Monday, October 31, 2016

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Conducts Tobacco Compliance Checks

On October 13, 2016, members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office conducted underage tobacco compliance checks at various businesses throughout St. Mary’s County. As a result of the operation, four businesses were cited for selling to a minor:

Boatman’s Mini-Mart
41106 Oakville Rd, Mechanicsville MD, 20659

Dash-Inn
30100 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall MD, 20622

Rite-Aid
30283 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall Maryland, 20622

Terry’s Tobacco
29015 Three Notch Road, Mechanicsville MD, 20659

The sales clerk’s from each business were cited with a civil citation for furnishing tobacco products to a minor. Boatman’s Mini Mart will also face an administrative sanction through
the St. Mary’s County Alcohol Board for violation of local rules and regulations.

For questions regarding tobacco compliance checks contact Captain Steven Hall at Steven.Hall@stmarysmd.com or by phone, 301-481-7354.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and Southern Maryland Young Marines host educational awareness event on heroin and opioids

The first local screening of 'Chasing the Dragon', a documentary about opioid and heroin addiction, proved to be an eye-opener for the more than 230 members of the community who attended. The 45-minute documentary was shown on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, in conjunction with a forum jointly hosted by the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office and the Southern Maryland Young Marines Unit. The forum was part of an ongoing educational effort by law enforcement and community agencies trying to stem the tide of opioid and heroin abuse.

'Chasing the Dragon', a joint production of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), was created in order to raise awareness about heroin and opioid abuse in the United States. The documentary contains several case studies of people who either became addicted to opiates themselves or had family members who were addicted. Members of the State Attorney's Office for St. Mary’s County, the FBI, the DEA and the Attorney General’s Office, also spoke at the forum on behalf of their respective agencies.

Following those presentations, local panelists, including St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Commander Capt. Alioto, St. Mary’s County Public Schools Superintendent Scott Smith, St. Mary’s County Health Department Health Officer Dr. Meenakshi Brewster, and CEO of Walden Dr. Kathleen O’ Brien, discussed partnerships among law enforcement and community agencies, drug abuse statistics and provided information on the scope of the local heroin epidemic.

Capt. Alioto stated, “It never gets any easier for a deputy sheriff standing in someone's living room, searching for the right words to tell a family member when their loved one has died. A death that stems from a drug overdose is extremely difficult. As parents we hold on to hope, lean on our faith, and pray that this time it will be different. For every person we educate on the deadly consequences of opioid abuse, we may be saving another family, and for us, the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, this is exactly why we will continue to identify trends, tactics and ways to connect with each segment of the population.”

Prior to the screening, Laura Webb, Recovery and Support Director for Walden, told attendees, “Heroin and opioid misuse is not glamorous or harmless.  We need your help to inform our communities about its true nature—much of which we will see in the film this evening.  We need the help of community members who are concerned enough to make a difference. Your attendance here today is a sign of our shared concerns and joint commitment to that goal.”

As part of the outreach effort, the forum included tables of resources and other information made available to attendees. In addition, each person who attended the event received a copy of the documentary and was encouraged throughout the presentation to use the video as a tool to start neighborhood discussions. As Ms. Webb reminded them, “one of the biggest parts of getting help for people already suffering and ending the epidemic is educating those around us.”

Sheriff Tim Cameron thanked the members of the public who attended the forum and gave special recognition to the Young Marines for their drug reduction efforts. “They are the recipients of the DEA’s prestigious Enrique “Kiki Camarena” award for their work as a unit in promoting Red Ribbon Week and spreading the prevention message...through peer to peer education and community awareness.”

Master of the ceremonies Laura Webb concluded the event by saying, “You don’t have to be sainted, like Mother Teresa or Nelson Mandela or Archbishop Desmond Tutu to change things. Ordinary people with lives that go up and down and around in circles can still contribute to change.  While this marks the end of our event, the work continues.”

Afterward, St. Mary’s County added a unique feature to the event by offering Overdose Response Program (Naloxone) Training. The training was hosted by the St. Mary’s County Health Department and led by Dr. Brewster. Each person who underwent training left the session armed with a Naloxone kit.  “The response for the training was overwhelming – every seat was filled that night,” said Capt. Alioto.  “Overall the event was a complete success and the only downside was that our Naloxone training was filled to capacity and there were so many more attendees looking to participate.”

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Young Marines for their co-sponsorship of the event. They also thank local stakeholders St. Mary’s County Public Schools, Walden, the Health Department, and St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services for their continued support.

Sheriff Cameron extends A special thank you to speakers State's Attorney Richard Fritz, St. Mary’s County; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Baltimore Office; Supervisory Special Agent Ken Abrams, Drug Enforcement Administration, Washington Field Office; United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, Steven J. Hess and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Keri Borzillero, United States Attorney for District of Maryland for taking time to speak with St. Mary’s County residents and for their continued support.


Last, but certainly not least, the Sheriff’s Office extends appreciation to our community stakeholders – the attendees. We have embarked on an effort to educate our communities about the effects of drug abuse, in the hope that people of all ages – especially young people – will think carefully for themselves about where drug misuse can lead them. Thank you for adding your voice to ours; together we can build a healthier, safer, community.





Additional Photos: http://bit.ly/2f5zt20



Sunday, October 30, 2016

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Incident Involving a Pedestrian

On October 30, 2016,at approximately 2:12 A.M. a St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputy was traveling southbound on Chancellors Run Road in the area of Pegg Road when a pedestrian entered the roadway. The pedestrian was struck by the deputy’s vehicle and succumbed to injuries sustained. The Collision Reconstruction Team responded to the scene and continued the investigation.

Alcohol and speed do not appear to be contributing factors and due to the nature of the preliminary investigation, the names of the officer and pedestrian are being withheld. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Cpl. Brian Connelly at (240) 309-7982.

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Traffic Impacts Oct. 28-30 for Pax River Air Expo 2016

Traffic Impacts Oct. 28-30 for Pax River Air Expo 2016

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding the naval air station are advised that increased traffic in and around NAS Patuxent River can be expected due to the Pax River Air Expo ’16 from Friday, Oct. 28, 2016 to Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016 between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Traffic flow surrounding the installation will be impacted in the following areas Saturday, Oct. 29 and Sunday, Oct. 30:

Intersection of Pegg Road and Rt. 235 in Lexington Park, MD – Drivers coming from Pegg Road will be directed north or south on Rt. 235; no access to NAS Pax River Gate 1 from Pegg Road.

Following the Air Expo completion for the day on Oct. 29 and 30, traffic leaving from NAS Pax River Gate 1 will be directed north on Rt. 235 only; no access to Pegg Road from Gate 1.
Following the Air Expo completion for the day on Oct. 29 and 30, traffic leaving from NAS Pax River Gate 2 will be allowed access to Great Mills Road or south on Rt. 235; no right turn north on Rt. 235 from Gate 2.
USN—

SMCSO Investigating Motor Vehicle Collision in Mechanicsville

On October 28, 2016, at approximately 6:27 p.m. St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the area of Three Notch Road and Mechanicsville Road for the report of a serious motor vehicle accident in which one of the vehicles had rolled over. Officers arriving on scene discovered a 2011 Nissan Frontier off the roadway with two passengers ejected, and the driver was trapped. Firefighters extracted the driver while emergency medical personnel tended to the other patients. A 2006 Jeep Liberty was also involved in the accident and was in the roadway with the driver also trapped. Trooper 7, Trooper 2, and Park Police’s Eagle 2 were called to transport a total of five patients to Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. Due to the severity of the injuries, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Reconstruction Unit was contacted and responded to the scene.

The investigation revealed the 2006 Jeep Liberty was being operated by Victoria Gellings, age 46, of Mechanicsville, who was traveling southbound on Three Notch Road when for unknown reasons she left the roadway. Gellings continued to drive off-road until she re-entered the roadway on Mechanicsville Road. Gellings then struck the 2011 Nissan Frontier that was stopped at the red light on Mechanicsville Road waiting to turn north onto Three Notch Road. The Nissan Frontier was being operated by Michael Flores, age 31 of Lexington Park. The three passengers in the Nissan Frontier were Angela Kalnasy, age 26 of Mechanicsville, Christopher Kalnasy, age 25 of Mechanicsville, and Katelyn Kalnasy, age 22 of Mechanicsville. The Jeep pushed the Nissan sideways until the Nissan struck the curb and the edge of the roadway and rolled over before coming to rest on its tires. 

At this time it is unknown if alcohol or speed was a factor in the accident. Anyone with any information regarding the accident is asked to call DFC Beyer at 240-925-5313.

Friday, October 28, 2016

Arrests 10/28/2016

10-14-2016 – Malicious Destruction of Property – Deputy H. Smith responded to the intersection of Budds Creek Road and Woodyard Court in Mechanicsville for the report of a person vandalizing the St. Mary’s County Welcome sign. Arriving deputies observed the suspect, Crystal Tiffany Eberle, age 34, of Mechanicsville, was hitting the sign with a nearby light fixture. Eberle also defaced the sign with a black marker. Eberle was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Malicious Destruction of Property 1000+. CASE# 53381-16

Crystal T. Eberle
10-15-2016 – Assault – Deputy A. Schultz responded to the 44000 block of Hunting Meadows Court in Callaway for the report of an assault. The victim alleged the suspect, James Travis Moore, age 28, of Lexington Park, strangled the victim during an argument and then fled the residence in a motor vehicle. The victim reported losing consciousness and fleeing to other rooms to hide from Moore who forced entry into one of the rooms where the victim was hiding. The suspect was located driving, and a vehicle stop was initiated. Moore was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where a search of the suspect revealed suspected oxycodone. Moore was charged with First Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, Malicious Destruction of Property/Value $1000, CDS Possession: Not Marijuana, and Possession of Contraband in Place of Confinement. CASE# 53555-16

James T. Moore

10-15-2016 – Possession – Deputy A. Beishline and Sgt. Clay Safford were in the area of Lex’s Apartments when they saw the suspect, Jessica Ann Bonacci, age 31, of Lexington Park, attempting to hide in a motor vehicle. Bonacci, previously issued a notice not to trespass for the apartment complex, was to exit the vehicle. In plain view was a spoon with residue, a cotton ball, hypodermic syringe and suspected heroin. Bonacci was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with Possession of CDS: Not Marijuana – Heroin, Four Counts of Possession – Paraphernalia, and Trespass – Private Property. CASE#53632-16


Jessica A. Bonacci



10-18-2016 – Possession – Deputy K. Flerlage conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of South Sandgates Road for a motor vehicle operating without rear tag lights. Further investigation revealed the suspect, Justin Bradley Wathen, age 28, of Bowie, had an active bench warrant through Worcester County. Wathen was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where a search revealed several tablets of Xanax that were not prescribed to Wathen. CASE#53982-16

Justin B. Wathen

10-18-2016 – Assault – Deputy C. Beyer responded to the 28000 block of Hancock Drive for a fight in progress. The victim alleged the suspect, Linda Dawn Cherrico, age 52, of Mechanicsville, assaulted the victim during an argument. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. Cherrico was placed under arrest, transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 54139-16


Linda D. Cherrico


10-18-2016 – Assault – Deputy B. Fennessey responded to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center for a reported assault. The suspects, Kristopher Brenton Gray, age 29, of California and Howard Dale Woods, age 52, of California, were involved in a physical fight while incarcerated at the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. Inmates Gray and Woods were both charged with Second Degree Assault on a DOC inmate. CASE# 54075-16

Howard D. Woods
Kristopher B, Gray

10-22-2016 – Possession – Deputy L. Johnson responded to the 45000 block of Buck Redman Road in Callaway for a reported assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Donna Lacey Bernich, age 38, of Callaway, assaulted the victim by scratching and pointing a taser at the victim. Bernich assaulted another victim who tried to intervene during the fight, and both victims displayed visible injuries. Bernich was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. During a search of Bernich, deputies recovered suspected Oxycodone in her possession. Bernich was charged with Two Counts of Second Degree Assault and CDS Possession: Not Marijuana. CASE#54785-16

Donna L. Bernich


10-21-2016 – Burglary – Deputy B. Gaskill responded to the 45000 block of Clarks Mills Road in Hollywood for a reported burglary. The suspect, Andrew Mark Herold, age 27, of No Fixed Address, stole multiple items from a victim’s garage over a period of time. The victim also alleged the suspect cut multiple copper pipes from the victim’s basement and cut all the electrical wires in the garage causing thousands of dollars worth of damage to the residence. Herold was identified through surveillance footage at a local used auto parts store where he was removing items from his car and exchanging them for cash, in addition to selling multiple items at a pawn store. Herold was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. Herold was charged with First Degree Burglary, Third Degree Burglary, Fourth Degree Burglary, Theft $10,000 to under $100,000 and Malicious Destruction of Property $1000+. CASE# 54638-16

Andrew M. Herold 

10-23-2016 – Disorderly Conduct – Corporal B. Foor responded to the 22000 block of Willow Spring Lane in Lexington Park for a reported disturbance. Upon arrival, Corporal Foor witnessed the suspect, Jonathan Lynn Cody, Jr., age 31, of Great Mills, yelling, cursing, and using profanities in a public parking lot causing a disturbance. Corporal Foor advised Cody that if he did not stop, he would be arrested for disorderly conduct. Cody lowered his voice and arrangements were made for him to receive a ride home. Later that same day, the Emergency Communications Center received a disturbance call in the same area. After multiple requests for Cody to stop yelling, he refused and was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Failure to Obey a Lawful Order. CASE# 54930-16

Johnathan L. Cody, Jr.

10-24-2016 – Theft – Deputy R. Steinbach responded to the Bath and Body Works Store in California for the report of a theft in progress. The suspect, Christian Scott Ellis, age 23, of Leonardtown, stole multiple items and then fled from the store. The suspect returned the store and was placed under arrest, transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center, and charged with Theft Less Than $1000. CASE# 55161-16
Christian S. Ellis






Thursday, October 27, 2016

Vice/Narcotics Arrest

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics detectives identified Brian Anthony Knott (Age 26 of Great Mills, MD) as a distributor of “Oxycodone”. Undercover purchases were conducted which lead to a subsequent indictment and arrest. He was originally held on no bond status.

Inquiries should be directed to Captain Daniel D. Alioto, Commander of Vice/Narcotics, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1918.





Brian Anthony Knott 

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Incident Briefs – 10/25/2016


Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a residence and stole property on Bradley Way in Lexington Park. Cpl. D. Corcoran is investigating the case. CASE# 55144-16


 As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.



Monday, October 24, 2016

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Graduate from Emergency Services Team Basic Training

On Saturday, October 21, 2016, Deputy James Bare and Deputy Gerard Muschette graduated from the 33rd session of the Prince George’s County Emergency Services Team Basic Training School.

Captain Steven Hall congratulated the deputies and said, “The addition of these two young men to our team solidifies our future and improves our ability to respond to critical incidents and missions with the efficiency and the precision needed to save lives.”

Sheriff Tim Cameron and the men and women of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office congratulate Deputy Bare and Deputy Muschette on their completion of Emergency Services Team training and extend their sincere thanks to the Prince George’s County Police Department for all the effort put forth to host this demanding training. 



Picture Caption: (L-R) Deputy James Bare, Deputy Gerard Muschette, and Captain Steven Hall at Emergency Services Team Basic Training graduation.









Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Investigating Armed Robbery

On October 23, 2016, at approximately 9:26 p.m. St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the area of the Pot Belly restaurant in California, MD for a reported armed robbery. Two employees were inside the establishment after closing when an unknown male suspect entered the establishment through an unlocked side door. The suspect utilized a handgun to rob the business before fleeing the area.

The suspect was described as a male approximately 5’10” to 6’0” tall, medium build, wearing black pants, a mask, and a hooded jacket.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Skyler Leave at 301-475-4200, ext. *1983 or by e-mail, Skyler.Lefave@stmarysmd.com. Callers may also call Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333 (callers can remain anonymous, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus your message to “CRIMES” (274637).

Incident Briefs 10/20/2016 - 10/24/2016




10-20-2016

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered motor vehicles on Sayer Drive in California. Dep. H Smith is investigating the cases. CASE# 54415-16, 54419-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property on Longfields Boulevard in California. CASE# 54483-16

Vandalism – Unknown suspect(s) slashed the tires on a motor vehicle on King Way in California. CASE#54424-16

10-21-2016

Burglary to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property in the 45000 block of Longfields Boulevard. Cpl. J. Vezzosi is investigating the case. CASE#54540-16

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 45000 block of Longfields Boulevard. Nothing appeared to be removed from the vehicle. Cpl. J. Vezzosi is investigating the case. CASE# 54548-16

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 45000 block of Longfields Boulevard. Nothing appeared to be removed from the vehicle. Cpl. J. Vezzosi is investigating the case. CASE# 54555-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property. The victim was running errands throughout the county and was unsure exactly when the items were removed from the motor vehicle. Dep. J. Smith is investigating the case. CASE# 54618-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 21000 block of Rosewood Terrace in Lexington Park. Dep. J. Bush is investigating the case. CASE# 54867-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 22000 block of Goddard Court in Leonardtown. Dep. T. Payne is investigating the case. CASE# 54902-16

10-24-2016                                                                                                                                  

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence; however, nothing appeared to be missing. Dep. T. Bush is investigating the case. CASE# 55035-16


As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.

Thursday, October 20, 2016

Incident Briefs – 10/20/2016




Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 21000 block of Lookout Drive in Lexington Park. Cpl. T Seyfried is investigating the case. CASE# 54294-16

Arson – Unknown suspect(s) lit a motor vehicle on fire in the 46000 block of Orchid Lane in Park Hall. The Fire Marshall’s Office responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. CASE# 54256-16

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered multiple motor vehicles and stole property in the 22000 block of Deerpath Court in California. Deputy R. Steinbach is investigating the cases. CASE#54369-16, 54370-16, and 54372-16


 As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.
Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information. If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.



Wanted: Lee Kitwell Clark, Jr.

Lee Kitwell Clark, Jr.
Lee Kitwell Clark, Jr has an active arrest warrant for violating the terms of pre-trial release.
Age: 30, 6’00”, 162 lbs., and Black Hair, and Brown Eyes

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Melissa Hulse at 301-475-4200, ext. *1996 or by e-mail, Melissa.Hulse@stmarysmd.com.


Anyone with information is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333 or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to "CRIMES" (274637).

Lee Kitwell Clark, Jr. 

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Incident Briefs – 10/19/2016




Theft – Unknown suspect(s) removed batteries from cell towers in the 21000 block of Oakley Road in Avenue. Cpl. J. Sommerville is investigating the case. CASE# 54080-16

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle; however, nothing appeared to be stolen. Cpl. M. Rogers is investigating the case. CASE# 54109-16


As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.



Tuesday, October 18, 2016

WANTED - Deborah Ann Barnaby (LOCATED UNHARMED)

UPDATE- Barnaby has been located unharmed.

WANTED
Deborah Ann Barnaby
Deborah Ann Barnaby has an active arrest warrant for escape.
Age: 51, 5’04”, 120 lbs., and Blonde Hair, Blue Eyes

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Melissa Hulse at 301-475-4200, ext. *1996 or by e-mail, Melissa.Hulse@stmarysmd.com.

Anyone with information is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333 or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to "CRIMES" (274637).




Deborah A. Barnaby

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Bomb Threat at Spring Ridge Middle School

On October 18, 2016, at approximately 7:30 a.m., the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Department of Safety and Security was notified of a bomb threat made via telephone stating, “You don’t know me, and I don’t know you, but there is a bomb in the school”. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer was at the school at the time the phone call was received, and an immediate coordinated assessment and investigation of the threat were initiated immediately. 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office K9 Explosive Detection Unit responded to the scene and completed a complete canvass of the school and found no threats. 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and St. Mary’s County Public Schools investigate every threat seriously, and all precautionary measures will be taken to ensure the safety of students and staff. 



Monday, October 17, 2016

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Hosting Second ‘Community Policing and Building Relationships of Trust’ Workshop; residents urged to attend


“Policing is a public trust,” states Tim Cameron, Sheriff of St. Mary's County. “There must be an organizational commitment to not only respond to crime but to prevent it through strong police-community interactions and relationships. As Robert Peel, the first Commissioner of London’s Scotland Yard said, 'The police are the people, and the people are the police.'
Sheriff Cameron adds, “Public trust is based on a relationship that is reciprocal in nature, fostered by officers who demonstrate the highest ethical standards while being supported by an engaged community. In essence, the goal is to achieve partnerships that promote cooperation between the police and community as they work together towards a shared vision.”
Sheriff Cameron and the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is working to strengthen the bonds between local officers and the community they serve, by hosting workshops on “Community Policing and Building Relationships of Trust.” The workshops will be led by Dr. Melanye Smith, a 20-year veteran and administrator of the Metropolitan Police Department (Ret.) and a contributing faculty member at Ashford and Walden Universities. Dr. Smith will bring together officers and citizens in an environment designed to encourage open engagement and enhanced understanding of each other’s positions and concerns. To that end, Sheriff Tim Cameron invites all community leaders, activists, and interested residents to participate in these workshops.
The workshops will focus on the interdependency of the police and their family members with the community and will examine their mutual interest in building relationships of trust. Workshop participants will explore leadership capabilities, emotional intelligence, and the experiences of mindfulness, hope, and compassion. Dr. Smith will explain the theory, research, and practice of communication, building trusting relationships, and the concept of emotional intelligence. These efforts are aimed at marking the beginning of a sustained positive change.
“This training is for law enforcement officers and officers’ family members, as well as for civilians and community members,” says Dr. Smith. “The workshops are geared towards moving each participant from their current position along an ideological continuum, by generating dialogue that enhances understanding and meaning and helps to create a shared vision.”
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is soliciting for participation in the second session scheduled for Saturday, October 22, 2016, at the Circuit Courthouse in Leonardtown from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Those interested in attending are asked to Contact Sgt. Richard Russell at 301-475-4200, ext. *8062, or by email at Richard.Russell@stmarysmd.com.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Motor Vehicle Collision on Pegg Road in the area of Pegg Lane

On October 16, 2016, at approximately 2:51 A.M., St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office patrol units were dispatched to a serious motor vehicle collision on Pegg Road in the area of Pegg Lane. Patrol units arrived on scene to find a 2000 Toyota Camry overturned on its roof. Witnesses reported seeing a subject flee from the vehicle and inside the vehicle another subject was located trapped and unconscious. The subject trapped in the motor vehicle was transported to a hospital with serious injuries, and deputies are seeking the identity of the subject who the fled the scene on foot.

Due to the severity of the collision, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff's Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene. Preliminary investigation indicates the 2000 Toyota Camry was traveling southbound on Pegg Road at a high rate of speed. The vehicle failed to negotiate a bend in the roadway, struck a curb, and continued traveling southbound. The vehicle then struck a concrete island where the vehicle overturned. 

At this time, both speed and alcohol are believed to be contributing factors. 

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact Cpl. Brandon Foor #235 at 301-475-4200, *ext. 2265.

Incident Briefs – 10/14/2016 – 10/17/2016




10-14-2016
Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence in the 45000 block of Scotch Neck Road in Hollywood. Nothing appeared to be stolen. Dep. R. Roszell is investigating the case. CASE# 53579-16

Attempted Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) attempted to enter a garage in the 45000 block of Bolden Court in Lexington Park. DFC. D. Lawrence is investigating the case. CASE# 53562-16

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 22000 block of Ventura Way in California. DFC D. Lawrence is investigating the case. CASE# 53378-16

10-15-2016
Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 20000 block of Clarence Gass Road. Dep. T. Payne is investigating the case. CASE# 53461-16

10-16-2016
Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property in the 26000 block of South Laurel Glen Road in California. Cpl. J. Vezzosi is investigating the case. CASE# 53646-16


As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.

Friday, October 14, 2016

Suspect Charged in Park Villas Apartments and Pegg Road Investigations

On October 13, 2016, at 7:40 a.m. St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Maryland State Police responded to Mayfaire Lane in Lexington Park for reports of shots fired.
The preliminary investigation has revealed the suspect, Michael Vincent Moore, age 55, fired multiple rounds into an apartment door at the Park Villas Apartments (formally Mayfaire apartments). One occupant was inside the apartment at the time the shots were fired. The victim was uninjured. Moore then fled the scene and fired rounds at a motor vehicle on Pegg Road. Moore returned to the apartment complex, where he was met by law enforcement officers and taken into custody. Moore assaulted Detective Michael Boyer who received minor injuries.
The driver of the motor vehicle was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for the treatment of injuries caused by the motor vehicle’s window shattering – not gun shots.
Sheriff Tim Cameron, who was on the scene, thanks, T-Bone and Heather for helping to disseminate the information to the community, Maryland State Police and Patuxent River Police for their assistance, in addition to the community for their cooperation during the investigation.
After a review with State’s Attorney Richard Fritz, Moore has been charged with Attempted First Degree Murder, Home Invasion, Three Counts of First Degree Assault, Reckless Endangerment, Two Counts of Use of Firearm in Violent Crime, Second Degree Assault on Law Enforcement Officer, Handgun on Person, Handgun in Vehicle and Reckless Endangerment from Car. Additional charges are pending.
Moore is currently incarcerated in the St. Mary’s County Adult Detention Center being held on a no bond status.
The Criminal Investigations Division extends appreciation to NCIS for their assistance with the investigation.
Detectives are continuing to investigate the incident(s) and are asking anyone with information. Specifically, anyone who may have witnessed either incident and have not yet spoken to law enforcement, to contact Detective Cory Ellis at 301-475-4200, ext. *8125, or via email Cory.Ellis@stmarysmd.com. Callers may also call Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333 (callers can remain anonymous, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus your message to “CRIMES” (274637).

Michael V. Moore 




Incident Briefs – 10/14/2016



Theft – Between 10/12 and 10/13, unknown suspect(s) stole the registration sticker from a victim’s vehicle in the 20000 block of Hampshire Place in Lexington Park. DFC. L. Johnson is investigating the case. CASE# 53202-16

Theft of Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) stole a motor vehicle from a victim’s residence in the 48000 block of Picketts Harbor Court in Lexington Park. Dep. M. Beyer is investigating the case. CASE# 53168-16

Property Destruction – Unknown suspect(s)damaged the garage door on a vacant residence in the 39000 block of Walnut Circle in Mechanicsville. Dep. B. Fennessey is investigating the case. CASE#53207-16


 As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.

Thursday, October 13, 2016

Incident Briefs – 10/13/2016




Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 45000 block of Altman Court in Lexington Park. DFC V. Pontorno is investigating the case.  CASE# 53073-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle(s) – Unknown suspect(s) entered two motor vehicles in the 45000 block of Coledorall Court in California. DFC M. Beyer is investigating the case. CASE# 53148-16


Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered two motor vehicles in the 22000 block of Old Rolling Road in California. Deputy T. Siciliano is investigating the case. CASE# 53149-16


As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.


Criminal Investigations Division Continuing Investigation (Shots Fired - Park Villas Apartments & Pegg Road)

UPDATE:
On October 13, 2016, at 7:40 a.m. St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Maryland State Police responded to Mayfaire Lane in Lexington Park for reports of shots fired.
The preliminary investigation has revealed the suspect, Michael Vincent Moore, age 55, fired multiple rounds into an apartment door at the Park Villas Apartments (formally Mayfaire Apartments). One occupant was inside the apartment at the time the shots were fired but the victim was uninjured. Moore then fled the scene and fired rounds at a motor vehicle on Pegg Road. Moore returned to the apartment complex, where he was met by law enforcement officers and taken into custody at which time Moore assaulted Detective Michael Boyer who received minor injuries.
The driver of the motor vehicle was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for the treatment of injuries caused by the motor vehicle’s window shattering – not gun shots.
Sheriff Tim Cameron, who was on the scene, thanks, T-Bone and Heather for helping to disseminate the information to the community, Maryland State Police and Patuxent River Police for their assistance, in addition to the community for their cooperation during the investigation.
The Criminal Investigations Division is continuing the investigation. Additional information will be provided pending formal charges. 
ORIGINAL RELEASE:
Deputies investigating reported shots fired in the area of Mayfaire Apartments in Lexington Park and a separate incident on Pegg Road. At this time, there are no fatalities, the suspect is in custody, and the incidents are related. The investigation is on-going and additional details are forthcoming. There is no immediate threat to the public.

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Incident Briefs – 10/12/2016



Attempted Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) attempted to force entry into a residence in the 23000 block of Town Creek Drive in Lexington Park. Deputy H. Smith is investigating the case. CASE# 52848-16 

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) removed the rear tag from a vehicle parked in the 45000 block of Oliver Court in Great Mills. Cpl. O’Connor is investigating the case. CASE# 52812-16


As part of our continued effort to increase public awareness, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office provides a daily (excluding weekends) report called Incident Briefs. The report contains selected crimes, which are of interest to the residents of St. Mary’s County. Addresses shown indicate blocks and not specific locations. This report is not a comprehensive list of every police event in St. Mary’s County during the stated time frame.

Note: The information contained in the Incident Brief report is based on initial reports made to the Sheriff’s Office. Follow-up investigations may reveal different information.

If you have any questions regarding information contained in the Incident Report contact Jennifer Stone, Public Information Officer, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922, or by email at Jennifer.Stone@stmarysmd.com.



MARYLAND MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 14 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR AN ARMED ROBBERY CONSPIRACY AND ROBBERIES OF A ST. MARY’S COUNTY JEWELRY STORE AND PHARMACY

Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge George J. Hazel sentenced Abdelrahim Ayyad, a/k/a Sahid, age 50, of White Plains, Maryland, today to 174 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for an armed robbery conspiracy; two armed commercial robberies; and to using and brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Judge Hazel also ordered Ayyad to forfeit $79,514.36.

The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and St. Mary’s County Sheriff Tim Cameron. 

According to court documents, in June 2014, Ayyad conspired with Furman Troy, Darrell Lee and Michael Burgess, to rob commercial businesses in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. For example, on June 18, 2014, Ayyad admitted that he drove to Washington, D.C. and picked up Troy, Lee and Burgess and drove them to a jewelry store in Charlotte Hall, Maryland in order to commit a robbery. Ayyad handed Troy a bag containing a gun. Troy and Lee entered the store and Lee brandished a firearm at the owner of the store. Troy subsequently bound the victim with duct tape. The robbers then demanded the key to the jewelry counter from an employee of the store and stole jewelry worth more than $8,800, cash, a laptop computer and other items. On June 22, 2014, Ayyad and Burgess drove to a pharmacy in Mechanicsville, Maryland, with Troy and Lee following in another vehicle. Ayyad and Burgess waited in their vehicle while Troy and Lee robbed the pharmacy. During the robbery Lee again brandished a gun and Troy bound the pharmacy employee with duct tape. Troy and Lee stole cash and prescription bottles containing oxycodone, methadone, hydrocodone and endocet, subsequently valued at $64,325.

Furman Troy, age 45, and Darrell Lee, age 48, both of Charlotte Hall, Maryland, and Michael Burgess, age 54, of Alexandria, Virginia, previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the robberies. Lee and Troy were sentenced to 184 months and10 years in prison, respectively. Burgess is awaiting sentencing.

United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended the FBI and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation and recognized the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office for its assistance in the case. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Leah J. Bressack and Thomas P. Windom, who are prosecuting the case.



Tuesday, October 11, 2016

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Conducts Tobacco Compliance Checks

From February to May 2016, Cpl. James Stone, Alcohol Enforcement Coordinator for St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, conducted “Tobacco Compliance Checks” on 103 licensed tobacco retailers throughout St. Mary’s County and of the businesses checked, 48 sold products illegally to underage buyers.

The items purchased ranged from cigarettes, chewing tobacco and cigars, to refills for e-cigarettes (vaping oils). The penalty for selling tobacco products to a person under the age of 18 is a $300.00 civil citation. Penalties, including fines and suspension of the retail license, can also be imposed on the licensee of tobacco establishments.

Cpl. Stone states, “The reality is that underage teens are going to try to access these products if they can. It's up to the retailers to train their employees to check ID's correctly and refuse the sale of these products to underage youth.”

Starting in October, additional compliance checks will begin. If you are a retailer and would like more information, need signage for your store, or have questions, contact Rebecca Jackson at the St. Mary’s County Health Department at 301-475-4391. For questions regarding tobacco enforcement, please contact Cpl. James Stone at 301-997-8531 or by email at James.Stone@stmarysmd.com.  

Non-compliant locations:
* indicates the business was found to be in violation twice.

  1. 7 Eleven Store — Mechanicsville
  2. 7 Eleven Store — Charlotte Hall
  3. A & W — Callaway
  4. ABC Gas Station — Clements
  5. Abell’s Tavern — Callaway
  6. Beacon Liquor Store — Callaway
  7. Boatman’s Mini Mart — Mechanicsville
  8. Burchmart — Charlotte Hall
  9. Burchmart — Leonardtown
  10. Canopy Liquors — Lexington Park
  11. Chief’s Bar —Tall Timbers
  12. Corner Liquors — Lexington Park
  13. County Liquors — Great Mills
  14. Dash In — Charlotte Hall
  15. Dash In — Leonardtown*
  16. DJ’s One Stop — Mechanicsville
  17. Exxon — Charlotte Hall * Sold twice
  18. Family Dollar — Leonardtown
  19. Family Dollar Store— Charlotte Hall
  20. Family Dollar — Lexington Park
  21. Food Lion — Leonardtown
  22. Food Lion — California
  23. Food Lion — Great Mills
  24. Fred’s Liquor — Charlotte Hall
  25. Giant Food — California
  26. International Beverage — Lexington Park
  27. Jug Head Liquors — California
  28. Korner Karry Out — Mechanicsville
  29. Oceanic — Mechanicsville
  30. OCI Pub/Pizza King — Piney Point
  31. Optimal Vapor — Leonardtown
  32. Quik Stop — Great Mills
  33. Rite Aid Store — Charlotte Hall
  34. Rite Aid — Lexington Park
  35. Russell’s Store — Valley Lee
  36. Sheetz — Lexington Park
  37. Shell — Charlotte Hall
  38. Sign of the Whale — Lexington Park
  39. Stop & Shop — Lexington Park
  40. Terry’s Tobacco — Mechanicsville
  41. The Beer Cave/Bob’s Sunoco — Callaway   
  42. The Corner Store (Callaway Shell) — Callaway
  43. Third Base — Loveville
  44. Wawa #583 — Mechanicsville*
  45. Wawa — Charlotte Hall