Incident Briefs – 11/30/2016

Burglary – An unknown suspect fled from a residence on the 29000 block of Richard Circle in Mechanicsville. DFC  K. Flerlage is investigating the case. CASE# 61107-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 18000 block of Windmill Point Road in Drayden. DFC C. Beyer is investigating the case. CASE# 61120-16

Attempted Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) attempted to force entry into a residence in the 21000 block of Enterprise Road in Lexington Park. Troopers from the Maryland State Police are investigating the case. CASE# 61214-16

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole cash in the 38000 block of Little Ranch Lane in Mechanicsville. Dep D. Holdsworth is investigating the case. CASE# 61240-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a residence and stole property in the 45000 block of Chancellors Run Court in Great Mills. Dep. M. Beyer is investigating the case. CASE# 61245-16

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.

Incident Briefs – 11/29/2016

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Over the weekend, unknown suspect(s) removed property from multiple motor vehicles parked at Metcom in Hollywood. Deputy G. Muschette is investigating the case. CASE# 60901-16

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.

Subject Identified in Death Investigation at Point Lookout State Park

On November 27, 2016, the St. Mary’s County Emergency Communications Center received a call from a citizen who located a deceased subject at Point Lookout State Park in Point Lookout, Maryland.

Patrol deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded and initiated the investigation. Detectives and Crime Lab personnel of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division continued the investigation with the assistance of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police and the Prince George’s County Police Department. 

Deputies arrived on scene and located a deceased subject, later identified as Ashley Vaughn Thompson, age 31, of Temple Hills, partially in the water at Point Lookout State Park. The investigation revealed, Thompson was reported as a missing person to the Prince George’s County Police Department a few weeks prior, and around the same time, his vehicle was recovered on the property of Point Lookout State Park. 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the Prince George’s County Police Department and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police for their assistance with the investigation. 

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Skyler LeFave at 301-475-4200, ext. *1983.

Incident Briefs – 11/22/2016 – 11/28/2016

11/23/2016

Breaking and Entering to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 22000 block of Fox Ridge Road in Lexington Park. Nothing appeared to be missing from the vehicle. Deputy J. Bush is investigating the case. CASE# 60272-16

11/24/2016

CDS Violation – A daytime cleanup worker at the St. Mary’s County Adult Detention Center found suspected marijuana and related paraphernalia inside a female hygiene disposal box. Deputy T. Siciliano is investigating the case. CASE# 60397-16

Breaking and Entering to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property in the 38000 block of Robert Lacey Road in Abell. DFC C. Beyer is investigating the case. CASE# 60398-16

11/25/2016

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into a residence in the 25000 block of Arrowhead Court in Chaptico. Cpl. S. Kerby is investigating the case. CASE# 60523-16

11-26-16

Reckless Endangerment – Dep. D Smith was investigating a burglary when he heard what appeared to be a gunshot fired behind the Weiss on Great Mills Road. A check of the area revealed a casing and a search for the suspect was performed with negative results. Dep. D. Smith is investigating the case. CASE# 60712-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 46000 block of Chapman Drive in Lexington Park. The case is being investigated by Dep. D. Smith. CASE# 60702-16

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 23000 block of Upland Drive in Bushwood. Nothing appears to be removed from the vehicle. Dep. A. Manns is investigating the case. CASE# 60694-16

11-28-2016
Robbery – A victim was standing in line at Walmart holding her phone when a suspect came up behind the victim and struck an area of the victim’s hand causing the phone/wallet to fall to the ground. The suspect picked up the phone/wallet and fled the scene. The phone was recovered and the investigation is continuing. CASE# 60859-16

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.

SMCSO Deputies and Correctional Officers Training for Times of Crisis

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies and correctional officers respond to calls involving people in some sort of mental health crisis on a daily basis, sometimes even multiple times during a single shift.  Recently, three correctional officers, Correctional Officer First Class Nick Alioto, Correctional Officer First Class Michael Labanowski, Jr, and Correctional Officer Melissa Dodson along with deputies Sergeant Michael Boyer, and Corporal Anthony Whipkey learned how to manage those types of calls better through Critical Intervention Team (CIT) training. That dedication on the part of these officers brings the total number of deputies trained in CIT to 38, along with ten correctional officers and one captain. 

CIT training is a 40-hour program that brings together law enforcement, mental health providers, hospital emergency departments, and individuals with mental illness and their families in an effort to improve emergency response to people in crisis. It is a model for what community policing should include.

CIT improves officer and civilian safety and gives law enforcement enhanced tools to efficiently and safely perform their jobs. The training provides a means to share the expertise of mental health professionals and experienced officers in the community with deputies; training that can serve to assist, advise, and support those deputies who find themselves faced with a challenging situation. This training provides officers with a new skill set, specifically, verbal de-escalation, which is statistically proven to diffuse potentially fatal encounters. In addition, during the course, trainees are also given the opportunity to have in-person interactions with persons who have experienced mental illness, along with family members and others who are supporting someone with a mental illness. CIT training is scenario-based, which gives deputies the opportunity to hone their newly-acquired skills in real-time crisis situations while receiving feedback from teachers and peers.

Sgt. Mike Boyer, who attended the training, said, “I am appreciative that I was afforded the opportunity to attend this training, and I know the information I have learned will help to make interactions safer for myself, fellow law enforcement officers, the community, individuals and their families.”

Sheriff Tim Cameron adds, “Police work is not about arresting people; it is about listening to people and solving problems. The Crisis Intervention Team Training is the gold standard in de-escalation techniques. It helps our officers to improve their problem-solving skills through in-person interactions, mentoring by senior officers, and partnerships with mental health providers. This training is an integral part of keeping the community and its residents safe.”

For the first time in May, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting their own Crisis Intervention Team training in St. Mary’s County, in addition to adding crisis workers to holiday patrols and maximum deployment details throughout the holiday season, where traditionally there is an increase in individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.

Photo Caption (L-R) Sergeant Michael Boyer, CFC Michael Labanowski, Jr, CO Melissa Dodson, and  CFC Nick Alioto

Death Investigation Underway at Point Lookout State Park

Today at approximately 12:54 p.m., the St. Mary’s County Emergency Communications Center received a call from a citizen who located a deceased subject at Point Lookout State Park in Point Lookout, Maryland.

Patrol deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded and initiated the investigation. Detectives and Crime Lab personnel from the Criminal Investigations Division are continuing the investigation with the assistance of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police. 

The name and additional information are being withheld pending the notification of next of kin.

Sheriff Tim Cameron Announces Holiday Deployment Operation

Sheriff Tim Cameron has established enhanced crime prevention efforts for the 2016 holiday season, which will commence on Friday, November 25, 2016, with augmented deployment operations.

The Sheriff’s Office roll call will take place today at 2 p.m., at Leonardtown Elementary School, prior to deputies dispersing throughout St. Mary’s County in the normal course of their duties. 

Heightened holiday deployments include: 

Deputies from the Special Operations Division will be managing safety efforts at the Christmas Tree Lighting in Leonardtown, including traffic control, a pre-event K9 explosive check, and crowd control, in partnership with other agencies 

Members of the Lexington Park COPs Unit and additional deputies will maintain an increased presence in and around shopping areas, on roadways, and in neighboring communities 

“The goal of this holiday deployment operation is to have high-visibility in areas that are susceptible to increased crime. Our hope that is our presence will deter criminals and provide a safe environment for holiday shoppers and their families,” said Sheriff Cameron.

The Sheriff’s Office will provide live updates all day and into the evening of November 25, 2016, via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, under the handle @firstsheriff.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Holds Car Seat Safety Checks for Community

Maryland law requires that all children age eight and under be secured in a child safety seat unless they are more than 4'9" tall. In addition, it is recommended that no rear-facing infant seats be placed in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with an active air bag. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, when installed and used correctly, child safety seats can reduce fatal injuries by up to 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers (ages 1 to 4). However, only 32% of caregivers using rear-facing convertible car seats are very confident that they are using them correctly, that is, in a manner which would save their child’s life during a crash.

To help ease parents' and caregivers' minds about the proper use of safety seats, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office conducts periodic child safety seat inspections for the community. These free safety checks are held to raise awareness of the proper use of child safety seats—one of the many safety programs offered by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

The latest safety seat inspections were held on November 17, 2016. Four deputies, also certified car seat technicians, conducted inspections of child safety seats for proper use and fit within vehicles and provided caregivers with necessary instructions for safety seat use and recommendations for best practices. The technicians, Lt. Eva Jones, Cpl. Andrew Holton, Cpl. Chad Hartzell, and Cpl. Timothy Snyder, also assisted caregivers in the proper installation of safety seats, checked for potential recalls and ensured that no safety seats had been outdated. Additionally, during the event, the Church of the Ascension and Lexington Park Lions Club donated car seats to the Sheriff’s Office to help alleviate a community need.

“During these events, caregivers learn the importance of properly securing children and utilizing a car seat the proper way, ensuring it’s compatible with the child’s weight, height, age, and the vehicle it is being used in,” Lt. Jones said. “The goal of these car safety seat checks is not only to ensure that every child is safe in their seat, but they also serve as an awareness tool for the community, as safety concerns regarding children in vehicles often extend beyond just the caregiver.”

Cpl. Snyder noted that it is recommended that no child less than 12 years of age sit in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with an active air bag. He stated, “Often we find that parents or caregivers are confused as to the proper way to secure their child, and which type of seat the child should be restrained in; that’s where education efforts are essential.”

In addition to attending these community inspections, the deputy technicians are also available to make inspections on an appointment-only basis. Residents seeking information or a safety check can schedule an appointment by calling the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office at 301-475-4040. Don’t be one of the 32% of caregivers who are unsure whether you are adequately protecting your child – call the Sheriff’s Office today and schedule your free car seat safety check.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Lexington Park Lions Club and Church of the Ascension for their donation of car seats to support the Sheriff’s Office Child Passenger Safety Seat Program. The donations will be used to help the community as the need.

 

(L-R) Members of the Lexington Park Lions Club, Cpl. Tim Snyder, Cpl. Andrew Holton, Lt. Eva Jones and Cpl. Chad Hartzell 

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Arrest and Charge Suspect for Sexual Relationship with Juvenile

On September 9, 2016, detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division with the assistance of the Special Operations Division began investigating Kimberly Ann Lashley, age 44, of Leonardtown for a reported criminal sexual relationship with a male juvenile. 

Information received by the Sheriff’s Office suggested Lashley was actively involved in an ongoing sexual relationship with a male juvenile who was residing with Lashley in the Leonardtown area.  The investigation conducted by Detective Corporal Robert Merritt revealed evidence of a sexual relationship between the juvenile and Lashley, beginning in the summer of 2016 and continuing through the onset of the investigation. Detective Merritt also discovered that during the summer months of 2016, Lashley hosted numerous parties where alcohol was available to several juveniles in attendance and witnesses stated Lashley purchased alcohol for the juveniles. Witnesses also reported that on several occasions, Lashley consumed alcohol with them at her home.

Lashley was charged with her sexual relationship with the male victim, and she pled guilty to one count of a Fourth Degree Sex Offense and one count of a Second Degree Assault on November 11, 2016, during an appearance in front of St. Mary’s County Circuit Court Judge Karen Abrams. Lashley’s sentencing has been deferred pending the completion of a Pre-Sentence Investigation.        

Parking and Shuttle Information for Christmas on the Square and Annual Tree Lightning Ceremony

Leonardtown, MD - The Town of Leonardtown will ring in the holiday season this Friday, November 25, from 5 – 9 p.m. with its traditional "Christmas on the Square" and "Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony" in the Leonardtown Square. The event begins at 5 p.m. and will include holiday entertainment, rides, a petting zoo, live nativity, face painting, food and more. Spectators should arrive early to secure parking and make their way to the Square in time for the 7 p.m. arrival of Santa and lighting of the Town Christmas Tree.

Several streets in the area of the Leonardtown Square will be closed to thru traffic between 3 and 10 p.m. Parking will be available at the College of Southern Maryland’s Leonardtown Campus. Free shuttle bus service will run between the College and the Leonardtown Square from 4:30 – 9:30 p.m. Free parking will also be available at Leonardtown Elementary School, St. Mary’s Ryken High School, as well as in designated lots along Lawrence Avenue, Park Avenue and Washington Street (please see map on following page). For event safety, spectators are asked to obey all posted No Parking signs as well as police and volunteer instructions.

Christmas on the Square is sponsored by the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, the Leonardtown Business Association and the Commissioners of Leonardtown. For further information, please call 301-475-9791.

(Note: the rain date for this event is Saturday, November 26 at 7 p.m. and will consist of the Annual Tree Lighting only)

Press Release Courtesy of the St. Mary's County Government Public Information Office 

Incident Briefs 11-18-2016 – 11-22-2016

11-18-2016

Burglary to Motor Vehicles – Unknown suspect(s) entered multiple motor vehicles and stole property in the Breton Bay/Society Hill neighborhood. The investigation is continuing, and multiple deputies are investigating. CASE# 59377-16, 59379-16, 59381-16, 59383-16, 59396-16, 59399-16, and 59405-16

11-21-2016
Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property in the 46000 block of Flower Drive in Lexington Park. CASE# 59785-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole property on Bob Guy Lane in Leonardtown. CASE# 59921-16

Vice/Narcotics Arrests

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics detectives developed information regarding a heroin distribution network operating throughout St. Mary’s County. Detectives began making numerous undercover purchases of heroin from Keara La Shawn Greer aka “KeKe” (Age 26). 

As the investigation continued, detectives determined the distribution network was operating in Calvert County and surrounding jurisdictions. Detectives utilized existing partnerships with the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division-Central South Region and the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation widened. 

Search and seizure warrants were obtained for several locations, one of which was a home in Great Mills. Suspect Keara Greer was located inside the home with several children ranging in age from 5 months to 6 years old. A search of the residence revealed 33 clear plastic bags containing suspected heroin totaling 13.7 grams with a street value of $1,650. Also seized was a cellular phone, nearly $900.00 in cash and a 2007 Volkswagen Jetta 4-door sedan utilized by Keara Greer and other members of the drug organization.

A second warrant for a residence in Prince Frederick, MD was executed with the assistance of the Calvert County Sheriff's Office Special Operations Team. During the search officers located four plastic bags containing 175 bags of suspected heroin totaling 69.2 grams having a street value of $8,750. Also seized were a quantity of marijuana, cellular phones, a digital scale with residue, packaging materials, almost $1,000.00 in cash, and a 2011 Dodge Nitro. Later, detectives located a 2000 Chevrolet Impala belonging to Suspect Keara Greer, which she utilized to facilitate her distribution operation. That vehicle was seized as well. 

Detectives obtained two search and seizure warrants for bank accounts connected to Suspect Greer and seized approximately $7,500. In total detectives seized 83 grams of heroin (Valued at more than $10,000), nearly $9,400 in cash, multiple cell phones, and three vehicles. 

Kearea Greer was indicted on multiple counts of “Distribution of Heroin” and “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Heroin,” located and arrested on 11/172016. A second suspect, Aaron Dwayne Johnson (Age 20) who was indicted on charges of “Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin” and “Distribution of Heroin” arrested on 11/18/2016. Additional charges and arrests are pending. 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics division will continue this investigation with both the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police. We thank them for their continual partnership. Captain Daniel D. Alioto, Vice/ Narcotics commander stated, “These are true and long lasting partnerships with our fellow law enforcement agencies. We can’t thank them enough for the hard work and dedication they displayed on this and other cases as we continue to fight this serious issue across jurisdictional lines.” 

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

Kearea Greer 

Aaron Dwayne Johnson

Vice/Narcotics Arrests

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics detectives identified Maurice Terrell Kent (Age 33 of Great Mills, MD) as a distributor of heroin. As a result of evidence recovered during the execution of a search and seizure warrant on his home, he was indicted for “Possession of Heroin with the Intent to Distribute”.

Gohar Tarek Shaaban (Age 23 of Lexington Park) was indicted and subsequently arrested for “Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute”.

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

Maurice Terrell Kent

Gohar Tarek Shaaban

Arrests 11-18-2016

10-30-2016 – Escape – On October 30, 2016, the suspect Samantha Nicole Thomas, age 24, of Lexington Park, removed her ankle monitor and walked out of a facility where she was ordered by a judge to remain there in pre-trial supervision under the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. Thomas was located on November 9, 2016 at her residence and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with Second Degree Escape. CASE# 57944-16

Samantha Nicole Thomas

11-11-2016 – Assault – Deputy A. Budd responded to the 39000 block of Thomas Drive in Mechanicsville for the report of a domestic assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Matthew Paul Brown, age 35, of Mechanicsville, struck the victim in the face during an argument leaving a visible injury. During the same argument, another victim was struck while attempting to intervene, also causing visible redness to the second victim’s face.  Moore was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where he was charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 58220-16

Matthew Paul Brown 

11-14-2016 – Possession – Sergeant Julie Yingling responded to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center for the report of contraband on an inmate. Correctional officers performed a search consistent with St. Mary’s County Detention Center policy, in which the suspect, Leroy Christopher Neal, age 41, of Beaver Falls, PA, was in possession of a plastic baggie containing tobacco in his shoe. Neal was charged with possession of contraband in a place of confinement. CASE# 58735-16

Leroy Christopher Neal

11-14-2016 – Theft – Deputy C. Beyer responded to the Weis Market in Callaway for the report of a theft. The suspect, Mark Truman Bowers, age 54, of Leonardtown, was observed attempting to conceal items and leave the store without paying. Bowers was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Theft Under $100. CASE# 58660-16

Mark Truman Bowers

11-13-2016 – Theft – Cpl. J. Vezzosi responded to the Kohls in Lexington Park for a reported theft. The suspects, Anthony Lashawn Briscoe, age 19, of California and Zyaeir Shirlean Calhoun, age 18, of California, were observed concealing items in a backpack and exiting the store without paying. Briscoe and Calhoun were both transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Theft Less than $1000. CASE# 58574-16

Anthony Lashawn Briscoe

NO PHOTO

Zyaeir Shirlean Calhoun

11-12-2016 – Assault – Corporal S. Carberry responded to the 46000 block of Midway Drive in Lexington Park for the report of a domestic assault. The victim alleged the suspect, Amanda Ashley Penn, age 22, of Lexington Park, struck the victim in the head with a flat iron. The victim displayed visible injuries. Penn was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Second Degree Assault. CASE# 58418-16

Amanda Ashley Penn

11-16-2016 – Alter Drug Test – Deputy First Class J. Maguire responded to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center for a reported fraud. During a court-ordered urinalysis test, the suspect Paul Robert Riley, age 45, of Valley Lee, attempted to use “false” urine that was contained in a bottle and tube. Riley was charged with Alter Drug and Alcohol Test. CASE#59053-16

Paul Robert Riley

11-16-2016 – Theft – Corporal J. Davis responded to the Belk Store located in California for the report of theft. The investigation revealed the suspect, Crystal Elizabeth Hill, age 36, of Lexington Park, conducted a theft scheme involving gift cards where she activated several store cards for personal use. Hill was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Theft Scheme 1000+, Theft $1,000-under $10,000 and Theft Less than $1000. CASE# 59056-16

Crystal Elizabeth Hill

11-16-2016 – Possession – Deputy A. Schultz responded to the 22000 block of Wicomico Street in Leonardtown for a reported violation of a peace order. The victim reported receiving a phone call about a disturbance inside of a residence. Upon arrival, the officers determined the suspects, Melanie Marie Ridgely, age 25, of Leonardtown and Zachary Joseph McCarthy, age 28, of Leonardtown, were involved an argument that turned physical. During the argument, McCarthy flipped over a table causing injury to a toddler in the home. Additionally, CDS and paraphernalia were located within the residence, and the victim was contacted by suspect Ridgely in violation of a peace order. The suspects were both transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. Ridgely was charged with Two Counts of Possession, Second Degree Child Abuse, Second Degree Assault, and Possession of Paraphernalia. Ridgely was charged with Two Counts of Failure to Comply with a Peace Order, CDS Possession, and Possession of Paraphernalia. CASE#59115-16

Zachary Joseph McCarthy

Melanie Marie Ridgely

11-16-2016 – Deputy V. Pontorno, of the Lexington Park COPs Unit, responded to the report of a suspicious vehicle occupied by two persons parked at St. Mary’s Square in Lexington Park, who appeared to be sleeping for several hours in the motor vehicle. The vehicle was located, and the suspects were identified as Amber Renee Stewart, age 26, of Lusby and Eric James Gallodoro, age 26, of Lusby. Paraphernalia was located within the vehicle, in addition to suspected heroin and crack cocaine. Both suspects were arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center where they were charged with Two Counts of Possession: Not Marijuana and Three Counts of Possession: Not Paraphernalia. CASE# 59101-16

Eric James Gallodoro

Amber Renee Stewart

Nam Knights Donate Preliminary Breath Test Instrument to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office

On November 6, 2016, the Nam Knights of America, Skipjack Chapter donated a Preliminary Breath Test Instrument to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.  The Nam Knights is a group of retired military veterans, active and retired law enforcement officers, who through generous contributions from its members and various fundraisers, give back to veterans, law enforcement, and local community charities through various donations.

Captain Terry Black, Commander of the Patrol Division, was on hand to receive the equipment donation from Chapter President, Ray Nieves, and other various officers within the Nam Knights.

Captain Black stated, “We are very appreciative of this important equipment donation as it is a piece of equipment that practically gets used every day in the field by deputies enforcing various alcohol related laws to include the operation of motor vehicles while impaired or intoxicated and will certainly get used frequently.”

The men and women of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office thank the Nam Knights for their consideration for donating this piece of equipment to the agency.

Incident Briefs – 11/18/2016

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a shed and stole property on Daniel Circle in Mechanicsville. DFC Kerby is investigating the case. CASE# 59209-16

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

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

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

Wanted - Brendan Douglas Carr

Brendan Douglas Carr

Brendan Carr has an active arrest warrant for violating the terms of pre-trial release.

Age: 33, 5’09”, 162 lbs, Brown Hair and Brown Eyes

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

e-mail,  Melissa.Hulse@stmarysmd.com.

Anyone with information is asked to call CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333 or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to "CRIMES" (274637). Or call the #SMCSO Duty Officer 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 - 11/17/2016

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) attempted to remove an AC unit to gain access to a residence on Lawrence Avenue in Leonardtown. CASE# 59012-16

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) removed tires and accessories from a motor vehicle parked at Lexington Park Ford in Great Mills. CASE# 59048-16

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.

#SMCSO Receives Reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc.

Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron is proud to announce the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has received its Award of Reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). This is the fourth award received, continuing a commitment of excellence, since the first CALEA accreditation in 2007.

After a rigorous on-site assessment process in August 2016 consisting of file review, community and internal interviews, a public hearing, tours, and observations, the assessment team submitted their findings to the CALEA Commissioners regarding the operations of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office as a professional law enforcement agency. On November 5, 2016, representatives of the Sheriff’s Office including Sheriff Timothy Cameron, Civilian Administrator Pamela McKay, and Accreditation Manager Colleen Vranish appeared before a committee hearing panel consisting of four law enforcement experts regarding the findings of the assessment team. After review, the committee unanimously recommended to the full CALEA Commission the reaccreditation of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office; the award was officially presented the same evening.

Sheriff Cameron praised the accreditation process, noting the value of an internal and external review process to ensure best practices in law enforcement and the subsequent benefits to the community we serve. If you are interested in learning more about Accreditation, please contact the Accreditation Section at 301-475-4200 ext. *1963.

(L-R) Craig Hartley, Jr. (CALEA Executive Director), Civilian Administrator Pam McKay, Accreditation Manager Colleen Vranish, Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron, and Richard W. Myers (CALEA Commission Chairman).

Incident Briefs 11/11/2016 - 11/15/2016

11-12-2016

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence on Suburban Drive in Lexington Park. DFC. J. Maguire is continuing the investigation. CASE# 58362-16

11-13-2016

Vandalism – Unknown suspect(s) damaged several mailboxes throughout Mechanicsville in the areas of Finch Way (58485-16), Laurel Grove Road (58493-16), Laurel Grove Road (58491-16), and Mary Dixon Road (58495-16). The investigation continues.

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property on Quail Street in Hollywood. CASE# 58510-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor and stole property on Broad Creek Drive in Hollywood. Deputy S. Bowie is investigating the case. CASE# 58522-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property on Broad Creek Drive in Hollywood. Cpl. J. Davis is investigating the case. CASE# 58534-16

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) removed the tags from a motor vehicle parked on Medley’s Lane in Mechanicsville. CASE# 58526-16

Theft – Unknown suspect(s) removed the front tags from a motor vehicle while it was parked at the Food Lion in Leonardtown. CASE# 58530-16

Stolen Vehicle – An unknown suspect stole a pizza delivery driver’s vehicle while the victim was inside the establishment picking up pizzas to deliver. Deputy A. Budd is investigating the case. CASE# 58532-16

11-14-2016

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property in the 22000 block of Iverson Drive in California. Deputy K. Molitor is investigating the case. CASE# 58646-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 40000 block of Lake and Breton View Drive in Leonardtown. Nothing appeared to be stolen from the vehicle. CASE# 58643-16

Breaking and Entering to a Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle in the 21000 block of FDR. Blvd in Lexington Park. Dep. T. Siciliano is investigating the case. CASE# 58680-16

Burglary – Unknown suspect(s) entered a shed in the 18000 block of Russell Road in Valley Lee. Nothing appeared to be stolen from the shed. Dep. G. Muschette is investigating the case. CASE# 58690-16

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.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Hosting FREE Child Passenger Seat Safety Checks

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office will host child passenger safety seat checks on Thursday, November 17, 2016, from 3 pm until 6 pm at the Lexington Park Volunteer Rescue Squad, located at 21685 FDR Blvd in Lexington Park, MD. Certified technicians will check your child’s car seat for proper installation and car seat use. 

To schedule a FREE appointment contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office at 301-475-4040.

Incident Briefs – 11/9/2016

Burglary to Motor Vehicle – Unknown suspect(s) entered a motor vehicle and stole property in the 47000 block of Devin Circle in Lexington Park. DFC R. Steinbach is investigating the case. CASE# 57683-16

Theft – An unknown suspect stole a victim’s wallet from a purse at the Food Lion in Charlotte Hall. Deputy S. Shelko is investigating the case. CASE# 57782-16

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.

‘Community Policing and Building Relationships of Trust’ Workshop; Three Sessions Remaining

“Policing is a public trust,” states Tim Cameron, Sheriff of St. Mary's County. “There must be an organizational commitment to not only respond to crime but to prevent it through strong police-community interactions and relationships. As Robert Peel, the first Commissioner of London’s Scotland Yard said, 'The police are the people, and the people are the police.'

Sheriff Cameron adds, “Public trust is based on a relationship that is reciprocal in nature, fostered by officers who demonstrate the highest ethical standards while being supported by an engaged community. In essence, the goal is to achieve partnerships that promote cooperation between the police and community as they work together towards a shared vision.”

Sheriff Cameron and the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is working to strengthen the bonds between local officers and the community they serve, by hosting workshops on “Community Policing and Building Relationships of Trust.” The workshops will be led by Dr. Melanye Smith, a 20-year veteran and administrator of the Metropolitan Police Department (Ret.) and a contributing faculty member at Ashford and Walden Universities. Dr. Smith will bring together officers and citizens in an environment designed to encourage open engagement and enhanced understanding of each other’s positions and concerns. To that end, Sheriff Tim Cameron invites all community leaders, activists, and interested residents to participate in these workshops.

The workshops will focus on the interdependency of the police and their family members with the community and will examine their mutual interest in building relationships of trust. Workshop participants will explore leadership capabilities, emotional intelligence, and the experiences of mindfulness, hope, and compassion. Dr. Smith will explain the theory, research, and practice of communication, building trusting relationships, and the concept of emotional intelligence. These efforts are aimed at marking the beginning of a sustained positive change.

“This training is for law enforcement officers and officers’ family members, as well as for civilians and community members,” says Dr. Smith. “The workshops are geared towards moving each participant from their current position along an ideological continuum, by generating dialogue that enhances understanding and meaning and helps to create a shared vision.”

For questions, Contact Sgt. Richard Russell at 301-475-4200, ext. *8062, or by email at Richard.Russell@stmarysmd.com. To register visit https://communitypolicingworkshop.eventbrite.com

Remaining Sessions:

November 10, 2016, Leonardtown Library, 3:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.

November 15, 2016, Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, 3:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

December 1, 2016, Circuit Courthouse, 3:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

“Silent Angel” Memorial Will Honor Homicide Victims

The public is invited to attend the Fifteenth Annual Silent Angel Memorial, which will be held on Sunday, November 27, 2016, at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department, 46900 South Shangri-La Drive in Lexington Park, MD, 20653. The program will begin at 6:00 p.m.

The Silent Angel Memorial was founded in 2002 by Mrs. Eileen Bildman, after her son Kevin was tragically murdered in St. Mary’s County in November of 2001.  During the ceremony, the families of homicide victims place an angel ornament on a Christmas Tree, and the name of each victim is read. Each ornament has the name of the victim, date of birth, and the date they became a “Silent Angel.” 

The hope has been to bring the community together for a memorial service that provides comfort and support to the survivors of homicide.  The foundation is non-profit and is supported solely by the community and sponsored by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. 

To register or for more information visit, https://smcsoangels.eventbrite.com. Registration is not required but encouraged.

Sheriff Tim Cameron Selected as President of the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association, Inc.

For the second time, St. Mary's County Sheriff Tim Cameron has been elected by his peers as President of the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association, Inc. (MSA). The MSA promotes the fair and efficient administration of criminal justice throughout the State of Maryland by preserving the Office of the Sheriff and by supporting Maryland’s sheriffs in their efforts to carry out their law enforcement, correctional and judicial responsibilities fairly, efficiently and in a professional manner.

As the president of the Board of Directors of the MSA, Sheriff Cameron will represent the Association at various events, conferences, and meetings throughout the year. He will be a primary decision maker regarding law enforcement policy and will represent the MSA in Annapolis during the General Assembly. He will also serve as a member of the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission and the Maryland Correctional Training Commission.

Karen Kruger, Executive Director of the MSA, said, “Sheriff Cameron's selection for this position for a second time is an accomplishment that deserves recognition. I am pleased that the MSA will benefit from his experience and expertise during these trying times for our law enforcement community. As President of the MSA, Sheriff Cameron will exert statewide influence in setting state of the art policy and training standards for Maryland law enforcement.” She added, “This position requires Sheriff Cameron to be actively involved and knowledgeable at the state government level, which will enhance his ability to serve the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Sheriff Cameron was sworn in on September 14, 2016, at the Maryland Sheriff’s Association Annual Training Seminar in Ocean City. Speaking to a room full of distinguished guests, including Chiefs of Police and Sheriffs who serve throughout the State of Maryland, Sheriff-Elect Cameron remarked, “The Chiefs and Sheriffs are managing during difficult times, and now more than ever our collaboration is essential to the challenges our profession faces. Thank you all for your service, your sacrifices, and your dedication to a cause bigger than us all.”

The President of the MSA serves for a one-year term.

(L-R) Sheriff Tim Cameron, CFC Kristie Ardire, and Captain Merican at the Mayland Sheriff's Association Annual Training Seminar in Ocean City, Maryland