Sobriety Checkpoint Yields Two Arrests

Update: The sobriety checkpoint conducted this weekend resulted in two arrests. 
Held at Great Mills Road and Pacific Drive in Lexington Park, the checkpoint lasted about 90 minutes, starting at 11:37 p.m. on Sept. 2, 2018. A total of 55 vehicles went through the checkpoint. One driver was arrested for drunk driving and another driver was arrested for possession of 28 grams of marijuana. 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from other agencies, will be conducting a Sobriety Checkpoint on Labor Day weekend, in the overnight hours of Sunday, Sept. 2, 2018 into Monday, Sept. 3, 2018. The checkpoint will be held in the Lexington Park area. As on all occasions, drive sober or get a ride from a sober driver.  

Tasciotti Named Sheriff's Office Recruiter

Sheriff Tim Cameron and Mark Tasciotti

Mark Tasciotti began duties as the new Recruiter for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office this week. As the full-time Recruiter, Tasciotti will work to fill vacant positions in law enforcement and corrections.

With 302 positions budgeted in the Sheriff’s Office, there are currently five vacancies in law enforcement positions and 12 in corrections. 

“We are making steady progress on filling our vacancies,” Tasciotti said. “We’re continually recruiting all of the time.”

“Recruiting qualified personnel into the law enforcement and corrections professions is a challenge not only locally but nationally because of the inherent nature of the work,” Sheriff Tim Cameron said. “Having a full-time, professional recruiter at our agency ensures we continue to bring in the best people working at the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office,” he said.  

What is not commonly known is that it takes some time between when a person is hired and when that deputy hits the streets on patrol, Tasciotti said. Cadets have to wait for the next session of the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy to begin. Once the Academy starts, the police course takes 32 weeks and 10 weeks for corrections personnel. Upon graduation, the police cadet then goes through 2.5 more months of field training with Sheriff’s Deputies. With these legal requirements from the state of Maryland, it can take at least one year for a deputy to begin duties on the street from the time he or she was hired.   

“We mentor our applicants if needed,” Tasciotti said. “That’s where we go above and beyond. Applicants don’t feel like a number when they come and see us.”

Tasciotti, a retired Captain from the Washington D.C. Fire and EMS Department, started with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office as a Background Investigator in March 2013.

Robbery Investigation

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a robbery that occurred in the 21000 block of Winding Way in Lexington Park.  On August 30, 2018, at approximately 11:15 p.m. deputies responded to a reported theft.  Investigation determined an actual robbery occurred.  The victim reports an unknown black male pointed a firearm at the victim, and demanded property.  The victim complied and the suspect was last seen fleeing the area on foot with undisclosed property.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Detective James Bare at (301) 475-4200 extension *8118 or by email at James.Bare@stmarysmd.com.  Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

For official news and information, follow the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office on Twitter @firstsheriff. 

                                                

St. Mary's County Public Schools: "We Have Your Back"

Sheriff Tim Cameron will have a deputy at every public school in St. Mary’s County for the first day of school and will continue a high-visibility presence for the rest of the school year.

As more than 18,000 public school students return to school on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies will be at all 28 public schools to ensure a safe and secure learning environment.

There will also be increased patrols around public and private schools in St. Mary’s County through a Safety and Security Overtime initiative. A grant has been submitted to the federal Community Oriented Policing Program and is pending approval to support continuation of this program throughout the school year.

The Adopt a School program continues between St. Mary’s County Public Schools and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Through this partnership, deputies volunteer to adopt and work with a particular elementary school assisting students and staff with school security concerns, mentoring of students and school emergency response planning.

There are five School Resource Officers in St. Mary’s County. Three are assigned to Chopticon High School, Great Mills High School and Leonardtown High School. There are also two School Resource Officers for the county’s four public middle schools.

Cpl. Jaime Davis is the School Resource Officer for Leonardtown Middle School and Margaret Brent Middle School. DFC David Lawrence is the School Resource Officer for Esperanza Middle School and Spring Ridge Middle School.

All five School Resource Officers are also teaching the DARE program as well.

“The safety of students and children in St. Mary’s County is my first priority,” Sheriff Tim Cameron said. “The men and women of the Sheriff’s Office are conducting an all-out effort to make sure that students returning to classes feel safe on their first day of school.” 

“While the Sheriff’s Office can’t sustain manning a deputy at every public school for a prolonged period of time, I want both students and their parents to feel confident that their schools are a safe and secure environment to learn in every day, throughout the school year,” the Sheriff said.

Throughout the school year, parents are also encouraged to ensure that their children do not bring any contraband items to school.  

  

For official news and information, follow the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office on Twitter at @firstsheriff.

This release was issued in cooperation with St. Mary’s County Public Schools. 

Arrests/Warrants

On View Arrest:

Indecent Exposure-  On August 20, 2018, Deputy Sidorowicz responded to the 46000 block of Valley Court in Lexington Park for a reported trespassing.  Contact was made with Shenandoah Dornell Benton, age 41 with no fixed address.  Benton was served a no trespass notice and called for transportation to leave the scene.  Benton then became hostile, and exposed her breasts and buttocks to citizens in the area, as well as officers on scene.  Benton was taken into custody, and kicked Dep. Sidorowicz.  After being taken into custody several pills, (suspected Clonazepam), were located in Benton's purse.  Benton was charged with Disorderly Conduct, Indecent Exposure, Assault 2nd Degree, and CDS Possess-Not Marijuana.  CASE# 43930-18

Shenandoah Dornell Benton 

Theft-  On August 21, 2018, DFC. Roszell responded to the 37000 block of Mohawk Drive in Charlotte Hall for a reported theft.  Investigation determined Jordan Taylor Rutledge age 20 of Waldorf, attempted to steal numerous items from the Family Dollar store.  Rutledge was charged via a Criminal Citation for Theft.  CASE# 44064-18 (No Photograph Available)

Disorderly Conduct-  On August 21, 2018, Dep. Forbes was at St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, when he overheard a disturbance.  Todd Matthew Evans, age 41 with no fixed address, was creating a disturbance in the lobby of the emergency room demanding a narcotic medication. Evans refused treatment and continued causing a disturbance demanding medication and making degrading comments to hospital staff.  Evans was told by staff to leave the premises, and was escorted out of the hospital by Dep. Forbes.  Evans returned and was arrested.  Evans was charged with Disorderly Conduct, Trespass-Private Property, Disturbing the Peace, and Fail to Obey Lawful Order.  CASE# 44108-18

Todd Matthew Evans 

Assault-  On August 22, 2018, DFC. Muschette responded to the 21000 block of Liberty Street in Lexington Park for a reported assault.  Investigation determined Kevin Christopher Johnson Jr., age 29 of Lexington Park, assaulted the victim by punching the victim in the face during an argument.  The victim sustained facial injuries from the assault.  Johnson was arrested and charged with Assault 2nd Degree.  CASE# 44180-18

Kevin Christopher Johnson Jr. 

Theft-  On August 22, 2018, Cpl. Maloy responded to the 25000 block of Maddox Road in Chaptico, for the reported theft.  Investigation determined Kelly Nichole Smith, age 23 of Mechanicsville, entered the store, placed several items inside a purse, and left the premises without purchasing the items.  Smith was located, and charged with Theft via a Criminal Citation.  CASE# 44215-18 (No Photograph Available)

Warrants:

8/20/18- James Mark Kimble Jr., age 32 of Mechanicsville, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for FTA/Driving While Suspended by DFC. Roszell# 296.  CASE# 43882-18

James Mark Kimble Jr. 

8/20/18-  Brianna Jasmine Courtney, age 20 of Leonardtown, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for FTA/Assault 2nd Degree and Malicious Destruction of Property by DFC. Holdsworth# 305.  CASE# 43915-18

Brianna Jasmine Courtney 

8/20/18-  Anthony Delonte Young, age 25 of Leoanrdtown, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Theft by Cpl. Seyfried# 217.  CASE# 44085-18

Anthony Delonte Young 

8/20/18-  Jesse Marie Jameson, age 27 of Lexington Park, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Theft by Dep. Chase# 346.  CASE# 44087-18

Jesse Marie Jameson 

8/22/18-  Divante Quintil Kyler, age 27 of California, was arrested on outstanding warrants for FTA/Child Support, Motor Vehicle-Unlawful Taking, Violate Exparte/Protective Order, and Theft by Cpl. Carberry# 167.  CASE# 11108-18

Divante Quintil Kyler 

8/22/18-  Robin Amanda Suggs, age 32 of California, was arrested on an outstanding Calvert County warrant for Assault 2nd Degree by Cpl. Handy# 132.  CASE# 44261-18

Robin Amanda Suggs

8/23/18-  Donald Wayne Adkins Jr., age 48 of Lexington Park, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for FTA/Theft by Cpl. Carberry# 167.  CASE# 4441-18

Donald Wayne Adkins Jr. 

8/23/18-  Levi Lawrence Hill Jr., age 31 of Bushwood, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Indecent Exposure, and Driving W/Out Required License & Authorization by Cpl. Carberry# 167.  CASE# 44416-18

Levi Lawrence Hill Jr. 

8/23/18-  Adam Christopher Kelson, age 33 of Lexington Park, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Burglary 2nd Degree by Cpl. O'Connor# 138.  CASE# 44401-18

Adam Christopher Kelson

8/24/18-  Amelie Laurie Dayries, age 33 of Hughesville, was arrested on two outstanding Calvert County Child Support warrants by Cpl. Corcoran# 129.  CASE# 44522-18  (No Photograph Available)

Identity Needed for TV Theft Suspect

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured. On Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018 at 1:35 a.m., the suspect loaded a 55-inch ultra high-definition TCL TV into a shopping cart and walked out of the California Walmart store without paying for it. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to call Cpl. Brandon Foor at 301-475-4200, ext. *2265 or email Brandon.Foor@stmarysmd.com. CASE# 44812-18

IDENTIFIED

Federal Indictment

Robert K. Hur 36 S. Charles Street                                                           410-209-4800

United States Attorney                                                                              Fourth Floor                                                    TTY/TDD: 410-962-4462

Baltimore, Maryland 21201-2692                                     410-209-4885

Marcia A. Murphy                                                                                                                                                                     FAX 410-962-3091

Public Affairs Specialist                                                                                                                                                Marcia.Murphy@usdoj.gov

August 27, 2018                                                                                

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                          Contact MARCIA MURPHY

www.justice.gov/usao/md                                                                 at (410) 209-4854

FEDERAL INDICTMENT CHARGES TWO SOUTHERN MARYLAND MEN WITH THREE COUNTS OF DISTRIBUTING FENTANYL RESULTING IN DEATH

Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal grand jury today returned a superseding indictment charging Rodney Mondell Coby, a/k/a “Cuz,” age 29, of Waldorf, Maryland, and Steven Jerome, of Leonardtown, Maryland, with distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.  Coby is also charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.  Coby was initially indicted on the drug distribution and gun charges on May 21, 2018.  The superseding indictment added Jerome as a new defendant and three counts of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.

The superseding indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Hoernke of the Drug Enforcement Administration - Washington Field Division; St. Mary’s County Sheriff Tim Cameron; and Charles County Sheriff Troy D. Berry.

U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur stated, “We are determined to reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths in Maryland.  We’re particularly targeting those who sell fentanyl, the drug that is killing the most of our citizens.  Drug traffickers are on notice that dealing in fentanyl increases their odds of federal prosecution.”

The six-count superseding indictment alleges that Coby and Jerome distributed fentanyl to an individual on September 6, 2017, resulting in death.  Further, the indictment charges Coby and Jerome individually with distributing fentanyl on November 29, 2017 and March 27, 2018, respectively, resulting in death.  Coby is also charged with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and illegally possessing five semi-automatic pistols and 159 rounds of various types of ammunition.

If convicted, Coby and Jerome face a mandatory minimum of 20 years and up to life in prison for each of two counts of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.  Coby also faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances; a maximum of life in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and a maximum of 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.  Coby has been in custody since his arrest on April 13, 2018.  Jerome is also detained on unrelated state charges.  The defendants are expected to have an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt, but no date has been set.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings. 

United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the DEA and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory Bernstein and Erin Pulice, who are prosecuting the case.

Rodney Mondell Coby 

Steven Roger Jerome 

Be Prepared to Stop for School Buses

Superintendent Scott Smith and Sheriff Tim Cameron

Schools Superintendent Scott Smith and Sheriff Tim Cameron remind drivers in St. Mary’s County that school buses are returning to local roads. Drivers need to be prepared to stop for buses that are picking up or dropping off children.

More than 18,000 students return to St. Mary’s County public schools for the first day of school on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018. Some other schools in St. Mary’s are already back in session.

By Maryland law, drivers must stop for school buses when their stop signs and flashing red lights are activated. Failure to stop for a school bus will result in a $570 fine and three points on a driver’s license.

Deputies with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office will be on increased patrols in September around public and private schools.  

The Superintendent and Sheriff advise drivers to give themselves extra time to get to their destinations and to be prepared to stop for school buses to ensure that each child gets to school and back home safely each day.

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration explains when drivers need to stop for school buses in this graphic: 

Identity Needed for Illegal Dumping

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured for illegal dumping. On Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2018 at 7:40 p.m., the suspect filled the victim's dumpster with a truckload of trash and refuse. The dumpster was located to the rear of 44098 Airport View Drive in Hollywood. Due to the overwhelming smell and the fullness of the dumpster, the victim had to incur expenses for extra hauling service. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to call Dep. Richard Forbes at 301-475-4200, ext. *8048 or email Richard.Forbes@stmarysmd.com. CASE# 43888-18

Stolen Motorcycle Sought

On Thursday, Aug. 23, 2018 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. the pictured motorcycle was stolen during a burglary in a garage at the 23000 block of Greenhead Way in Mechanicsville. The stolen motorcycle is believed to still be in the Charlotte Hall/Golden Beach area. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect(s) or this incident is asked to call Cpl. Shaun Carberry at 301-475-4200, ext. *8045 or email Shaun.Carberry@stmarysmd.com. CASE# 44464-18

Vice Narcotics Arrest

Rashaud Martese Nelson age 28 of Lexington Park, was identified as a distributor of controlled dangerous substances. Several undercover purchases were made from Nelson, which included Cocaine, Heroin, Fentanyl and a mixture containing Heroin and Fentanyl.

Nelson’s case was presented to the Grand Jury of the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court for indictment by State’s Attorney Richard D. Fritz and an arrest warrant was issued. Charges included Possession of Heroin, Distribution of Heroin, Possession of Fentanyl, Distribution of Fentanyl, Possession of Cocaine, Distribution of Cocaine, and Distribution of Mixture Containing Heroin and Fentanyl.

Nelson was located in Lexington Park on August 24, 2018 and taken into custody without incident. Nelson was incarcerated in the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center with no bond.

Rashaud Martese Nelson 

Pedestrian Enforcement

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office will be conducting a Pedestrian Enforcement Initiative on August 28, 2018, in the area of Great Mills Road and South Shangri La Drive in Lexington Park. The initiative will focus on both motorist and pedestrian violations, in an effort to educate citizens and heighten awareness regarding pedestrian safety in St. Mary's County.

Identity Needed for Theft Suspect

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured. On Thursday, Aug. 23, 2018 at 2 p.m. while at the California Walmart store, the suspect concealed merchandise in a black backpack in an attempt to steal items. The suspect fled after confronted by store security. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to call Dep. Tyler Westphal at 301-475-4200, ext. *8012 or email Tyler.Westphal@stmarysmd.com. CASE# 44446-18

IDENTIFIED

For official news and information, follow the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Twitter page at @firstsheriff.

Wanted for Armed Robbery

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Dmontre Montez Bush, age 18 of Lexington Park.  Bush has an open warrant for Armed Robbery, and is known to frequent the Columbia Commons and Patuxent Homes areas in Lexington Park.  Bush is 5’11” in height, weighs 147 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Dmontre Montez Bush is asked to contact Detective Melissa Hulse or Detective Austin Schultz. Detective Hulse can be contacted at (301) 475-4200 extension *1996 or by email at Melissa.Hulse@stmarysmd.com.  Detective Schultz can be contacted at (301) 475-4200 extension *1953, or by email at Austin.Schultz@stmarysmd.com. Citizens may remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” plus their message to “CRIMES” (274637). Through the Crime Solvers Program tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment.

For official news and information, follow the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office on Twitter @firstsheriff. 

                                                

Dmontre Montez Bush 

Burglary Suspect's Identity Needed

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured. On Monday, June 25, 2018 at 2:39 a.m., the suspect broke into Jerry's Carry Out on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to call Detective Treavor Teague at 301-475-4200, ext. *8128 or email Treavor.Teague@stmarysmd.com. CASE# 33566-18

On View Arrests/Warrants/DUIs

On View Arrests:

CDS Violation- On August 17, 2018, DFC. Tirpak responded to the 21000 block of Liberty Street in Lexington Park, for a report of a motor vehicle accident. During the accident investigation, capsules were located which contained a white powdery substance; suspected heroin. Two empty capsules were also located. Investigation determined the capsules belonged to Brittany Ann Vega, age 25 of Ridge. Vega was arrested and charged with CDS Possess-Not Marijuana. CASE# 43319-18

Brittany Ann Vega

Theft-  On August 17, 2018, DFC. Davis responded to the 45000 block of First Colony Way in California, for a reported theft.  Investigation determined Crystal Haley Tippett, age 31 of Lexington Park, attempted to leave the Target store with various items of clothing and household goods.  Tippett was charged via a Criminal Citation for Theft.  CASE# 43354-18 (No Photograph Available)

Assault-  On August 19, 2018, Cpl. Stone responded to the 45000 block of Chancellor's Run Road in Lexington Park for the reported assault.  Investigation determined Ta-Nisha Michelle Gainer, age 29 of Lexington Park, assaulted the victim while the parties were arguing.  Gainer pulled the victim's hair damaging dread locks, broke electronics and a TV, as well as removed some of the victim's property from the residence.  Gainer was located and the victim's property recovered.  Gainer was arrested and charged with Assault 2nd Degree, Malicious Destruction of Property, and Theft.  CASE# 43741-18

Ta-Nisha Michelle Gainer

Warrants:

08/17/18-  Tyrone Corde Claggett, age 31 of Lexington Park, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Home Invasion, Burglary 1st &3rd Degree, Assault 1st& 2nd Degree, and Theft by Cpl. Carberry# 167.  CASE# 42387-18

Tyrone Corde Claggett 

8/17/18-  Fred NMN Dansoh, age 36 of Lexington Park, was arrested on outstanding Norfolk, Virginia warrants for Sex Abuse-Child Under 18, and Aggravated Sexual Battery-Child less than 13 by Cpl. Handy# 132.  CASE# 43351-18

Fred NMN Dansoh

8/17/18-  Donald Earl Walker, age 30 of Aquasco, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for FTA/Trespass:Private Property by DFC. Steinbach# 268.  CASE# 43428-18

Donald Earl Walker

8/18/18-  Cornelius NMN Fenwick, age 41 of Lexington Park, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for FTA/Assault 2nd Degree by Dep. Henry# 333.  CASE# 43516-18

Cornelius NMN Fenwick

8/18/18-  George Thomas Burroughs, age 70 of Lexington Park, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for FTA/Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol by Cpl. Stone# 183.  CASE# 43524-18

George Thomas Burroughs 

8/19/18-  Todd Matthew Evans, age 41 with no fixed address, was arrested on an outstanding Anne Arundel County warrant for FTA/District Court by Dep. Bowie# 317.  CASE# 43669-18 (No Photograph Available)




DUIs

On August 18, 2018, Cpl. Connelly was investigating a single vehicle accident in the 45000 block of Miramar Way in California.  The driver of the vehicle, Bernard Ezell Hodges Jr.,  age 30 of Washington, D.C., was determined to be under the influence of alcohol.  Hodges was arrested and charged with Driving Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, and Driving While Impaired by Alcohol.  CASE# 43380-18

Bernard Ezell Hodges Jr.

On August 19, 2018, DFC. Davis stopped a vehicle for numerous traffic infractions and also a lookout was broadcast for the vehicle reference a disturbance.  Contact was made with the driver of the vehicle, Elbin Fidel Machado Coca, age 25 of Waldorf, and he was determined to be under the influence of alcohol.  Coca was arrested and two small baggies containing suspected cocaine were located on Coca's person.  Coca was charged with Driving Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, and CDS Possession-Not Marijuana.  CASE# 43701-18

Elbin Fidel Machado Coca

Deputy Gaskill Honored for Heroism

Joe Funk of the Association of Former Agents of the U.S. Secret Service; DFC Blaine Gaskill; Daniel Kurz, from the Baltimore Field Office of the Secret Service; Barbara Dinsenbacher, Harry E. Neal Jr. and Sheriff Tim Cameron

DFC Blaine Gaskill and the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Color Guard

Barbara Dinsenbacher, DFC Blaine Gaskill and Harry E. Neal Jr.

Deputy First Class Blaine Gaskill of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was honored with the Harry E. Neal Award on Wednesday at Historic St. Mary’s City. The award, presented by the Association of Former Agents U.S. Secret Service, is given to several law enforcement officers annually who have performed outstanding service to the community in the form of a heroic act or extraordinary investigation.

Each officer awarded receives a plaque and a check for $1,000 from the Foundation of the Association of Former Agents of the U.S. Secret Service.

DFC Gaskill, Great Mills High School’s School Resource Officer, responded to a student shooting at the school on March 20, 2018. Gaskill confronted the armed subject and prevented any further loss of life.

Sheriff Tim Cameron noted the other accomplished law enforcement officials who had been awarded with the Harry A. Neal Award in the past such as the Texas Rangers, the U.S. Capitol Police Department officers and Alexandria, Virginia Police Department officers who responded to an attack at a Republican congressional baseball practice, and Secret Service Agent Jerry Parr, who helped save President Ronald Reagan’s life in a 1981 assassination attempt.

With past award recipients, “Gaskill is in outstanding company,” Cameron said.

“The company that Gaskill keeps is inspiring,” Capt. Steve Hall, Special Operations Division Commander, said. 

DFC Gaskill began his career with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office in 2009 as a Corrections Officer and became a Deputy Sheriff in August 2012.  

Harry E. Neal was a former Assistant Chief of the U.S. Secret Service. His son and daughter, Harry E. Neal Jr. and Barbara Dinsenbacher, attended the ceremony held at the replica State House at Historic St. Mary’s City.   

Driver Killed in Mechanicsville Crash: Updated

Aug. 27, 2018 update: The driver has been positively identified as 16-year-old Jadyn Elise Barnes of Mechanicsville by the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. 

A motor vehicle crash in Mechanicsville killed its sole occupant on Monday evening, Aug. 20, 2018. The identity of the deceased was withheld until positively identified by medical examiners.

On Aug. 20, 2018 at 10:22 p.m. the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office responded to the area of 29280 All Faith Road in Mechanicsville for the reported motor vehicle collision in which the vehicle was on fire. At the time of the accident, it was undetermined as to if the vehicle was occupied. After the fire was extinguished, the vehicle was found to have one occupant and a request for the St. Mary's County Collision Reconstruction Unit was made.

Preliminary investigation determined a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, with an unidentified operator, had left the roadway and struck a tree. Upon collision, the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames with the operator trapped inside. The fire was extinguished by responding emergency fire personnel and the vehicle was found to have only one occupant in the driver's seat. The operator succumbed to injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. At this time, speed appears to be a contributing factor and although the identity of the victim is believed to be known, it is being withheld pending further scientific means of positive identification.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision and have not provided a statement to the police are asked to contact Cpl. Vincent Pontorno at 301-475-4200, ext. *2337 or email Vincent.Pontorno@stmarysmd.com.

Identity Sought for Theft Suspect

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured. On Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at 5 a.m., the suspect entered the California Super Eight Motel right after the desk clerk walked away from the motel counter. The suspect then reached over the counter, opened the center drawer and stole a handful of cash and two plastic bags of coins before fleeing. Anyone with information about the identify of the suspect or this incident is asked to call DFC Matthew McCuen at 301-475-4200, ext. *8102 or email Matthew.McCuen@stmarysmd.com. CASE# 36673-18

Arrests, Warrants, DUIs and Criminal Summonses

Arrests:

Assault: On Aug. 13, 2018, Cpl. Patrick Handy responded to the 38000 block of Mt. Wolf Road in Charlotte Hall for the report of an assault. The victim advised that Vashti Elizabeth Lewis, 26, of Charlotte Hall punched the victim over an argument over glassware in the kitchen. The victim had visible signs of injury to the face, head and fingers. Lewis was arrested, transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and charged with Second-Degree Assault. CASE# 42675-18

Vashti Elizabeth Lewis

Assault: On Aug. 13, 2018, Cpl. Shaun Carberry responded to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center for the report of an assault. The victim advised that Christopher Glenn James, 29, of Leonardtown struck the victim several times over rumors allegedly said. The victim was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown and James was charged with Second-Degree Assault. CASE# 42671-18

Christopher Glenn James

CDS Possession: While on patrol on Aug. 13, 2018, Cpl. James Stone observed Robert Doral Harrod, 31, of Lexington Park standing at the corner of a car wash on Great Mills Road. Harrod had an open warrant for illegal possession of ammunition. After confirming the warrant, Stone placed Harrod under arrest. Upon a search, Harrod was found to have suspected cocaine and heroin on his person. Harrod was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and charged with two counts of CDS: Possession Not Marijuana, two counts of CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and Illegal Possession of Ammunition. CASE# 42698-18

Robert Doral Harrod

Theft: Crystal Haley Tippett, 31, of Hays, North Carolina was arrested on Aug. 13, 2018 by DFC Dale Smith for Theft: $100 but under $1,500 at the California Walmart store. CASE# 42691-18 (no photo available) 

Failure to Comply with Peace Order: On Aug. 15, 2018, Dep. Warren Forinash responded to the 45000 block of Knockeyon Lane in California for the report of a violation of a peace order. The victim advised that Jermaine Jontae Jackson, 19, of California walked past the victim’s residence and put his middle finger up toward the victim. Jackson was arrested and charged with Peace Order: Fail to Comply. CASE# 43046-18 

Jermaine Jontae Jackson

Warrants:

Kendall Deshong Young, 26, of Hollywood was arrested on Aug. 13, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for First-Degree Assault and Second-Degree Assault by Cpl. Shaun Carberry. CASE# 38186-18

Kendall Deshong Young

Danielle Faye Wheatley, 29, of Mechanicsville was arrested on Aug. 13, 2018 on a retake warrant by DFC Rozier Steinbach. CASE# 42729-18

Danielle Faye Wheatley

Robert Doral Harrod, 31, of Lexington Park was arrested on Aug. 13, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for Illegal Possession of Ammunition by Cpl. James Stone. CASE# 39732-18 

Robert Doral Harrod

Melinda Ann Allen, 30, of Bushwood was arrested on Aug. 14, 2018 on an outstanding Calvert County warrant for Failure to Appear: Driving While Suspended by Dep. Phillip Henry. CASE# 42751-18

Melinda Ann Allen

Lawrence Alvin Hoffman Jr., 24, of Hollywood was arrested on Aug. 14, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for Violation of Probation by DFC Dale Smith. CASE# 42878-18

Lawrence Alvin Hoffman Jr.

Tanisha Latoya Nolan, 28, of Lexington Park was arrested on Aug. 15, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for Child Support by Cpl. Milton Pesante. CASE# 42933-18

Tanisha Latoya Nolan

Joshua Ryan Sutton, 28, of Lexington Park was arrested on Aug. 15, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for Violation of Probation by DFC Rachael Roszell. CASE# 43004-18

Joshua Ryan Sutton

Valerie Yvonne Gross, 45, of Great Mills was arrested on Aug. 16, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for Failure to Appear: Theft Less than $100 by Dep. Tyler Westphal. CASE# 43082-18

Valerie Yvonne Gross

Becky Sue Booth, 41, of Lexington Park was arrested on Aug. 16, 2018 on a bench warrant for Theft: $100 to $1,500, an arrest warrant for two counts of Theft: $100 to $1,500 and four counts of Credit Card Fraud by Cpl. Daniel Snyder. CASE# 43147-18

Becky Sue Booth

Tara Lyn Ropel, 32, of Chesapeake Beach was arrested on Aug. 16, 2018 on a bench warrant for Child Support by Cpl. Daniel Snyder. CASE# 43139-18

Tara Lyn Ropel

Terik Michael Brady, 40, of La Plata was arrested on Aug. 16, 2018 on an outstanding warrant for Home Invasion by DFC Daniel Holdsworth. CASE# 43156-18

Terik Michael Brady

DUIs:

Following a single motor vehicle accident on Aug. 10, 2018, Dwight Kyle Rodgers, 27, of Chaptico was charged with Driving Vehicle Impaired by Alcohol, Driving Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol and Driving Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely by Dep. Thomas Snyder. CASE# 42259-18 

Dwight Kyle Rodgers

After a single motor vehicle accident on Flat Iron Road in Great Mills on July 30, 2017, Latoya Nichole Sewell, 35, of Lexington Park was charged with Driving Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Drugs and Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely and Driving Vehicle While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance by Dep. Matthew Beyer. CASE# 40024-17 (no photo available) 

Criminal Summonses:

Mary Margaret Burch, 50, of Hollywood was charged on Aug. 13, 2018 with False Statement to an Officer by Cpl. Patrick Handy. CASE# 41884-18

Vashti Elizabeth Lewis, 26, of Charlotte Hall was charged on Aug. 14, 2018 with Second-Degree Assault by Dep. Phillip Henry. CASE# 42539-18

Waylon Chase Mahoney, 20, of Mechanicsville on Aug. 13, 2018 was charged with Second-Degree Assault, Destruction of Property and Burglary by DFC Matthew McCuen. CASE# 42702-18

Ryan Edward Cook, 44, of Lexington Park on Aug. 13, 2018 was charged with Driving While Suspended, Knowingly Driving Uninsured Vehicle, Driving Without a License and Driving a Vehicle on Highway at Speed Exceeding Limit by Cpl. Elizabeth O’Connor. CASE# 38524-18

Regina Maria Cebak, 53, of Lexington Park was charged on Aug. 14, 2018 with Theft: $100 to under $1,500 by Cpl. Brian Connelly. CASE# 36745-18