Vandalism in Leonardtown Square - August 28

The Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help regarding recent vandalism in Leonardtown Square. The incident occurred sometime around 2:30 a.m., August 28. Both Oga’s Asian Cusine and the Leonardtown Post Office have been spray painted with obscenities, including a swastika and anarchy signs.

Anyone with information regarding the vandalism is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to "CRIMES" (274637) or call  Corporal Smolarsky at 301.475.8008.

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

 Calls to CRIME SOLVERS are NOT RECORDED. CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

Incident Briefs 8-26-15 to 8-28-15

Incident Briefs 8-26-15

8-26-15 Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a vehicle located in the 21000 block of  Newtowne Neck Road in Leonardtown and stole property. CASE# 49790-15

8-27-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence in the 45000 block of Mill Cove Harbor Road in California and stole property.  CASE# 50085-15

8-27-15 Vandalism – Unknown suspect(s) vandalized three vehicles in the area of Bayside Way on California, MD CASE# 50129-15

8-27-15 Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a vehicle in the 22000 block of       St. Johns Circle in Great Mills. No property appeared to be removed. CASE# 50196-15

SCAM ALERT - Scammers are posing as 'support technicians" in an attempt to gain remote access to a computer.

SCAM ALERT – Scammers are posing as ‘support technicians’ in an attempt to gain remote access to a computer.

The Sheriff’s Office has received complaints from the community regarding scammers making unsolicited contact using pop-up messages. The scammers pose as ‘support technicians’ claiming a problem exists on the consumer’s personal computer and offering to fix the problem remotely.  The scammer will request credit card information claiming to charge for services.

Several variations of this scam exist, such as:

1.     A fraudulent email providing a link or attachment that claims to start the Windows 10 installation process.

2.     An unsolicited internet pop-up attempting to guide the consumer through the installation process.

3.     A phony phone call from someone posing as a Microsoft employee, who offers to assist with an upgrade to Windows 10 or ‘help’ with any other Microsoft product.

Microsoft offers solutions if you are already a victim or are targeted by one of these scams:

1.     Do not follow the instructions, click on links or open attachments. If you received the information by email, delete the message.

2.     Report the fraudulent communication to Microsoft: https://support.microsoft.com/reportscam

Visit the Microsoft Safety and Security Center - www.microsoft.com/security/default.aspx - for more information and resources dedicated to helping keep your PC safe from threats, including viruses, malware, and phishing attempts.

 

 

 

WANTED by #SMCSO for ESCAPE - Bruce Edward Burroughs

BRUCE EDWARD BURROUGHS is WANTED by the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office for ESCAPE. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of BRUCE EDWARD BURROUGHS is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to "CRIMES" (274637).

or call the #SMCSO Duty Officer at 301.475.4040

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

Calls to CRIME SOVLERS are NOT RECORDED.

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

DUI ARRESTS - 8/25/2015

Byron Keith Green 2^nd, age 22, of Waldorf, on 8/1/2015 by Corporal E. Johnson

Byron Keith Green 

 Crystal Diane Fletcher, age 32, of Mechanicsville, on 8/2/2015 by Corporal J. Graves

Crystal Diane Fletcher

Jekenia Marie Ross, age 44, of Tall Timbers, on 8/7/2015 by Deputy J. Vezzosi

Jekenia Marie Ross 

Tiffany Ann Vest, age 34, of Lexington Park, on 8/8/15 by Deputy J. Vezzosi

Tiffany Ann Vest

Kevalyeh Teville Af West, age 28, of Great Mills, 8/9/15 by Corporal D. Corcoran

Kevalyeh Teville Af West

Luciano Monsivas Tenorio, age 37, of Lexington Park, 8/8/2015 by Deputy D. Smith

Luciano Monsivas Tenorio

Brandon Michael Clark, age 36, of Mechanicsville, 8/16/2015 by Deputy B. Foor

Brandon Michael Clark 

Anthony Gabriel-Leano Obedoza, age 34, of California, 8/16/2015 by Deputy J. Wilson

Anthony Gabriel-Leano Obedoza

Gregory William Kasalo, age 46, of Calgary, Canada, 8/16/15 by Deputy B. Fennessey

Gregory William Kasalo

Leroy Logan, age 43, of Lexington Park, 8/13/15 by Deputy S. Tirpak

Leroy Logan 

TRAFFIC ADVISORY – Saturday, August 29, 2015

 The Chaptico Classic 5K/10K will take place this Saturday. There will be increased pedestrian traffic on Route 234 and Route 238, the area surrounding the Chaptico roundabout, from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 11:00 a.m. Citizens should use caution as they approach the area.

Deputies Respond to Fight at Great Mills High School

This morning at 10:10 AM, Corporal Kristi Nelson, School Resource Officer for Great Mills High School, responded to a fight involving 3 students inside the school. Corporal Nelson immediately attempted to break up the fight and was assaulted. Corporal Nelson called for additional officers to respond. Several additional officers arrived at the school within minutes and the 3 students involved in the fight were taken into custody. No serious injuries were reported. All police officers have left and the school has resumed normal activities.

Motor Vehicle Collision on Patuxent Beach Road

On Wednesday, August 26, 2015, at approximately 1:30 p.m members of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office responded to a reported serious motor vehicle collision on Patuxent Beach Road in the area of North Patuxent Beach Road.

Deputies arrived on scene to discover a head-on, two vehicle collision.  Preliminary investigation determined a 2009 Toyota Rav 4, operated by Diane Vanaman of Great Mills, was traveling south on Patuxent Beach Road when her vehicle crossed the center line and entered the northbound lanes.  Vanaman's vehicle then struck a 2011 GMC Acadia operated by Genevieve Piatt of Lusby.  Vanaman was pronounced dead on the scene.  Piatt was transported by Maryland State Police Trooper 7 to Prince George's Hospital Center with non-life threatening injuries.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and assumed the investigation.  The cause of the collision remains under investigation. 

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision, and has not already provided a statement, is asked to contact Deputy Vincent Pontorno at 301-475-4040.

LEONARDTOWN MAN SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS IN PRISON FOR DISTRIBUTION OF HEROIN THAT RESULTED IN THE DEATH OF A FRIEND

Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang sentenced Joshua Scott Schellhase, age 31, of Leonardtown, Maryland today to six years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for distribution of heroin.  A close friend of Schellhase died as a result of using the heroin distributed by Schellhase.

The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Karl C. Colder of the Drug Enforcement Administration - Washington Field Division; and St. Mary’s County Sheriff Tim Cameron.

  

According to his plea agreement, during 2012 Schellhase was close friends with an individual with whom Schellhase used heroin or other opiates on a daily basis.  Schellhase and the individual would provide heroin to each other as they were able to obtain it.

On October 11, 2012, the individual contacted Schellhase by text message and Schellhase agreed to give the individual some heroin that Schellhase had recently purchased.  During the early evening, Schellhase drove to a residence in Calloway, Maryland.  The individual came out of the house and Schellhase gave the individual a small amount of heroin and two cigarettes.  The individual went back into the house, went into the bathroom and ingested the heroin he had received from Schellhase.  About 15 minutes later, the individual’s girlfriend knocked on the bathroom door, but received no response.  She opened the door and discovered the individual slumped over and non-responsive.  Emergency medical personnel were called and attempted to revive the individual, but the individual died.

The cause of death was determined to be morphine intoxication.  The victim died as a result of ingesting the heroin provided by Schellhase.

United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the DEA and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Deborah A. Johnston and Leah J. Bressack, who prosecuted the case.

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

Incident Briefs 8-26-15

8-25-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) stole an ATV from a shed located at Potomac Motor Speedway in Mechanicsville. CASE# 49759-15

8-25-15 Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a vehicle located in the 30000 block of Charlotte Hall Road in Charlotte Hall and stole cash. CASE# 49790-15

8-25-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole a grounding plate from a cellphone tower located in the 23000 block of Budds Creek Road in Clements. CASE# 49821-15

8-25-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a residence in the 23000 block of Meadow Road in Mechanicsville. Nothing appeared to be stolen. CASE# 49839-15

Sheriff's Office Participates in the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI) Conference

On August 7^th, 2015, the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI) held their annual conference in Annapolis, Maryland. Attendees represented law enforcement agencies, state regulatory agencies, health care providers, substance abuse professionals, and healthcare fraud investigators

       
            For the second time in recent years the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was requested to present a successful investigative tactic they are utilizing in the battle against diversion. This included two case studies. Captain Daniel D. Alioto, Commander of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Division, stated, “I was pleased to share the hard work and the successes of the Vice/Narcotics Division. To have investigative techniques and successes acknowledged by our peers, and then shared both on the State and National level is one of the best compliments a law enforcement officer can receive”. Captain Alioto was also a presenter at the NADDI National convention in St. Louis, Missouri two years ago.

            A variety of speakers presented on different topics to include Kate Jackson of the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP). She provided updates, training opportunities, and facts related to the State’s PDMP.  Rebecca Hogamier from the Washington County Health Department was invited to educate the attendees on how Vivitrol was showing successes inside correctional institutions.  Ed Cartwright from Purdue Pharma, a long time NADDI partner and the funding source of the annual NADDI Grant, reviewed lawful prescribing and current trends in prescription medication.  Detective Brandon Underhill of the Harford County Task Force presented a case study on “Operation Bad Medicine” which gave insight into how patience and commitment paid off during a lengthy diversion investigation within Harford County.

 “There is no silver bullet for the growing problem of opioid abuse.  Education and training programs designed to combat prescription drug abuse are key for all stakeholders such as, law enforcement personnel, health professionals, health care and fraud investigators, treatment professionals and the pharmaceutical industry.  NADDI helps make this joint effort all possible”. James Schwartz, NADDI Executive Vice President and Ocean City Police Officer.  

            Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford attended as well. He presented facts uncovered during his statewide Heroin Task Force meetings and updated the audience on some of the steps he believes needs to be taken to curb the current opioid crisis. The Lt. Governor also confirmed the Heroin Task Force is still in the process of completing their findings and recommendations, which will be forwarded to Governor Larry Hogan in the coming months.

            “Our Maryland NADDI Chapter brought together leaders in the state concerned about the continued epidemic of prescription abuse and diversion and the surge in heroin overdose deaths in our communities. The networking accomplished throughout the one-day training between law enforcement, state leaders and the private sector is one of the most important aspects of our NADDI chapter trainings.” Charlie Cichon, NADDI Executive Director.

            The attendees were captivated by the stories of “Erin”, a pharmaceutical student who abused opioid pills before becoming a heroin addict and eventually serving jail time. Former FBI Agent Matthew Lowry spoke candidly to the audience about his addiction to pain killers for a medical condition and how that led him to stealing heroin from evidence to support his addiction. He reports to serve his federal prison term in a few days. Captain Alioto stated, “St. Mary’s County held a Drug Summit not too long ago and the slogan was, ‘everyone knows someone’, the next one should have the slogan, ‘it can happen to anyone.’

            It was also announced at the conference by NADDI’s Executive Director Charlie Cichon that St. Mary’s County was awarded a grant of $5,000 to be used for drug diversion efforts. “I was pleased to have had the opportunity to attend the Maryland NADDI Chapter training. NADDI remains on the cutting edge of issues we are presently experiencing. Our partnership allows for our detectives to remain current with the best up to date training possible”. Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron

NADDI’s Maryland State Chapter President Jeff Johns stated, “On behalf of the NADDI Maryland State Chapter Board, we would like to thank everyone for your support and participation at our regional training session in Annapolis, Maryland.  As a result of this latest regional training, we have received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from the attendees.  The subject matter that NADDI was able to provide was diverse and I am confident that everyone who attended was able to gain additional knowledge that they can share with their colleagues. NADDI is committed to providing support to all of our members.  The Maryland State Chapter of NADDI will continue to grow as a result of your continued support and the combined efforts to fight the widespread issues of pharmaceutical diversion.”

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

Captain Daniel Alioto 

Charlie Chicon and Ed Cartright 

Kate Jackson 

(pictured L-R) Captain Alioto, Lt. Governor Rutherford and Sheriff Cameron.

Lt. Governor Rutherford

Matthew Lowry

Rebecca Hogamier

Arrests 8-24-15

Domestic Assault – On August 23, 2015, Deputy Schultz responded to the 46000 block of Shinning Willow Lane in Lexington Park, for a reported assault. The victim alleged Tonya Lynette Albers, age 41, of Lexington Park, hit and scratched the victim with her hands during a verbal argument. The victim displayed signs of injury consistent with the allegations. Albers was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault. CASE# 49460-15

Tonya Lynette Albers 

Domestic Assault – On August 23, 2015, Deputy Lawrence responded to the 19000 block of Three Notch Road in Lexington Park, for a reported assault. The victim alleged Michael James Maloney, age 28, of Lexington Park, struck the victim in the face with an open right hand. The victim displayed signs of injury consistent with the allegations. Maloney was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault. CASE# 49343-15

                                                               Michael James Maloney 

Burglary – On August 22, 2015, Deputy Wesner responded to the 47000 block of Willow Drive in Lexington Park, after a witness reported a burglary to a residence. Deputy Wesner located a suspect inside the residence, identified as George Michael Young, age 68, of Lexington Park. Young did not have permission to be inside the residence and destroyed property inside the home. Young was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with two counts of 4^th Degree Burglary and Destruction of Property. CASE# 49270-15

                                                               George Michael Young

Burglary – On August 22, 2015, Deputy Wesner responded to the 45000 block of Halsey Court in California, for the report of a burglary. William Anthony Dunnington, age 28, of Lexington Park, forcibly opened a locked door and entered the residence. The victim and witness left the residence to stay in a nearby motel. Dunnington followed the victim and witness to the motel where he attempted to gain entry through the doors and windows. Dunnington was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 4^th Degree Burglary and Destruction of Property. CASE# 49145-15

                                                          William Anthony Dunnington

Violation Protective Order – On August 22, 2015, Corporal O’Connor initiated a traffic stop for erratic driving. Further investigation revealed there was an active protective order between the driver Michael Leshawn Johnson, age 27, of Lexington Park and a passenger. Johnson was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention. He was charged with Violation Protective Order. CASE# 49148-15

Michael Leshawn Johnson 

Failure to Register Sex Offender – On August 19, 2015, Dana Clint Robinson, age 41, of Mechanicsville, failed to register his new address, phone number and place of employment as required by the Maryland Statue.  Robinson, who is a tier III lifetime registered sex offender, failed to provide the registry with information as required, despite being given the information to do so. On August 21, 2015, Robinson was located and placed under arrest by Corporal Raddatz. Robinson was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with five counts of Sex Offender Registry violations. CASE# 48617-15

Dana Clint Robinson

Domestic Assault – On August 20, 2015, Deputy Logue responded to the 17000 block of Mt. Zion Church Road in St. Inigoes, for the report of an assault with a handgun.  The victim alleged suspect, Joseph Ignatius Bracken, age 43, of St. Inigoes threatened the victim with a handgun during an argument. Bracken then pointed the handgun at the victim’s head and demanded the victim leave the home. The victim fled the home and called 911. Deputy Logue later determined the handgun was not real. Bracken was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 1^st and 2^nd Degree Assault. CASE# 48800-15

Joseph Ignatius Bracken 

Incident Briefs - 8-25-15

8-24-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked shed on the 21000 block of Great Mills Lane in Great Mills and stole property. CASE# 49520-15

8-24-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered an unoccupied residence on the 46000 block of Gooseneck Drive in Lexington Park and stole property over a two week time period.                   CASE#49573-15

8-25-15 Property Destruction – Unknown suspect(s) entered a yard in the 41000 block of Glenwood Place in Mechanicsville and caused property destruction to a vehicle. CASE#49640-15

SMCSO Blood Drive to be Held 9-3-15

SCAM ALERT – ‘Scammers Targeting Small Business’

The Sheriff’s Office has received complaints from small businesses regarding scammers demanding payment for overdue bills.  The scammer demands credit card or bank account information to make a payment and threatens to disconnect electricity if payment is not made. Luckily, the employees who received these calls recognized the scam and hung-up. The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind citizens that scammers can be clever—even providing account information and call back numbers to victims.

Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) does not make demand for payment by phone. Do not provide any personal information, bank, or credit card information over the phone to anyone claiming to be from SMECO.

For information regarding your SMECO account status, customers should call the SMECO Call Center at 1.888.440.3311. The call center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit SMECO’s website at https://www.smeco.coop/safety/scam-alerts  for more information.

Arrests 8/1/2015 to 8/11/2015

Disorderly Conduct – On August 11, 2015, Deputy A. Cole responded to the 46000 block of Midway Drive, in Lexington Park, to assist other deputies with the violation of a protective order. While the violator of the protective order was in custody, deputies witnessed suspect, Angela Renee Carter, age 24, of Lexington Park, yell at deputies prior to exiting her vehicle. Several deputies asked Ms. Carter to back away while they completed their investigation. Carter refused to follow the instructions, and continued to create a disturbance. Deputy Cole instructed Carter to stop yelling or she would be placed under arrest. Carter refused and was placed under arrest. Carter continued to act is a disorderly manner after her arrest, refusing to provide her name. She was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Failure to Obey Lawful Order, Interfere with Arrest and Obstruction and Hindering. CASE# 46977-15

 Angela Renee Carter 

Violation Protective Order – On August 11, 2015, Deputy D. Potter responded to a residence in the 46000 block of Midway Drive, for a violation of a protective order. The victim alleged suspect, Roger Lee Wathen, age 23, of Lexington Park  has custody of their two children in violation of their protective order. Upon arrival, Deputy Potter did see one of the children go into the home. Deputy Potter was speaking with Wathen at the front door, when Wathen let one of the children inside. Wathen shut the door to conceal the child from deputies. Deputy Potter placed his hand on the door to prevent Wathen from shutting it. Deputy Potter and Deputy Gaskill grabbed Wathen and pulled him outside, placing him under arrest. While placing Wathen into custody he pulled away and attempted to get back inside the house. Wathen was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Failure to comply with an Order of Court and Resisting Arrest. CASE# 46964-15

 Roger Lee Wathen 

Incident Briefs 8-19-15 to 8-24-15

8-19-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole cell tower batteries from a storage compartment at a cell tower site in the area of 26000 Locust Grove Farm Lane in Hollywood. The exact date of the theft is unknown. CASE# 49541-15

8-21-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence in the 48000 block of S. Pembrook Drive in Lexington Park and caused property damage. CASE# 48833-15

8-21-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence in the 4000 block of Duke Road and stole property. CASE# 48862-15

8-21-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole a cellphone at Great Mills High School. CASE# 48860-15

8-21-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole a license plate from a parked trailer on Richard Circle in Mechanicsville. CASE# 49023-15

8-22-15 Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered three unsecured vehicles in on Forest Hall Drive in Helen and stole property. CASE# 49181-15

8-22-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole a tag from a motorcycle. The theft occurred sometime during the day, while the motorcycle was being driven to various locations in St. Mary’s County. CASE# 49039-15

8-23-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole a rear registration plate from a vehicle while it was parked in the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital parking lot. CASE# 49360-15

8-23-15 Vandalism – Unknown suspect(s) damaged tires on a vehicle on Harpers Court in Mechanicville. CASE # 49367-15

8-23-15 Vandalism – Unknown suspect(s) broke the back window of a vehicle on Columbus Drive in Lexington Park. CASE # 49384-15

8-23-15 Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole a Maryland Registration plate from a vehicle on Apache Road in Charlotte Hall.  CASE# 49396-15

SMECO Contractor Flying Powerlines

On Monday, August 24 beginning at 8:00 a.m. SMECO will have a contractor flying the power lines in the area between Sollers Wharf and Hewitt Road stations in Calvert and St. Mary's County.

Sheriff's Office Response to Target Shooting Inquiries

Recently, the Sheriff's Office has received inquiries from citizens regarding recreational target shooting with firearms on private property in residential neighborhoods. 

On August 10th, Captain Edward Willenborg, Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division, met with State's Attorney Richard Fritz and Assistant State's Attorney Daniel White to discuss the issue and obtain a legal opinion. SA Fritz advised there is no specific criminal statute, (state or local), preventing a citizen from conducting recreational target shooting with a firearm on his/her property. However, State's Attorney Fritz provided a civil statute 5-403.1 Private nuisance actions against sport shooting ranges found in the Annotated Code of Maryland that applies to Sport Shooting Ranges. It was the opinion of SA Fritz and ASA White that this statute could be used by a neighborhood to file a civil nuisance action against a property owner. 

The Sheriff's Office would remind anyone participating in recreational or competition target shooting or hunting with a firearm to do so safely. Safety is the responsibility of everyone. ALWAYS follow the cardinal rules for safe gun handling: 

1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
3. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
4. KNOW your target and what is behind it.

The consequences for the negligent handling of firearms can be severe. Potential CRIMINAL charges could range from misdemeanor Property Destruction and Reckless Endangerment to felony Assault and Homicide. Although there is no statute governing recreational target shooting on private property in a residential neighborhood, the consequences for doing so negligently are very real.     

For more information VISIT the National Rifle Association website at  www.nra.org
National Shooting Sports Foundation website at www.nssf.org

Citizen Complaints Lead to Heavy Traffic Charges for Driver

On August 7, 2015, the Sheriff’s Office received several complaints from citizens concerning the reckless operation of a white pick-up truck traveling along Route 238 in the northern end of St. Mary's County. One citizen provided a video of the truck operating with total disregard for other drivers.

Corporal Brian Connelly assigned to the Traffic Safety Unit, investigated the complaint and observed the driver commit several violations of Maryland Traffic Law in the video. Those violations were also supported by other drivers who witnessed the truck operating on Route 238.

On August 20th, Corporal Connelly made contact with the driver, identified as Nicholas Cave, age 25, of Mechanicsville, and issued him traffic citations for Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, and Failure to Drive Right of Center.

Sheriff Tim Cameron and the men & women of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office would like to sincerely thank the members of the public who reported this incident. 

Suspect Charged with First Degree Assault – Kevin Berry

Lexington Park, Maryland – On August 17, 2015, deputies responded to the area of Maria Way after the Emergency Communications Center (ECC) received reports of shots fired. The investigation revealed suspect Kevin Benjamin Berry, age 27, of Lexington Park, and an adult male victim engaged in a fight. At some point, Berry displayed a handgun and fired several shots at the victim. Several of the bullets struck a nearby residence. No one was injured during the incident. Berry was located, placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. During transport, Berry discarded a pill bottle containing several suspected oxycodone pills. The label on the bottle had been removed. Berry was charged with 1^st Degree Assault, Possession Controlled Dangerous Substance – Not Marijuana, Possession Paraphernalia, Use of a Firearm during Felony, Reckless Endangerment, and Possession of a Regulated Firearm by DFC Schultz. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division responded to the scene and the investigation into this incident continues. CASE #48295-15 

Kevin Benjamin Berry

Deputies Out in Force For Back to School

The new school year is upon us for St. Mary’s County students. The Sheriff’s Office reminds the public to be aware of school zones and speed limits as they travel through St. Mary’s County. The influx of school buses and parents transporting kids to school increases the opportunity for traffic accidents. In Maryland, fines are doubled for speeding in a school zone or designated school crossings. The law also states it is illegal to pass a school bus when red stop signals and stop arm are activated. Also, when approaching a stopped school bus, be aware of children who might run across the street during a pick-up or drop-off. 

Starting Wednesday, August 19th, deputies will be out in force looking for traffic violators around schools, school zones and bus routes. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the Motor Vehicle Administration’s Safety Program, ‘Kids, the School Bus and You.’ Information about this program can be found at http://1.usa.gov/1K60Gft

Incident Briefs 8-19-15

8-18-15 Burglary - During the overnight hours, unknown suspect(s) broke into a vehicle and stole cash in the area of Golden Beach, Mechanicsville. CASE # 48318-15

VIDEO - Help SMCSO Identify Bike Theft Suspects

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


On July 25, 2015, at approximately 1:30 AM, 3 unidentified male suspects stole a pink bicycle and a black Diamondback 12 speed bicycle from a fenced yard on Oregon Way. The pink bicycle was subsequently recovered.

 

Anyone with information regarding the identity of these 3 suspects 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). 

You may also contact Deputy Vezzosi at 301.475.4200 X 1943. 

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.

Calls to CRIME SOLVERS are NOT RECORDED. 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

Incident Briefs 8-13-15 to 8-18-15

8-14-15 Burglary - Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a home in the 48000 block of Mattapany Road in Lexington Park, and stole property. CASE #47477-15

8-14-15 Vandalism - Unknown suspect(s) spray painted 3 vehicles and lawn ornaments along Cobrums Wharf Road in Avenue. CASE #47556-15

8-14-15 Burglary - Unknown suspect entered a residence on Three Notch Road in Hollywood. CASE #47643-15

8-15-15 Burglary to motor vehicle - Unknown suspects entered a unsecured vehicle in the 21000 block of Indian Bridge Road and stole property. CASE # 47781-15

8-15-15 Burglary - Unknown suspect entered a residence in the 36000 block of West Lakeland Drive and stole property. CASE # 4773-15

8-15-15 Assist other agency - Deputies assisted the Maryland State Police with a vehicle pursuit in Charlotte Hall. The vehicle eventually stopped and the driver fled on foot. CASE # 47779-15

8-15-15 Burglary - Unknown suspects entered a garage on Shelby Leigh Court in Lexington Park and stole property. CASE # 47814-15

8-16-15 Theft - Unknown suspects stole two all-terrain vehicles from a shed in the 24000 block of Budds Creek Road in Clements. The ATV's were located across the street in the wood line. CASE # 48044-15

8-17-15 Fraud - Unknown suspects used a victim's identity to apply for credit cards. CASE # 48191-15

Motor Vehicle Crash - Airedale Road

Ridge, Maryland - On August 16, 2015 at 1:57 pm, deputies responded to a single vehicle crash on Airedele Road at Fishermen Way. Deputies located a 2003 Land Rover Discovery crashed into a tree. The male driver, and sole occupant of the vehicle, suffered serious injuries and was in and out of consciousness. 

Members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. The preliminary investigation revealed the Land Rover was heading east on Airedele Road when it left the roadway to the right and over corrected. The driver continued to lose control, traveling across both lanes of Airedale Road and eventually off the roadway traveling along a ditch. The vehicle then struck a tree and came to rest.

The driver was transported to Prince Georges Shock Trauma by Maryland State Police helicopter and was last listed in stable condition. At this time, speed is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

 

The identity of the driver has not yet been confirmed. Anyone who has information regarding this crash or the identity of the driver is asked to call Deputy Christopher Beyer at 301-475-4040.

Additional information will be released as it is developed. 

VIDEO - Town Creek Burglary, Help SMCSO ID Suspects

Lexington Park, Maryland - On July 2, 2015, Deputy Schultz responded to a home on Spruce Drive in the Town Creek subdivision. The homeowner reported he had left that morning at approximately 8:26 AM. When he returned home at approximately 10:17 AM, he found his home had been burglarized. Unidentified suspects ransacked the interior of the home and stole laptops, money, watches, collectible coins, and other undisclosed items of property. 

Exterior video surveillance equipment captured two suspects and the suspect vehicle at the home during the time the crime was committed. 

The suspect vehicle is a blue passenger car, possibly a Volkswagen Jetta, with unknown Maryland registration plates. 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in identifying these suspects by watching the video below.    

Anyone with information regarding the identity of these suspects, suspect vehicle 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). 

You may also contact Deputy 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.

Calls to CRIME SOLVERS are NOT RECORDED. 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

VIDEO - Help SMCSO ID Boat Trailer Theft Suspect - Wicomico Shores

Mechanicsville, Maryland - On August 12, 2015, at approximately 3:17 PM, a suspect or suspects stole a 40 foot, 3 axle boat trailer from a residence on Army Navy Drive in the Wicomico Shores neighborhood. The trailer, valued at $7,000.00, also has chrome rims, a polished aluminum frame, and was purchased new in April 2014. 

Video surveillance footage, obtained during the investigation, depicts a dark full size sport utility vehicle, possibly a late 2000's model Toyota Sequoia or GMC Yukon, traveling on Army Navy Drive toward the location of the boat trailer at 3:12 PM. The suspect vehicle then exits Army Navy Drive with the trailer attached 5 minutes later. 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect(s) responsible for this theft by viewing the attached video. 

  Anyone with information regarding the suspect vehicle 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). 

You may also contact Corporal Daniel Snyder at 301.475.4200 X 9070. 

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.

Calls to CRIME SOLVERS are NOT RECORDED. 

CALLERS CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS.