Suspect Charged With Soliciting Minor - Cutchember

In January 2015, Detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Criminal Investigations Division, began an investigation into the electronic sending and receiving of pornographic images utilizing Facebook messaging service between an adult male suspect and a 14 year old female. 

Detectives determined between November 2014 and January 2015, the suspect sent nude photographs of himself to the victim and requested she send nude photographs of herself in return.  The victim informed the suspect of her age refused his request at the beginning of their corresponding with each other. The victim refused multiple requests for photographs; however the suspect began offering tangible gifts to the victim. The victim subsequently sent a partially nude photograph of herself to the suspect.  After receiving the photograph, the suspect began to repeatedly ask to meet the victim in person. The victim became frightened and informed her mother of the incidents who notified police.

Detectives identified the suspect in the case and on January 27, 2015, Detective Corporal David Alexander arrested Lance K. Cutchember, age 33, of Valley Lee, at his residence without incident.  Cutchember was subsequently charged with Possession of Child Pornography – Visual Representation and Child Pornography – Solicit / Engage a Minor. He transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.  

Lance K. Cutchember 

     

Captain Terry L. Black

Commander

Criminal Investigations Division

301.475.4200 X 1925

Relative Charged With Abusing Two Year Old

Leonardtown, Maryland - On February 26, 2015, a two year old female victim was taken to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital by her grandparents after she arrived at their home for visitation with multiple injuries. The victim suffered from bruises all over her body, a laceration on her head and another on her buttocks. She was also missing hair from her scalp which appeared to have been pulled out by force. The Criminal Investigations Division was contacted by hospital staff. Detectives immediately responded to the hospital and assumed the investigation. 

Detectives determined a relative of the victim caused the injuries while disciplining her on several separate occasions. Suspect Justin Michael Cave, age 22, of Leonardtown, was subsequently located and placed under arrest by Detective Ashley Croyle. 

Cave was transported to the St. Mary's County Detention Center and charged with 2nd Degree Child Abuse and 2nd Degree Assault. He is being held on a $75,000 bond.

Justin Michael Cave 

       

Captain Terry L. Black

Commander

Criminal Investigations Division

301.475.4200 X 1925

Vice Narcotics Arrests 2-27-15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

St. Mary’s County Detectives, being assisted by the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, began an investigation into Teresa Lynn Glaze aka “Teresa Hall” (Age 44 of Leonardtown) and her possible involvement with diverting “oxycodone”. Suspect Glaze began working for a doctor in the Prince Frederick area and was terminated. During her time at the doctor’s office she wrote approximately 72 fraudulent prescriptions using a stolen blank prescription pad. She wrote prescriptions in the name of friends and family members, who passed the prescriptions before returning the “oxycodone” tablets to her for sale. In all, detectives discovered the pills obtained were “Oxycodone” 4,104 tablets, “Xanax”- 150 tablets and “Adderall”-180 tablets for a value on the street of more than $35,000. Suspect Glaze’s brother, James Joseph Hall (Age 37 of Leonardtown) was indicted as he obtained 1,632 “oxycodone” tablets as part of this fraud scheme. Additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation is ongoing.

Teresa Lynn Glaze

James Joseph Hall

Judy Nickole Jones (Age 30 of Lexington Park) was indicted for “Distribution of Suboxone”.

Judy Nickole Jones

Lawrence Edward Keister (Age 48) is an inmate in the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was court ordered to be released to attend a doctor’s appointment in Leonardtown and detectives had received information he would be receiving “Suboxone” to smuggle back into the jail. Suspect Keister met with a female, obtained the “Suboxone” which was inside of a balloon and swallowed it. Detectives immediately approached the suspect and confirmed he had ingested the controlled substance. A medical review confirmed the balloon inside his stomach and it was recovered. It was found to be “Suboxone” and he was charged with “Possession with Intent to Distribute” and “Possession of Contraband with the intent to Deliver inside a Correctional Facility”.

Detectives worked closely with Sheriff’s Office Correctional Staff throughout this investigation. The female and other inmate were identified during the investigation and charges are pending against both after a review with State’s Attorney Richard D. Fritz.

Lawrence Edward Keister

Inquiries should be directed to Captain Daniel D. Alioto, Commander of Vice/Narcotics, at 301-475-4200 x1918.

Incident Briefs 2-25-15 to 2-26-15

2-25-15 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides on Pleasant Drive in Lexington Park, reported unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked shed and stole property. Case remains open. CASE #10950-15

2-25-15 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides in the 24000 block of Budd's Creek Road in Clements, reported unknown suspect(s) entered her garage sometime since November 2014. Nothing appeared to have been stolen. Case remains open. CASE #10984-15

Vice Narcotics Make Arrests in Illegal Gaming Investigations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

In January of 2015 the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Vice/Narcotics Division initiated two separate investigations involving the operation of gaming devices at two locations in St. Mary’s County, Maryland.

The first investigation was initiated on January 21, 2015 when detectives visited the Patuxent Moose Lodge in Hollywood, MD upon receiving “anonymous” information regarding the presence of “illegal slot machines.”  Detectives quickly dispelled the allegations by determining the devices were not “slot machines” but were in fact “gaming devices” which were legal.  However, the investigation revealed the gaming devices were not being operated in accordance with the St. Mary’s County Gaming  provision and therefore in violation of the statewide provision. 

           Investigators discovered Roger Lee Benfield, SR. is the owner of R.E. Enterprises, Incorporated, a Maryland corporation that provides coin operated amusement games to retail establishments, and that in 2013 Roger Lee Benfield, SR. and the Patuxent Moose Lodge entered into an agreement that permitted Roger Benfield to place five (5) gaming devices within the establishment. 

  

The agreement permitted the proceeds of the gaming devices to be divided between Roger Benfield’s company and the Patuxent Moose Lodge with Roger Benfield being responsible for the maintenance of the gaming devices which required, among other tasks, collecting money from the devices and ensuring the proper disbursements to the Patuxent Moose Lodge and to his company.

The gaming devices, financial records, and other items of evidence were seized from the Patuxent Moose Lodge pending further investigation.  An analysis of the financial documents revealed from about August of 2013 through January 21, 2015 Roger Benfield retained approximately $27,987.10 in proceeds from the operation of the gaming devices.  Detectives also uncovered evidence that suggest Roger Benfield became a member of the Patuxent Moose Lodge for the sole purpose of giving the appearance of compliance with  the criminal statute which requires the gaming devices to be operated by a member of the qualified organization.

The second investigation was initiated on January 23, 2015 when detectives visited the Brass Rail Sports Bar located in Great Mills, MD to investigate the presence of additional gaming devices that were being operated by Roger Benfield.

Investigators made contact with Charles Benedict “Dickie” Gatton and Hilda Mae Gatton who own and operate the establishment.  The investigators also discovered the presence of five (5) gaming devices.  An inspection of the devices revealed four of the devices operated in the same manner as the devices located in the Patuxent Moose Lodge and one device that functioned as a pull-tab vending machine, both of which are gaming devices.

The investigation revealed, in 2008 Charles “Dickie” Gatton entered into an agreement with the Leonardtown Lions Club that permitted a gaming device to be placed inside the Brass Rail Sports Bar and the proceeds from the gaming device to be divided evenly between the Leonardtown Lions Club and the Brass Rail Sports Bar.  The device, which was the previously described pull-tab vending machine, was managed exclusively by Hilda Mae Gatton and required her, among other tasks, to collect money from the device and ensure the proper disbursement to the Leonardtown Lions Club and to the Brass Rails Sports Bar.

 The investigation also revealed that in January of 2012 Roger Benfield and Charles “Dickie” Gatton entered into an agreement that permitted Roger Benfield to place four (4) gaming devices inside the establishment and required Roger Benfield to manage the devices, which included collecting money from the devices and ensuring the proper disbursement to the Brass Rail Sports Bar and R.E. Benfield Enterprises, Incorporated.

All of the gaming devices were seized from the establishment and additional items of evidence were obtained by the investigators.  An inspection of those documents revealed from January of 2012 through December of 2014 Hilda Mae Gatton and the Leonardtown Lions Club both received approximately $24,460.00 in proceeds from the operation of the gaming device. Furthermore, those same documents and records indicate Charles “Dickie” Gatton and Roger Benfield both received approximately $109,498.00 from the operation of the four (4) gaming devices from January of 2012 through December of 2014.  With respect to Charles Gatton, it is believed that he retained approximately $73,892.00 of his share of the proceeds for personal benefit while giving  just $35,606.00 to the Leonardtown Lions Club.  With respect to Roger Benfield, it is believed he retained his entire share of the proceeds for personal benefit.

During the course of the investigation several search and seizure warrants were obtained which lead to the seizure of gaming devices and more than $129,000.00 in cash from proceeds of the gaming devices in the possession of Charles (Dickie) and Hilda Mae Gatton. 

In summary, the investigations revealed Roger Benfield, Charles Gatton, and Hilda Mae Gatton received portions of the proceeds generated by the gaming devices for personal benefit.  Although the Patuxent Moose Lodge and the Leonardtown Lions Club are qualified organizations permitted to operate gaming devices, the proceeds generated from the operation of the gaming devices were intentionally diverted to the three subjects, contrary to the laws which require all proceeds to be retained by the organization.

On February 23, 2015, Narcotics detectives applied for charges against Roger Benfield, Charles Gatton and Hilda Mae Gatton related to this investigation.  More specifically, with respect to the investigation at the Patuxent Moose Lodge, Roger Benfield was charged with one count of having an interest in a gaming table, one count of keeping a gaming table at the Patuxent Moose Lodge, and one count of perpetrating a theft scheme having a value between $10,000.00 and $100,000.00.

  

With respect to the investigation at the Brass Rail Sports Bar, Roger Benfield was charged with one count of having an interest in a gaming table, one count of keeping a gaming table at the Brass Rail Sports Bar, and one count of perpetrating a theft scheme having a value more than $100,000.00.  Charles “Dickie” Gatton was charged with one count of having an interest in a gaming table, one count of permitting a gaming table to be kept at the Brass Rail, and one count of perpetrating a theft scheme having a value between $10,000.00 and $100,000.00.  Hilda Mae Gatton was charged with one count of having an interest in a gaming table and one count of perpetrating a theft scheme having a value between $10,000.00 and $100,000.00.

In total, the gaming devices at the Brass Rail Sports Bar alone generated more than $300,000.00 in gross proceeds, of which the Leonardtown Lions Club received only $60,000.00. By law, all of the proceeds must be directed to the charity. The investigation is continuing and detectives will continue to work with the State’s Attorney’s Office to determine if additional charges and/or arrests will be made.

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

Walmart Theft Suspect - IDENTIFIED

UPDATE 2-26-15: The suspect pictured below has been identified. Thank you #SMCSOSocialMediaFans you identified another one! 

California, Maryland - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect pictured below. 

On Saturday, February 7, 2015, 1:35 PM, the suspect attempted to leave the Walmart store located on Miramar Way, with a plastic bag full of merchandise he had not paid for. When the suspect was confronted by a store loss prevention employee, he dropped the bag and fled out of the store. He was seen leaving the parking lot in the pictured vehicle. CASE #7389-15

Sheriff Cameron Appointed to Governor's Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force

ANNAPOLIS, Maryland – Governor Larry Hogan today joined with Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford to announce the establishment of both the Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force and a separate Inter-Agency Coordinating Council. Both groups will work and support efforts to address Maryland’s growing heroin and opioid crisis.

“For far too long, state and local agencies have worked in silos with little communication and less coordination,” said Governor Hogan. “The purpose of the inter-agency council and task force is to connect the dots of prevention, treatment, and recovery and maximize our resources and expertise to come up with real solutions to save and restore lives.”

By signing Executive Order 01.01.2015.12, Governor Hogan formally created the Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force, a group which is made up of law enforcement professionals, elected officials, and substance abuse experts. The task force will meet regularly and solicit input and guidance from a wide variety of sources throughout the state. The group will also meet with and receive guidance from educators, families of those suffering from addiction, and other vested stakeholders.

The members of the Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force are:

•The Honorable Julie S. Solt, Frederick County Circuit Court
•Delegate Brett Wilson, District 2B, Washington County
•Sheriff Timothy Cameron, St. Mary’s County
•Tracey Myers-Preston, MD Addiction Directors Council
•Dr. Bankole Johnson, UMD School of Medicine, Psychiatry Department Chair
•Michael B. Finegan, Peninsula Mental Health Services
•Dr. Marc Fishman, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
•Elizabeth Embry, Attorney General’s Office, Chief of the Criminal Division
Maryland.Gov

Arrests 2-24-15

FALSE REPORT – On February 17, 2015, Deputy H. Smith responded to the intersection of Great Mills Road and Old Great Mills Road, for a hit and run vehicle collision. The driver who remained on the scene reported he was traveling westbound on Great Mills Road when a vehicle turned in front of him from Old Great Mills Road. The driver did not have time to stop and the two vehicles collided head on. The white female driver of the other vehicle, a silver Mercedes, briefly stopped then drove off. Deputy Smith located the silver Mercedes on Tower Lane unoccupied. The owner of the vehicle indicated her daughter, identified as suspect Melissa Lynn Boyd, age 45, of Lexington Park, had possession of the vehicle. In the meantime, Boyd called the Sheriff’s Office to report the car stolen. Boyd indicated she believed one of her friends stole the vehicle. Boyd was subsequently identified as the driver of the Mercedes who caused the collision and fled the scene. Boyd was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with False Statement to Police Officer, Driving While Suspended, and Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident. CASE #9422-15

Melissa Lynn Boyd

DOMESTIC ASSAULT – On February 18, 2015, Deputy Teague responded to a residence on Valley Court for an assault. The victim alleged suspect Sirquon Derrick Brooks, age 31, of Lexington Park, slapped , punched and scratched the victim after an argument over infidelity. Deputy Teague observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim. Brooks was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault. CASE #9597-15

Sirquon Brooks

PROPERTY DESTRUCTION – On February 20, 2015, Deputy Teague responded to Susie Court in California, for the report of a burglary to a motor vehicle. The victim alleged Roger Lee Pritchard III, 23, of Clements, was inside her vehicle. Deputy Teague located Pritchard who indicated he had been in the vehicle and had stolen the fuse to the fuel pump in an effort to render the vehicle inoperable. Witnesses reported Pritchard entered the vehicle and was looking around inside. He then opened the hood to take the fuse. Pritchard was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with Rogue and Vagabond, Property Destruction Over $1,000, and Theft Under $100.00. CASE #9862-15

Roger Lee Pritchard III

ASSAULT – On February 23, 2015, Deputy D. Smith responded to a residence on Sugar Maple Court in California, for a reported assault. The victim alleged suspect Tammie Lynn Boyle, age 52, of California, grabbed the victim’s forearm during an argument. Boyle scratched the victim’s arm in the process. Deputy Smith observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim’s arm. Boyle was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault. CASE #10573-15   

Tammie Lynn Boyle

Lexington Park Women Injured - Fire Marshal Press Release

Counterfeit Suspects Arrested by Patrol

California, Maryland - On February 24, 2015, Corporal Reppel responded to the WaWa located on Three Notch Road, after an employee reported a suspect was attempting to pass a counterfeit twenty dollar bill. The suspect had left the store prior to the arrival of police, however the employee provided a description of the vehicle being operated by the suspect - white, Pontiac, 4 door. Deputies saw the vehicle matching the description while responding and were able to stop it. A male in the back seat matching the description of the suspect who attempted to pass the counterfeit bill provided by the store employee was found in the back seat. The suspect was identified as William Edward Johnson 3rd, age 24, of Oxon Hill. Located in his pocket was the counterfeit twenty dollar bill. 

Suspect John Delonte Johnson, age 22, of Landover, was located in the back seat of the vehicle as well. A counterfeit twenty dollar bill was located in his pocket. A third counterfeit twenty was located in the back seat of the vehicle. 

Both suspects were placed under arrest, transported to the St. Mary's County Detention Center and charged with Currency: Make Image and Possession Forged Currency (both felony charges). 

  

John Delonte Johnson

William Edward Johnson III

Incident Briefs 2-20-15 to 2-24-15

2-20-15 FRAUD - A victim, who resides on Oak Crest Lane, reported unknown suspect(s) fraudulently filed federal income taxes using his information. CASE #9778-15

2-21-15 BURGLARY - Unknown suspect(s) entered a vacant home in Great Mills causing damage. CASE #10192-15

2-23-15 - BURGLARY - Unknown suspect(s) entered Sailing Specialties located on Commerce Avenue in Hollywood, and stole cash. Case remains open. CASE #10439-15

2-24-15 FRAUD - A victim, who resides in Mechanicsville, reported unknown suspect(s) fraudulently filed federal income taxes using their information. CASE #10548-15

 

Vice Narcotics Arrests 2-24-15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

As part of a follow up investigation, Amanda Rae Stark Morrison (Age 29 of Lexington Park) was charged with “Possession of Heroin”, “Possession of Oxycodone” and “Possession of Paraphernalia”. These charges were filed as a result of Suspect Morrison being injected with heroin by a co-defendant recently in the parking lot of a California shopping center. No photo available for Morrison. 

Stoney Lewis Buckler (Age 29 of Mechanicsville) was indicted as a result of an ongoing investigation into his drug distribution. Suspect Buckler was indicted for Distribution of Oxycodone” and charges from his previous arrest of “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methadone”.

Stoney Buckler

Detectives began an investigation related to Reginald Delonte Thomas (Age 29 of Great Mills) and his distribution of cocaine in and around the Lexington Park area of St. Mary’s County. Detectives were familiar with Suspect Thomas as he was a target of previous drug investigations and was wanted for “Failing to Appear” on those previously indicted felony drug charges. Detectives observed Thomas in an establishment in Great Mills and took him into custody. A search warrant was executed on his person and home which led to the recovery of more than $5,000 in cocaine, a quantity of marijuana and more than $1,000 in cash. Also seized was a 2001 Nissan Altima. Additional charges are pending a review with State’s Attorney Richard D. Fritz.

Reginald Thomas

NOTE: Reginald Thomas' name was incorrectly reported as Barnes in the original press release. The correct name of the suspect is Reginald Delonte Thomas. 

Inquiries should be directed to Captain Daniel D. Alioto, Commander of Vice/Narcotics, at 301-475-4200 x1918.

Do You Know Me? Walmart Theft Suspect

UPDATE 2-26-15: The suspect pictured below has been identified. 

California, Maryland - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect pictured below. 

On Saturday, February 7, 2015, 1:35 PM, the suspect attempted to leave the Walmart store located on Miramar Way, with a plastic bag full of merchandise he had not paid for. When the suspect was confronted by a store loss prevention employee, he dropped the bag and fled out of the store. He was seen leaving the parking lot in the pictured vehicle. CASE #7389-15

Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

 You may also contact DFC Bowen at 301.475.4200 X 9014.

 St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

Help Solve Attempted Robbery - Lexington Park Wendy's

Lexington Park, Maryland - On February 2, 2015, at 11:19 PM, Deputy Schultz responded to the Wendy's restaurant on Great Mills Road for a reported robbery. An employee was serving a customer at the drive through window when an unidentified black male suspect stepped between the car and the window. The suspect pressed what the employee believed was a weapon into her stomach and demanded money. When the employee did not hand over money, the suspect climbed partially into the window and attempted to steal the cash register. The suspect was unable to remove the register and fled on foot toward the Patuxent Homes subdivision. 

The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 18 to 20 years of age, wearing all black clothing with a black ski mask over his face. 

At the time the crime occurred, two (2) additional unidentified black males were seen standing nearby. Both fled with the suspect after the crime was committed. 

 Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

 You may also contact Deputy A. Schultz at 301.475.4200 X 1953. 

 St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

 

Dollar General Theft Suspect - Who Am I? - IDENTIFIED

UPDATE 3-19-15: The suspect pictured below HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED and charges are pending. THANK YOU. 

Charlotte Hall, Maryland - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect pictured below. 

On Tuesday, February 10, 2015, at 1:32 PM, she loaded a shopping cart and a blue plastic bin with merchandise and left the Dollar General store located at 30547 Potomac Way, without paying. 

The suspect left the parking lot in a green 1997 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck with Maryland registration plates. CASE #7983-15

St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

You may also contact Deputy Murphy at 301.475.4200 X 9052. 

Arrests 2-19-15

VIOLATION PROTECTIVE ORDER – On February 11, 2015, Deputy K. Molitor responded to St. Mary’s Square in Lexington Park, for the report of a protective order violation. The victim alleged suspect Anthony Michael Lagana, age 22, of Lexington Park, contacted the victim by text message in violation of an active protective order. After confirming the text message had been sent by Lagana, Deputy Molitor located Lagana and placed him under arrest. Lagana was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where a further search of his property was conducted. Suspected marijuana was found inside his wallet during the search. Lagana was charged with Violation Exparte Order and Possession Controlled Dangerous Substance in Place of Confinement. CASE #8172-15

Anthony Michael Lagana

POSSESSION CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE – On February 14, 2015, Deputy Krum stopped a 2012 Chevrolet for a traffic violation on Medley’s Lane in Mechanicsville. Deputy Krum conducted a wanted check for the front seat passenger identified as Joseph Anthony Scriber, age 48, of Mechanicsville. Dispatch indicated Scriber had an outstanding warrant for his arrest through the Maryland State Police. Scriber was placed under arrest and searched. Deputy Krum located a smoking device in Scriber’s pants pocket and a baggie containing suspected cocaine. 2 (two) pills, (suspected vicoden), were located in Scriber’s jacket pocket along with a straw. Scriber was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with 2 COUNTS Possession Controlled Dangerous Substance: Not Marijuana and 2 COUNTS Possession Paraphernalia. The warrant was also served for Failure to Appear in Court for Driving While Suspended. CASE #8874-15

Joseph Scriber

Incident Briefs 2-19-15

2-18-15 THEFT - A victim reported unknown suspect(s) used her credit card to make fraudulent purchases. Case remains open. CASE #9496-15

2-18-15 THEFT - A victim, who resides in Clements, reported unknown suspect(s) stole his open landscape trailer sometime during the past several days. Case remains open. CASE #9483-15

2-18-15 BURGLARY - (3) three victim who store items in a barn in Clements reported unknown suspect(s) entered the barn and stole numerous items of property. Case remains open. CASE #9499-15

2-19-15 THEFT - A victim, who resides in Tall Timbers, reported unknown suspect(s) stole a enclosed motorcycle trailer from the community lot. Case remains open. CASE #9557-15

Pedestrians & Motorists Use CAUTION on Great Mills Road

Lexington Park, Maryland - Sergeant Safford from the Lexington Park COPs UNIT took these photos today depicting the hazardous conditions for pedestrian traffic along Great Mills Road. The sidewalks, in both directions, across the entire length of Great Mills Road are covered with snow plowed from the road.  

Pedestrians and motorists are asked to please USE CAUTION when traveling on Great Mills Road until the sidewalks can be cleared. Sergeant Safford is actively trying to find a solution to this potentially serious problem. 

Sergeant Safford and the members of the COPs UNIT will be conducting traffic enforcement along Great Mills Road this evening. 

Vice Narcotics - Drug Arrests 2-18-15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Christina Marie Russell (Age 32 of Lexington Park) was indicted for “Possession with Intent to Distribute Amphetamines”, “Conspiracy” as well as “Obtaining Alprazolam by Fraud”. She was originally help with bond.

Christina Marie Russell

As detectives continue the investigation into a group of individuals from Washington D.C. who are passing fraudulent prescriptions, two additional arrests have been made. Detectives arrested Nelson Van Standifer (Age 22) and Ashley Nicole Tate (Age 26 of Washington D.C.) for attempting to obtain “Promethazine with Codeine”. This powerful cough syrup is known on the street as “Purple Drank”. Detectives arrested the two as they left a local pharmacy. Evidence has tied these two latest arrests to four prior arrests. Detectives are working with other jurisdictions in at least two states regarding this group and the fraudulent prescriptions they are passing. This investigation continues and additional charges are pending a review with State’s Attorney Richard D. Fritz.

Nelson Van Standifer

Ashley Nicole Tate 

Inquiries should be directed to Captain Daniel D. Alioto, Commander of Vice/Narcotics, at 301-475-4200 x1918.

Incident Briefs 2-12-15 to 2-18-15

2-14-15 THEFT - 2 unidentified white females attempted to use a stolen credit card to pay for meals at Applebee's in California. They fled the restaurant when the transaction was declined. Case remains open. CASE #8724-15

2-15-15 BURGLARY - An employee at the Dialysis Center located on Merchant's Lane in Leonardtown, discovered damage to one of the doors. Nothing appeared to have been stolen. Case remains open. CASE #9041-15

2-15-15 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, who resides on Three Notch Road in St. James, reported unknown suspect(s) forced entry into his vehicle and stole property. Case remains open. CASE #9042-15

2-15-15 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides on Sell Drive in Lexington Park, reported unknown suspect(s) forced open his shed and stole property. Case remains open. CASE #9044-15

2-15-15 FRAUD - A victim, who resides on Castaway Circle in Lexington Park, reported she purchased a 2005 GMC Envoy on EBay. The victim obtained 4 Reloadit cards totaling $2,000 and provided the numbers for the cards to the seller. Once the cards were cashed, the seller ceased communication with the victim. Case remains open. Case #9054-15

2-15-15 FRAUD - A victim, who resides in Compton, reported he went to file his tax return using Turbo Tax and discovered the return had already been fraudulently filed. Case remains open. CASE #9059-15

2-17-15 PROPERTY DESTRUCTION - A victim, who resides on Eric Road in Lexington Park, reported unknown suspect(s) damaged his vehicle by unknown means. CASE #9307-15

2-17-15 MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT (Fly-out) - Deputy McCuen responded to Route 234 and Aviation Yacht Club Road for an accident involving an all terrain vehicle (ATV). The investigation revealed the driver, Steven Rataski, age 18, was driving the ATV with a male juvenile passenger on back when the driver lost control and the ATV overturned. The passenger's leg was trapped under the ATV. The passenger was flown to an area hospital for precautionary measures. CASE #9371-15

Arrests 2-11-15

DOMESTIC ASSAULT – On February 11, 2015, Deputy L. Johnson responded to a residence on Hunting Meadows Court in Callaway, for an assault. The victim alleged suspect Betty Ann Douglas, age 52, of Callaway, grabbed the victim by the arm leaving scratch marks. Deputy Johnson observed the injury on the victim’s arm. Douglas was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault. CASE #8108-15

Betty Ann Douglas

THEFT – On February 10, 2015, Deputy Logue responded to the California Walmart for a reported theft in progress. Loss prevention employees identified the suspect to Deputy Logue, who made contact with him as he exited the store. The investigation revealed the suspect, identified as Kevin Michael Kolbe, age 23, of Lexington Park, had stolen items of merchandise, valued at over $170.00, concealed on his person. Kolbe was placed under arrest and further searched. Two (2) white pills (Oxycodone) were found in the change pocket of Bryant’s jeans. During a further search of Kolbe, two white pills (Oxycodone) were found in the change pocket of his jeans.  

Kevin Michael Kolbe

Kolbe was charged with Theft Under $1,000 and Possession Controlled Dangerous Substance Not Marijuana and was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. CASE #8003-15

FLEEING & ELUDING – On February 10, 2015, Corporal M. Rogers attempted to stop a vehicle, utilizing lights and siren, for speeding on Three Notch Road in the area of Poplar Ridge Road. The driver of the vehicle, (red Chevrolet Cobalt), refused to stop. A short time later, the suspect vehicle turned onto Showtime Lane where the driver fled from the vehicle on foot into the woods. Corporal Roger pursued the driver for approximately 150 yards where he ordered the driver to stop. The driver refused all commands and began to walk away from Corporal Rogers. The driver continued to resist arrest; however he was eventually placed into custody with the help of a citizen. The driver was identified as Samuel John Jones 4^th, age 21, of Lexington Park. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Resisting Arrest, Failure to Obey Lawful Order, Fleeing & Eluding, Driving Without a License, Failure to Display Registration Card. CASE #7976-15

Samuel John Jones 4th 

VANDALISM – On February 8, 2015, DFC Bowen responded to a residence in the 21000 block of Great Mills Road, for reported vandalism to windows. The victim alleged someone smashed some of the windows on the home sometime during the night. While conducting a neighborhood canvass, DFC Bowen located similar damage to a light pole and another home. The damage was consistent with having been caused by a BB gun. DFC Bowen then heard what sounded like glass breaking nearby. DFC Bowen subsequently located a 12 year old, male, from Lexington Park, who had just shot windows with the BB gun he was holding. The juvenile was placed under arrest and transported to the District 4 Station where he was processed. He was charged with Property Destruction and Property Destruction Scheme Over $1,000. CASE #7578-15

Incident Briefs 2-10-15 to 2-11-15

2-10-15 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, who resides on Liberty Street in Lexington Park, reported unknown suspect(s) entered his unsecured vehicle and stole property. CASE #7945-15

2-10-15 ARSON - Deputy Teague responded to Lexwood Court in Lexington Park, for a truck on fire. Investigation revealed the truck  had been intentionally set on fire. Investigators from the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. CASE #8102-15

2-10-15 BURGLARY & THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE - While investigating the aforementioned ARSON, (CASE #8102-15), deputies contacted the registered owner of the truck, Atlas Concrete. Investigation revealed the truck had been stolen from inside the business which had been burglarized. A second vehicle, located outside of the business, had also been forcibly entered and property stolen. Case remains open. CASE #8104-15

Pegg Shell Suspect HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED

UPDATE 2-10-15 3:55 PM: The suspect HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED. - THANK YOU SOCIAL MEDIA.

ORIGINAL PRESS RELEASE:

Lexington Park, Maryland - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect pictured below. 

On Monday, February 9, 2015 at 4:30 PM, the suspect was seen placing items of merchandise in his pockets at the Pegg Road Shell located on Three Notch Road. The suspect fled the store after being confronted by store employees. CASE #7813-15

St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

 Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

 You may also contact Deputy Logue at 301.475.4200 X 9068. 

Do You Know Me? - Pegg Shell Theft - IDENTIFIED

UPDATE 2-10-15 3:55 PM: The suspect HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED. 
Lexington Park, Maryland - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect pictured below. 

On Monday, February 9, 2015 at 4:30 PM, the suspect was seen placing items of merchandise in his pockets at the Pegg Road Shell located on Three Notch Road. The suspect fled the store after being confronted by store employees. CASE #7813-15

St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

 Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

 You may also contact Deputy Logue at 301.475.4200 X 9068. 

Arrests 2-10-15

THEFT – On February 5, 2015, Deputy Logue responded to Lexington Village Way in California, for a reported shoplifter at Kohl’s Department Store. The emergency communications center provided a description of the suspect and direction of travel. Deputy Logue subsequently located the suspect identified as Richard Lester Maples, age 51, of Mechanicsville. Maples was holding a Kohl’s shopping bag containing two sets of headphones valued at $99.99. Store employees saw Maples place the items in the bag and leave the store without paying for them. Maples was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with Theft Under $1,000.00. Maples also had an outstanding arrest warrant charging him with Failure to Appear in Court on a drug charge. CASE #6969-15

Richard Lester Maples

RESISTING ARREST/INTERFERING WITH ARREST – On February 6, 2015, Deputy Steinbach and DFC Bowen went to a residence on Ronald Drive in an attempt to locate a wanted subject. While at the residence, deputies discovered another subject identified as Anthony Kawika Somerville, age 29, of Lexington Park, had two (2) active warrants for his arrest. Deputies notified Somerville he was under arrest and attempted to place him in custody when he broke free and fled on foot to the adjacent neighborhood. After a short foot chase, Somerville was apprehended and placed under arrest. Somerville was charged with Resisting Interfering with Arrest and both warrants were served charging him with Failure to Appear in Court. CASE #7142-15

Anthony Kawika Somerville

We Need Your Help to Identify GMHS Trespassers

UPDATE 2-9-15 2:48 PM request for public's help:
The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in identifying and locating the remaining (2) two suspects who trespassed at Great Mills High School this morning.

Suspect #1

Suspect #2

St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

 You may also contact Corporal Kristi Nelson at 301.475.4200 X 9117. 

UPDATE 2-9-15 11:35 with more current arrest photo:
The suspect arrested for trespassing at Great Mills High School is identified as Julian Lloyd Griffith, age 23, of Mitchelville, Maryland. Griffith was charged with Trespass: School Property and Disturbing School Operations. Griffith also had two (two) outstanding arrest warrants from Prince George's County for Driving on a Suspended License. Both warrants were served.

Julian Lloyd Griffith

Original Press Release:

Great Mills, Maryland - On February 9, 2015, shortly after student arrival at 8:22 AM, School Resource Officer at Great Mills High School, Corporal Kristi Nelson, was notified by school officials of three (3) suspected trespassers inside the school. Corporal Nelson immediately responded to the area inside the school where the trespassers were believed to be. As Corporal Nelson made her way to the three suspects, they began to flee. Corporal Nelson was able to apprehend one of the suspects; however the remaining two fled out of the front doors and out of the school toward the Great Mills pool. Additional deputies responded to attempt to locate the two suspects. At this time, the remaining suspects have not been identified or located. The adult male suspect apprehended by Corporal Nelson was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary's County Detention Center. 

There was no disruption to school activities during the incident and subsequent investigation. School officials and law enforcement are coordinating investigating efforts into the incident.

Additional details will be released as they are developed.

Do You Recognize These Suspects? - Firehouse Subs

Lexington Park, Maryland - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the two suspects pictured below. 

On Saturday, January 31, 2015, both suspects were involved in passing a counterfeit $50 dollar bill, to purchase food from Firehouse Subs located at 22755 Maple Road. CASE #6124-15

Suspect #1

Suspect #1

Suspect #2

Suspect #2

 St. Mary’s County CRIME SOLVERS offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. 

Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

 You may also contact Deputy Logue at 301.475.4200 X 9068