Lexington Park Traffic Stop Yields Gun Charges

Chevis Dominique Smith 

Jordan Timothy Sturdivant 

Two Virginia men were arrested on gun charges early on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, following a traffic stop in Lexington Park.

Chevis Dominique Smith, age 43 of Poquoson, Virginia, was charged with Handgun in Vehicle and Loaded Handgun in Vehicle. Jordan Timothy Sturdivant, age 31 of Williamsburg, Virginia, was charged with Handgun in Vehicle.

On May 31, 2023, Deputy Joseph Senatore observed an equipment violation and stopped a Dodge pickup truck at the 21800 block of Three Notch Road in Lexington Park. During the traffic stop, Deputy Senatore immediately observed a black handgun with an extended magazine stuffed between the passenger seat and center console, within reach of the passenger.

Investigation determined the firearm to be a Glock 23C, a .40-caliber regulated firearm with an extended 22-round magazine, which contained numerous live .40-caliber bullets. The extended magazine was loaded in the firearm.

Upon a search of the vehicle, another 22-round extended magazine with live bullets was located in the passenger side door panel. A Smith and Wesson Walther .22-caliber regulated firearm was located in a black bookbag on the passenger side floorboard as well as two 10-round magazines containing numerous bullets. The magazines were not loaded into the gun.

Both men were arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown. Both men posted personal bond and were released on May 31, 2023.

Sheriff's Office Deputies Install Car Seats at State Event

 

Cpl. Daniel Holdsworth installs a car seat 

Last week, on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office deputies, in cooperation with the St. Mary's County Health Department and Maryland Department of Health, conducted a child safety seat installation and giveaway event. A total of 15 car seats were provided to local residents who are expecting children or have children age five or younger. 

During the event held at the St. Mary's County Behavioral Health Hub in Lexington Park, deputies who are certified in child safety seat installations assisted families by demonstrating how to properly install and use them.

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office reminds citizens that on Oct. 1, 2022, Maryland law changed its child safety seat regulations. A child should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least two years old, and then in an age-appropriate seat until the age of eight, unless the child is 4' 9" or taller. 

Cpl. Rachael Roszell checks on a car seat 

 

Firearms, Drugs Seized in Lexington Park Arrests

 

On Thursday, May 25, 2023, the Criminal Investigations Division’s Vice Narcotics and Criminal Intelligence Units, in conjunction with the Emergency Services Team and supporting personnel, executed a series of search and seizure warrants at the 22000 block of Valley Estates Drive in Lexington Park.

During the execution of these warrants, Christopher Jujuan Commodore, age 24 of Lexington Park, was found in possession of a loaded Glock 23C semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine, suspected oxycodone pills, suboxone strips and a large quantity of marijuana, each in quantities indicative of distribution. A search of the residence revealed a quantity of cocaine and related packaging materials indicative of distribution.

Also recovered from the residence was a loaded short-barreled AR-15, a loaded Taurus G3C semi-automatic handgun, two shotguns and multiple firearm magazines and ammunition including drum magazines and .556 caliber green tip ammunition. Rahjon Jordan Adams, age 23 of Lexington Park, and Commodore were arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown where they were charged with multiple CDS distribution and firearms-related offenses.

Commodore was charged with CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute: Oxycodone; CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute: Buprenorphine; CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute: Cannabis; Disorderly Conduct; Firearm Possession – Felony Conviction; Illegal Possession of Ammo; Handgun on Person; CDS Possession: Firearms and CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics.

Adams was charged with two counts of CDS Possession: Cocaine; CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute: Cocaine and Firearm/Drug Traffic Crime.

Christopher Jajuan Commodore 

 

Rahjon Jordan Adams 

New Cruisers Added to Sheriff’s Office Fleet

 

Sgt. Brian Connelly with the new cruisers at Leonardtown Wharf 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has added new Ford Explorer police cruisers to its fleet. The first of these new vehicles, equipped with a subdued decal package, will be used by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Safety Unit, starting immediately. 

The cruisers have highly reflective markings on the sides and on the rear of the vehicles but are less obvious during daylight hours. This will enhance the traffic enforcement efforts Sheriff Steve Hall has made a priority especially on the Route 235 corridor during Naval Air Station Patuxent River rush hours. 

“Even if you don’t see us, we’re always watching out for you,” Sheriff Hall said. “Enjoy your holiday weekend with friends and family, and drive safely.”

Homicide in Mechanicsville Under Investigation

Marvin Orlando Johnson 

Marlee Lynn Stokes 

 

Two suspects were arrested and charged on Wednesday by St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office detectives in a homicide investigation in Mechanicsville.

On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 5:28 am, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at an apartment at the 29000 block of Three Notch Road in Mechanicsville for the report of a male suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Patrol officers arrived and located the victim, Raymond Franklin Woods Jr., age 54 of Mechanicsville, deceased on a couch.

Detectives with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division continued the investigation, along with the Crime Lab Unit and a forensic investigator from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The gunshot wound was determined to be a homicide.

As a result of the investigation, Marvin Orlando Johnson, age 38 of Mechanicsville, was charged with First-Degree Murder, Second-Degree Murder, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence, First-Degree Assault and Second-Degree Assault.

Additionally, Marlee Lynn Stokes, age 37 of Charlotte Hall, was charged with First-Degree Murder: Accessory After the Fact and Second-Degree Murder: Accessory After the Fact.

Both suspects are being held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown on a no-bond status. 

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to call Detective Andrew Burgess at 301-475-4200, ext. 8041.

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.

SMCSO Traffic Safety Unit Continues Enforcement on Rt. 235 Corridor

 

Sgt. Brian Connelly conducts speed enforcement on Route 235 in California 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Safety Unit continues enforcement action along the Route 235 corridor in California and Lexington Park. Last week, Sgt. Brian Connelly and Cpl. Kenneth Flerlage provided enforcement during the morning and evening commutes to and from Naval Air Station Patuxent River. Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped 38 vehicles for various violations resulting in 23 traffic citations, 29 warnings and seven safety equipment repair orders.

 On Saturday, May 20, 2023, Sgt. Connelly and Cpl. Flerlage conducted additional enforcement along the same corridor. Sixteen vehicles were stopped, resulting in 12 citations, 15 warnings and two repair orders. The Traffic Safety Unit also assisted Patrol deputies with three calls for service.

These traffic enforcement initiatives are conducted to improve the safety of drivers along the Route 235 corridor from Route 4 to Great Mills Road during times of increased traffic. On average, there are more than 60,000 vehicles a day on Route 235 in California and Lexington Park, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation. 

Sheriff Steve Hall is committed to providing traffic enforcement along Route 235 to ensure a safe and uneventful trip for Patuxent River commuters and local drivers each day. 

Identity Needed for Attempted Motor Vehicle Burglary Suspect

 

May 24, 2023 update: The suspect has been identified and charged. 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured in an attempted breaking and entering to a motor vehicle investigation. On Friday, May 19, 2023, at 3:35 am, the suspect attempted to break into several vehicles in the RiverBay subdivision in Lexington Park. 

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to contact Deputy Raymond Allebach at 301-475-4200, ext. 78110 or email raymond.allebach@stmaryscountymd.gov. 

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. 

Officers Trained in De-Escalation Skills for Those in Crisis

 

Captain David Yingling teaches a CIT course 

Mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States and police officers regularly interact with those suffering from its disruptive effects.

More than 1:5 adults live with a mental illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control. About 1:25 U.S. adults live with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or major depression, according to the CDC.

Officers in Southern Maryland are trained in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), which teaches skills to de-escalate a mental health emergency, decreasing the likelihood of violence and injury to patients, their loved ones and law enforcement officers. Rather than whisk the person in crisis off to jail, the goal is to have the CIT-trained officer to assess that person’s condition and make the decision to get them medical treatment and stabilized.

“Many people suffering from mental illness are vulnerable and have no support systems,” said Captain David Yingling, CIT trainer and Commander of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Administrative Division.

CIT teaches officers to become familiar with mental illness and its effects, so that they can intervene in an understanding way with a person suffering from a mental health crisis and to de-escalate the situation to get the medical assistance they need, Capt. Yingling said.

In Southern Maryland, both police and correctional officers are trained in a 40-hour CIT program. This is in addition to the eight hours of training received at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy. As of this year, 126 deputies and correctional officers with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office have successfully completed CIT training. Seventeen officers in the agency are also CIT instructors.

The sheriff’s offices of Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s County each provide instructors for the course.

Deputies and commanders of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office began participating in CIT training in 2010. The most recent Southern Maryland CIT course was completed earlier this month.

“All of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division deputies with at least two years of job experience have completed CIT training,” said Alexis Higdon, Community Mental Health Liaison.

In addition to learning about mental health conditions in others, deputies and correctional officers are also taught to take care of their own mental health, to recognize the warning signs in themselves and others in the profession that something isn’t right.

“Most people in their lives go through one or two traumatic experiences,” Higdon told officers during a recent training session. “An officer can experience those same traumatic experiences in one 12-hour shift,” she said.

“We have got to stop being alone,” Capt. Yingling told officers. “Law enforcement is a team sport. I have never accomplished anything in my career by myself. When we need help, we need to ask for it.”

Deputy Brandon Reynolds completes his CIT training, congratulated by Sheriff Steve Hall  

COs Complete Emergency Response Team Training

 

Correctional Officer Dylan McCoy, CO Ayodeji Agunbiade, Sheriff Steve Hall, CO Jason Ogas and CO John Edelen Jr. 

Four St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Correctional Officers completed their training last week to become the newest members of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) at the St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center. 

"Thank you as you continue to answer the call," Warden Mary Ann Thompson said at Friday's graduation ceremony. "The mental and physical rigors are beyond challenging," to become a member of the ERT, she said. 

"You have set yourselves apart as the elite in the corrections profession," she said. "When the sea is not calm, we call the ERT." 

There are more than 50 hours of training to become a member of the ERT, excluding the intense physical training. 

"You all have worked extremely hard and did not give up," Lt. William Dunkin told the officers. 

The newest members of the Emergency Response Team 

Lt. Dunkin, CO Agunbiade and Sgt. Vincent Shontere 

Lt. Dunkin, CO Edelen and Sgt. Shontere 

Lt. Dunkin, CO McCoy and Sgt. Shontere 

Lt. Dunkin, CO Ogas and Sgt. Shontere 

Two-Vehicle Crash in Loveville Under Investigation

 

On Friday, May 19, 2023, at 9:19 pm, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol deputies were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision involving life-threatening injuries in the area of Point Lookout Road (Route 5) and Frederick Lane in Loveville. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to continue the investigation.

Preliminary investigation determined that a 1998 Toyota Corolla, operated by Robert Edward Lee Jr., age 44 of Brandywine, was traveling northbound on Point Lookout Road, and for unknown reasons crossed the centerline of the road, striking a 2019 Jeep Cherokee, operated by Marcerra Nichole Jordan, age 36 of Leonardtown. Jordan was transported to a local hospital with suspected minor injuries. Lee was transported to Baltimore Shock Trauma for incapacitating injuries.

At this time, it is unknown if speed or impairment are a factor in the collision. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or any events leading up to the collision, and has not already provided a statement, is asked to call Cpl. Rachael Roszell at 301-475-4200, ext. 78108 or email rachael.roszell@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Lexington Park Man Charged with Sex Offenses

 

Kelly Eugene McClure-Hewitt 

On Wednesday, May 17, 2023, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office charged a 55-year-old Lexington Park man with sex offenses involving an 18-year-old victim. 

Kelly Eugene McClure-Hewitt, an Assistant Principal at Leonardtown High School, was arrested and charged via warrant with Third-Degree Sex Offense, Fourth-Degree Sex Offense: Sexual Contact and Second-Degree Assault.

On March 27, 2023, in cooperation with St. Mary’s County Public Schools, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office detectives began investigating the victim’s written complaint. The 18-year-old male victim alleged a series of encounters with McClure-Hewitt in March at Leonardtown High School. The victim stated that during multiple visits to his office, McClure-Hewitt provided unsolicited gifts, discussed sexual preference and made unwanted sexual contact. Prior to the unsolicited contact, the victim did not know McClure-Hewitt and had no previous contact of any kind.

McClure-Hewitt was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown where he is held on a no-bond status, pending a hearing on May 18, 2023.

California Man Charged in Road Rage Incidents

 

Eric Michael Davis 

A 32-year-old California man was arrested and charged by St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol deputies on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, following two road rage incidents involving two separate drivers.

Eric Michael Davis, age 32 of California, was charged with two counts of First-Degree Assault, two counts of Second-Degree Assault and two counts of Firearm Use in a Violent Crime.

On Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 4:48 pm, DFC Max Schell responded to the area of Three Notch Road and Patuxent Beach Road in California for the report of a man who had pointed a firearm at a victim. The victim advised while driving home from work on Three Notch Road at the intersection of Shady Mile Drive, a man in a green truck in the next lane pointed a gun at the victim.

Upon investigation with the assistance of the Criminal Investigations Division, Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Davis’ address and located the 2000 Ford F-150 truck described by the victim.

Earlier on Tuesday, at 2:22 pm, the St. Mary’s County Emergency Communications Center received a separate complaint of a man in a green truck driving erratically in the area of Patuxent Beach Road. The vehicle began speeding around the two victims in their car and eventually traveled to the passenger side and hit the brakes, provoking an altercation. The passenger looked over and observed Davis pointing a black handgun straight in the air. The victims hit their brakes to elude Davis.

The investigation by Deputy Joseph Senatore determined that both incidents were connected.

Davis is in custody at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown where he is being held without bond pending a hearing this afternoon.

 

 

Identity Needed for Theft Suspects

 

May 24, 2023 update: The suspect has been identified with charges pending. 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the woman pictured in a theft investigation and her male accomplice. On Friday, May 5, 2023, at 6:08 pm, the pictured female and a male acquaintance entered the Dollar General in Leonardtown. Both of them gathered up multiple items into a shopping cart and then fled the store without paying for any of the items. The suspects were last seen going south on Route 5 in a black Hyundai. 

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to contact Deputy Helen Deitrich at 301-475-4200, ext. 78066 or email helen.deitrich@stmaryscountymd.gov. Case # 23924-23 

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.

St. Mary's County Public Schools, Sheriff's Office Continue School Resource Officer, Adopt-A-School Programs

 

Sheriff Steve Hall and J. Scott Smith, Superintendent of School, shake hands in front of the St. Mary's County Board of Education members 

St. Mary’s County Public Schools and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office formally approved the continuation of the successful School Resource Officer and Adopt-a-School programs last week.

J. Scott Smith, Superintendent of Schools, and Sheriff Steve Hall signed A Community Partnership for Safe and Secure Schools agreement and Memorandum of Understanding on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, reaffirming the commitment to providing a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment for students.

“This agreement is so much more than a signature; it is a commitment to the people of this community and, most importantly, to the students,” Sheriff Hall said.

“Student safety and the security of our schools is a bedrock expectation of our community and can only be achieved by a proactive and collaborative relationship between St. Mary’s County Public Schools and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office,” Smith said, “and these agreements are a public acknowledgment of our shared responsibility.”

In addition to the agreements, Sheriff Hall, Michael Wyant, Chief of Safety and Security for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, and Charles Eible, School Safety Coordinator, provided an update on current and future school security initiatives for all schools. This included the hiring, supervision, and deployment plan for 18 new full-time uniformed safety and security assistants for each elementary school. The 18 new safety and security assistants will supplement the current uniform safety and security assistants currently working in all secondary schools beginning with the opening of school in August of 2023.

A review of physical security infrastructure and procedures in all St. Mary’s County Public Schools were discussed and included updates on the following:

● Security vestibule enhancements, exterior door monitoring, and visitor management

● Electronic access control and classroom door locks

● Security window laminate for exterior and interior windows and doors

● Weapons abatement and weapons scanning

● Public safety radio communications

● School key access for law enforcement responders

● Public address systems

● First aid stations with AEDs. stop the bleed kits, evacuation chairs, and narcan

● Security video surveillance systems

● Student outreach programs

● Background screening for school employees and volunteers

Under the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, the SRO performs a variety of roles to include being a mentor, teacher, and a law enforcement resource for both students and staff. They work with the school faculty to maintain a safe learning environment. Each SRO is certified through the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) as well as through Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) America to teach the middle school D.A.R.E. curriculum. The Middle School D.A.R.E. Program is currently offered at the four public middle schools as part of the Health Curriculum.

The SRO program was implemented in St. Mary's County during the 1998-1999 school year. The Sheriff's Office, in conjunction with the Board of Education of St. Mary's County, entered into a memorandum of understanding which assigned a deputy to each of the three public high schools. The program was expanded during the 2005-2006 school year adding two additional deputies who split their time between the four public middle schools.

During the 2019-2020 school year, two more deputies were added so that one SRO was dedicated to each county public high school and middle school.

In addition to the School Resource Officer program, the St. Mary’s County Adopt-A-School Program provides mentorship to students. Further, it enhances safe and secure school environments by coordinating additional law enforcement resources and support for St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

The Adopt-A-School program matches St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Deputies with elementary schools that currently do not have the direct support of a School Resource Officer. The deputies, who volunteer to participate in the program, “adopt” their matched elementary school to foster a positive relationship with its students.

Each of the deputies who volunteer to adopt a school will receive formal professional development training and participate in quarterly coordination meetings with the St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ Department of Safety and Security. 

Identity Needed for Theft Suspect

 

May 24, 2023 update: The suspect has been identified with charges pending. 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the man pictured in a theft investigation. On Thursday, May 11, 2023, at 4:30 pm, the suspect entered the Ollie's Bargain Outlet in Lexington Park. He then put an air conditioning unit and other merchandise in a shopping cart and walked out of the store without paying. 

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to contact Deputy Helen Deitrich at 301-475-4200, ext. 78066 or email helen.deitrich@stmaryscountymd.gov. Case # 25220-23 

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.

Identity Needed for Theft Suspect

 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the person pictured in a theft investigation. On Sunday, May 14, 2023, the suspect entered the California Walmart store and then walked out of a side door with merchandise that he did not pay for. The suspect left in a black Nissan with unknown registration. There was another unidentified person in the vehicle with the suspect. 

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to contact Deputy Devin Absher at 301-475-4200, ext. 78054 or email devin.absher@stmaryscountymd.gov. Case # 25646-23 

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.

Lexington Park Shootings Under Investigation

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is investigating two separate shooting incidents on Saturday and Sunday in Lexington Park.

On Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 6:04 pm, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the report of a shooting at the 21500 block of Wilcutt Street in Lexington Park. A 17-year-old male victim was located suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was transported to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

On Sunday, May 14, 2023, at 11:05 pm, deputies responded to the area of Primrose Willow Lane and Creeping Primrose Lane in Lexington Park for the report of shots fired. Shell casings were located on the scene. Later a 22-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the arm.

The Criminal Investigations Division and Crime Lab responded to both scenes to continue the investigations.

Anyone with information about these cases is asked to contact Detective Allison Mattera at 301-475-4200, ext. 78124 or email allison.mattera@stmaryscountymd.gov or Sgt. Christopher Beyer at 301-475-4200, ext. 78004 or email christopher.beyer@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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.

Sheriff's Office, Community Partners Plan for Lexington Park Events

 

This week, Captain Sarah Smith, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office COPs Unit and community partners met to plan for neighborhood events scheduled in Lexington Park on Saturday, June 3, 2023. 

On Tuesday, deputies met with the St. Mary's County Community Development Corporation, the St. Mary's County Health Department and Three Oaks Center at the Sheriff's Office District 4 Station in Lexington Park to collaborate on the upcoming Great Mills Road Community Clean Up and the St. Mary's County Health Department's Health Hub Open House. Both events are planned for Saturday, June 3, 2023. 

See the fliers below for more information: 

Sheriff Hall Congratulates Promoted Correctional Officers

 

Sheriff Steve Hall and Lt. Mickey Adkins 

Sheriff Hall and CFC Matthew Whitley 

Please join us in congratulating two of our Corrections Division staff for their well-deserved promotions as we continue to celebrate National Correctional Officers and Employees Week.   

Sgt. Mickey Adkins was promoted to Lieutenant, effective May 8, 2023. 

Correctional Officer Matthew Whitley was promoted to Correctional Officer First Class, effective April 9, 2023. 

Sheriff Steve Hall congratulated CFC Whitley on his "first step up the ladder" in the Corrections Division. 

Sheriff Hall told Lt. Adkins that as a squad leader, "You're the captain of the ship now. Make sure that everybody realizes the importance of why they're there: The mission."

Sheriff Hall Featured as Keynote Speaker at Chamber Awards

 

Sheriff Steve Hall was the keynote speaker at the St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce 2023 Business Awards ceremony on Wednesday 

St. Mary's County Sheriff Steve Hall was honored to be the keynote speaker at the St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce 2023 Business Awards ceremony held at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall on Wednesday. 

In his remarks, Sheriff Hall drew the parallels between the challenges and issues in running a small business and running a law enforcement agency. 

In this post-COVID environment, "Total shutdowns, masks and sanitation, plexiglass workstations, temperature checking stations, curbside-pickup only and product delivery have given way to supply chain issues and inflation, complicated further by workforce expectations for working from home, shorter work weeks and demand for higher wages," the Sheriff said. 

"I know this: The Sheriff's Office and local business community -- this community are tethered to one another and our success is unequivocally symbiotic," Sheriff Hall continued. "Everyone here works hard to sustain a vibrant and thriving county with a recognizable strong economy at its center. That center provides the 'fuel for the thrive' and revenue needed to fund amenities that attract new business and people to this community. The Sheriff Office role can’t be understated. To appeal to both commerce and customers, there has to be a sense of safety and security. Without it, people go elsewhere or leave all together and growth is stunted. I had a local real estate agent tell me, 'Steve people move out of St Mary’s for two reasons: Taxes and Crime.'”

"With our tethered relationship in mind, I have moved the Community Oriented Policing Unit from a specialized division in one area of the county to the Patrol Division which serves the entire county so that the mindset and precepts of community policing become second nature to every deputy. Every officer must be a problem solver, not a mobile investigative reporter. I want our officers actively engaged in the community they serve visiting neighborhoods, schools, parks and in your businesses. That’s where they build the relationships that prevent crime and help solve crimes already reported," Sheriff Hall said. 

"To maximize the profits of this transition I have to franchise and move away from a headquarters-based operation to a broader district-based model. We need to take the Sheriff’s Office into the community. We have moved staff into our District stations in Lexington Park, Charlotte Hall and in California. Increasing our footprint increases visibility and our citizens accessibility to our officers and our services," he said. 

The Sheriff reminded the audience of the agency's responsibility as the keeper of the county jail. "Ours is a progressive 321-bed facility. It represents 1/3 of our overall operating budget and is the largest percentage of our liability. It includes a robust rehabilitative component," he said. 

"This has to be a priority for us. Incarceration without rehabilitation is a waste of everyone’s time and money. When an incarcerated person is released, they go home and where is home? A neighborhood near you. When they get there, I want them sober and supported, with a network of resources, so that instead of stealing from you or loitering in front of your business they are working for you. Some business owners in this room have given someone like that an opportunity. In doing so, the trajectory of a person’s life is changed. This reduces crime and benefits the community," the Sheriff said. 

Identity Needed for Theft Suspect

 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the man pictured in a theft investigation. On Thursday, May 4, 2023, at 11:15 am, the suspect attempted to steal multiple DVDs from the Lexington Park Library. This was the second known time the suspect has stolen from the library. On April 24, 2023, the same person stole items from the library.  

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to contact Deputy Ryan McLean at 301-475-4200, ext. 78181 or email ryan.mclean@stmaryscountymd.gov. Case # 23652-23 

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.

Anti-Theft Update Available for Hyundai and Kia Owners

 

St. Mary's County has not seen the nationwide surge in motor vehicle thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles that metropolitan areas have experienced in recent months. 

However, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office has seen a recent uptick in thefts and attempted thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. 

Those vehicle manufacturers now have software updates available to deter theft which are available free of charge to vehicle owners. 

Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's webpage to learn more. https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/hyundai-kia-campaign-prevent-vehicle-theft 

Leonardtown Head-On Crash Under Investigation

 

On Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 7:39 am, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Patrol Deputies were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Point Lookout Road (Route 5) and Moakley Street in Leonardtown. Deputies arrived on scene and observed a head-on style motor vehicle collision with one operator unresponsive and trapped. Due to the severity of the crash, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and continued the investigation. 

Preliminary investigation determined that a 2022 Nissan Altima was being operated by Wendy Ricardo Laurent, 28-year-old male of New Hampshire. Laurent was traveling southbound on Point Lookout Road in the area of Moakley Street when he crossed the center divider line into northbound traffic and struck a 2007 Jeep Patriot, being operated by Matthew Scott Dement, age 48 of Great Mills, head on. 

As the Nissan Altima and Jeep Patriot collided, the vehicles began to rotate counterclockwise, at which time the rear of the Altima was struck by a 2020 Ford F-450 with an attached equipment trailer, operated by Justin Dominic Morgan, age 23 of Lexington Park. 

Dement was flown to a regional medical center for incapacitating injuries. Laurent was transported to a local hospital, listed in stable condition. Morgan signed a refusal for care at the scene. 

At this time, alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be contributing factors in the crash. 

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or any events leading up to it, and has not already provided a statement, is asked to call Cpl. Brandon Foor at 301-475-4200, ext. 72265 or email brandon.foor@stmaryscountymd.gov. 

Identity Needed for Attempted Burglary Suspect

 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the identity of the man pictured in an attempted burglary investigation. On Monday, May 8, 2023, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to Murphy's Town and Country Market in Avenue for an attempted burglary that occurred during the night. 

Just prior to the glass being broken on the front door of the business, the pictured male was seen walking around the rear of the building attempting to open doors. 

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or this incident is asked to contact Deputy Nicholas Hill at 301-475-4200, ext. 78078 or email nicholas.hill@stmaryscountymd.gov. Case # 24331-23 

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. 

Eleven of 12 Businesses Pass Alcohol Compliance Checks

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Alcohol Enforcement Unit recently conducted a series of alcohol compliance checks at 12 businesses in central and southern St. Mary’s County. Eleven of the establishments were found to be compliant, while only one business failed to ask an underage person for identification.

The covert compliance checks were conducted on Friday, April 21, 2023, at 3 pm starting in Leonardtown for the second annual Leonardtown Luau, utilizing an underage individual. The 20-year-old was wearing plain clothes and was directed to enter each establishment to order an alcoholic beverage at the bar or while seated at a table.

Of the 12 businesses visited, 11 (92 percent) were found in compliance with Maryland law and required identification from the underage person. One business failed to ask for identification or failed to corroborate the person’s age and the underage individual was able to purchase an alcoholic beverage underage.

Businesses found in compliance were: Antoinette’s Garden in Leonardtown; Brudergarten in Leonardtown; Olde Town Pub in Leonardtown; Slice House in Leonardtown; The Slice House II Go in Leonardtown; Social Coffeehouse & Speakeasy in Leonardtown; Sweetbay Restaurant and Bar in Leonardtown; The Rex in Leonardtown; Beacon Liquors in Callaway; Tacos Hacienda in Callaway and Cooks Liquors and Groceries in Park Hall.

The one business found to be in violation was The Front Porch in Leonardtown.

The alcohol violation report was forwarded to the St. Mary’s County Alcohol Beverage Board for review. 

Wanted: Joshua David Chamberlain

 

Joshua David Chamberlain 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office is seeking the whereabouts of Joshua David Chamberlain, age 37 of Drayden, who is wanted for violating the terms of his Pre-Trial release from the St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center.

Chamberlain is awaiting trial for Theft: $100 to under $1,500 and absconded from the Project Chesapeake treatment center on April 30, 2023. 

His whereabouts are currently unknown. 

Anyone with information about Chamberlain's location is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at 301-475-4200, ext. 71959 or email joseph.bowling@stmaryscountymd.gov.   

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. 

Sheriff's Office Welcomes Corrections Graduates

 

Graduates of the Corrections Entrance Level Training Program Session 69 and St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Staff 

Sheriff Steve Hall and the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office welcome and congratulate four new Correctional Officers, who graduated from the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy's Corrections Entrance Level Training Program Session 69 on Friday. 

As we celebrate National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office welcomes Shelby Connolly, Qur-An Dyson, Kayla Kerns and Abdu Sa after successfully completing their 11-week course. 

CO Sa received the Physical Fitness award, while CO Kerns received the Steve Allen Award, exemplifying leadership, initiative, motivation and compassion among the class. 

Cpl. Michael Labanowski presents CO Kerns with the Steve Allen Award

CO Qur-An Dyson, class speaker 

Sheriff Hall and CO Sa 

Sheriff Hall and CO Connolly

Session 69 of the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy