates land usage, as many aspects of land use can impact adjoining neighborhoods, public facilities and overall county development as part of the effort to promote health, safety and welfare of Calvert County residents, as mandated in the Comprehensive Plan (adopted in 2019 and amended in 2022).

For more information contact Will Hager at 410-535-1600, ext. 8553, or Will.Hager@calvertcountymd.gov or Rachel O’Shea at 410-535-1600, ext. 2339, or  Rachel.OShea@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.

Patrol officers de-escalate violent domestic assault and arrest suspect who was armed with a firearm: On August 28 at 9:22 a.m., officers responded to the 2000 block of Amberleaf Place in Waldorf for the report of a domestic-related assault involving a firearm. Upon arrival, officers located the victim who was in the parking lot. The victim reported her boyfriend, Damon Clyburn Glenn, 43, of Waldorf, began to argue with her inside their apartment. As she attempted to leave, he grabbed her by her neck and began choking her. He then retrieved a firearm and threatened to kill her. The victim found an opportunity to flee, and she ran from the apartment and called 9-1-1.

Officers responded to the apartment and attempted to contact the suspect, who refused to open the door. Officers established a perimeter and Cpl. S. Rollins, who is trained in Crisis Intervention, responded. She initiated a rapport with the suspect and began de-escalating the situation. The suspect exited the apartment about 20 minutes later and was taken into custody without further incident.  A firearm was recovered inside. Glenn was charged with first-degree assault. On August 29, a judge ordered Glenn to be released from the Charles County Detention Center on electronic monitoring. PFC Z. Snyder is investigating.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and the Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board announce an increase in the purchase price of Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) for the county’s TDR Reserve program.

The BOCC recently approved a new purchase price of $6,000 per TDR, an increase from the $5,500 price previously established in September 2023. The TDR Reserve program, which facilitates the purchase and sale of development rights, will continue to operate on a first-come, first-served basis, contingent upon available funding and TDR supply. There is no limit on the number of TDRs that an owner can sell. TDRs purchased through the program will be resold at the purchase price paid by the BOCC, plus an additional 1% administrative fee.

Applications for both buyers and sellers are accepted by the Department of Planning & Zoning and are available on the county website at www.CalvertCountymd.gov/TDRReserve.

Completed applications may be submitted by mail to the Department of Planning & Zoning, Attention: Jennifer David, 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678, or by email to Jennifer.David@CalvertCountymd.gov.

The TDR Reserve program acts as a revolving fund in which TDRs are purchased, held in reserve and resold by the BOCC, allowing citizens to purchase and sell TDRs through county government instead of private negotiations between buyers and sellers. By providing additional opportunities for Agricultural Preservation District owners to sell their TDRs, the program plays a crucial role in preserving the county’s rural character and protecting working lands and sensitive natural areas from development. The use of the resold TDRs allows for increased density in designated residential growth areas while preserving productive agriculture and forested land for future generations. 

For more information, contact Rural Planner Jennifer David at 410-535-1600, ext. 2238, or by email at Jennifer.David@CalvertCountymd.gov.

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

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and the Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board announce the application period for the county’s Purchase and Retirement (PAR) Fund program is now open through Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. Established in 1992, the PAR fund program is part of Calvert County’s longstanding effort to preserve agricultural land. Through the program, Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) are purchased, retired and permanently removed from the market to protect farmland from development.

The BOCC recently approved a new purchase price of $6,000 per TDR which will replace the $5,500 price previously approved in September 2023. The county will offer to buy development rights from willing sellers until TDR funding is exhausted. The annual cycle will conclude prior to the end of the current fiscal year, in June 2025. There is no cap on how many TDRs can be sold by an owner.

Current owners of Agricultural Preservation Districts may apply. Applications are ranked by a formula established in the Agricultural Preservation Program rules and regulations.

The application deadline is Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. Applications are available on the county website at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/PAR. Completed applications may be submitted by mail to the Department of Planning & Zoning, Attention: Rural Planner Jennifer David at 205 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678, or by email to Jennifer.David@calvertcountymd.gov. For more information, email or call Jennifer David at 410-535-1600, ext. 2238.

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.