St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Hosts Training Opportunity for Tri-County Area

Law enforcement agencies – nationally and locally – are faced with the challenges of policing in these changing times, especially during “Use of Force” encounters. This is the reality of policing, so preparing for incidents which have the potential to escalate to serious injury or death, is a must.

On August 9, 2014, Michael Brown, was shot and killed, by Ferguson police Officer Darren Wilson, in Ferguson, MO, a suburb of St. Louis. The shooting prompted protests that unsettled the area for weeks. On August 11, 2014, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) opened a civil rights investigation into the incident. On March 4, 2015, the federal investigation cleared Wilson of any civil rights violations and deemed the shooting “justified” based on the forensics and witness accounts.

The FBI is using the timeline as a platform to discuss the investigation with other law enforcement agencies. By sharing information, they hope to prepare law enforcement for an officer-involved shooting and help them understand what role the FBI will play federally if they simultaneously investigate.

On Monday, May 24, a training course, sponsored by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the FBI, reviewed facts which led to the shooting of Michael Brown, the obstacles they faced while sorting through the information to get the facts, the forensic evidence recovered, and what challenges law enforcement could expect in the future. Co-Case Agent, Special Agent Carolyn Cerone, stressed to the agencies the importance of partnerships within their communities and with other state and federal agencies. She explained that a solid partnership will lend itself to extended resources, information sharing, and overall community cooperation.

Attendees included several of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office partners: the Maryland State Police, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, United States Coast Guard, Professors from the College of Southern Maryland, Parole and Probation, Recovery Court, Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy Instructors, DEA Task Force Group 48, as well as members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

“Those who attended now have the factual predicate of what actually transpired that day, straight from the principal investigator,” said Sheriff Cameron. He added,”this presentation benefits attendees because they have the “lessons learned,” which can be used for educational and training purposes, in addition to reviewing policies and procedures to ensure they are up-to-date.”

On behalf of Sheriff Tim Cameron, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office extends their appreciation to Special Agent Carolyn Cerone, and the FBI Baltimore Field Office, for their presentation.

Special Agent Carolyn Cerone 

Incident Briefs 6/30/2016

Arson – Unknown suspect(s) stole a motor vehicle and then lit it on fire, completely destroying it. The motor vehicle was found abandoned in the area of Friendship School Road in Mechanicsville. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded and assumed the investigation. CASE# 33731-16

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.

Arrests 6/29/2016

6-26-2016 – Assault – Deputy A. Schultz responded to the 25000 block of Jones Wharf Road in Hollywood, for a reported assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Haley Mariah Simmons, age 18, of Hollywood, struck the victim in the neck during an argument. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. Simmons was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention. She was charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 33097-16

Haley M. Simmons

6-26-2016 – Assault – Deputy C. Ball responded to the 46000 block of Flower Drive in Lexington Park, for a reported domestic disturbance.  The suspect, Rico Kinta Keys, Jr., age 21, of Great Mills, appeared to be yelling and screaming in a victim’s face. Keys was asked several times to lower his voice, he failed to comply and approached Deputy Ball with clenched fists. After several attempts to physically resist, he was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where he was charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 33046-16

Rico K. Keys, Jr.

6-23-2016 – Theft – Deputy K. Molitor responded to the 46000 block of Lexington Village Way (Kohl’s Shopping Center) in Lexington Park, for a reported shoplifting in progress. The Emergency Communications Center provided a description of a female and male who fled the store with an unknown amount of merchandise. Corporal Rishel initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle matching the description. James Edward Stewart II, age 40, of Lexington Park, was driving the vehicle with a suspended license, and Joleen Leann Jameson, age 23, was the passenger. The investigation revealed both suspects entered the store together, selected merchandise, and then Stewart left the store. Jameson entered the dressing room where she concealed merchandise, before fleeing to a motor vehicle parked in front of the store. Stewart placed the vehicle in drive and fled the scene. The merchandise was recovered and both, Jameson and Stewart, were transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. Jameson was charged with Theft: $1000 to under $10000, and Theft Less Than $1000 value. Stewart was charged with Theft: $1000 to under $10000, Theft: Less $1000 value, Failure to Appear: CDS Possession – Not Marijuana and Failure to Appear: Theft Less Than $100. CASE# 32688-16

James E. Stewart II

Joleen L. Jameson

6-22-2016 – Theft – Deputy J. Smith responded to the McKay's Food and Drug store in Leonardtown, for a reported theft. Employees observed a female in the business acting suspiciously and later determined she concealed multiple items and left the store without paying. The suspect, Heather Marie Maples, age 30, of Park Hall, was suspected to be involved in multiple other thefts that occurred throughout the previous week. The suspect was located fleeing in the parking lot by responding officers. She was arrested and charged with Theft Scheme: Less Than $1000, Two Counts of Theft: Less than $1000 value, Theft: Less Than $100, and Malicious Destruction of Property/Value - $1000. CASE# 32762-16

Heather M. Maples 

6-27-2016 – Assault – Deputy J. Smith responded to the 42000 block of Ridge Road in Mechanicsville, in regards to a disturbance. The victim alleged the suspect, Stephanie Lynn Edwards, age 62, of Lexington Park, assaulted the victim by biting the victim, striking the victim in the head with an ashtray, and then producing a knife. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. Edwards was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with First Degree Assault and Second Degree Assault. CASE# 33277-16

Stephanie L. Edwards

6-28-2016 – Assault – Deputy G. Mushchette responded to the Plaza Tolteca Mexican Restaurant in California, for the report of threats. The suspect, Isidro Ruiz, age 29, of Lexington Park, is a former employee of the restaurant and received a notice not to trespass from responding deputies. Officers were called back when Ruiz returned to the restaurant after being issued the notice. As the suspect was being placed under arrest, an individual approached deputies alleging assault by the suspect. The victim displayed visible signs of injuries consistent with the allegations. Ruiz was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where he was charged with Second Degree Assault and Trespassing. CASE# 33511-16

Isidro Ruiz 

Incident Briefs 6/29/2016

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – During the overnight hours, unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 22000 block of Hanover Drive in Leonardtown. Deputy D. McClure is investigating the case. CASE# 33498-15

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.

LUSBY MAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR HIS ROLE IN A SOUTHERN MARYLAND DRUG TRAFFICKING CONSPIRACY

Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow sentenced Antoine Dewayne Savoy, age 35, of Lusby, Maryland, today to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute powder and crack cocaine. 

The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Daniel L. Board, Jr. of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Baltimore Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Karl C. Colder of the Drug Enforcement Administration - Washington Field Division; Chief Hank Stawinski of the Prince George’s County Police Department; Chief Stanley Johnson, of the Maryland National Capital Park Police, Prince George’s County Division; Charles County Sheriff Troy Berry; St. Mary’s County Sheriff Tim Cameron; and Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans.

According to his plea agreement and other court documents, from January through July 2015, Savoy conspired with Colbert Juan Jones, Vincent Leo Fletcher, Troy Taishon Swann, and James Devwan Pixley, to distribute cocaine. Jones sold cocaine to his customers, which included Savoy and Pixley. Savoy and Pixley purchased cocaine from Jones several times a month and used at least half of that cocaine to manufacture crack cocaine, which they sold in smaller distribution quantities. Savoy often retrieved the cocaine from a home in Prince Frederick, Maryland, from which Jones distributed narcotics. Savoy would either meet Jones there and personally exchange money for the cocaine, or retrieve the cocaine from a hiding place known to Savoy and Jones. Savoy would then leave cash in the hiding place, or arrange another time and place to provide money to Jones.

Jones obtained cocaine from Fletcher and other sources. Fletcher obtained cocaine several times a month from Swann and other suppliers. Fletcher distributed the cocaine to his customers for further distribution, and used some of the powder cocaine to manufacture crack cocaine, which he also distributed. 

Colbert Juan Jones, age 33, of St. Leonard, Maryland, and Vincent Leo Fletcher, age 29, of Clinton, Maryland, and James Devwan Pixley, age 26, of Waldorf, Maryland, were each previously sentenced to 10 years in prison. Troy Taishon Swann, age 39, of Waldorf, pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11 2016 at 11:00 a.m.

United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the ATF, DEA, Prince George’s County Police Department, Maryland National Capital Park Police, Prince George’s County Division, and the Charles, St. Mary’s and Calvert County Sheriffs’ Offices for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael T. Packard and Leah J. Bressack, who prosecuted this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.

Incident Briefs 6/28/2016

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 22000 block of Sandra Lane in California. Deputy L. Johnson is investigating the case. CASE# 33243-16

Vandalism – During the overnight hours, unknown suspect(s) vandalized a motor vehicle parked in the 46000 block of Morning Dew Lane in Lexington Park. Deputy L. Johnson is investigating the case. CASE# 33211-16

Vandalism – During the overnight hours, unknown suspect(s) vandalized a motor vehicle in the 46000 block of Radford Lane in Lexington Park. Deputy D. Potter is investigating the case. CASE# 33201-16

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) stole an ATV from the 26000 block of Tin Top School Road in Mechanicsville. Deputy B. Fennessey is investigating the case. CASE# 33268-16

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.

ARMED ROBBER SENTENCED TO OVER 15 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON: Robbed a Jewelry Store in Charlotte Hall and Pharmacy in Mechanicsville at Gunpoint

Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Paul W. Grimm sentenced Darrell Lee, age 48, of Charlotte Hall, Maryland, today to 184 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for robbery, and for carrying and brandishing a gun during a robbery. Judge Grimm also ordered Lee to pay restitution of $24,791.50 and forfeit $19,987. 

The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Kevin Perkins of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; St. Mary’s County Sheriff Tim Cameron; and Colonel William M. Pallozzi, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police.

According to his plea agreement, on June 18, 2014, Lee and Furman Troy entered a jewelry store in Charlotte Hall. Lee brandished a gun at the store owner and Troy bound the victim with duct tape. After obtaining the key to the jewelry counter from an employee, they stole jewelry worth approximately $8,890, cash, a laptop computer valued at approximately $2,100 and other items. 

On June 22, 2014, Lee and Troy robbed a pharmacy in Mechanicsville, Maryland. Again, Lee brandished a gun and Troy bound the employee with duct tape. They stole cash and prescription bottles containing oxycodone, methadone, hydrocodone and endocet, valued at approximately $8,997. 

Furman Troy, age 45, of Charlotte Hall, Maryland, pleaded guilty to his participation in the scheme and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. In addition, Michael Burgess, age 54, of Alexandria, Virginia, and Abdelrahim Ayyad, a/k/a Sahid, age 50, of White Plains, Maryland previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the robberies and await sentencing.

United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended the FBI, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police 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 Attorney Leah J. Bressack, who prosecuted the case.

Arrests 6/23/2016

6-23-2016 – Assault – Deputy J. Kerns responded to the 24000 block of Morgan Road in Hollywood, for a reported assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Michael Kelly Fitzpatrick, age 25, of Hollywood, grabbed the victim in the face then threw the victim against a wall. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. CASE# 32502-16

Michael K. Fitzpatrick

SMCSO Provides Demonstrations for Kids at the Muscular Dystrophy Association Camp

Earlier today, The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office participated in the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s summer camp. The camp provides kids with neuromuscular disease a chance to discover a world just for them and meet other kids sharing the same experiences.

Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab Technician, Megan Roberts, along with the resident FBI agent, set up the Crime Lab van for display and provided fingerprinting demonstrations for each of the children.

Attendees eagerly watched a K9 demonstration performed by members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit                                                                                            

The Sheriff’s Office extends appreciation to the Baltimore Muscular Dystrophy Association for extending SMCSO an invitation to participate in the camp. 

Additional Photos: http://bit.ly/28QpnlU

K9 Unit performs several demonstrations for the audience

Crime Lab Technician Megan Roberts provides a fingerprinting demonstration, along with the resident FBI agent

Incident Briefs 6/22/2016

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a residence and stole property in the area of Sue Drive in Lexington Park. DFC Vezzosi is investigating the case. CASE# 32302-16

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.

Multiple Sex Offenders Arrested for Failure to Register

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Criminal Investigations Division, Sex Offender Compliance Unit, has arrested the following individuals for Failing to Register as Sex Offender as required by the Maryland Statue:

6-17-2016 – Joshua McCullough Marsh, age 43, of Park Hall, MD, Failure to Register as Tier II Sex Offender

Josh M. Marsh

6-17-2016 – Jared Vaughn Hardy, age 24, of Great Mills, MD, Failure to Register as a Tier II Sex Offender, and Failure to Notify of Employment Change

Jared V. Hardy

6-17-2016 – David Lee Anderson, Jr, age 22, of Lexington Park, MD, Failure to Register as Tier III Sex Offender 

David L. Anderson

Anyone with information related to sex offenders is asked to contact Detective William Raddatz by email at William.Raddatz@stmarysmd.com or by phone at 301-475-4200, ext. *1948

Arrests 6/21/2016

6-17-2016 – Malicious Destruction of Property – Deputy D. Potter responded to the 21000 block of St. Lo Place in Lexington Park, for a reported property destruction.  The suspect, Peyton Imani Cinnamon Scott, age 18, of California,  used a steering wheel locking mechanism to break every window in a victim’s motor vehicle in the 21000 block of St. Lo place in Lexington Park.  Scott was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where she was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property having a value of $100 or more. CASE# 31497-16

Peyton I. Scott 

6-17-2016 – Violation of a Protective Order – Deputy J. Lacey responded to the 45000 block of Indian Way in Lexington Park for the report of a violation of a protective order. The victim called the Emergency Communications Center and reported the suspect, Troy Dwayne Cutchember, age 24, of California, was knocking on the victim’s door.  Cutchember was placed under arrest and charged with Violation of a Protective Order. CASE# 31424-16

Troy D. Cutchember

6-19-2016 – Assault – Corporal D. Reppel responded to the 17000 block of Jutland Drive in St. Inigoes, for the report of a domestic assault in progress. The victim alleged the suspect, Shannon Johanna Dement, age 35, of St. Inigoes, bit the victim in the ear and hit the victim in the head with car keys. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. Dement was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 31916-16

Shannon J. Dement 

6-20-2016 – Corporal E. O Connor responded to the Belk’s Department Store in California, for the report of a theft. The suspect, Nadine Mare Buck, age 35, of Lexington Park, attempted to steal merchandise from the store by concealing it in her purse. Buck fled the scene in a motor vehicle before being located by Corporal O’ Connor. Nadine was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Theft Less than $1000. CASE# 32011-16 

Nadine M. Buck 

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Warns of a New Drug Trend: Fentanyl

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Division is issuing a warning regarding the powerful opioid pain reliever fentanyl. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office reports a rise in fentanyl-related overdoses and the sale of fentanyl on the streets.

“Fentanyl has been a problem for other jurisdictions nationwide and unfortunately, it has presented itself locally in St. Mary’s County. Although there has only been a few cases reported, the Sheriff’s Office remains proactive by identifying developing trends in our community, in addition to keeping our citizens aware and up-to-date with the most current information,” said Captain Daniel Alioto, Vice/Narcotics Commander.

Fentanyl can be used safely if prescribed, but is a killer on the streets. Fentanyl is a schedule II narcotic controlled substance and is often seen in patch form when prescribed to the terminally ill. It’s an analgesic and an anesthetic, 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, and 30 to 50 times stronger than heroin, and the most powerful opiate available.   Fentanyl is transdermal; it can be easily absorbed through the skin.

This powerful drug is often paired with heroin or benzodiazepines to quicken the onset and enhance the high. Often, a minuscule amount of Fentanyl, in a powder form, is all it takes for an overdose to occur.

Many abusers believe they are purchasing heroin or don’t know the heroin or drug they are consuming has been laced with fentanyl.  Many forms of Fentanyl are being imported from Mexico and China as well as being developed from synthetic ingredients and sold illegally.

For educational purposes, the Sheriff’s Office encourages the community to watch a video being circulated by the Drug Enforcement Agency, warning of fentanyl poisoning.

http://bit.ly/28Nitf9

For additional questions, contact Captain Alioto, Vice/Narcotics Commander by email at Daniel.Alioto@stmarysmd.com. 

Incident Briefs 6/21/2016

Property Destruction – On 6/20/2016, unknown suspect(s) used an unknown object to damage three mailboxes in the areas of Rison Lane and Yowaiski Mill Road in Mechanicsville. Deputy D. Lawrence is investigating the case. CASE# 31696-16, 31971-16

Arson – Unknown suspect(s) set a mailbox on fire in the 39000 block of Doctor Johnson Road in Mechanicsville. The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office responded and assumed the investigation. CASE# 31979-16

Arson – Unknown suspect(s) placed fireworks inside a mailbox in the 38000 block of Dean Way in Mechanicsville. The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. CASE#32005-16

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 27000 block of Mill Seat Drive in Mechanicsville. DFC A. Schultz is investigating the case. CASE# 32001-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 46000 block of Rogers Drive in Lexington Park. Corporal T. Seyfried is investigating the case. CASE# 32030-16

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.

Police Standoff Ends Peacefully

On June 20, 2016, at approximately 5:17 p.m., St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Maryland State Police troopers responded to the St. George’s Hundred neighborhood in Great Mills, Maryland for a “check the welfare.” The report was for a white male threatening suicide with a handgun. 

Responding deputies encountered the 36-year-old subject holding a handgun to his head near a neighborhood pond. A perimeter was established, crisis negotiators were contacted, and emergency services personnel responded to the scene. 

Deputies communicated with the subject for a period leading to his safe surrender. He was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for an emergency evaluation. There were no injuries as a result of this incident. 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office thanks members of the St. George’s Hundred community and surrounding areas for their cooperation, patience, and understanding throughout this critical incident. 

Incident Briefs 6/17 - 6/20

Attempted Burglary – Between 6/16 and 6/17, unknown suspect(s) attempted to force entry into a victim’s hot dog stand at the Farmer’s Market in Charlotte Hall. Nothing appeared to be missing. Deputy J. Smith is investigating the case. CASE# 31410-16

Theft – Sometime during the month of September, unknown suspect(s) stole property from a residence in the 22000 block of Newtowne Neck Road in Leonardtown. Deputy J. Smith is investigating the case. CASE# 31464-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and removed gasoline from the tank in the 27000 block of Chapel Court in Mechanicsville. Corporal J. Kirkner is investigating the case. CASE# 31554-16

Counterfeit Complaint – A victim reported receiving a fake $100 bill while working in the area of Warwick Court in Lexington Park. CASE# 31534-16

Vandalism – Unknown suspect(s) damaged the entrance gate to Myrtle Point Park in California. Deputy First Class D. Potter is investigating the case. CASE# 31637-16

Burglary – Between 6/11 and 6/18, unknown suspects forced entry into a food trailer at the Farmer’s Market in Charlotte Hall. Deputy J. Smith is investigating the case. CASE# 31641-16

Theft – During the overnight hours of 6/17 into 6/18, unknown suspects entered a victim’s yard and stole property. Deputy L. Johnson is investigating the case. CASE# 31687-16

Attempted Burglary – During the overnight hours of 6/18 into 6/19, unknown suspect(s) attempted to force entry into a residence in the 24000 block of North Patuxent Beach Road in California. Deputy J. Bare is investigating the case. CASE# 31853-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a residence in the 46000 block of Columbus Drive in Lexington Park. DFC D. Potter is investigating the case. CASE# 31887-16

Arrests 6/17/2016

6-13-2016 – Child Abuse – On June 13, 2016, an arrest warrant was obtained for Michael Laverne Kuehl, age 46, of Primghar, IA, after Deputy D. Potter received information from a juvenile victim alleging the suspect beat the victim on several occasions. The victim displayed visible signs of injuries and Child Protective Services was contacted. Deputy First Class Flerlage served the warrant, and Kuehl was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where he was charged with Two Counts of Child Abuse Second Degree, and Second Degree Assault. CASE# 30674-16

Michael L. Kuehl

6-15-2016 – Assault – Deputy A. Schultz responded to the 41000 block of Connelly Street in Leonardtown, for the report of a disturbance. The victim alleged the suspect, Tavaris Carter Proctor, age 22, of Leonardtown, pushed the victim during an argument. The victim displayed visible signs of injury. Proctor was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 31113-16

Tavaris C. Proctor 

6-15-2016 – Assault – Deputy C. Ball responded to the 22000 block of Towey Court in Great Mills, for the report of an assault. The victim alleged during a fight, the suspect, Patricia Lamaire Gant, age 28, of Great Mills, slapped the victim the victim in the face. The victim displayed signs of injury consistent with the allegations. Gant was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 31222-16

Patricia L. Gant 

6-16-2016 – Assault – Deputy D. Lawrence responded to the 22000 block of Bitsys Way in Bushwood, for the report of an assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Melissa Jo Bartholomew, age 44, of Bushwood, came at the victim in an aggressive manner holding a steak knife. Bartholomew was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Two Counts of First Degree Assault, and Two Counts of Second Degree Assault. CASE# 31302-16

Melissa J. Bartholomew

First Responder Drill to be held at Great Mills High School

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with local rescue squads and fire departments, will host a scenario-based training exercise at Great Mills High School, on Saturday, June 25 from 8:00 a.m. until approximately 11:00 a.m. During the training scenario, all eastbound lanes of Great Mills Road will be shut down from Chancellors Run Road to Tower Lane. 

The drill is not open to the public; however, the public should expect an abundance of law enforcement, Fire, EMS personnel and related equipment around the Great Mills High School and Carver Elementary School campuses. 

Anyone with questions is asked to call the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer at 301-475-4200, ext. *1922.

#SMCSO Torch Run for Special Olympics Continues to be a Success

On Friday, June 10, 2016, over 200 individuals gathered for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The runners and walkers started at Mission BBQ in San Souci Plaza, crossed the Thomas Johnson Bridge, and then met back at Mission BBQ for lunch.

This year, through the Torch Run, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office raised over $10,000 for Special Olympics in St. Mary’s County. Not only is the Torch Run one of Special Olympics’ biggest fundraisers, but it is also an excellent way to show support for Special Olympics athletes.

On behalf of Sheriff Tim Cameron, Torch Run Coordinator Detective Dave Alexander and his torch run staff; Lt. Brian Hartz, Debbie Zylak, and Jodi Irwin, the Sheriff’s Office extends their sincere gratitude to the runners, walkers, and generous sponsors who continue to support the Torch Run each year. 

Additional Photos: http://bit.ly/1W1eKwQ

Thank you to the 2016 Torch Run sponsors:

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Welcomes New Deputies

Seven new deputies have joined the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. The deputies were sworn in on Friday, June 3, 2016, at the Circuit Courthouse by Ms. Joan Williams, Clerk of the Circuit Court. Later that evening, an official graduation was held at LaPlata High School in LaPlata, Maryland.                                                                                                       

Please join the Sheriff’s Office in welcoming the following new deputies:                      

Deputy Matthew R. Beyer

Deputy Shawn T. Bowie

Deputy Andrew W. Budd

Deputy Jason L. Bush

Deputy Tyler J. Payne

Deputy Shawn A. Shelko

Deputy Robert T. Trudell 

The deputies completed a 28-week entrance level training program held at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, in Nanjemoy, Maryland, which started on November 16, 2015, and ended on June 3, 2016. The training program included extensive instruction on criminal law, constitutional law, traffic law, patrol procedures, firearms, defensive driving and first-aid. 

Deputy Andrew Budd was selected as the class speaker, and Deputy Jason L. Bush received recognition for his exemplary performance during firearms instruction. 

The deputies will now begin extensive field training with a seasoned deputy. Sheriff Tim Cameron and the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office welcome these officers to the law enforcement profession. 

Additional Photos: http://bit.ly/23bVZbd

Pictured L-R (Deputy J. Bush, Deputy R. Trudell, Deputy S. Shelko, Deputy A. Budd, Deputy S. Bowie,         Deputy T. Payne, Deputy M. Beyer

Incident Briefs 6/15/2016

Burglary – Sometime within the past couple months, unknown suspect(s) entered a vacant residence and stole property. There were no signs of forced entry. Deputy D. Holdsworth is investigating the case. CASE# 30901-16

Theft of Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) stole a motor vehicle from the Used Car Factory in Mechanicsville. Deputy B. Fennessey is investigating the case. CASE# 30937-16

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.

Registration for Camp D.A.R.E. Extended

Registration for Camp D.A.R.E. has been extended until Monday, June 20. 

The camp offers participants a structured and fun environment that encourages participation by all students. Activities include arts and crafts, recreational competitions, and public-safety related events. Students are engaged at the same time as they are provided useful information about how to resist drugs and alcohol, and how to deal with threats of violence.


To register visit: http://firstsheriff.blogspot.com/2016/05/st-marys-county-sheriffs-office-now.html.

Arrests 6/14/2016

6-7-2016 – Assault – Corporal D. Snyder responded to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center for the report of an inmate on inmate assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Derrick Alan Boyd, Sr., age 46, of Waldorf, threw a cup of tea on the inmate and in the process struck him with the cup.  Boyd was charged with Second Degree Assault on DOC Inmate. CASE# 29604-16

Derrick Alan Boyd, Sr.

6-11-2016 – Theft – Deputy T. Wesner responded to the Walmart in California, for the report of a trespassing complaint. The suspect, Heather Marie Maples, age 30, of Park Hall, was located leaving the check-out line by Deputy Wesner. The deputy searched a large bag being carried by the victim which contained Walmart merchandise. No receipt could be produced for the merchandise and further investigation revealed Maples had an active warrant for her arrest through the state of Virginia. Maples was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with Theft less Than $100. CASE# 30352-16

Heather Marie Maples 

6-10-2016 – Possession – Deputy J. Krum made contact with the suspect, Jason Michael Reintzell, who had an active arrest warrant for his arrest. During a search of the suspect, Krum located a hypodermic needle containing suspected cocaine. Reintzell was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. An additional search at the Detention Center revealed suspected Alprazolam, hidden within the inner layers of a tear in a flat billed hat being worn by Reintzell. He was charged with Two Counts of CDS Possession – Not Marijuana, Two Counts of CDS Possession – Paraphernalia, and Possession of Contraband in a place of Confinement. a CASE# 30271-16

 Jason Michael Reintzell

6-11-2016 – Assault – Corporal T. Seyfried responded to the 21000 block of Ronald Drive in Lexington Park, for a reported domestic assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Harris Linnielle Proctor, age 40, of Mechanicsville, pushed the victim down on the asphalt during an argument. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. Proctor was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 30302-16

Harris Linnielle Proctor

6-12-2016 – Assault – Deputy G. Knott responded to the 22000 block of Ventura Way in Lexington Park, for the report of a domestic assault. The victim advised the suspect, Roxanne Elizabeth Jewitt, age 34, of California, threw apple juice on the victim and scratched the victim’s face during an argument. The victim displayed injuries consistent with the allegations. Jewett was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 30516-16

Roxanne Elizabeth Jewett

6-12-2016 – Burglary – Deputy C. Ball responded to the 23000 block of West Patuxent Beach Road in California, for the report of a suspect kicking in the back door to an unoccupied residence. Deputy Ball made contact with, Tayvone Emmanuel Warren, age 18, of California, who matched the description of the suspect. Additionally, Warren had in his possession a key from the unoccupied residence. Warren was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with 1^st Degree Burglary. CASE# 30599-16

Trayvon Emmanuel Warren

Counterfeit Bills Circulating in St. Mary’s County

Nationwide, businesses are experiencing an increase in individuals attempting to pass counterfeit $100 bills. Local jurisdictions, including the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, are investigating several cases where multiple individuals have used, or attempted to use, fraudulent $100 bills.

The public should be on the lookout for counterfeit money being used within the community. The fake money looks very similar to real currency but has the phrase “For Cinematic use ONLY” on the back and “For Motion Picture Use ONLY" on the front.

Local businesses and residents are urged to inspect any bills they receive. If you believe you have counterfeit money, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 301-475-8008. A sample image of the counterfeit bills, as described above, is attached for your reference.

For Cinematic Use ONLY on the Back

For Motion Picture Use ONLY on the Front 

Incident Briefs 6/14/2016

Theft of Motor Vehicle – During the overnight hours, unknown suspect(s) stole a victim’s vehicle from their residence in the 47000 block of Berne Way in Lexington Park. The vehicle was located abandoned with the keys still in the ignition. The case is being investigated by Deputy L. Johnson. CASE# 30682-16

Burglary – During the overnight hours of 6/12 into 6/13, unknown suspects forced entry into a shed and stole property in the 20000 block of Spring Hill Road in Lexington Park. The case is being investigated by Deputy D. Holdsworth. CASE# 30687-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – During the overnight hours, unknown suspect(s) entered the victim’s unsecured vehicle and stole property in the 48000 block of Post Oak Road in St. Inigoes. The case is being investigated by Deputy D. Holdsworth. CASE# 30719-16

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.

Correctional Officers Graduate from the Emergency Response Team Academy

On May 27, 2016, the St. Mary’s County Detention Center graduated three officers from the Emergency Response Team (ERT) Academy that was held at The Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy in Nanjemoy, Maryland.

The training lasted for seven days and consisted of class instruction, team building, and strenuous physical exercise.The ERT Team responds to emergency situations that pose a potential threat to other inmates and staff while maintaining security, custody, and control in the Detention Center. 

Please join Sheriff Tim Cameron and the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office in congratulating Correctional Officer Ryan Rosario, Correctional Officer Brianna Hammet, and Correctional Officer Matthew Zumbrun.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office also wishes to extend their congratulations to the Charles County and Calvert County EST Academy graduates.

Correctional Officer Ryan Rosario

Correctional Officer Brianna Hammet

Correctional Officer Matthew Zumbrun