Incident Briefs 12-17-14 to 12-23-14

12-17-14 PROPERTY DESTRUCTION - A victim, who resides on Linden Court, reported unknown suspect(s) punctured the tires on his vehicle. CASE #66980-14

12-17-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, who resides on Rogers Drive, reported unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle and stole property. CASE #67065-14

12-18-14 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides in the 17000 block of Piney Point Road, reported unknown suspect(s) forced entry into his home and stole property. CASE #67195-14

12-18-14 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides on Louisdale Road, reported unknown suspect(s) entered her shed and stole property. CASE #67218-14

12-19-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, reported unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle while parked at the Quick Shop in Lexington Park. CASE #67308-14

12-19-14 THEFT - A victim, who resides in the 17000 block of Point Lookout Road, reported unknown suspect(s) stole packages from her porch. CASE #67438-14

12-20-14 THEFT - A victim, who resides on Rogers Drive, reported unknown suspect(s) stole an air conditioning unit from his residence. CASE #67781-14

12-20-14 MAIL TAMPERING - A victim, who resides on Waterview Drive reported finding her mail discarded along the roadway. CASE #67803-14

12-20-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE -  A victim, who resides on Richard Circle, reported unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked vehicle and stole property. CASE #67808-14

12-21-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE -  A victim reported unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle and stole cash while she was shopping at various businesses. CASE #67870-14

12-21-14 PEEPING TOM - A victim, who resides on Preference Way reported seeing a person in dark clothing with a flashlight near her home. There may have been a second person. CASE #67974-14

12-22-14 VANDALISM A victim reported he was driving on Town Creek Drive when he vehicle was struck with a paintball. CASE #67860-14

12-23-14 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides on Colton Street in Leonardtown, reported unknown suspect(s) forced entry into his residence. However nothing appeared to have been stolen. CASE #68300-14

Do You Know Me? - Family Dollar Theft Suspect

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

Tuesday, December 2, 2014, at 6:00 PM, the suspect loaded a hand basket with food and merchandise from the Family Dollar store located at 21703 Great Mills Road. The suspect then left with the basket of items without paying. The suspect was last seen walking towards the area of the Patuxent Homes neighborhood in Lexington Park. 

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspect or about this crime in general is asked to call Deputy Rogers at 301.475.4200 x 1949. CASE #64134-14. 

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary's County that leads to an arrest or indictment. Anyone with information about this crime may also contact CRIME SOLVERS at 301.475.3333, (callers can remain anonymous), or text a tip to "TIP239" plus your message to '"CRIMES" (274637). 

Detectives Investigating Death of Infant

Lexington Park, Maryland - On December 23, 2014 at 7:09 AM, deputies and Emergency Medical Services personnel responded to a residence on Radford Lane for a 4 month old male not breathing. First responders immediately began CPR and the infant was transported to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital by ambulance. At 8:00 AM, the infant was pronounced dead by emergency room doctors. 

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.

Additional details will be released as they are developed.

Sobriety Checkpoint Tonight

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint tonight (12-19-14)

 in the southern end of St. Mary's County.

Sheriff Tim Cameron and the men and women of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office remind everyone to find a sober ride and don't drink and drive. Have a wonderful and safe holiday season!

 

Arrests 12-18-14

ASSAULT – On December 17, 2014, Deputy McClure responded to the Car Wash located on Great Mills Road. Deputy McClure located the victim and suspect Edwin Foote JR., 52, of Lexington Park, outside of the car wash. The victim alleged Foote pushed the victim to the ground and grabbed the victim by the throat during an argument. Deputy McClure observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim. Foote was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. He was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault.

Edwin Foote JR.

TRESPASSING – On December 13, 2014, Deputy K. Molitor responded to the Walden Sierra located in California, for a disturbance. Deputy Molitor made contact with suspect Roy Mitchell Jones, 38, of no fixed address, who had been asked to leave the premises after he violated the program rules. Deputy Molitor provided Jones with a ride to the Wawa and was told not to return to Walden Sierra. A short time later, Walden Sierra staff reported Jones had returned to the property. Deputy Molitor located Jones in the gazebo and placed him under arrest. Jones was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and charged with Trespassing and Failure to Obey a Lawful Order.

Roy Jones

ASSAULT – On December 13, 2014, Deputy Steinbach responded to a residence on Hermanville Road for a reported assault. The victim alleged suspect Judy Nickole Jones, 30, of Lexington Park, pushed the victim in the face with her hand. Deputy Steinbach observed fresh evidence of injury on the victim. Jones was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center. She was charged with 2^nd Degree Assault.

Judy Jones

DRUG POSSESSION – On December 12, 2014, Deputy Grusholt responded to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center for a contraband complaint. Corrections staff located a cigarette and a baggie containing methadone pills in the shoe of suspect Timothy Lee Pilkerton, 40, of Mechanicsville, upon his return to the detention center from work release. Pilkerton was charged with Possess Contraband in Place of Confinement and Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance – not Marijuana. 

Timothy Pilkerton

Detectives Make Arrests in Armed Robbery - Lexington Park

UPDATE 12-19-14 1624 PM: Suspect Cepada Hicks has been located and arrested.

Lexington Park, Maryland - On December 10, 2014, deputies responded to the area of North Shangri La Drive for the report of an attempted armed robbery. Deputies made contact with the male victim who stated he was in the area of Sheriff Miedzinski Way when he was approached by two black males, one of which produced a knife and demanded his money. The victim refused to hand over money at which time the suspect swung the knife cutting the victim's jacket. The victim was able to flee on foot from the area and call 9 1 1.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) responded to the scene and assumed the investigation.  Two suspects were identified during the investigation and warrants were issued for thier arrest. 

On December 17, 2014, suspect Tyriel L. Gantt, age 18, of no fixed address, was located by members of the Lexington Park COPS Unit and placed under arrest.  Gantt was transported to CID where he was interviewed by detectives. Gantt was later transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center, charged with Armed Robbery, Robbery, Assault 1st Degree, Assault 2nd Degree and incarcerated under a $30,000 bond.

Tyriel L. Gantt

A second suspect in the case has been identified as Cepada J. Hicks, African American Male, age 20, 6’00 tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds with shoulder length braided black hair.  Hicks is known to frequent the Lexington Park area and also has ties throughout Southern Maryland. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Hicks is asked to contact Detective Corporal Michael Boyer at 301.475.4200 X 9120 or citizens may contact Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333.  Citizens may also text tips to “TIP239” plus your message to “CRIMES” (274637).

Cepada J. Hicks

ARRESTED & IN CUSTODY

Captain Terry L. Black

Commander

Criminal Investigations Division

301-475-4200 Ext. 1925

Sheriff Cameron Announces Next Max Deployment Operation

Sheriff Cameron and the men and women of the #SMCSO will have an increased presence in and around shopping areas, on roadways, and in our communities to ensure St. Mary's County shoppers are safe during prime shopping time. 

Corporal E. Keith Fretwell Memorial Unveiled at Mission BBQ

California, Maryland - On December 15, 2014, Sheriff Tim Cameron, members of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Emergency Services Team, (EST), and the family and friends of Corporal E. Keith Fretwell gathered at Mission Barbecue in San Souci Plaza for the official unveiling of a memorial in his honor. 

The memorial was unveiled by Keith's mother, Diane Fretwell, his sister Twania Fretwell, and nephew Andy Fretwell. Proudly displayed on the wall to the left side of the Mission Barbecue restaurant is Keith's Class "A" jacket. Displayed on the jacket are his Corporal stripes, EST wings, and badge. Above the jacket is Keith's original EST helmet - all personal possessions very dear to Keith. 

Corporal E. "Keith" Fretwell, was an Air Force veteran, an original member of the EST, a dedicated well respected police officer, who was well liked by citizens and his fellow officers. Keith had an amazing personality which enabled him to connect effortlessly with anyone. He was responsible for mentoring many of his fellow officers especially those on his patrol group and on EST. 

Keith lost his battle with cancer on March 24, 1999, and left a substantial void in the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office. As time has gone by, many of the deputies who were privileged to have worked with Keith continue to think of him often. We share great stories and wish he were still here. 

THANK YOU Mission Barbecue for remembering a great man who remains to this day important to so many.

Sheriff Richard Voorhaar, Corporal Keith Fretwell, & Colonel David Mitchell 

Sheriff Cameron and members of the EST

clockwise: Sheriff Cameron, Andy Fretwell, Twania Fretwell, & Diane Fretwell

   

Incident Briefs 12-15-14 to 12-17-14

12-15-14 PROPERTY DESTRUCTION - A victim, who resides on Baja Lane, reported unknown suspect(s) slashed the tires on her vehicle during the night. CASE #66416-14

12-16-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, who resides on Premier Lane in Lexington Park, reported unknown suspect(s) broke a window on her vehicle and stole property. Case remains open and is assigned to Deputy Siciliano. CASE #66588-14

12-16-14 THEFT - A victim, who resides on Elmer Way, reported packages were stolen from her mailbox. Case remains open and is assigned to Deputy L. Johnson. CASE #66752-14

12-16-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, who resides on Poplar Ridge Road, reported unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle and stole property. Case remains open and is assigned to Deputy D. Smith. CASE #66754-14

12-16-14 BURGLARY MOTOR VEHICLE - A victim, who resides on Poplar Ridge Road, reported unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle and stole property. Case remains open and is assigned to Deputy D. Smith. CASE #66733-14

12-16-14 PROPERTY DESTRUCTION -  A victim, who resides on East Edinview Court, reported unknown suspect(s) broke the rear window out of her truck. Case remains open and is assigned to Deputy Bare. CASE #66710-14

12-16-14 BURGLARY TO MOTOR VEHICLE -  A victim reported unknown suspect(s) forced entry into his work van and stole tools, while the vehicle was parked at the Food Lion in Charlotte Hall. Case remains open and is assigned to Deputy Bare. CASE #66799-14

12-17-14 BURGLARY - A victim reported unknown suspect(s) entered a detached garage on St. Andrew's Lane and stole property. Case remains open and is assigned to Corporal Rogers. CASE #66843-14

12-17-14 BURGLARY - A victim, who resides on Autumnwood Drive, reported unknown suspect(s) entered here vehicle and stole property. Case remains open ans is assigned to Deputy Murphy. CASE #66824-14

Vice Narcotics Make Arrests "Operation Season's Greetings"

Vice/Narcotics detectives, assisted by Support Team members and patrol deputies, conducted a two day sweep dubbed “Operation Season’s Greetings”. The following arrests were made.

Detectives received information regarding a fraudulent prescription for Promethazine-Codeine in the name of “Victoria Myles” which was passed at a local pharmacy. Promethazine-Codeine is mixed with soda and is known on the street as “Purple Drank”. Detectives arrested Corey Richard Benford (Age 29 of Bowie, MD) for “Obtaining a Prescription by Fraud”. Suspect Benford is under investigation in other jurisdictions for the same criminal offenses. This investigation continues and additional charges are expected.  

Corey Benford

Jerome Antonio Herbert aka “Big Mac” (Age 28 of Lexington Park) was indicted and charged with “Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute”.

Jerome Herbert

Jessica Lynn Grannis (Age 27 of Lusby, MD) was indicted and charged with “Distribution of Oxycodone”.

Jessica Grannis

Barbara Jean McGuinnis aka “BJ” (Age 50 of Leonardtown) was indicted and charged with “Possession of Oxycodone with the Intent to Distribute”.

Barbara McGuinnis

  

Husband and wife, William Anthony West (Age 39) and Lisa Marie West (Age 45) both of Lexington Park, were indicted for “Distribution of Oxycodone” and “Conspiring to Distribute Oxycodone”.

William West

Lisa West

Joshua Alan Moore (Age 25 of Mechanicsville) was indicted and charged with “Possession with the Intent to Distribute Hydromorphone” and “Possession of Alarazolam with the Intent to Distribute”.

Joshua Moore

William Justin Horton (Age 23 of Sunderland, MD) was charged with possession of marijuana paraphernalia after being involved in a fight in Leonardtown.

William Horton

Crystal Lee Carter (Age 42 of Lexington Park) was indicted and charged with “Manufacturing Marijuana” after several marijuana plants and growing items were seized from her home.

Crystal Carter

Francis Terrell Robinson (Age 32 of Piney Point, MD) was indicted by the Charles County Sheriff’s at the conclusion of their narcotics investigation. The indictment was for charges which included “Possession of Cocaine and Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute”. Charles County Narcotics detectives discovered Suspect Robinson was in possession of a handgun as well. That handgun was stolen from a residence in St. Mary’s County. The additional charge of “Theft under $1,000” was placed on Suspect Robinson by St. Mary’s County deputies. 

Francis Robinson

Detectives served a Charles County indictment for “Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute” on Suspect Laura Renee Johnston (Age 48 of Mechanicsville). NP

Vaughn Jerome Chase (Age 47 of Upper Marlboro, MD) was arrested on an open warrant for “Intimidating a Witness”. Suspect Chase is a defendant in a cocaine distribution case which is awaiting trial and has threatened a witness in the case against him. This was done on several occasions over the last several weeks, one of which was in the presence of a Deputy Sheriff.

Vaughn Chase

Jeramie Davon Neal (Age 21 of Deltona, Florida) was indicted after being found in possession of nearly $1,400 of counterfeit money. The counterfeit currency was in both $50 and $20 dollar bills. 

Jerome Neal

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