Prince Frederick, MD – February 28, 2024 – The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Administration of Calvert High School, is actively investigating an incident that occurred this morning at approximately 10:10 a.m. on school grounds. Preliminary investigation revealed a confrontation ensued among several students regarding a matter unrelated to the school. The confrontation escalated and other students joined the altercation. Swift action was taken by the school administration, staff, the School Resource Officer (SRO), and school safety advocates to manage the incident and ensure the safety of all students and staff present. "We take any incident of this nature very seriously," said Sheriff Cox. "The CCSO is collaborating closely with school administration to determine the appropriate charges for those involved." "As your Sheriff, my utmost priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of every student within our community. Any physical altercation on school grounds is deeply concerning, and we are committed to thoroughly investigating the incident, implementing necessary measures to prevent future occurrences, and providing support to those affected. Our focus remains steadfast on fostering a safe and secure learning environment for all students." We would like to remind parents/guardians if you see or hear something, say something. Incidents of this nature can be reported immediately to the School Resource Officer, School Administration, or the Be Safe Maryland Tip Line: 1-833-MD-B-SAFE (1-833-632-7233) or https://schoolsafety.maryland.gov/Pages/Tipline.aspx. Thank you for your support and assistance in keeping our schools a safe place for our students and staff.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 28, 2024) – On Tuesday, February 27, 2024, Malic Quinn Freeland, 23, was pronounced deceased at the shock trauma center, where he had been undergoing treatment following an incident.

Mr. Freeland was the operator of the vehicle involved in an accident on Monday, February 26, 2024. Upon initial investigation, it was found that the car accident was caused by the victim having sustained a gunshot wound.

The victim will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office are now investigating this incident as a homicide.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective First Class Benjamin Raley at 301-475-4200, ext. 8076, or Benjamin.Raley@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Original News Release: February 27, 2024:
On February 26, 2024, at approximately 9 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the report of an automobile accident. Upon arrival, deputies found a vehicle with a single occupant had crashed into a fence and a shed near Valley Drive and Fox Ridge Road in Lexington Park, MD.

First responders began providing aid to the driver, and it was discovered the victim had a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to an area Shock Trauma Center.

Detectives and Crime Lab Technicians from the Criminal Investigations Division responded to continue the investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective First Class Benjamin Raley at 301-475-4200, ext. 8076, or Benjamin.Raley@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Patrol officers apprehend man armed with a firearm and threatening people: On February 27 at 9:30 a.m., patrol officers responded to the 2600 block of Crain Highway in Waldorf after numerous people called 9-1-1 and reported a man walking along the roadway pointing a firearm at drivers, trying to get them to stop. The man quickly crossed Crain Highway and entered a car dealership showroom. Upon entering, the man pointed the firearm toward an employee. The suspect continued to walk throughout the showroom, crouching behind cubicles with the gun. Employees of the dealership fled while others barricaded themselves inside offices. PFC. Thomson and PFC Levy arrived on the scene and entered the dealership without hesitation. They immediately encountered the suspect and gave verbal commands directing the suspect to the floor. Officer Boyle and PFC Stine arrived simultaneously and were able to secure the suspect.  A semi-automatic firearm was recovered near the suspect. Officers obtained a search warrant at a hotel where the suspect was staying and recovered drugs and ammunition. The suspect, Rodriguez Cornelius Hagens, 43, of Waldorf, was transported to a hospital and treated for a laceration he sustained before being arrested. He was cleared from the hospital and charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, illegal possession of a firearm due to a previous criminal conviction, illegal possession of ammunition, reckless endangerment, and other related charges. He is currently being held at the Charles County Detention Center and awaiting a bond review scheduled for March 1. PFC Thomson is investigating.   

On February 28, 2024, at approximately 11:41 a.m., members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to the area of Hunting Creek Road and Deep Landing Road in Huntingtown, for the report of a single motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival, deputies determined that the operator sustained life-threatening injuries. The Crash Reconstruction Team responded to the scene to investigate.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2018 Chevy Silverado, operated by Charles Michael Sullivan, 81 of Huntingtown, MD, was traveling eastbound on Deep Landing Road approaching Hunting Creek Road. The driver failed to slow or stop for the stop sign, proceeded across Hunting Creek Road, left the roadway striking several trees.

Sullivan was transported to CalvertHealth where he was later pronounced deceased.

At this time, the cause of the crash appears to be medical-related.

Master Deputy Jeffrey Hardesty of the Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is asked to contact M/Dep. Hardesty at 410-535-2800 or by email, Jeffrey.Hardesty@calvertcountymd.gov.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 28, 2024 – The Calvert County Department of Communications & Media Relations has launched newly redesigned county government websites, featuring a design that adjusts smoothly to fit phone or tablet screens, and improved navigation and search functions. The redesigned websites incorporate changes reflecting the feedback from recent website surveys.

In addition to the new look and feel, users will find an accessibility tool located in the bottom right corner, that enables users to personalize the website to suit their unique visual needs, and a Google translate option located in the bottom left corner of the screen. These features aim to increase accessibility and usability for all people who use the sites.

The following websites were redesigned and feature more streamlined information:

·         Calvert County Government (www.CalvertCountyMd.gov): The Calvert County Government website offers a range of local government services and information. This includes access to public meetings and agendas, updates on community events, public services, government news and resources for residents. To sign up for notifications about news, meetings and events, look under the new “Get Involved” tab on the homepage or visit www.calvertcountymd.gov/NotifyMe.

·         Calvert Ag (www.CalvertAg.com): The Calvert County agriculture website, managed by the Department of Economic Development, serves as a hub for farmers and residents interested in agriculture-related information. Farmers and consumers can access this information to promote local agriculture, find locally sourced products and farmers markets, and stay informed about relevant regulations impacting the farming community.

·         Calvert County Circuit Court (www.CircuitCourt.CalvertCountyMd.gov): The Circuit Court website provides information and resources related to the judicial system at the circuit court level. It includes the current docket, parking information and rules and procedures, ensuring individuals have access to essential information and guidelines.

·         Choose Calvert (www.ChooseCalvert.com): The Calvert County Economic Development website serves as a hub for information and resources related to economic growth in Calvert County. It offers information about available commercial properties, workforce development initiatives and programs to support local businesses. Additionally, it features resources for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish or expand operations within the county.

·         Visit Calvert (www.VisitCalvert.com): The Calvert County tourism website, managed by the Department of Economic Development, highlights attractions, activities, points of interest and amenities in Calvert County. The newly redesigned visitor guide pairs perfectly with the website to include dining options, places to stay and attractions by geographical location in the county. The website shows the diverse and appealing waterfront and rural aspects of the county, promoting the picturesque destinations for special events.

·         Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter (www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com): The Calvert County Animal Services website is the online home for the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Calvert County Animal Control. The website offers a comprehensive platform for individuals looking to adopt, foster, volunteer or donate to the well-being of animals in the community. Residents can view strays and animals available for adoption in real-time. The site features essential information about animal control and shelter services, including details about animal safety during weather advisories and upcoming rabies clinics.

For questions or feedback about the website updates, please contact the Department of Communications & Media Relations at communications@calvertcountymd.gov.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. ( February 28, 2024) — The Maryland Board of Public Works (BPW) today approved more than $230 million for 59 initiatives and projects across Maryland.

Among the items, was a $200,000 grant to the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department in St. Mary’s County. Comptroller Brooke Lierman highlighted the solar power system project which will accommodate 100% of the department’s electrical usage at fire stations in California and Leonardtown. The system would lower the department’s utility bill by $18,000 annually and reduce its carbon footprint.

“I’d like to acknowledge and extend my appreciation to Delegate Brian Crosby, (D-29B St. Mary’s County), for submitting a letter of support for the project and sponsoring the bond initiative last year,” Comptroller Lierman said.

Comptroller Lierman also noted a request from the Department of General Services to award three firms a contract to develop decarbonization plans for state-owned buildings and facilities.

“These plans are necessary to meet our state’s climate goals,” Comptroller Lierman said. “They will help the State of Maryland transition our buildings to efficient, clean, and cost-saving electricity to meet our state Climate goals.” 

“This is a huge step forward. We pass important legislation and then it actually has to be implemented and this is one of those steps to implement it.”

After thanking the Office of Sustainability, the Comptroller said there is “a lot more work to do and we keep moving forward.”

On Tuesday, Feb. 27, staff and a representative from the state of Maryland provided a briefing on a variety of topics related to the use of Artificial Intelligence in government operations. Nishant Shah, Senior Advisor for Responsible Artificial Intelligence for the Maryland Department of Information Technology, provided a briefing on how the state plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence and develop a guard rail to ensure ethical use.

Evelyn Jacobson, Chief of Information Technology, recommended convening an artificial intelligence workgroup to develop guidance on how to implement and deploy artificial intelligence programs in a responsible manner in county operations.

Briefings

• Danielle Mitchell, Assistant Deputy County Attorney, gave commissioners a legislative update on the 2024 Maryland General Assembly session. Commissioners gave consensus to support several bills, including a bill for telecom CPR training, a bill for scholarship and loan repayment assistance for first responders, and a bill concerning affordable housing.
• Dr. Yolanda Wilson, President of the College of Southern Maryland, provided commissioners with a State of the College briefing.
• Staff provided a briefing on an internal audit of Fiscal Year Reporting for the Commissioner's Expense Accounts for fiscal 2023.
• Staff provided a briefing on local historical landmark applications approved by the Historic Preservation Commission in 2023. Commissioners approved the applications for Saint Nicholas Creek Cemetery in Benedict, Twiford’s Store in Marbury, and Joseph C Parks House in Bryans Road thereby designating them local historic landmarks.
• Elizabeth Theobalds, deputy county attorney, hosted a work session on the Swan Point Drainage Petition project. Commissioners approved a memorandum of understanding on the agreement and executed the project. 
• Staff provided an update on improvements to Western Parkway.

Approval items

• Commissioners approved:
• “A budget transfer of $98,000 using funds from the Contingency Inflation Reserve to facilitate additional funding for a pending change order regarding the J.P Ryon Elementary School full-day kindergarten project.
• A budget transfer of $100,000 using funds from the Contingency Inflation Reserve to support additional funding for permit fees and additional design services for the J.C Parks full-day kindergarten project. The funds were originally anticipated to be needed in fiscal 2025 and are now needed for fiscal 2024.
• A budget transfer of $12,800 from within Fiscal & Administrative Services and the County Administrator’s Office to support a new full-time administrative associate position.”
• A lease renewal with the United Way of Southern Maryland.
• An authorizing resolution allowing Transit staff to apply for operating and capital grants for VanGO, the county-operated local public transit system.

Actions on Boards and Commissions

Commissioners took the following actions on appointments to Boards and Commissions:

• Appointed Brandon Bataka-Johnson as a Citizen Member to the Commission on Individuals with Disabilities

Viewing option of the meeting and the Commissioner Listening Session: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: March 5-6, 2024

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

 The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) has partnered with the Responsible Retailing Forum to sponsor the 21 Matters™ program. This initiative assists local businesses licensed to sell alcohol with ensuring that staff consistently inspect IDs and refuse sales to underage customers. 

The majority (89 of 93) of completed inspections in January 2024 demonstrated proper ID-checking - a 96% pass rate. SMCHD thanks our local licensees for preventing underage access to alcohol. 

“Point-of-sale age verification for alcohol sales is a critical tool in preventing underage drinking,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “We appreciate our partnership with local alcohol retailers and the Cannabis & Alcohol Coalition to prevent youth access to alcohol.“

The Cannabis & Alcohol Coalition (CAC) addresses the negative impacts of the use of cannabis among young people as well as underage and binge drinking. Membership is free and open to all. Learn more at smchd.org/cac.

Student in possession of a pellet gun at John Hanson Middle School: On February 27 at 2 p.m., a school administrator at John Hanson Middle School was made aware of a student who was possibly in possession of a firearm. Further investigation revealed the student had a water pellet gun in their book bag.  No threats were made, and the investigation is ongoing. The student does face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about his case is asked to call PFC Hancock at 301-609-3282 ext. 0499.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented a proclamation celebrating the 50^th Anniversary of the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce. Join the Chamber at: https://smcchamber.com.

During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas. 
• Approved the Maryland Highway Safety Grant on behalf of the Sheriff's Office.
• Received a presentation from Mission Critical Partners on their assessment and report on Emergency Medical Services in St. Mary’s County.
• Received a presentation from St. Mary’s County Library Director, Michael Blackwell.
• Approved donated revenue for the Congregate & Home Delivered Meal Programs.
• Accepted the Department of Social Services, Inter-Governmental Agency Agreement on behalf of the Local Management Board and the Poverty Alleviation System, Circles USA.
• Approved the Fire, Rescue, and ALS eligibility lists for the Length of Service Awards Program (LOSAP) service credit for 2023.
• Approved the budget amendment decreasing salary and fringe accounts and increasing the Commissioner's Emergency Reserve in the amount of $515,304 due to salary savings.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC held a Budget Work Session (BWS) in the afternoon. Visit our Budget Engage Page at: http://bit.ly/SMCGFY25Budget, from here, you can watch BWS videos, view the meeting schedule, and even leave your feedback on local priorities – all in one place!

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 9 a.m., with BWS at 1:30 p.m. CSMC business meetings and BWS are held in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) Channel 95 or on-demand via SMCG’s YouTube Channel. For more information on SMCG, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 27, 2024) – A Site-based assessor from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®), is currently examining all aspects of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services, Sheriff Steve Hall announced today.

“Verification by the assessor that SMCSO meets the Commission’s comprehensive state-of-the-art standards is part of a voluntary process to gain accreditation—a highly prized recognition of public safety professional excellence,” Sheriff Hall said. As part of the assessment, agency personnel and community members are invited to offer comments at https://cimrs2.calea.org/316.

If, for some reason, an individual cannot access the portal but would like to provide comments to the assessment team, please do so by writing to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement, Inc. (CALEA®), 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320 Gainesville, VA, 20155, or email calea@calea.org.

A copy of the standards is available by contacting SMCSO, Jodi Irwin, Accreditation Manager, at 301-475-4200, ext. 1963. 

The Sheriff’s Office must comply with 183 standards to gain accredited status. Accreditation is for four years, during which the agency must submit agency status reports and participate in annual remote web-based assessments attesting to continued compliance with the standards.

For more information regarding the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., please write the Commission at 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320, Gainesville, VA, 20155, or call 703-352-4225 or email calea@calea.org.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 27, 2024) – On February 26, 2024, at approximately 9 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the report of an automobile accident. Upon arrival, deputies found a vehicle with a single occupant had crashed into a fence and a shed near Valley Drive and Fox Ridge Road in Lexington Park, MD.

First responders began providing aid to the driver, and it was discovered the victim had a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to an area Shock Trauma Center.

Detectives and Crime Lab Technicians from the Criminal Investigations Division responded to continue the investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective First Class Benjamin Raley at 301-475-4200, ext. 8076, or Benjamin.Raley@stmaryscountymd.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – On February 23, 2024, tentative four-year agreements were reached between the Board of Education’s negotiating team and the Education Association of St. Mary’s County (EASMC) for certificated employees and education support staff. The agreements provide for the following.

• In compliance with the statutory requirements of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future:

• • Implementation of a career ladder for certificated staff

  • A minimum unconditionally certificated teacher starting salary of $60,500

• Annual salary improvement for all bargaining unit employees

• Annual step progression on the salary scales for each year of the agreement

• Salary scale adjustments each year of the agreement

• Enhancements to course tuition reimbursement, including an additional incentive for teachers to pursue their master’s degree

• Compensation incentive for certificated classroom teachers pursuing their National Board Certification

• Compensation incentive for certificated teachers to transfer to our Blueprint schools: George Washington Carver Elementary School, Spring Ridge Middle School, and Great Mills High School

Dr. J. Scott Smith, Superintendent of Schools, commented, “This agreement implements the required Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Career Ladder for teachers, moving us toward a more competitive and fair pay scale for our teachers and support staff. The agreement invests in the professional growth of our employees. A four-year agreement allows us to forecast costs and budget accordingly so we can meet our future commitments. For our staff, knowing what they will earn for the next four years is reassuring and something people who work with children deserve.”

Ms. Liz Purcell Leskinen, MSEA UniServ Director and EASMC Chief Negotiator, stated, “EASMC’s extremely engaged and committed Negotiations Committee members volunteered nearly a year of preparation for bargaining, and it paid off. EASMC and SMCPS shared a fair and respectful process based on the needs and interests expressed by our members, considering limited resources. This agreement supports the local implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, including highly qualified and motivated educators and support professionals, to ensure every student equal access to a great education.”

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Monday, February 26, 2024, Malcolm Fluellyn, 27, of Bryans Road, entered a guilty plea to two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and six counts of Fourth-Degree Sexual Offense.

On February 10, 2023, a school resource officer at General Smallwood Middle School contacted the Charles County Sheriff’s Office to report a possible sexual assault between Fluellyn and multiple students.

An investigation revealed that Fluellyn was working as a permanent substitute teacher at General Smallwood Middle School from December 2022 through February 2023. Fluellyn inappropriately touched the victims, some on numerous occasions, at the school while he worked there. Additionally, Fluellyn reached out to some of the victims on Instagram and made inappropriate sexual comments about their bodies.  

The eight victims ranged in age between 12 and 13 years old. Fluellyn was immediately fired from the school when school officials learned of the assaults.

A sentencing date has been set for April 15, 2024. Fluellyn faces 50 years in prison.

On Saturday, February 24, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a disturbance in the 21000 block of Morris Drive in Lexington Park, MD. Upon arrival, a victim was found with a significant laceration to the throat. The victim was flown to a local shock trauma center for treatment.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division and Crime Lab Technicians responded to the scene to continue the investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Corporal Tyler Payne at 301-475- 4200, ext. 8010, or Tyler.Payne@stmaryscountymd.gov.

NEW CARROLLTON, MD – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced the launch of the Office of Statewide Broadband’s new Maryland Broadband Hub. The online Hub provides access to mapping viewers and links resources for Maryland residents and broadband providers to learn about how Maryland is analyzing data and existing broadband service to plan for increased service and broadband expansion, as required by Maryland Senate Bill 66.

“As we continue to work toward our goal of connecting all Marylanders to broadband before 2030, the Maryland Broadband Hub will be key to tracking our progress in the home stretch,” said Secretary Jake Day. “Additionally, this transparent resource will allow local communities to identify locations with the most need to ensure our resources are leaving no one behind.”

The Hub includes three main components—the Maryland Broadband Explorer, the Data Collection Compare Tool, and a Grant Awards Dashboard—as well as additional resources and frequently asked questions for Marylanders to better understand the State’s plans to close the digital divide. As of February 2024, 98% of Marylanders have access to broadband internet.

The Maryland Broadband Explorer allows viewers to see broadband availability in Maryland and search broadband service at specific addresses. Each census block is populated with the name of the internet service provider and the type of service at the location. 

The Data Collection Tool compares data from the Maryland Broadband Explorer and the Federal Communications Commission’s National Broadband Map. The Maryland Broadband Explorer collects only wireline data, which includes cable and fiber, and the National Broadband Map includes both wireline and wireless data, which is from mobile and satellite service.

The Grant Awards Dashboard shows where the Office of Statewide Broadband is or has supported broadband expansion efforts across the state, as well as detailed information on grants awarded and the progress of awarded projects.

All three of these tools were developed in collaboration with the Maryland Broadband Cooperative, the Eastern Shore Regional GIS Cooperative (ESRGC) and Maryland broadband providers, who submitted served addresses. These addresses were mapped to a geographic location, which were then aggregated to 2020 U.S. Census Blocks.

The Maryland Office of Statewide Broadband strives to ensure every Marylander has access to broadband services. To help accomplish this goal, the State partners with the private sector and local jurisdictions to reduce, and eventually eliminate, the number of communities and residents that are unserved by current internet infrastructure.

For more information on the Office of Statewide Broadband, please visit dhcd.maryland.gov/Broadband.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary’s County Commission for Women (CFW) is pleased to announce the annual Women’s History Month Brunch & Awards Ceremony, which will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland, located at 44219 Airport Road, Bldg. 3 in California, Maryland (doors open at 10:30 a.m.). This annual event celebrates and recognizes the accomplishments of women and girls in our county.

This year’s theme is “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion”. St. Mary’s County is fortunate to have many women who, through their volunteer contributions, have fought long and hard to stand up for other women and girls in our community. We invite you to help us celebrate their accomplishments!

Each year four awards are presented: the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Lifetime Achievement and Hometown Shero awards (selected by CFW), and the Woman of the Year and Tomorrow’s Woman awards (community nomination; selected by independent panel of judges).

We are pleased to announce that the 2024 Ruth Bader Ginsburg Lifetime Achievement award will be presented to Mary Washington, a longtime advocate for education and current member of the St. Mary’s County Board of Education. Frances Cullison has been named the 2024 Hometown Shero, in recognition and remembrance of her dedicated service with Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad, including serving as the first female EMS Chief in St. Mary’s County.

Nominations are now open for the “Woman of the Year” and “Woman of Tomorrow” awards. The deadline to submit nominations is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 8, 2024.

For event information, tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to submit a nomination, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/cwawards. For questions, please call (301) 475-4200, ext.1680.

Proceeds will support the Jane Hale-Sypher scholarship through the College of Southern Maryland, which was established to help returning, non-traditional students to further their educational goals.

About the Commission for Women

The St. Mary’s County Commission for Women (CFW) champions women’s issues and concerns. The CFW was created to address matters of specific concern to women in the areas of employment, education, health, public office, family, and legal rights. This very active group stays busy in our community reaching out to women in many walks of life. In addition, each year the CFW takes the time to recognize some of the female volunteers who represent the backbone of our community. The members are appointed by the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and report to them the areas of concern to women in our community. For more information, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/cw .

Charles County Government is launching a targeted campaign urging businesses to voluntarily remove illegal signage in commercial areas across the county. This initiative aims to create a cleaner, more attractive environment and align with the county's broader economic development goals.

Businesses will have 90 days after the program begins on March 1 to bring all signage into compliance. Following the 90 days, businesses that have not taken appropriate action to comply with the ordinance will face fines.

As part of this campaign, the Charles County Economic Development Department will inform businesses about the Facade Improvement Grant Program and the Rehabilitation Tax Credit. These economic incentive programs are designed to support local businesses in enhancing their storefronts and overall building aesthetics.

Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, emphasized the importance of combining regulatory compliance with economic incentives for businesses:

"Our focus on our commercial areas goes beyond just removing signs; we want to empower businesses to invest in their storefronts and contribute to the economic vitality of the area. By offering information on programs like the Facade Improvement Grant and Rehabilitation Tax Credit, we are providing tangible support for businesses looking to enhance their physical presence while complying with county regulations."

To assist businesses in achieving compliance, inspectors from the Department of Planning and Growth Management will provide guidance to each business owner on how to bring their property into compliance with the County Code.

Businesses interested in learning more about these economic incentive programs are encouraged to contact the Charles County Government. Detailed information can be found on the county's website at www.charlescountymd.gov.

On Friday, February 23, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, Patrol Division, and Special Operations Division executed a search and seizure warrant at a residence in the 21000 block of Great Mills Road Lexington Park, MD, recovering a large quantity of suspected Fentanyl/xylazine mix, a quantity of crack cocaine, a quantity of cocaine, cash, two loaded handguns, and CDS manufacturing paraphernalia.

A follow-on residential search warrant was executed in the 45000 block of Oregon Way in Great Mills, MD. The secondary search yielded a quantity of methamphetamine, various controlled medications, cash, and another loaded handgun; two of the three handguns seized were previously reported stolen.

Terrance Lamar Barnes, 29, of no fixed address, and Joseph Matthew Queen III, 30, of Lexington Park, MD, were arrested and charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute, firearm possession during a drug trafficking crime, possession of equipment to produce controlled dangerous substances (CDS), manufacturing of CDS: Narcotics, and related crimes.

Both suspects were transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center to await bond hearings.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Do you have paper documents with personal information that you’d like to purge? Or do you have unused, unwanted, or expired medications in your cabinets? This is your chance to dispose of them safely at the Community Shred & Medication Take Back Day!

This event will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Department of Aging & Human Services, located in the St. Mary’s County Governmental Center at 41780 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. Shredding services, medication collection, and safe disposal of medical sharps will be offered, all free of charge!

This event is a cooperative effort between the St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services and Department of Public Works & Transportation, the St. Mary’s County Health Department, and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

Participants may bring up to six boxes of documents to the site. Materials that will be accepted include all types of paper. Three ring binders will not be accepted. Participants are asked to please refrain from bringing newspapers shred.

For more information, contact Community Programs & Outreach Manager Sarah Miller at sarah.miller@stmaryscountymd.gov or (301) 475-4200, ext. 1073.

For information on safe disposal of medication and medical sharps such as needles, lancets, and syringes, please visit: smchd.org/disposal.

Commissioner Amanda Stewart  (District 3) Town Hall Meeting

Saturday, March 9, 2024

Time: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

In Person: Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center (90 Post Office Road, Waldorf)

Topic: Charles County Government and Charles County Public Schools will discuss their fiscal 2025 budget.

Commissioner Gilbert “BJ” Bowling (District 1) Town Hall Meeting

Thursday, March 14, 2024

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

In Person: Bryans Road Firehouse (3099 Livingston Road, Bryans Road)

Live stream here: https://www.facebook.com/bj.bowling.52

Topic: Charles County Budget 2025 and Development in Western Charles County

Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II Town Hall Meeting

Thursday, March 21, 2024

Time: 6 p.m.

In Person: Copper Compass Craft Distilling Co. (4317 Charles Crossing Dr, White Plains, MD 20695)

Topic: Growth in Charles County

Officers apprehend suspect in shooting / attempted murder case: On February 23 at 1: 30 a.m., officers responded to the area of Crain Highway in Newburg for the report of shots fired. The caller advised he was following a car in which the driver, who is known to him, shot at him minutes earlier. Officers located the suspect’s vehicle near Budd’s Creek Road. The driver, David Arthur Hardester, age 42, of Mechanicville, was identified as the person who fired the shot. He was arrested and a firearm was recovered. A preliminary investigation showed the victim and suspect arranged to meet at a parking lot near Crain Highway in Newburg. When they arrived, an argument about an ongoing issue ensued and Hardester fired a single shot at the victim as he was walking away to get in his car; the victim was not struck by the gunfire. The suspect fled and the victim followed him, calling 9-1-1 and advising officers as to where the driver was. Hardester was arrested and charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault, and other related charges. He is being held at the Charles County Detention Center and waiting to be seen by a district court commissioner. Officer Weinmann is investigating.   

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Public Schools will host three Rising Freshman Orientation Nights this March. The purpose of the events is to provide an opportunity for rising ninth graders and their families to preview ninth-grade course selections, learn about available Academies and Pathways, meet counselors and school administrators, and get an overview of high school graduation requirements. The Rising Freshman Orientation Nights will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 4th, at Chopticon High School, Tuesday, March 5th, at Leonardtown High School, and Thursday, March 7th, at Great Mills High School.

Families are welcome to attend any night. All information will be repeated each night. For more information, contact the Department of Strategic Initiatives at 301-475-5511, extension 32133, or email classof2028@smcps.org.

Fleeing and Eluding: 24-12185 On February 14, 2024, DFC Wilder initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling well above the posted speed limit in the area of Calvert Cliffs State Parkway in Lusby. DFC Wilder observed the vehicle operating aggressively, in addition to running a red light. The driver then attempted to elude DFC Wilder by accelerating and turning off its lights while still in motion. The vehicle eventually came to a stop in the 1000 block of Ball Road, in a residential driveway. The driver, identified as Zamahri Lydell Talley, 20, of Prince Frederick, was apprehended and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, Fleeing and Eluding, along with other traffic-related offenses.

Fleeing and Eluding: 24-12565 On February 16, 2024, Senior Deputy Idol observed a motorcycle traveling at a high rate splitting traffic through Dunkirk. S/D Idol located the vehicle in the area of Ferry Landing Road and attempted a traffic stop with lights and sirens activated. The driver continued southbound at traveling at speeds of 80 mph+. The driver sped around the deputy's vehicle onto the shoulder and into the grass, passing vehicles on the wrong side of the road. In an attempt to end the pursuit, S/D Idol slowed his vehicle so the driver would stop safely on the roadway, but instead drove up an embankment continuing to flee. S/D Idol caught up to the vehicle and the driver pulled over. The driver, Hunter Bruce Swarthout, 27 of Lothian, was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Fleeing and Eluding along with several other traffic-related violations.

Tampering: 24-12620 On February 16, 2024, Deputy Tunnell responded to the Ford Dealership located at 10 Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of vehicle tampering. Contact was made with the complainant who advised at approximately 12:45 a.m. on Feb. 15, an unknown white male was lurking around the dealership parking lot and made entry and removed items from approximately 25-30 vehicles. The estimated value of damaged and stolen property is unknown at this time.

Theft: 24-12301 On February 15, 2024, Deputy Zinn responded to the 7300 block of F Street in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised his 2022 Redmax EBX8560 75.66CC Backpack Leaf Blower was stolen from his trailer while parked on Horace Ward Road in Owings. The estimated value of stolen property is $690.00.

Theft: 24-12616 On February 16, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the report of an attempted vehicle theft at the Crossroad Christian Church Park and Ride located at 150 Ball Road in St. Leonard. The 3 complainant advised someone had attempted to steal his company vehicle, a white 2020 Ford Transit Van. The complainant observed signs of forced entry; the glove box was found open, the ignition had been tampered with and drilled out of the steering column, and three Milwaukee 12v batteries were missing. The estimated value of the damaged property is $1,100.00, while the approximate cost to replace the vehicle is $18,000.00.

Weapon Violation: 24-13416 On February 18, 2024, Deputy Baxter responded to a traffic complaint along SB Rt 4 in the area of Lancaster Drive in St. Leonard. The complainant advised she observed a red passenger vehicle strike a guardrail multiple times while driving. Witnesses observed the vehicle facing northbound in the southbound lanes, spin around, and keep driving. The complainant observed the vehicle turn into the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Powerplant in Lusby, where security located the vehicle in their parking lot. The security officer witnessed the driver exit the vehicle and urinate in front of it. Upon making contact with the driver, Donovan Lee Bragg, 21 of Pataskala, OH, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emitting from Bragg’s breath. After a series of standard field sobriety tests, the investigation revealed Donovan was impaired and unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. As Donovan was placed into custody, he advised there was a loaded handgun in his vehicle. Two magazines and a holster were also recovered. Donovan was charged with Negligent and Reckless Driving, DWI, DUI, and Loaded Handgun in a Vehicle. 

Weapons Violation: 24-12988 On February 17, 2024, at 3:45 p.m., Senior Deputy (S/D) Idol observed a blue street bike traveling at a high rate northbound from Cox Road in Huntingtown. S/D Idol caught up to the vehicle and reported it was exceeding speeds of 100 mph weaving in and out of traffic. Due to heavy traffic and additional police units responding, the driver was forced to slow down and bring the pursuit safely to an end. The suspect, Malakhi Rashawn Harvey, 20 of District Heights, was taken into custody. During a search incident to arrest, a loaded firearm (a polymer semi-automatic handgun) with ten 9mm Ruger rounds was discovered in Harvey’s front pocket. Harvey was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Concealing a Dangerous Weapon, Loaded Handgun on Person, Negligent and Reckless Driving, Fleeing and Eluding along with other traffic-related violations. 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge H. James West sentenced Deon Watkins, 52, to two consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole for the murders of Kandeon Niravanh and Genesis Garrett, as well as related charges.

On August 30, 2023, a Charles County jury convicted Watkins of the aforementioned charges.

Before 1:00 a.m. on January 21, 2021, officers responded to the 2400 block of Hanover Court in Waldorf for a report of a residence with an open door. Several neighbors also reported hearing gunshots around 12:30 a.m. Upon arrival, officers found the front door of a residence was open. They then discovered Kandeon Niravanh and Genesis Garrett deceased with apparent gunshot wounds to the upper body inside of the residence.

An investigation into the murders revealed that Watkins and Niravanh were involved in selling marijuana. Watkins was the supplier for the marijuana that Niravanh sold. Prior to the incident, an argument occurred between Watkins and Niravanh via text message about a debt that Niravanh owed Watkins, as well as Watkins’ belief that Niravanh was attempting to contact his drug supplier directly. The exchange included voice-to-text messages of Watkins threatening violence against Niravanh.

The investigation also revealed that Watkins operated a gray 2012 Honda Accord passenger car. Based on phone records, video surveillance and tag reader information, Watkins drove this vehicle to the residence of Niravanh, who also lived with Garrett, and committed the murders of both victims. Following the murders, a vehicle that matched the description of Watkins’ vehicle was observed on video surveillance leaving the scene.

At sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney Jonathan Beattie called the incident a “rage killing” and asked for the maximum sentence under law. He furthered, “the callous disregard for human life is appalling” and that Watkins’ actions were “heinous, angry, and vengeful.”

Before sentencing Watkins, the honorable Judge H. James West stated that the incident “was an execution with no purpose other than to say, ‘I was crossed on a business level or I was disrespected.’ This shouldn’t be tolerated in any community.”

Guilty

• Count 1 – First Degree Murder of Kandeon Niravanh
  • Life in Prison without the Possibility of Parole
• Count 2 - Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence related to the First-Degree Murder of Kandeon Niravanh
  • 20 Years in Prison, Concurrent with Count 1
• Count 3 – First Degree Murder of Genesis Garrett
  • Life in Prison without the Possibility of Parole, Consecutive to Counts 1 and 2
• Count 4 - Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence related to the First-Degree Murder of Genesis Garrett
  • 20 Years in Prison, Concurrent to Count 3
• Count 5 - Use of a Firearm During the Commission After Being Convicted of a Crime of Violence
  • 15 Years in Prison, Concurrent with Count 3

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) announced the extended closure of the Environmental Health Entrance at the Leonardtown Office, located at 21580 Peabody Street in Leonardtown, through Tuesday, February 27, 2024, due to maintenance. Community members needing Environmental Services can enter through the SMCHD Main Entrance. Normal operations at the Environmental Health entrance should resume on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

Visit smchd.org for more information on SMCHD locations and services.

Suspected cannabis recovered from a student at La Plata High School: On February 22 at 11 a.m., a school administrator at La Plata High School detected the odor of cannabis emitting from a school bathroom. Further investigation revealed a student was in possession of suspected cannabis. The school resource officer recovered the cannabis, and the student was issued a civil citation for possession of cannabis. The student also faces consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with additional information should contact M/Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Emergency Services has received reports that AT&T customers and other cell service providers nationwide may be having difficulties connecting to 911.

Impacted service providers are actively working on this issue. More information will be released as it becomes available.

Committees in both chambers of the General Assembly are hearing testimony on a pair of bills to change how health insurance companies in Maryland make treatment coverage decisions. What’s known as 'utilization review' is a process that can be time-consuming and opaque, with criteria that may be set by the insurance company instead of clinical standards. The Senate Finance Committee heard testimony Wednesday on S-B 791, which would require insurers to use expert nonprofit clinical guidelines to make coverage decisions. David Lloyd, with the mental health advocacy organization 'Inseparable,' says these bills will remove barriers to care.

"It puts in place important patient protections to help people get the care they need for their mental health and substance use conditions."

Testimony on the companion bill will be heard in the House Health and Government Operations Committee on Thursday.

The bills would ensure patients can remain on a drug if it has been authorized in the past, and can keep existing drug coverage for 90 days if they change insurance companies. The bills would also require insurers to establish a real-time benefits check, where prescribers can view an electronic health record to see insurance coverage, drug costs and more. Lloyd says this should speed up the authorization process, which can be slow – and harmful to people in crisis.

"Particularly for people who are struggling with mental health or substance use challenges, these types of barriers can be really harmful, and can make it so that they don't ultimately get the treatments that are critical for their well-being."

If passed, the electronic health record system would be required to begin by July of 2026.

Committees in both chambers of the General Assembly are hearing testimony on a pair of bills to change how health insurance companies in Maryland make treatment coverage decisions. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 21, 2024) – At approximately 10:05 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded to Lettie Marshall Dent Elementary School in Mechanicsville, MD, for a death investigation.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) and a Forensic Investigator from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner responded to the scene; CID assumed the case. The initial investigation revealed no foul play.

The victim of the death investigation has been identified as an employee of the St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective David Lawrence at 301-475-4200, ext. 8130, or David.Lawrence@stmaryscountymd.gov.

School resource officer investigating a second-degree assault at Indian Head Elementary School: On February 20, at 1:36 p.m., a school resource officer at Indian Head Elementary School was made aware of an assault that occurred on the playground during which one student suddenly jabbed another student on the neck with a mechanical pencil. The student sustained a minor injury and was treated by a school nurse. In accordance with MD law, the student will not be charged due to their age. The student does face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Officer Frison at 301-609-3282 ext. 0770.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 21, 2024) – Mina Geric, a dedicated recruit at the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, realized her long-held dream of becoming a United States citizen when she took her Oath of Allegiance on February 8, 2024, in Greenbelt, Maryland.

Geric's journey to citizenship began when she immigrated to the U.S. with her family from Montenegro as a sophomore in high school. After completing her high school education, Geric earned an athletic scholarship at a D1 college in the western United States, where she pursued studies in Psychology. Her academic pursuits later led her to obtain a diploma in Business through NCC Education in the United Kingdom.

Becoming a naturalized citizen was always a pivotal part of Geric's plan. Over five years, she diligently worked towards meeting the eligibility requirements while striving to become a professional law enforcement officer. This ambition led her to join the Sheriff’s Office as a recruit in September 2023.

Residing in St. Mary's County, Geric extensively researched the Sheriff's Office and found it an ideal fit for her aspirations. "I read so many good things about how this agency takes care of its people and how the Sheriff is supportive," Geric commented.

Reflecting on her experiences at the academy, Geric shared, "The academy is a challenging and rewarding experience; it’s mentally, emotionally, and physically preparing me to serve my community. The level of support I have received from everyone, from the recruiter to the instructors, is something I’ve never experienced before; I know people want to help me and my fellow recruits succeed. Ultimately, I’d like to become a detective, and I feel there is a place for me in this agency."

Sheriff Steve Hall expressed his support for Geric's achievement: "One of the most poignant parts for me about Recruit Geric’s story is that she chose to become an American citizen; she raised her right hand and took that oath. I look forward to witnessing her raise her right hand, alongside her classmates, in April when she swears to serve her new country and protect the people in our county."

Geric and her classmates are on track to completing the police entrance-level training program at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy in April 2024.

Student in possession of a knife at Henry E. Lackey High School: On February 20, at 10 a.m., a school administrator at Henry E.  Lackey High School was made aware of a student who was in possession of a knife. The administrator recovered the knife inside the student’s bookbag and contacted a school resource officer who responded to the school. No threats were made, and the investigation is ongoing. The student does face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Barry at 301-609-3282 ext. 0574.

School resource officer investigating multiple altercations at North Point High School: On February 20, throughout the morning, three separate altercations occurred inside North Point High School. In two of the cases, two students fought each other and were separated by administrators and the school resource officer. The students sustained minor injuries from the altercation. In the third case, four students assaulted another student. School administrators and the school resource officer intervened, and the students were separated. There were no reported injuries in that assault. The students involved in the assaults face criminal charges and school disciplinary sanctions.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0580. 

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) has been awarded $1.435 million in grant funding through the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, which is responsible for developing a statewide framework to expand access for behavioral health services for Maryland students. Funding was made available by the Maryland General Assembly under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. 

SMCHD’s Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports award will support the addition of behavioral health services for St. Mary’s County youth at the two School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) located at Margaret Brent and Spring Ridge Middle Schools. New services made available through this award are expected to begin in the Summer of 2024 and will include onsite evaluation and treatment for behavioral health concerns, individual and family counseling, care coordination and youth mentoring. 

The SBHCs are open to all SBHC-enrolled SMCPS students and employees, regardless of host school, during and after school hours. The SBHCs are also available after school hours for general community members who enroll in the SBHC program. SMCHD provides routine and urgent medical care, rapid testing and management for colds and chronic illnesses, sports physicals, treatment of minor injuries, and primary care services at the SBHCs. Regardless of health insurance, all persons can be seen, and a sliding fee scale is available for those without insurance.

“This grant provides the resources we need to expand behavioral health services for St. Mary’s County youth and grow our youth development programs,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “The investments that the state and our County Commissioners made previously in our School-Based Health Centers are helping us bring additional grants and services to our county. I am grateful for their support, this new funding from the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, as well as the phenomenal work of our SMCHD Clinical Services Division Director Lisa Nelson and other health department team members leading this grant effort.”

To learn more about the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, please visit health.maryland.gov/mchrc/Pages/Maryland-Consortium-on-Consolidated-Community-Supports.aspx.

To learn more about the School-Based Health Centers, please visit smchd.org/sbhc.

The victim of last Friday night's shed fire in Avenue has been identified as 26-year-old Joseph Williams Bowles, Jr.

Deputy State Fire Marshals have concluded the fire originated within an 8' x 10 shed in his parents' backyard. While the fire remains under investigation, they have not recovered evidence that it was an act of arson and continue to explore all possible accidental causes. 

At around 11:00 p.m. on Friday, the owners reported their shed on fire, with their son possibly still inside. 

Firefighters arrived and extinguished the fire in under 10 minutes and confirmed a deceased victim was inside.

The Office of the State Fire Marshals continues to work in collaboration with the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, which is a standard operating procedure whenever a fatal fire occurs.

Although smoke alarms are not required in sheds, the Office of the State Fire Marshal requests everyone to remain vigilant in installing and maintaining smoke alarms in their homes and practice fire safety, including having an escape plan. "Please take time to ensure the safety of your family and friends by maintaining these early warning life safety devices," stated Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray.

 On Monday, February 19, 2024, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were called to a disturbance at a business located in the 21000 block of Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, MD.

An investigation revealed that a female suspect, Kelli Aaliyah Richardson, 22, of Lexington Park, attempted to steal multiple items from the business. When an employee confronted her, she assaulted the employee.

Richardson was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center to face charges for Robbery, Assault Second Degree, Resisting Arrest, and related charges.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation advises citizens the Mount Hope Community Center will be temporarily closed Monday, Feb. 26, through Tuesday, Feb. 27, due to maintenance on the communications tower.

Normal hours of operation will resume Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. The Mount Hope Community Center is located at 104 Pushaw Station Road in Sunderland.

For updates on Parks & Recreation services, park availability, field closures and more visit Parks & Recreation at www.Facebook.com/CalvertCountyParks and follow @CalvertCountyParksandRec on Instagram.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

(La Plata, Maryland) – On Sunday, February 18, 2024, at approximately 1555 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to Maryland Route 6 (Charles Street) at Applegrove Court for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation.

A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a Trek bicycle operated by Gregory Herman (30 yoa) of Waldorf, MD was traveling on westbound Maryland Route 6 at Applegrove Court. At the same time, a Lexus RX operated by Ruby Hughlett (69 yoa) of Waldorf, MD was making a left turn from eastbound Maryland Route 6 onto Applegrove Court. Ms. Hughlett failed to yield to the Trek bicycle on a left turn and pulled into the travel path of the bicycle. Mr. Herman collided into the passenger side of the Lexus. Mr. Herman received serious injuries and he was ultimately airlifted to MEDSTAR/Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC. Ms. Hughlett refused treatment on the scene.

Investigators were notified that Mr. Herman succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231 or can email a statement to justin.zimmerman@maryland.gov. The investigation is continuing. (24-MSP-005477).

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – NAS Patuxent River announces its Sailors of the Year, marking the command’s top Sailors for 2023. “I am regularly impressed by the commitment our Pax Sailors show to their command, their Navy, and each other,” said NAS Patuxent River Commanding Officer Capt. Douglas Burfield. “The Sailors chosen as this year’s Sailors of the Year exemplify it every day. I hope they are as proud of their achievement as we are of them.” The Sailor of the Year Program was established by the chief of naval operations to recognize the superior performance of enlisted personnel, pay grades E-1 to E-6, and emphasize outstanding achievement and professionalism, exemplary personal conduct, command impact, mission contribution, dedication to selfimprovement and superb initiative. The following Naval Air Station Patuxent River command sailors were honored for their accomplishments:

NAS Pax River Sailor of the Year – Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Quinton Dotson As Command Climate Specialist, Dotson is sought out by NAS Pax River’s Commanding Officer and Senior Enlisted Leaders for advice and guidance on all aspects of Equal Opportunity. He provides analysis and recommendations regarding all informal, formal, and anonymous harassment and prohibited discrimination complaints to the Commanding Officer while adhering to, and informing of, all changes in the OPNAVINST 5354.1H. He conducted on sight assessments, divisional inspections, and served as the central point of contact for all command climate issues. In addition, he provided CMEO program oversight, assisted and provided advice regarding conflict resolution and grievance redress procedures, provided Command Resiliency Team (CRT) training, and revamped the process in which climate assessments, complaints, POA&Ms, and executive summaries are maintained for NAS PAX River. He was cited for numerous performance and leadership accomplishments over the past year, including: ? reestablishing the CCS relevancy after a 2-year vacancy by processing seven EO complaints, conducted 16 assist visits, 13 CMEO program inspections, and 10 investigation reviews yielding an overall ‘effective’ CCS program on the ISIC assessment. ? Leading 27 CRT members in the survey of 382 personnel, coordinated 21 focus groups, conducted 13 prevention strategy training sessions, and ensured 100% EO GMT completion resulting in FY23 IG inspection gold standard recognition and a 5-52% improvement of 18 protective/risk climate factors. ? Was hand selected as acting Regional Command Climate Specialist, a CPO billet, and successfully led 11 CMEO program managers while advising six Commanding Officers, positively impacting 19 fence lines and 3,763 personnel in the National Capital Region reinforcing a culture of excellence, dignity, and respect. ? Coordinated with Naval Health Clinic, Patuxent River, and flawlessly planned the Influenza Shotex. Led eight Sailors in the administration of 1K immunizations at the base gym resulting in zero mishaps and a 28% increase in force readiness base wide, and led 18 First and Second Class Petty Officers in the delivery of 88 HM EAP trainings to 19 test eligible candidates resulting in six advancements. ? As Navy Ball Committee President led 18 personnel in the event planning and fundraising of $7K for 248th Navy Birthday. Additionally, he is instrumental in raising over $10K through 6 fundraising efforts, 144 coin sales, and 110 ticket sales for 247th Navy Birthday. Authored the POW/MIA, Bell Ringing, and Cake Cutting ceremony script which led to the organization and success of the 247th and 248th Navy Ball for 300 guest from 32 commands. “HM1 Dotson is an inspirational deckplate leader who seizes every opportunity to lead, mentor, and challenge every Sailor,” said Chief Yeoman Priscilla Nelson, Dotson’s department head. “His ability to plan, coordinate, direct, and finish any job while balancing multiple tasks has consistently influenced positive outcomes and is a true testament to his commitment and dedication. He is not only a leader within the climate of the command, but has the kind of talent, drive and potential to eventually lead our Navy’s enlisted force. This program is designed to recognize our very best and therefore, tailor- made for a Sailor of his caliber.”

NAS Pax River Junior Sailor of the Year – Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Courage Falayi Falayi, NAS Patuxent River pay and personnel clerk, maintains the financial and service records of command service members, making her responsible to process travel claims, pay entitlements, deductions, payments, collections, and allotment requests for active and reserve components. In addition, she also interprets publications and disseminates information to customers, reviews pay transactions, interprets Leave and Earnings Statements (LES), Master Military Pay Accounts (MMPA), and DOD pay and travel publications. She maintains the Enlisted Distribution Verification Reports, initiating screening for special duty assignments. She is also the command leave administrator, managing the program and having general responsiblilty for all leave transactions processed via e-Leave to include correction and cancellation. She led teams to foster understanding of changing policies, ensuring the outstanding maintenance and readiness of Command Pay and Personnel Administration Program, and meeting command-wide mission requirements. Falayi provided pay, personnel, and administrative support for more than 250 Sailors and 620 DoD/NAF/AF civilians. During the 2023 Inspector General Inspection and area visits, Family Care Plan Program received “OUTSTANDING” rating thanks to her efforts. She efficiently handled all pay and personnel transactions through various systems including Salesforce, Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS), and BUPERS online. She meticulously processed 65 NSIPS pay and personnel transactions, 52 NP2 pay transactions, 18 BAH, five HDP-T, four IA travel claims, 10 travel advances resulting in over $75,000 in payments to Sailors, 48 gains, 32 transfers, and 28 separations and retirement ensuring 100% accuracy on all packages. Additionally, she resolved eight pay discrepancies resulting to $15,000 back pay to service members and as Defense Travel System reviewer, she processed 35 travel vouchers resulting in $30,000 liquidations. Moreover, she coordinated with NAVPTO the transportation of  20 military personnel and their dependents during their transition to their new PDS resulting to a smooth transition. She was cited for numerous performance and leadership accomplishments over the past year, including: ? Planned twelve cabinet meetings and organized series of fundraising events to include 2 Gas and Glass events, Cinco de Mayo food sale, St. Patrick’s Day food sale, Breakfast Burrito sale, and volunteered to 3 concert events raising $3.5k in total for the 2023 Summer Command Picnic attended by over 150 Sailors and family members as the command recreation committee secretary. ? Spearheaded fundraising events for the Navy Birthday celebration at Pax River, including the Cinco de Mayo food sale event, multiple Gas and Glass events, 3 Taco Sale events, and two car wash events raising $7,000 in sales and donations for the 247th Navy Birthday Ball and $10,000 for the 248th Navy Birthday Ball. ? As Command Indoctrination facilitator, Falayi’s proactive approach geared 30 first-term Sailors and 45 new check-ins with best information available in relation to pay and entitlements. ? As the Lead Command Pay and Personnel Administrator (CPPA), she led and managed a staff of two Sailors and one civilian and delivered optimal support and consistent customer service to the completion of 118 PERS/PAY transactions during this fiscal year. Her one-on-one coaching approach ensures that all CPPAs are equipped with the knowledge they need which decreased pay and personnel transactions turnaround time by 50%. “Falayi exemplified the qualities most desired in a Junior Sailor of the Year,” said Nelson. “She is an outstanding junior leader and peer mentor who exhibits the maturity, judgement and drive of a seasoned First Class Petty Officer. She has proven to be fully capable of assuming various assignments and executing them in an outstanding manner. She exhibits the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Her contributions to the command’s mission cannot be overstated. She has executed the requisite skills to meet command goals and continues to educate herself to become more knowledgeable and more resourceful.”

NAS Pax River Bluejacket of the Year – Hospital Corpsman 3 rd Class Chelcey Justiniano Justiniano serves as the Search and Rescue (SAR) Duty Officer, a position normally held by a Junior Officer. During the reporting period, she advised 10 officers and 11 Aircrewmen in the execution of 190 planned flights, 512 sorties, totaling 702 mishap free flight hours. Her expertise and leadership ensured 100% search and rescue coverage for the Naval District Washington area operations supporting 450 critical research, development, test, and evaluation flights across 64 tenant commands. As the SAR Duty Officer for three ITT/ATFP drills she diligently coordinated and disseminated time critical information to Search and Rescue crews, resulting in a prompt response time and enhanced training. She trained 16 Rescue Swimmers, SAR Medical Technicians, and Hospital Corpsmen in basic life saving techniques and triage, increasing the overall mission effectiveness of the SAR division in the event of an actual SAR mission. Her performance directly contributed to the achievement of 100% SAR availability in support of RDT&E operations. Justiniano further maintained individual medical readiness across two navy units of 227 personnel and assisted Naval Medical Training Center Patuxent River by providing 305 patient vitals and physical assessments, increasing medical readiness by 10 percent.  She was cited for numerous performance and leadership accomplishments over the past year, including: ? As command Individual Medical Readiness Coordinator, she tracked medical readiness, processing and scheduling of two flight physicals, 61 PHAs, and various medical compliance reports of 220 personnel across two UICs. Her efforts resulted in NAS Patuxent River now leading NDW at 96% medical readiness. During this year’s Inspector General inspection Petty Officer Justiniano’s Individual Medical Readiness program received ZERO hits/discrepancy and was the only junior Sailor to maintain a command program. ? Volunteered for the NAS Patuxent River Auxiliary Support Force, enabling the base to operate at an increased security posture. ? Her leadership directly resulted in two Squadron Duty Officer Qualifications. ? Maintained critical communications between NAS Pax River SAR and community partners, coordinating missions with Coast Guard Sector Five, Maryland State Troopers, and local First Responders in three joint Search and Rescue missions. “Since checking in at NAS Patuxent River, Petty Officer Justiniano has proven to be a talented and eager Sailor,” said CMDCM Ryan Colosimo, NAS Patuxent River Command Master Chief. “She has consistently shown a level of aptitude and ability as a Hospital Corpsman and Sailor not normally seen within her paygrade. Her capability to take on the responsibilities of a seasoned second class has greatly enhanced the mission readiness, the SAR Department and the readiness of the entire command. It is without question that HM3’s positive impact reaches across all of Naval Air Station Patuxent River commands. Naval Air Station Patuxent River is a better command due to her attitude, leadership, and drive.” 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Calvert–St. Mary’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (C-SMMPO) will hold a public meeting on March 5, 2024, from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Lexington Park Library, to discuss the Long-Range Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Program. This public meeting will also include a Technical Advisory Committee Meeting from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

This meeting, including the Technical Advisory Committee portion, is open to the public. Community members are welcome to attend; light snacks and refreshments will be provided, and children’s activities will be available for younger attendees. Staff representing Calvert, St. Mary’s County, and the Maryland Department of Transportation will be available to answer questions.

On January 30, 2024, the C-SMMPO released draft updates to the Long-Range Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Program, and announced the public comment period, open through March 15, 2024. To review the drafts or for more information, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/pio/docs/2024-020NewsReleaseC-SMMPOPlanUpdate.pdf.

Citizen input is essential to ensure transportation needs are accurately reflected within the region. Comments on the Long-Range Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Program should be sent via email to Karly.Maltby@stmaryscountymd.gov. Questions may be directed to Karly Maltby, Calvert–St. Mary’s MPO Administrator, with St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Land Use & Growth Management via email or at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1507.

For more information on C-SMMPO, please visit: www.calvert-stmarysmpo.com.

A joint investigation continues between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office into the cause of a shed fire that claimed the life of a man Friday night.

Just after 11::00 p.m., firefighters from Seventh District Volunteer Fire Department responded to 37720 River Springs Road in Avenue for a reported shed fire after the owners discovered their 8' x 10' shed ablaze and reported a person was still possibly inside.

Firefighters extinguished the fire in under 10 minutes and confirmed a deceased victim was inside.

Although the victim was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore to determine the exact cause of death and where the victim will be positively identified, he is believed to be the adult son of the owners, who resided at the home.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. A joint investigation is a standard operating procedure between the Office of the State Fire and the local authority having jurisdiction whenever a fatal fire occurs.

LA PLATA, MD— Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, February 16, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge H. James West sentenced Anthony Edward Small, 24, to Life in prison with all but 50 years suspended for First-Degree Murder and the Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence.

On December 11, 2023, Small entered a guilty plea to the aforementioned charges.

On November 3, 2020, officers responded to an apartment building located in Amberleaf Place for the report of a subject being shot. Upon arrival, officers located a seventeen-year-old victim suffering from several gunshot wounds to his lower body. The victim was transported by helicopter to Washington Hospital Center, but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

Witnesses at the scene of the incident reported seeing an altercation between the victim and suspects in a bright blue passenger car, ultimately resulting in gunshots. The suspect who shot the victim was observed entering the front passenger seat of the car before fleeing the area. After the incident, Small’s co-defendant, Tyliek Anthony Spence, spoke to investigators and reported that he was the driver of the fleeing car. Spence told investigators that he arranged to purchase marijuana from the victim prior to the shooting. Soon after Spence and Small arrived, there was an attempted robbery of the victim, followed by the victim getting shot. Spence also described the clothing that the shooter wore during the incident.

During the course of the investigation, investigators were able to recover a fingerprint on the passenger side of Spence’s car, which was found to be left by Small. Additionally, Small’s phone records placed him in the area during the time of the incident. He was also seen in photographs wearing clothing that matched Spence’s description.

An examination of Small’s phone was conducted. Photographs were observed of Small and the victim’s handgun covered with blood. In a text exchange, Small confesses to his girlfriend about the murder. 

Before sentencing Small, Judge West stated that the victim “was just a child. He never really had a chance to better himself for the long run. We’ll never get to see the victim mature.” He furthered that the incident was “the most loss that you could inflict upon [the victim’s mother] for really no reason at all” and that it was a “tremendous amount of harm to bring to someone’s family for no real reason.”

On September 15, 2022, co-defendant Spence entered a guilty plea to First-Degree Felony Murder. His sentencing date has been set for March 7, 2024.

Prince Frederick, MD—The Calvert County Board of Education will have an earlier start time for the closed portion of their regular meeting on Thursday, February 22, 2024. The closed session will begin at 3:00 PM. The business portion of the meeting start time remains at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the Brooks Administration Building located at 1305 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick, Maryland.

NOTABLE CASES / INCIDENTS CDS Violation: 24-10565 On February 9, 2024, Cpl. Kelly initiated a traffic stop in the area of Rt. 4 and Old Field Lane in Prince Frederick, for an equipment violation. Further investigation revealed K-9 Atlas conducted a K-9 sniff of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert. During a search of the driver, Josephus Leroy Harris III, 45 of Prince Frederick, several pills were located, along with $300 in US Currency, 2 cell phones, and a snuff container and straw both containing a white powdery residue. A search of the passenger Tevon Anthony Middleton, 35 of Prince Frederick, revealed a scale covered in a white residue, 7 Gabapentin pills, a cell phone, and a baggie containing 2 grams of suspected crack cocaine. A vehicle search revealed a scale with residue, a fourth cell phone, rip-offs containing multiple controlled dangerous substances and a baggie containing 2 grams of suspected crack cocaine. Both Harris and Middleton were transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. Harris was charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics (x2), CDS Distribution, and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis (x2). Middleton was 2 charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics (x3) and CDS: Possession of Controlled Dangerous Paraphernalia (x2). Josephus Leroy Harris III Tevon Anthony Middleton

CDS Violation: 24-10556 On February 8, 2024, Deputy Campbell initiated a traffic stop in the area of Monticello Drive in Solomons, on a vehicle displaying a false vehicle registration and traveling well below the posted speed limit. Contact was made with the driver, Dennis Monte Moore, 27 of Lexington Park, who advised he did not have a valid driver’s license. Further investigation revealed drug paraphernalia in plain view. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a large sum of US currency, multiple rolled-up dollar bills covered in a white powdery substance, a plastic tear-off containing white powdery residue, 43 counterfeit Oxycodone pills, and a loaded Glock 17 gen 4 with a high-capacity magazine. A search of Moore’s person revealed a bag containing 30 additional counterfeit Oxycodone pills. Moore was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Loaded Handgun in a Vehicle, CDS: Possession of Firearms, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, Possessing a Firearm with a Felony Conviction along with several other firearm charges.

CDS Violation: 24-10281 On February 7, 2024, Master Deputy Cress initiated a traffic stop with lights and sirens activated on a vehicle for a moving violation. The vehicle continued traveling for several miles without stopping for deputies. Deputies executed a pit maneuver and a felony stop was conducted. Upon making contact with the driver Jaymen Ryan Greenfield, 38 of Temple Hills, a digital scale was observed in plain view. A vehicle search revealed three rocks of crack cocaine along with Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine pills. A search of Greenfield’s person revealed $516 in 3 US currency. Greenfield was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession- Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics. 

CDS Violation: 24-9969 On February 6, 2024, F/Sgt. McCarroll initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for an equipment violation along the Calvert / Anne Arundel County line. Upon making contact with the driver, Robert Joseph Fry, 46 of Lothian, who was driving on a suspended license, pieces of copper mesh were observed inside the vehicle. Further investigation revealed, K9 Zeus conducted a K9 sniff of Fry’s vehicle resulting in a positive alert. A vehicle search revealed a glass smoking device with suspected crack cocaine, a Zip Lock baggie containing 6 grams of crack cocaine, 1 metal spoon with crack cocaine residue, a napkin containing small rocks of suspected cocaine along with a metal measuring spoon covered in cocaine residue. Fry was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Driving on a Suspended License, and Possessing a Suspended License. 

Theft: 24-11170 On February 11, 2024, Cpl. J. Ward responded to Starbucks located at 55 Harrow Lane in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an unknown female entered the store and requested a paper menu. As the employee retrieved the menu in a back office, the suspect fled with a tip jar containing approximately $20-$30 in US currency. The suspect is described as 4 a white female, approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall, with dark brown shoulder-length hair, wearing a black hoodie and gray sweatpants. The investigation continues.

Trespassing: 24-9315 On February 5, 2024, DFC Hendrickson responded to Dunn Clean Laundry located at 66 S. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for a welfare check. Upon arrival, DFC Hendrickson observed a male sleeping in a chair, later identified as Robert Allen Rice, aged 57, with no fixed address. Rice has been permanently trespassed from this location. Rice was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property. 

On February 15, 2024, at approximately 10:22 p.m., deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to the area of Armory Road and Fairgrounds Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a serious assault. Deputies arrived on the scene and located one adult male suffering from critical injuries. Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and rendered aid to the victim. The victim identified as Shaquille Quadry Braxton, 30 of Prince Frederick, was transported to CalvertHealth where he succumbed to his injuries and was later pronounced deceased. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Bureau responded and assumed the investigation. Through the investigation, detectives located the suspect Thomas Eugene Harris II, 27 of Prince Frederick, who was taken into custody. Harris was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and has been charged with First-Degree Murder and First-Degree Assault. Additional charges will be forthcoming. This appears to be an isolated incident. Anyone with information specific to this investigation is urged to contact Detective William Freeland at 410-535-2800 or via email at will.freeland@calvertcountymd.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 16, 2024) – On Thursday, February 15, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were called to investigate reports of a threat against Spring Ridge Middle School. 

Deputies were alerted to a social media post circulating among Spring Ridge Middle School students warning them not to “go to school tomorrow” and indicating a student would be bringing a gun to the school on Friday. Deputies learned a Spring Ridge Middle School student had been asking other students how to obtain a gun, prompting the social media post.

Deputies identified the student, contacted the parent of the student, and conducted a search of the residence and the student’s personal items; no gun was found.

Per the Board of Education, “All students involved will be disciplined in accordance with the St. Mary’s County Public School’s Code of Conduct.”

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with additional information about this incident should contact the Spring Ridge Middle School Resource Officer, Corporal Chad Hartzell, at Chad.Hartzell@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Charles County Crime Solvers offering a cash reward in robbery case: Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward for the tip that leads to the arrest of the suspects involved in a robbery. On February 15 at 2:30 p.m., two males approached another male near Dale Drive in Indian Head, assaulted him, stole his tennis shoes, and fled. The victim was not injured. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact PFC McCuen at 301-609-3282 ext. 0697. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to the arrest of the suspects. The investigation is ongoing.

Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating nighttime testing events are scheduled until 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, 2024.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 16, 2024) – Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Charles Vernon Russell, 26, of Mechanicsville, MD, on Friday, February 16, 2024. Russell was arrested under an active warrant for Attempted First Degree Murder, Attempted Second Degree Murder, Assault First Degree, and related firearms charges.

The warrant for Russell stemmed from a November 26, 2023, shooting outside an occupied residence in the 22000 block of Longmore Street in Leonardtown, MD. No injuries were reported because of the incident.

Following his arrest, the suspect was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center to await a bond hearing.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 16, 2024 – The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Solid Waste & Recycling Division, announces scheduled upgrades for the Appeal Landfill that will temporarily impact operations.

On Feb. 21 and 22, the outbound scale at Appeal Landfill will be closed for the replacement of the old concrete deck with a modern steel deck. During this period, the inbound scale will remain operational, but customers should anticipate longer than usual wait times due to the temporary reliance on a single scale for both incoming and outgoing traffic. Landfill personnel will implement traffic control measures to guide vehicles entering and exiting the scale, to ensure safety and minimize inconvenience.

Normal scale operations will resume once the deck installation is complete. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve services for Calvert County residents at Appeal Landfill and all customer convenience centers.

For more information about solid waste and recycling in Calvert County, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/SolidWaste.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

February 16, 2024 (Chesapeake Beach, MD) - During the February 15, 2024, Town Council meeting, Mayor Patrick "Irish" Mahoney presented the 2023 State of the Town. The theme of the 2023 State of the Town is "Serving the Interest of Town Citizens". "When we prioritize what is best for our residents, we prioritize our businesses and our local economy", stated Mayor Patrick "Irish" Mahoney. To view the full State of the Town Report please click here. To view the State of the Town recap video please click here. Key Highlights from the State of the Town: • General Fund operating expense reduction of $782,612 in FY23. • Utility Fund future expense reduction by $1,978,000 by proactively investing in infrastructure upgrades through the saddle replacement project completed in 2023. • Reduction of property taxes totaling $516,765 during this Administration. • Total assets exceed liabilities at the close of FY23 by $50.8M, with $22,300,000 in unrestricted funds of which $10,200,000 is general fund unassigned. • Total net position increased by $2,900,000 in FY23. • Debt reduction in FY23 of $514,086 with total debt reduction of approximately $7,588,624 during this Administration. • Additional $1,600,000 in capital assets acquired in FY23. • Town’s total investment in capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation, as of June 30, 2023, amounts to $32.4M. • Taxable property valuations in Chesapeake Beach increased by 6.2% in 2023, as assessed by the State of Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 15, 2024 – The Southern Pines Senior Center proudly announces the opening of its newly revamped fitness room, aimed at promoting healthy aging for older adults in Calvert County and addressing a critical need for accessible fitness options. The Calvert County Office on Aging invites residents ages 50 and older to take full advantage of this resource, which fosters a community where older adults can enjoy a quality of life marked by vitality and independence.

Tailored to meet the unique needs of aging adults, the fitness room is outfitted with equipment that emphasizes mobility, balance and strength. This free amenity underscores the county’s commitment to supporting the well-being of its older residents, encouraging them to lead active and healthy lives.

“We’re excited to offer a dedicated fitness space and supportive health and fitness programs to our senior community at all three of our senior centers,” said Community Resources Director Jennifer Moreland. “It’s a significant step towards our goal of ensuring every Calvert County resident has the opportunity to maintain their physical health, independence and quality of life as they age.”

New users will be enrolled in a mandatory, one-time orientation to learn how to safely use the fitness room. All county senior centers offer a range of services that include specialized fitness classes. These offerings are designed to cater to older adults at various levels of fitness, ensuring a welcoming and beneficial experience for everyone.

Southern Pines Senior Center is located at 20 Appeal Lane in Lusby. To learn more, contact Southern Pines Senior Center at 410-586-2748 or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/SPseniors.

The Calvert County Office on Aging provides a broad range of programs and services that enable senior citizens to maintain the best possible quality of life. Staff provides a safety net of services and resources for vulnerable seniors; promotes physical, emotional and financial well-being of caregivers; provides affordable and accessible transportation options; promotes affordable housing solutions with greater accessibility to public spaces and facilities; among other services. To learn more, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Aging.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – NAS Patuxent River’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Glow Party Skate Night was recognized by Commander, Navy Installations Command as the Program of the Year 2023.  

The all-ages event was held in August 2023 after a review of programs that saw a rise in popularity over the previous years. 

“During COVID, roller skating had a resurgence to the recreational world, during the same time we relocated our Roller Hockey Rink to one of our tennis courts,” said Jen Beavers, NAS Patuxent River MWR Director. “Community Rec wanted to highlight the roller hockey rink to our population in a way that showed it could be utilized by anyone to skate on, not just for intramural sports.” 

Beavers noted that since there are few roller rinks in the area, the Glow Party Skate Night had the unique ability to fill a recreational need in the area. 

“We do not have a skating rink in our area, so this allowed for something new and fun for our customers to do that they would otherwise have to drive to over an hour to participate in We had two skating areas set up, one was our Roller Hockey Rink that was recently re-furbished so it allowed us to highlight the location and for those customers who have skates to know they could come out and skate on it.  We also rented a roller skating surface and rental skates for those customers who do not own their own skating equipment to be able to participate.” 

Pax River MWR was also able to leverage the location for concession sales from the Center Stage Theater for added revenue, and gave it a glow theme to ensure an extended event. 

NAS Pax River MWR will receive a monetary award that Beavers is looking forward to reinvesting into future Community Rec programs for Pax service members and their families. 

“We are always trying to bring new, fun, innovated programs and ideas to Pax River and we are grateful that our peers across the enterprise recognized us for it,” said Beavers. “It helps us stay motivated to continue to think outside the box when planning for special events.  We are putting together our list now to find equipment that will help us continue to think outside the box that we normally would not have the opportunity to purchase.” 

For more information on NAS Pax River’s MWR program and events, visit www.navymwrpaxriver.com or www.facebook.com/mwrpaxriver . 

Charles County leaders joined U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) at the College of Southern Maryland in La Plata for a roundtable discussion focused on addressing housing insecurity and homelessness in the region. The event brought state and local leaders, along with advocacy groups and key stakeholders from across the Southern Maryland region. to discuss challenges and opportunities to close the gap in safe and affordable housing.

At the roundtable, participants shared the unique challenges faced by Southern Maryland, especially a shortage of low-income and workforce housing and current barriers to moving from homelessness into more permanent shelters. Participants emphasized that the highest area of need is expanded access to both rental and homeownership assistance for those who are between 30 and 50 percent of the median household income in Charles County.

“It’s outrageous that in the wealthiest nation in the world, there are people who can’t afford to pay their rent or live in the communities where they work. We must make affordable housing a priority,” said Senator Cardin. “Today, the largest single investment of federal support in affordable housing is in the tax code, and we have to maintain it.”

Senator Cardin organized the forum to hear directly from those working on the front lines and discuss current legislative proposals that could provide critical support. He highlighted the federal government’s potential expansion of the low-income tax credit incentive program to construct subsidized housing and extension of child tax credits to provide relief to working families.

Charles County Health Officer Dr. Dianna E. Abney, M.D., addressed how housing insecurity has affected vulnerable populations such as immigrants and children, who often must pull together multiple families in a single residence to afford housing. “Families with children who are living in unstable housing environments experience increased stress and frequency of chronic illnesses,” stated Dr. Abney. “The lack of a secure home acts as a barrier to educational opportunities, healthy food access, and preventive healthcare, and we need comprehensive solutions that ensure everyone in our community can thrive."

Dina Barclay, Director of Charles County’s Department of Community Services, shared that the county has received two major grants that will expand transitional housing for women and children seeking shelter from domestic violence and for women who are recovering from substance abuse addiction. “The challenges are significant, but there is a strong commitment in Charles County and throughout Southern Maryland to address this issue," Barclay said. "We look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure everyone has access to safe and affordable housing."

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – The Maryland State Police remind citizens to use caution and verify credentials when using Automotive Dismantler and Recycler (ADR) and Scrap Processor services in Maryland.

More commonly, Automotive Dismantler and Recycler (ADR) and Scrap Processor services post signs and advertisements, meant to entice citizens to purchase and/or sell automotive goods, ranging from used cars, RV’s/campers, trailers, to scrap metal.

According to Maryland law, individuals are prohibited from conducting the business of automotive dismantling and recycling (or scrap processing) without proper licensing. This includes the acquisition or removal of vehicles intended for dismantling or salvage. Any advertisement for the purchase, towing, or removal of junk or abandoned vehicles by a licensee must prominently display the license number. Offenders may face:

Imprisonment for up to 6 months and/or fines of up to $1,000 for the first offense.
Subsequent violations may result in imprisonment for up to 1 year and/or fines of up to $2,000.

An Automotive Dismantler and Recycler (ADR) and Scrap Processor license covers vehicles in whole or part. A Scrap Metal License is required for other nonferrous (non-iron-based) materials and can be issued by a respective County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.

Maryland State Police urge citizens to verify the service’s credentials, ensuring they are licensed through the Maryland Department of Transportation Administration before continuing with the purchase and/or sale.

Individuals interested in obtaining an Automotive Dismantlers and Recycler (ADR) and Scrap Processor license can apply on the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT)/MVA website: https://bit.ly/42MnkGv.

The Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Elementary School Naming Committee seeks feedback on its name recommendations for Elementary School 23 recently shared with the Board of Education of Charles County. At the Feb. 13 Board of Education meeting, the naming committee presented three name recommendations for the next new CCPS elementary school (listed in no particular order).

• Margaret Jamieson Thornton Elementary School.
• Ronald E. McNair Elementary School.
• White Plains Elementary School.

CCPS is in the process of building its 23^rd elementary school in Charles County to open at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. The school will be located off St. Charles Parkway at 5860 St. David Drive in White Plains.

The committee is collecting feedback through a survey and Feb. 28 virtual hearing. Feedback received during the hearing and through the survey will be shared with the Board.

The Board is set to take action on the school name at a meeting later this spring. The presentation shared with the Board is posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/parents/redistricting-elementary-school. Board of Education Policy 7230 guides the school naming process and formation of a naming committee.

The school naming committee is not taking any new school name suggestions; CCPS advertised a deadline for school name submissions of Dec. 1, 2023. Prior to making its three recommendations to the Board, the committee reviewed a list of 50 name submissions against school naming policy criteria. The complete list is posted at www.ccboe.com.

Register to attend the Feb. 28 School Naming Committee Virtual Hearing

The virtual hearing is 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 28, on Zoom. Community members interested in providing feedback on the name recommendations during the hearing will need to register in advance. The hearing will also be livestreamed at www.ccboe.com and posted to the CCPS website.

Register at https://ccboe.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zvivbYsISGOx3EdPpL0jkA.

After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the virtual hearing. Attendees must have an active Zoom account to participate. At the hearing, committee members will review the presentation shared with the Board and listen to feedback from attendees. The chat will be moderated for questions and answers.

Complete a brief survey

Community members interested in providing feedback on the name recommendations can complete a brief survey posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/parents/redistricting-elementary-school. The survey will close 11:59 p.m., Friday, March 1.

Information about the school naming process, as well as the elementary school redistricting process underway that will create an attendance zone for the school, is posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/parents/redistricting-elementary-school.

The Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) invites the high school classes of 2024 to participate in Project Graduation.

Project Graduation is a drug-and alcohol-free all-night celebration for seniors graduating from Calvert County’s public high schools. The program was established in 1987 to deter graduates from using alcohol and drugs as they celebrate this exciting milestone. Each Calvert County public high school receives partial funding for the program, which is provided by CAASA.

Following graduation ceremonies, graduates will be transported to and from the event by school buses. Project Graduation events are adult-supervised and consist of many free activities like swimming, bowling, music and food.

“Project Graduation affords high school graduates a safe event with the freedom to enjoy and celebrate their achievement. We will never be able to measure the number of lives saved due to this program, which has been a key component in keeping graduates away from the temptation of using illicit substances and operating vehicles under the influence,” said JoAnn Faber Tyrrell, CAASA Board President.

There is no cost for graduating seniors to attend Project Graduation. Parents and students of the class of 2024, are encouraged to contact their school administrators to sign up and receive additional information about the program.

CAASA is a grassroots coalition of individuals and organizations dedicated to fighting alcohol and drug abuse in Calvert County. CAASA strives to bring awareness to drug trends and encourages a healthy lifestyle. To learn more, www.calvertcountymd.gov/CAASA.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Today, Comptroller Brooke Lierman announced that Shop Maryland Energy Weekend will return from February 17 to February19. Throughout the weekend, Maryland waives the 6% sales tax for qualifying Energy Star products, helping consumers save money while investing in the environment. 

“We all have a role to play in creating a cleaner, greener world for future generations  Shop Maryland Energy Weekend is an opportunity for Marylanders to fight climate change and protect our planet by prioritizing savings and sustainability,” Comptroller Lierman explained. “Climate resiliency is crucial to grow Maryland’s economy, create jobs, and contribute to our state’s long-term economic health and well-being. The seemingly small choices we make at home can play a big part in achieving these goals.” 

The state’s sales tax exemption applies to both new and used qualifying products and is available for online or in-person purchases, provided the transaction is completed during Shop Maryland Energy Weekend. 

The Comptroller noted that many Energy Star manufacturers, local retailers, and utility companies often offer additional savings on big-ticket purchases. This weekend benefits both consumers and local retailers during a slow time of year and helps Maryland reach its environmental sustainability goals.  

“Consumers save at both the time of their purchase and in the long run with decreased monthly energy bills with more energy-efficient appliances,” Comptroller Lierman said. 

In 2023, Maryland was ranked the fifth greenest state in the nation by WalletHub, because of its environmental quality, eco-friendly behavior, and contributions to climate change. Switching to energy-efficient appliances can also lead to eligibility for some federal clean energy tax credits.

What is Shop Maryland Energy Weekend? 

This three-day event is an opportunity to purchase Energy Star appliances without paying Maryland’s 6% sales tax. It's an excellent time to upgrade your home with environmentally friendly options that help lower your energy bills long-term. 

When is Shop Maryland Energy Weekend 2024? 

The tax-free period begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, February 17, and continues through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, February 19. 

What can you buy tax-free? 

During Shop Maryland Energy Weekend, Maryland's 6% sales tax is waived for solar water heaters and qualifying Energy Star products including:  

• air conditioners
• clothes washers
• clothes dryers 
• furnaces 
• heat pumps
• standard size refrigerators 
• compact fluorescent light bulbs  
• dehumidifiers  
• boilers 
• programmable thermostats  

Where can I buy a qualifying appliance?  

You can buy qualifying appliances through retailers in Maryland that carry Energy Star products, in-person or online. 

You will find the Energy Star logo on all qualified products that meet specific standards for energy efficiency. But remember, only the listed items qualify for the Shop Maryland Energy Weekend savings.  

"We believe in the power of shopping local and supporting Marylanders, especially during events like Shop Maryland Energy Weekend, which are meant to bolster our local economy," said Cailey Locklair, president of the Maryland Retailers Alliance. "Supporting small businesses fuels our local economy, supports community growth, and serves as an investment in a healthy business community and healthier future for Maryland.” 

Marylanders can join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #ShopMDEnergy to post pictures, find events, and engage with others interested in shopping sustainably.  

View Maryland Shop Energy Weekend Frequently Asked Questions  

View Maryland Shop Energy Toolkit 

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) held its annual winter chess tournament Feb. 10 at Henry E. Lackey High School.

There were 165 students competing in the tournament which was under the direction of Felix Cummings. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade participated with each receiving a certificate and medal for taking part in the tournament. Each division had a top scorer — or champion.

The following students earned the champion award for their respective grade-level division.

· Maia Rivera, kindergarten, Dr. James Craik Elementary School.

· Shivam Nayak, first grade, Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School.

· Alexander Trout, second grade, William B. Wade Elementary School.

· Janiefher Grace Silva, third grade, Indian Head Elementary School.

· Alex Butson, fourth grade, Malcolm Elementary School.

· David Trout, fifth grade, Wade.

· Carlos Borders, sixth grade, Theodore G. Davis Middle School.

· Lionel Saravia, seventh grade, Mattawoman Middle School.

· Riley Kim, eighth grade, Mattawoman.

· Jonathan Fitzhugh, freshman, North Point High School.

· Mason Truesdell, sophomore, Maurice J. McDonough High School.

· Alfred Johann “A.J.” Cruz, junior, Westlake High School.

· Jason Evans, senior, Thomas Stone High School.

(PIKESVILLE, Md.) — Reward money of up to $14,000 is being offered to anyone who can provide the identity of a woman with critical knowledge in a sexual child exploitation investigation.

Police are asking for assistance in identifying the woman captured in video screenshots from 2020. The photos show an adult woman with distinctive tattoos including a chest tattoo and multiple arm/hand tattoos. One wrist tattoo appears to read “12-17-16”.

Investigators believe this woman has specific knowledge related to the identity of a female infant that was sexually abused. Investigators believe the child victim is now likely 4-5 years old.

Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) is leading the investigation, in conjunction with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Specific facts related to the investigation are not being released due to the nature of the case and to protect the integrity of the investigation.

Individuals who provide information related to the identity of the individual depicted in the photographs may be eligible to up to $14,000 in reward money, funded by the Maryland Department of State Police, Howard County Police Department and Metro Crime-Stoppers Maryland.

Anyone who can identify this woman pictured or has information relevant to this investigation may contact ICAC investigators directly by calling 443-486-3335. Anonymous callers can call Metro Crime-Stoppers Maryland at 1-866-756-2587. All callers should reference Case #22-MSP-043527. Please refer to Metro Crime-Stoppers flyer for reward details.

The Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit coordinates the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This is a combined law enforcement effort involving police departments across Maryland that is made possible in part due to grant funds provided by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth and Victim Services and by a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. Task force investigators focus on identifying those involved in child pornography via the Internet and other related crimes that victimize children.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of Presidents’ Day. This includes the main office in Leonardtown and all satellite offices. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

Visit smchd.org for more information on SMCHD locations and services.

On February 13, a student was found to be in possession of a vape pen containing suspected THC. The student was charged on a civil citation for possession of cannabis and faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to talk with their students about the dangers of inhaling and consuming substances that could contain dangerous components. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Duley at 301-609-3282 ext. 0494.

The CCSO was accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2001 and has since earned the highest rating of Excellence. Established in 1658, the CCSO is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States. For more information, visit www.ccso.us.

Charles County Crime Solvers offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a person responsible for a crime in Charles County. All individuals who provide tips through Crime Solvers will remain anonymous. Anyone with information about an unsolved crime or the location of a fugitive may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple store by searching P3tips. For more information about the P3 program, click on this link: www.p3intel.com. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented a proclamation for National Engineers Week.

For the main agenda item, the CSMC approved a Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance amendment.

During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners:

• Reviewed upcoming CSMC agendas.
• Heard a presentation from the Department of Economic Development on the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Feasibility Study.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The CSMC held a Budget Work Session (BWS) in the afternoon, which included a review of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget.

Residents are encouraged to visit our Budget Engage Page at: http://bit.ly/SMCGFY25Budget. From here, you can watch BWS videos, view the meeting schedule, and even leave your feedback on local priorities – all in one place!

The next CSMC business meeting and BWS will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 9 a.m. CSMC business meetings and BWS are held in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) Channel 95 or on-demand via the SMCG YouTube Channel.

For more information on SMCG, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore today announced Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development will increase the number of households served by its EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program over the next three years. The approved plan is in response to new statewide household electric savings goals for limited-income households, established by the passage of HB169 during the 2023 Maryland General Assembly, and advances the Moore-Miller Administration’s efforts to make Maryland more affordable. 

“Increased energy efficiency benefits all Marylanders and all of Maryland,” said Gov. Moore. “Under this new plan, homeowners and renters alike will receive the benefit of monthly savings on their utility bills while supporting the growth of our state’s green economy.”

The EmPOWER Maryland program supports repairs and upgrades to limited-income households that help reduce energy use throughout the year, improving comfort, air quality, and health while lowering monthly utility costs. EmPOWER provides materials, equipment, and services at no additional cost to qualified homeowners and renters. 

The new EmPOWER Maryland plan establishes strategies and defines metrics for ambitious but achievable goals, creating a framework for strong, transparent collaboration with the General Assembly, the Public Service Commission, and other valued partners. Per the plan, EmPOWER Maryland will administer nearly $355 million for energy efficiency retrofits and upgrades to benefit approximately 60,000 households during the 2024 to 2026 program cycle. 

“It is time we took a full accounting of the true cost to limited-income families of renting or owning a home in Maryland. Often utility bills in poorly conditioned or poorly insulated apartments and homes represent a significant portion of housing costs,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “The new EmPOWER Maryland plan is a culmination of feedback from program participants and stakeholders, combined with performance data, target market analysis, and it is driven by industry best practices. The plan establishes strategies for ambitious but achievable goals..”

The EmPOWER Maryland 2024-2026 cycle plan continues the department’s efforts to expand and streamline access to energy efficiency upgrades and home repairs for limited-income Marylanders. Since 2012, EmPOWER Maryland has helped nearly 54,000 limited-income households achieve energy efficiency benefits, including an average reduction in household energy usage between 16% and 23%. 

For more information about EmPOWER Maryland and other energy efficiency programs administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, visit https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Pages/EnergyEfficiency.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 13, 2024) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1340 Calls for service, including 12 Emergency Petitions February 5-11, 2024.

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public as well as self-initiated events made by deputy sheriffs.

The Emergency Petition statute in Maryland enables the prompt evaluation of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis having the potential to harm themselves or others to be taken to an emergency facility to assess the need for immediate treatment.

ARRESTS:

2/05/24 – Andre Tayvon Gross, 30, of Lusby, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore, for Felony Assault First Degree, Kidnapping, Assault Second Degree, False Imprisonment, CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

2/05/24 – Thomas Alvin, 62, of No Fixed Address, by Deputy Santiago Estrada-Lora, for two counts of Threat of Arson.

2/06/24 – Garry Victor Shubrooks, Jr., by Deputy Joseph Senatore, for Assault Second Degree, Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest, Failure to Appear: Trespassing and Failure to Appear: Destruction of Property.

2/06/24 – Benjamin Tylor Pistorio, 23, of Lexington Park, MD, by DFC Travis Wimberly, for CDS: Possession – Not Marijuana and CDS: Possession Paraphernalia.

2/06/24 – Lakitcha Shawniece Price, 45, No Fixed Address, by Deputy Preston Dixon, for Assault Second Degree and Sex Offense Fourth Degree.

DUIs:

1/30/24 – Paul Thomas Coup, 53, of California, MD, by Deputy Christopher Truss, for Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol and Driving a Vehicle While So Far Impaired by Drugs and Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely.

1/30/24 – Joseph Sidney Tippett, 59, of Mechanicsville, by Deputy Alexander Tasciotti, for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Negligent Driving.

1/27/24 – Elijah Ellis Brooks, 21, of Prince Frederick, MD, by Deputy Preston Dixon, for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Unsafe Lane Change, and Failure to Obey Traffic Control Devices.

1/31/24 – Caleb Reece Welch, 19, of Tall Timbers, MD, by Deputy Zachary Wolfe, for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Violating License Restriction and Failure to Control Speed.

2/03/24 – Jawaan Montell Carroll, 38, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Aaron Ocasio-Rivera, for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and Driving a Vehicle Without the Required License.

2/04/24 – Sharon Ann Kwiatkowski, 61, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy James Morgan, for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol.

2/11/24 – Dillon Chase Jackson Gross, 22, of Joint Base Andrews, MD, by Deputy Zachary Wolfe, for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While So far Impaired by Alcohol Cannot Drive Safely and Failure to Control Speed.

SUMMONSES:

2/10/24 – Michael Leroy Purvey, 58, of Lexington Park, MD, by DFC Travis Wimberly, for CDS: Possession – Not Marijuana and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 13, 2024 – The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners announces county offices will be closed on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, in observance of Presidents Day. In addition:

·         The Appeal Solid Waste Facility, which includes the landfill and transfer station, and all county customer convenience centers will be open Monday, Feb. 19, with normal operating hours.

·         The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open Monday, Feb. 19, with normal operating hours.

·         The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed Monday, Feb. 19.

·         Calvert County senior centers will be closed Monday, Feb. 19, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered. Meal delivery is scheduled to resume Tuesday, Feb. 20.

·         All community centers will be closed on Monday, Feb. 19.

·         There will be no county bus service Monday, Feb. 19; service will resume Tuesday, Feb. 20.

·         Calvert Library locations will be closed Monday, Feb. 19. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at Calvertlibrary.info/using-the-library/activity/read/.

·         The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed Monday, Feb. 19. Animal Control Officers will be available for emergencies at 410-535-3491.

·         The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be open with normal hours on Monday, Feb. 19.  Visit www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/ for information on upcoming events.

·         Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be open with normal operating hours on Monday, Feb. 19.

·         Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center will be open Monday, Feb. 19, with normal hours.

·         All recreation parks including Dunkirk District Park, Ward Farm Recreation & Nature Park, Hallowing Point Park and Cove Point Park will be open with normal hours on Monday, Feb. 19.

·         Chesapeake Hills Golf Course will be open Monday, Feb. 19, with normal operating hours.

·         Flag Ponds Nature Park and Kings Landing Park will be open on Monday, Feb. 19, with normal operating hours. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp and Sanctuary nature center remains closed due to fire damage; however, the trails are open. For a full nature park schedule, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/1505/Park-Hours.

·         Breezy Point Beach is closed for the season and will reopen in May 2024.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Feb. 13, 2024 – Plan your next outing in Calvert County and pick up your copy of the 2024 Visitors Guide. The guide is designed for residents and visitors alike, listing information on shopping, restaurants and attractions like Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, Calvert Marine Museum, Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, and many other places of interest that make Calvert County a favorite destination.

The guide features itineraries including restaurants, museums, golf courses, antique stores, accommodations and hiking trails, as well as a listing of major events throughout the year. Whether you come to comb for shark teeth or sail the scenic Chesapeake Bay, discover amazing adventures and unspoiled beauty in Southern Maryland’s Calvert County!

“We are excited and proud to provide residents and visitors the comprehensive guide that showcases the best of Calvert County and what makes Calvert a unique and desirable place to visit,” said Economic Development Director Julie Oberg. “This guide features everything you need to plan your perfect adventure. Find information on the county’s diverse attractions, beautiful accommodations, charming restaurants, unique shops, water-focused activities, breweries, wineries, parks, events and more.”

Visit www.VisitCalvert.com/Brochure to read the 2024 Visitors Guide. For free copies of the guide or for more information on county attractions and events, contact the Department of Economic Development at 410-535-4583 or email info@choosecalvert.com.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (February 13, 2024) – On Saturday, February 10, 2024, Robert Doral Harrod, 36, of Lexington Park, MD, was arrested following a traffic stop conducted by Patrol Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

During proactive traffic patrol on Great Mills Road, deputies witnessed a traffic violation committed by the driver of a 2020 Ford Escape and initiated a stop. The driver, identified as Talmadge Jones, 51, of Lexington Park, MD, was found to be wanted for an open warrant and was arrested.

A passenger, identified as Robert Doral Harrod, 36, of Lexington Park, attempted to conceal his identity and items within the vehicle. A subsequent search uncovered a loaded handgun and cocaine. An investigation revealed Harrod, due to the criminal conviction of a disqualifying crime, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. Harrod was arrested and charged with Felony Firearm Possession, Illegal Possession of a firearm and ammunition, CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and related charges.

Deputies transported both men to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center.

Perhaps you noticed that the new Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch is looking close to being finished?  It is! Calvert Library expects to host the ribbon-cutting at the new location on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 2pm and the public is encouraged to attend! 

This ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolizes not only the beginning of a new chapter for the community, but also a testament to the power of the collective vision and collaboration of Calvert Library, Calvert County and the towns of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach. The land was given to Calvert County by the Town of North Beach. Capital project funds from Calvert County Government and the County Library Capital Grant Program, Maryland State Library Agency, made the building possible. A grant obtained by the Town of North Beach assisted with the design costs. Finishing touches were accomplished with funds raised by the Calvert Library Foundation through generous community donations including the Town of Chesapeake Beach as the lead donor. Mark Tuesday, April 16 on your calendar and be one of the first to see this new treasure in the Beaches! 

As the Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch staff prepare to open the new building in North Beach, the current Chesapeake Beach location will be closed to the public beginning Monday, March 18.  Soon after, movers will arrive to begin relocating all library materials to the new building.  During the weeks that the Branch is closed, storytimes will take place at the Northeast Community Center.  

The bookdrop will also be closed during this time. If customers have library items to be returned, they may return those items to another branch location or keep their checked-out items until the new location opens. Due dates for items checked out March 9-15 from Twin Beaches Branch will be extended to April 30.  Details and FAQs about the move can be found on the library website. 

Twin Beaches Branch Manager, Melissa Gray, is inviting Twin Beaches customers to visit the Captain’s Quarters location in Chesapeake Beach before the closure.  “Moving isn't just a change of address; it is a migration of memories. As we turn the page to a new chapter in North Beach, we want to embrace our time in Chesapeake Beach by sharing stories and pictures displayed in our current location. Stop by to add yours to our Memory Board; we can make copies of your treasured photos so in the future, customers can look back and remember when… Materials displayed on the memory board will be included in a time capsule that is representative of our wonderful time here.” 

Once the building closes, customers are asked to visit other library locations or the Bookmobile which has stops throughout the county and will be at the Chesapeake Beach location periodically until the new building opens. 

What will be happening while Twin Beaches Branch is closed? Calvert Library Twin Beaches staff will continue to work during the closure. They will coordinate the move of materials, organize the building, train on equipment and learn workflows and procedures for the opening of the new building. Gray said, “We will be the first Calvert Library location to have a Makerspace. There is a lot of new technology for us to learn and master before opening!” 

Library Executive Director Carrie Willson said, “We’re so excited to soon be opening such a beautiful building that offers so much to the Twin Beaches community. Just to name a few elements, we’re pleased to have an ADA-accessible building, study rooms, a programming room, space designed just for teens and new technology throughout.”  

For more information, visit https://calvertlibrary.info/about-us/locations/new-twin-beaches-branch/ and follow Calvert Library on Facebook for sneak peaks of the new space!  

At approximately 11:28 a.m., on Monday, February 12, 2024, St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Deputies responded to a report of an armed robbery near 21100 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, MD.

The witness reported being robbed at gunpoint by an unknown individual who then fled on foot into the surrounding wooded area near Great Mills High School. Deputies in the area located an individual matching the suspect's description and apprehended the male subject following a foot chase.

Delano Jurail Parham-Nash, 20, of no fixed address, was arrested and transported to the       St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center to face charges including Armed Robbery, Robbery, Firearm Use in the Commission of a Violent Crime, Assault First Degree, and other related charges.

Parham-Nash was also linked to a February 1, 2024, armed robbery at a business on Great Mills Road and was served with warrants relating to that crime.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division have assumed the investigation; anyone with any additional information relating to either of these incidents is asked to contact Detective Kortnie Marsch at 201-475-4200, ext. 8179, or Kortnie.Marsch@stmaryscountymd.gov.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

The February 19 closure also includes:

• All three St. Mary's County Libraries (Charlotte Hall, Leonardtown, and Lexington Park).
• All three Senior Activity Centers (Garvey, Loffler, and Northern), and there will be no home-delivered meals.
• The St. Mary's Transit System (STS), including ADA and SSTAP.
• St. Mary's Animal Adoption & Resource Center.

The following SMCG operations will be open with normal operations on February 19:

• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill.
• Department of Recreation & Parks programs and facilities.
• St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum.
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course; the Riverview Restaurant (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.).

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

Striped bass emergency regulations submitted by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to bolster the species’ spawning population were approved today by the Maryland General Assembly’s Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review, and are effective immediately.

The emergency regulations extend periods of closure to recreational striped bass fishing in the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Targeting of striped bass will be prohibited from April 1 to May 15, eliminating the Maryland striped bass trophy season. In the Susquehanna Flats, targeting of striped bass is prohibited through the end of May. 

The Chesapeake Bay is the primary spawning and nursery area for 70% to 90% of the striped bass of the Atlantic coast. The emergency regulation is aimed at protecting the mature fish that travel up the Bay and return to the rivers where they hatched to spawn each spring.

Emergency regulations can take effect for 180 days; the state is also pursuing these regulation changes through its standard regulatory process which could create regulations that would remain in place beyond 180 days.

These Maryland-specific actions complement additional coast-wide recreational and commercial measures set by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). On January 25, ASMFC approved an addendum to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Striped Bass that aims to reduce fishing mortality in 2024.

For the Chesapeake Bay recreational fishery, which includes charter boat fishing, the addendum implements a 19-inch to 24-inch slot limit and a bag limit of one fish per person, per day. For the ocean recreational fishery, the addendum implements a 28-inch to 31-inch slot limit and a coastwide daily bag limit of one fish. For the commercial fishery, the addendum reduces commercial quotas by 7% in both the ocean and the Bay. 

In addition to the approved emergency regulations, Maryland is considering establishing these new rules permanently. The state is also considering extending the recreational and charter boat summer closure by an extra week, through August 7, and closing the commercial hook-and-line season during the recreational and charter boat summer closure. Recreational anglers are currently prohibited from targeting striped bass in all waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries from July 16 through July 31, the hottest part of summer when fish are most vulnerable to dying after being caught and released. 

DNR officials encourage anglers to pursue other fish, such as blue catfish and northern snakehead, instead of striped bass. Blue catfish and snakeheads are invasive species and harvesting them contributes to a healthier ecosystem in the Bay. 

The emergency regulations come into effect after five years of below average spawning success for striped bass. In 2023, Maryland’s annual striped bass young-of-year index, which tracks reproductive success, was 1.0, well below the long-term average of 11.1. Environmental conditions, including warm winters and low water flows, have been unfavorable for striped bass spawning and are considered to be factors behind the decreased spawning rates.

The full effects of the diminished spawns will likely become more apparent in the adult population of striped bass in the next few years, as the juveniles reach maturity and contribute to a lower abundance of legal-sized fish. DNR biologists have emphasized the need to protect the spawning stock of striped bass in order to enhance the odds of a successful spawning when environmental conditions are favorable.

A comprehensive striped bass stock assessment scheduled to be released in 2024 will determine how the species has responded to previous management actions made by Maryland and other coastal states during the last few years.

More information on Maryland’s state fish can be found on DNR’s striped bass webpage. 

Stun gun and knife recovered from a student at Thomas Stone High School: On February 9, the school resource officer at Thomas Stone High School was made aware of a student who had a knife and stun gun which was recovered yesterday by school administrators. The items were on the student and were not displayed. The student faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. The SRO has initiated an investigation, and the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office will review the case. Anyone with information is asked to contact PFC Payne at 301-609-3282 ext. 0452.

Weapon recovered from a student on school bus: On February 8 at 2:30 p.m., a school bus driver overheard a student from Robert D. Stethem Educational Center say they were going to injure a student who attends McDonough High School. The student was removed from the bus at which time a knife fell out of their clothing. Further, it was learned the student wanted to stab the other student due to an ongoing issue. The student’s parents were contacted, and the students are known to each other. This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Cpl. Virts at 301-609-3282 ext. 0504.

Suspected cannabis recovered from student at Robert D. Stethem Educational Center: On February 8, a student was found to be in possession of suspected cannabis. The student was charged on a civil citation for possession of cannabis and faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to talk with their students about the dangers of inhaling and consuming substances that could contain dangerous components. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Ondrish at 301-609-3282 ext. 0636.

Suspected cannabis recovered from student at St. Charles High School:  On February 9 at 12:56 p.m., a school administrator at St. Charles High School found two vape pens containing suspected cannabis on a student. The school resource officer was contacted and he recovered the vape pens. The student was charged on a civil citation with possession of cannabis. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of inhaling or consuming substances that could contain unknown, dangerous ingredients. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Hillman at 301-609-3282 ext. 0607.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore today announced Maryland’s participation in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Housing and Services’ Partnership Accelerator. The program promotes interagency efforts to expand support for Medicaid-eligible Marylanders with disabilities and older adults who are at risk of or who are already experiencing homelessness.

"This exciting announcement continues the Moore-Miller's Administration's commitment to making government work better for the people," said Gov. Moore. "This program will strengthen cooperation between four state agencies so we can lift up our fellow Marylanders. We thank our federal partners for this recognition and will continue to work together to leave no one behind." 

The Partnership Accelerator will provide technical assistance through education and one-on-one coaching from nationally-recognized experts to bring together teams from the Maryland Department of Health, Maryland Department of Disabilities, Maryland Department of Aging and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to address common issues surrounding housing. Participants will review and determine best practices for payment models, rate-setting and methods for data integration.

“The Department is thankful for this incredible opportunity to help more vulnerable Marylanders find stability and achieve better health care outcomes,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott. “This data-driven, public health approach can make an impact on the lives of those with serious physical and behavioral needs, providing the proper support so that they can live in a place they can call home.”

Program participation will help expand the Assistance in Community Integration Services pilot through the Maryland Department of Health across the state with a focus on the disabled and aging population. The pilot began in 2017 when Maryland Medicaid received approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to administer a program to address health-related social needs, specifically related to housing. This pilot delivers support services for qualifying individuals experiencing housing insecurity and currently operates within Baltimore City, Cecil County, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County.  

A recent program evaluation performed by the Hilltop Institute indicates that more than 70% of program participants achieved stable housing. Marylanders receiving assistance also had significant reductions in emergency room visits as well as inpatient admissions over the course of a year following enrollment. Gov. Moore has provided an additional $5.4 million in the Administration’s proposed FY 2025 budget to expand the program and build on the pilot’s success.

“We are thrilled that Maryland has the opportunity to learn from our federal partners and states across the country to help us better assist older Medicaid participants to access housing with integrated support services,” said Maryland Department of Aging Secretary Carmel Roques. "Participation in this program underscores Maryland's unwavering commitment to addressing the regional disparities in poverty across the state and takes a giant stride in extending our ongoing Longevity Ready Maryland initiative. Together, we can adopt practices and align services that prepare our state to meet the evolving needs of a growing older population."

The Housing and Services Partnership Accelerator is rolling out the technical assistance opportunity with the Housing and Services Resource Center, the U.S. Department for Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department for Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

"Achieving better health outcomes for more Marylanders requires providing safe, stable, and reliable shelter first," said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. "The critical support services provided thanks to this meaningful federal investment will directly result in more vulnerable Marylanders being housed and healthy. We are eager to begin this work in partnership with our fellow agencies to ensure a more equitable Maryland for all."

For more information on the Assistance in Community Integration Services pilot, visit health.maryland.gov/mmcp/Pages/Assistance-in-Community-Integration-Services-Pilot.aspx.

NAS Patuxent River will close Gate 1 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 9 for repairs. Drivers must use Pax River's Gate 2 during this time.

The impact of rising seas, stronger storms, and an eroding shoreline might leave the future of Assateague Island up in the air – and that’s exactly where the Department of Natural Resources is monitoring the coastal property with the use of aerial drones.

Unique among Maryland’s public lands, Assateague State Park comprises part of a barrier island that provides a peaceful beach respite to more than a million visitors a year. But the relaxed atmosphere belies the island’s tumultuous place protecting the mainland from the powerful forces of the Atlantic Ocean.

Assateague State Park Manager Angela Baldwin shows the high dune wall that keeps ocean water from reaching the park’s campground. Maryland DNR Photo

Visitors to Assateague often recognize a distinguishing feature – a high dune wall that separates the beach from the campground and other parts of the park. This is a manmade structure, part of an artificial dune complex constructed in the 1970s to supplement the existing natural barrier dunes and continually being expanded; by the 1990s the high wall was in place to protect the park’s infrastructure – about 350 campsites that are often fully occupied from spring into fall, one main road, and a bridge back to the mainland. Ranger Angela Baldwin, manager of Assateague State Park, stresses that this wall is “needed to protect life and property from the awesome power of the Atlantic Ocean.”

A couple major storms including Superstorm Sandy in October 2012 and Winter Storm Jonas in January 2016 did break through the dunes, washing out the wall and causing a lot of damage inland. 

“That’s always a possibility in our minds, because any big hurricane or nor’easter that makes a direct hit on the island has the potential to knock out this dune,” says Baldwin. “Assateague is an economic driver and one of the gems of the Maryland State Park system and the entire state.”

Generations of visitors have come to Assateague Island. But likely no two generations have experienced the island in the exact same way. Due to these forces and other factors, Assateague is constantly changing shape.

An aerial drone image shows Assateague’s shoreline from above, including the high dune wall and part of the campground with vegetation. Maryland DNR photo

“The beach used to be much bigger,” Baldwin says. In years past the ocean’s wave energy would dissipate by the time it reached the dunes and beyond, but now the island as a whole is losing sand. In fact the sands accumulating on the manmade dune are actually taking sand away from the campground area, which now has more vegetation than in the past. While barrier island movement is natural, the dunes at Assateague are important to protect the infrastructure and communities behind it. Despite the use of sand dredged from Ocean City to help supplement sand loss on Assateague’s beach, the island is sand-starved. 

The department’s Chesapeake and Coastal Service has been working with the Maryland Park Service since 2019 to monitor these changes and assess vulnerable properties. Working with Salisbury University, the department has been creating maps of where Maryland is vulnerable to climate change and where there are rare, threatened and endangered species that could be at risk. 

“Assateague Island came up as highly vulnerable to climate change due to sea level rise,” says Kate Vogel, coastal resilience planner for DNR. “Dune vegetation, crab species, nesting birds and other species would be affected.”

To monitor this movement of sand, DNR uses aerial drones to take thousands of images that will create a 3D “map” – a process known as photogrammetry. 

DNR restoration scientist Alison Santoro, center, controls a drone as it flies over Assateague State Park, as DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz observes the aircraft in flight.

Drone footage will make monitoring easier, as the aerial imagery provides an otherwise unseen view, and over time we will be able to see where we are gaining or losing sand,” Vogel says.  “We’re trying to establish a baseline and then view changes. In the future we’ll be able to see a complete picture.”

Alison Santoro, restoration scientist, leads the Chesapeake and Coastal Service’s drone monitoring program and pilots the small remote-control aircraft. The use of drones has caused “an explosion in data collection,” Santoro says. 

“What we’re doing is called ‘structure from motion,’ making a 3D model from photographs taken from throughout the landscape,” Santoro says. Her work at Assateague follows similar monitoring work being done for a shoreline restoration project on Deal Island in the Chesapeake Bay.

DNR conducted its first flight over Assateague in October. On a brisk fall morning, Santoro and Vogel walked up and down the two-mile beach at Assateague to set GPS data points on the beach to lock the image into place for the drone to capture. Santoro launches the drone to take the photos – 1,500-2,000 photographs of points on the Assateague beach. During the operation, the drone runs the flight program on its own, although Santoro needs to keep it in sight to track the drone’s progress and safe operations.

Later the photos will be exported and run through a computer program to produce a 3-dimensional model, which looks “a little like a video game rendering of the landscape.” The model incorporates GPS points to assign latitude and longitude, fixing it in place on the Earth’s surface. 

DNR can compare before and after images using Google Earth and satellite photos from the past. Santoro plans to fly the drones twice yearly to document the sand’s movement; another flight will take place in spring.

DNR’s drone mapping of Deal Island produced this “dense point cloud” of the shoreline; similar images will be produced of Assateague Island. Maryland DNR image

“The 3D model gives us extra depth to measure the amount of sand moving, as well as its movement on the landscape,” Santoro says.

That is helpful to the department in its planning efforts for the park, and also for educating the public.

“It helps people understand how where you live and recreate is changing,” Vogel says.

Baldwin is excited about the opportunity to share this information with Assateague’s loyal visitors.

“We have people who have camped here for many years, some back to when we opened in 1965,” Baldwin says. “We hope to put together a map of how it’s changed and use this information to guide planning for the future.”

Article and photos by Gregg Bortz, Media Relations Manager for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

On February 8 at 8:50 a.m., six students at Davis Middle School were involved in an altercation. The students were separated, and the school resource officer initiated an investigation. There were no reported injuries. The students will face charges and school disciplinary consequences. Anyone with information is asked to contact PFC Miedzinski at 301-609-3282 ext. 0658.  

Calvert County will host a Community Resource Fair for community members who need supportive services to connect with multiple services and resources in one day, at one place. The event will be held Friday, March 1, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the College of Southern Maryland Prince Frederick Campus, located at 115 J. W. Williams Road in Prince Frederick.

More than 50 local agencies, service organizations and local businesses will be attending, providing free demonstrations, giveaways, advice and resources related to housing, utilities, jobs, family needs, diapers, transportation, food, medical/personal care, legal and vital records. A meal will be provided by Brooks United Methodist Church, Mt. Olive Church and Solomons Mission. Grab ‘n ‘go pantry options have been donated by participating organizations. LifeStyles of Maryland will provide free shuttle services throughout the county.

The Community Resources Fair is sponsored by the Calvert County Homeless Service Board, the Nonprofit Institute at the College of Southern Maryland, the Southern Maryland Local Homeless Coalition and the Calvert County Department of Community Resources. For more information, including transportation options, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CommunityResourceFair.

For questions, please contact the Calvert County Department of Community Resources at community.resources@calvertcountymd.gov or call 410-535-1600, ext. 8803.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

On Wednesday, Feb. 7, Wes Adams, County Attorney, briefed commissioners on a targeted sign enforcement campaign for the Waldorf Urban Development Corridor and other commercial areas around the county. The County Attorney discussed a three-phase enforcement plan outlining target areas for enforcement and strategies for outreach by the Charles County Economic Development Department.

Outreach will include materials with information on local, state, and federal resources to help businesses bring signage under compliance with local signage ordinances during a 90-day amnesty period that starts on March 1. Fines for out-of-compliance signage will be levied after the amnesty period expires on June 1.

Briefings

• Danielle Mitchell, Assistant Deputy County Attorney, gave commissioners a legislative update on the 2024 Maryland General Assembly session. Commissioners gave consensus to support several bills, including a statewide bill to support legislation concerning off-road vehicles used on highways in place of a local bill submitted by the county.
• A briefing on proposed bill 2024-04, which would amend the county code to allow commissioners to adjust the fee that supports 9-1-1 operations in the county. Commissioners introduced the bill and scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m.
• Staff briefed the Commissioners on proposed Bill 2024-05, which would accept the Critical Area Commission’s conditional approval of Zoning Text Amendment 21-169, also known as Bill Number 2022-10. Commissioners introduced the Bill and scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m.
• Commissioners gave consensus on a request to authorize staff to draft legislation for consideration to establish an Industrial Development Authority to support Economic Development, Redevelopment, and Recreation projects in the county.  Commissioners also consented to draft a letter of support for HB 692 – Economic Development – County & Municipality Economic Development Authority – Powers and Use of Proceeds.

Approval items

• Commissioners approved:
  • A budget increase of $2,000,000 to facilitate funding provided by the design engineer to support a change order associated with the Flow Equalization Basin Wall Retrofit Project.
  • A change order of $1,987,976.90 to facilitate phase 2 of the Mattawoman Wastewater Treatment Plant Flow Equalization Basin Wall Retrofits.
  • A budget transfer of $26,000 to support a federal lobbyist for Charles County.
  • A contract with GS Proctor for federal lobbying services.
  • A transfer of $750,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds from Surface Transportation to Non-Profit Grants to the Charles County Charitable Trust to support a Non-Profit Grant Program for Transitional Housing.

Action on Boards and Commissions

Commissioners took the following actions on appointments to Boards and Commissions:

• Appointed Granville Johnson as the Chair of the Charles County Police Accountability Board.
• Appointed Angel Riley as a Citizen Member and Tanika Whittington as an Alternate Member of the Ethics Commission.
• Reappointed Theodora Carr, Lauretta Miles, and Tiffany Brown and appointed Angel Wye as a Citizen Member, Darnelle Brown as a Citizen Member, and Jacqueline Pressey as a Senior Citizen Member to the Area Council on Aging.
• Recommended reappointment of Sam Graves to the Board of Fire and Rescue by the Governors Appointment Office.
•  Recommended reappointment of Charles McClam to the Regular Member position from the Alternate Member position on the Property Tax Assessment Appeal Board by the Governors Appointment Office.
• Appointed Albert Williams as the Attorney Member, James Person as the Citizen with a Disability Member, Sequaya Tasker as the Professional in the Field of Disabilities, William Morgan as the Local Non-Profit Social Service Organization Member, and Lynn Murphy as the Citizen Member to the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board.
• Reappointed Torri Ball, D’Yana James, Nicole Evans, LaTisha Henderson, Kawona Johnson, Clarissa Stroud Kemp, La’Kenya Walter and appointed Judith Ramsey, Katrina Logan, Krystal Hall, Rosalyn Dickerson, and Shelly Williams as Citizen Members to the Commission for Women.
• Appointed Tony Cotton as a Citizen Member of the Nuisance Abatement Hearing Board.
• Appoint Suzanne Darby as the Representative of the Southern Maryland Regional Library Association to the Library Board of Trustees.
• Appointed Cathryn Szmurlo and Corey Becket as Citizen Members of the Internal Audit Oversight Committee.

Public Hearings

Commissioners held a public hearing on bill2023-15, which updates local legislation on the Maryland Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (MD PACE). The update would remove from local legislation a requirement to obtain an energy audit that demonstrates certain savings over the life of the loan. Commissioners voted to close the record and adopted the bill.

Commissioners also passed  bill 2023-14, which excludes appointed positions from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Merit System and bill 2024-01, a Zoning Text Amendments concerning Cannabis Dispensaries.

Commissioners voted to keep the record open for 30 days on bill 2023-13, a Zoning Text Amendment that would allow  Independent Living Senior Housing Complexes in the Watershed Conservation District.

Proclamations

Commissioners read proclamations recognizing:

• Black History Month
• Career and Technical Education Month
• National Engineers Week
• National Freedom Day
• Unclaimed Property Day

Viewing option of the meeting and the Commissioner Listening Session: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: Feb. 27-28, 2024.

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

On February 7, 2024, around 6:58 p.m., members of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Patrol Bureau and Crash Reconstruction Unit responded to a report of a serious motor vehicle crash in the area of Maryland Rt. 261 (Bayside Road) and 13th Street in Chesapeake Beach.

Preliminary Investigation revealed a 2017 Range Rover was traveling north on MD Rt. 261 approaching the intersection of 13th St., when a tree fell towards the roadway. The Range Rover struck the tree as it was falling. The tree impacted the vehicle as it intruded into the passenger compartment of the vehicle. After impact with the falling tree, the vehicle struck a guardrail and continued off the roadway striking a second tree.

The driver of the Range Rover, Gerald A. Robertson, 59 of Chesapeake Beach, was transported by ambulance to CalvertHealth where he was pronounced deceased due to injuries sustained from the crash. An unidentified female passenger was transported by Trooper 2 to a local trauma center in critical condition.

Master Deputy Jeffrey Hardesty of the Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or events leading up to it is asked to contact Master Deputy Hardesty at 410-535-2800 or via email at Jeffrey.Hardesty@calvertcountymd.gov.

Greenbelt, Maryland - U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman sentenced Delvon Lashawn Redd, age 30, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, yesterday to 78 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for abusive sexual contact with a minor.  Judge Boardman also ordered that, upon his release from prison, Redd must continue to register as a sex offender in the places where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”). 

The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron and Special Agent in Charge Brian T. Platt of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Washington, D.C. Field Office.

According to his guilty plea, from April 17 to May 28, 2022, Redd, a U.S. Navy service member was staying at the Navy Lodge Hotel located at the U.S. Naval Air Station Patuxent River Base in Patuxent River, Maryland.  On approximately May 6, 2022, Redd began communicating on a social media platform with an 11-year-old minor female who claimed she was 18 years old.  Redd asked the victim to send him pictures of herself and the victim sent a short video of herself.  In their online conversations that day, Redd commented on how young the victim looked.  Despite that, later that evening Redd drove to the victim’s house in Lexington Park, Maryland, picker the victim up near her home and drover her back to the Navy Lodge, where security footage shows Redd and victim entering his room at approximately 9:44 p.m.  Once inside the room, Redd had sexual intercourse with the victim.  The following morning, Redd drove the victim back to her house.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.  For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the NCIS for its work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Christoper Sarma, who prosecuted the case.

NOTABLE CASES / INCIDENTS

CDS Violation: 24-7637
On January 30, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the 12000 block of Susan Lane in Lusby, for the report of a possible burglary. Contact was made with the complainant who advised she received notification from her home surveillance system that an unknown male was at her door peering into her windows. The male was later identified as Michael Sean Marshall, 38 of no fixed address. Deputies made contact with Marshall walking in the middle of the roadway on Susan Lane. Upon making contact with Marshall, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emitting from his breath. Marshall was intoxicated in a public place causing a disturbance. A search of Marshall’s person revealed a prescription of Vyvanse in a prescription bottle which was not prescribed to him. Marshall was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Intoxicated Public Disturbance and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-8241
On February 1, 2024, members of the CCSO Warrant Unit initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle along Rousby Hall Road in Lusby, which contained a wanted subject. Prior to the stop, deputies observed an object being thrown out of the passenger side window. Contact was made with the occupants of the vehicle and wanted subject Jacob McDowell Francis, 37 of Lusby, was taken into custody for his active arrest warrant. Cpl. Callison located a plastic tear-off in the grass directly next to the subject’s vehicle. The tear-off contained numerous crack cocaine rocks (approximately 3.2 grams). A search of the occupants revealed $2300 in U.S. Currency, a crack pipe, two cell phones, and an iPad. Occupants Temeka Uganda Mason, 46 of Lusby, and Joseph Lindsey Cranford, III, 51 of Huntingtown, were charged with CDS: Possess-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, Altering Physical Evidence, Obstructing and Hindering. Mark Anthony Barber, 41 of Lusby, and Jacob McDowell Francis were arrested and charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Altering Physical Evidence, and Obstructing and Hindering.

Damaged Property: 24-7433
On January 30, 2024, F/Sgt. Naecker responded to Patuxent United Methodist Church located at 3500 N. Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown, for the report of property destruction. Contact was made with the complainant who advised an unknown suspect damaged a window to the church sometime between Jan. 24 and Jan. 30. A search of the building was conducted, and no additional damage occurred, nor any items were stolen. The estimated value of damaged property was $200.00.

Damaged Property: 24-9014
On February 3, 2024, Deputy Tunnell responded to the 400 block of Cambridge Place in Prince Frederick, for the report of property destruction. Contact was made with the complainant who advised an unknown suspect threw a brick through a window in the victim’s home. A window and a television were observed to have been damaged. The estimated value of damaged property is $600.00 Damaged Property: 24-8824
On February 3, 2024, Deputy Daily responded to Paradise Smoke Shop located at 7 Oxford Way in Huntingtown, for the report of a possible burglary. Upon arrival, contact was made with the complainant who advised a dark SUV entered the parking lot of the Huntingtown North Shopping Center around 1:46 a.m. Surveillance shows an unknown suspect threw a large rock through the door of the Paradise Smoke. The suspect then kicked the glass door but was unable to gain entry to the building and fled the scene. The suspect appears to be a white male wearing a black ski mask, a black hoodie with white designs on it, blue jeans, and black and white shoes. The estimated value of damaged property is $500.00.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 24-7010
On January 29, 2024, Deputy Smith responded to the 2400 block of Sixes Road in Prince Frederick, for the reported motor vehicle theft. Investigation revealed John Thomas Harris, 40 of Prince Frederick, stole keys from the victim’s purse and left in a blue 2019 Kia without the permission of the vehicle owner. DFC Wilder observed the stolen vehicle in the area of Parkers Creek Road and Rt. 4 in Port Republic and conducted an investigatory stop. The driver and sole occupant John Thomas Harris, Jr., was placed under arrest and charged with Theft: $1500 to Under $25,000 and Unauthorized Removal of a Motor Vehicle. John Thomas Harris Damaged Property: 24-8415
On February 2, 2024, Deputy Fleenor responded to the 500 block of Cody Trail in Lusby, for the report of damaged property. Upon arrival, the complainant advised his car alarm had been repeatedly activated. Deputy Fleenor observed distinct key markings on all four doors. There were no signs of additional damage or theft. The estimated value of damaged property is $500.00.

Resisting Arrest: 24-8292
On February 1, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to 100 Hospital Road in Prince Frederick, to assist with a wanted person. Contact was made with Charles Alexander Wolfe, 19 of Owings, who had confirmed warrants through the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office. Wolfe was taken into custody and began to resist arrest. Wolfe was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Resisting/Interfering with Arrest. Charles Alexander Wolfe Theft: 24-8328
On February 1, 2024, DFC Ostazeski responded to the 1400 block of Gregg Drive in Lusby, for a report of a theft. The complainant advised her purse and its contents were stolen from an office in the Medical Arts Building located at 110 Hospital Road in Prince Frederick sometime between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Two purchases were made on the stolen credit cards totaling $1597.94. The investigation continues. Theft: 24-6990
On January 29, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to Results Fitness located at 1990 E. Chaneyville Road in Owings, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect broke into a locker and stole the victim’s phone and wallet sometime between 6:45 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. Two additional lockers were observed to have been tampered with. The estimated value of stolen property is $500.00.

Trespassing: 24-7685
On January 31, 2024, at 2:58 a.m., Deputy Hudson responded to the 3900 block of Gordon Stinnett Ave. in Chesapeake Beach, for the reported trespassing. Upon arrival, contact was made with Leroy Harrod, 24 of no fixed address, sleeping on the floor of the laundromat. There were several ‘No Loitering’ signs posted around the business. Harrod has been previously advised to vacate the property after business hours. A search of Harrod’s person revealed a metal hatchet. Harrod was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing Public Agency After Hours and Concealing a Dangerous Weapon.

Officers apprehend suspects with drugs and loaded firearm: On February 4 at 9:11 pm., patrol officers initiated a traffic stop near Crain Highway and Talbot Street in La Plata after a computer check revealed the registration plates on the vehicle belonged to a different car. The driver refused to stop and instead fled. The vehicle had also been reported stolen from a nearby county. Officers pursued the car and deployed stop sticks three times – in the area of Billingsley Road, the Hughesville bypass, and the third time with the assistance of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office in Charlotte Hall, successfully deflating several of the vehicle’s tires. Despite the flat tires, the vehicle continued to flee until striking a median and becoming disabled. All three occupants fled the car on foot and were quickly apprehended. Officers located a loaded firearm in the vehicle and a large quantity of methamphetamine. One of the occupants also had an active arrest warrant from a nearby county. Shawn Ray Elswick, 24, of Riverdale; Kirk Rodriquez Casper, 24, of Washington, D.C.; and Monica Sanchez-Zavala, 18, of no fixed address, were arrested. Elswick, the driver, was charged with theft, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, illegal possession of ammunition, and numerous traffic citations. The other two suspects were charged with theft, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, and possession of drugs. All three suspects are being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. Officer Perry is investigating.

Calvert County bus service will be unavailable Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, while the Department of Community Resources, Public Transportation Division, holds in-house bus service training for all drivers. Regular routes and schedules will resume Thursday, Feb. 29. Residents may direct their questions to Public Transportation at 410-535-1600, ext. 2360, or transportation@calvertcountymd.gov.

The Public Transportation Division serves the transportation needs of the general public, older adults and individuals with disabilities. The county provides eight fixed routes and four demand-response/para-transit routes to link residents with major shopping, medical and employment areas, as well as with public services available in Prince Frederick. Learn more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Transportation.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman today announced the successful launch of Maryland Tax Connect, a secure, online self-service portal allowing businesses to file and pay their taxes and complete other essential functions themselves. The platform will also improve taxpayer interactions with the Office of the Comptroller. 

Maryland Tax Connect is central to the Comptroller’s agency-wide efforts to modernize the agency’s outdated tax processing systems and deliver a more innovative, accessible, and efficient tax system for the people of Maryland.  

“The Office of the Comptroller is focused on modernizing our agency to meet the needs of all Marylanders and Maryland businesses. Maryland Tax Connect is a convenient tool that will make interactions between our agency and taxpayers more secure and more efficient while saving Marylanders time and money,” Comptroller Lierman explained. “Maryland Tax Connect has the functionality consumers have come to expect with financial transactions, from mobile banking to online shopping. I am excited to continue our push to make government work better.” 

Businesses can use Maryland Tax Connect to complete multiple functions from either desktop computers or mobile devices, including: 

• Filing Tax Returns 
• Retrieving tax information 
• Making online payments 
• Updating personal information  
• Viewing filing and tax history 
• Registering a business 
• Applying for or renewing business licenses 
• Applying for sales and use tax exemptions 

On February 6, the first day the new online portal was available to the public, the Office of the Comptroller reported nearly 5,000 new business accounts created, approximately 400 business returns filed, and 115 new businesses registered through Maryland Tax Connect. 

During the month of February, the Office of the Comptroller will be mailing welcome letters to businesses registered with the previous filing system.  These welcome letters contain additional information about Maryland Tax Connect and a personal identification number (PIN). Businesses also have the option to access the portal as a guest.

The rollout of Maryland Tax Connect will be performed in stages, with all tax types - including personal income tax - expected to migrate to the platform by 2026. 

The launch of Maryland Tax Connect also restores the ability of the Office of the Comptroller to process refunds and perform other important functions that had been temporarily put on hold during the transition to the new system. Tax return processing resumes this week, and returns will be processed in the order they were received. 

Businesses with questions about Maryland Tax Connect and the platform are encouraged to review frequently asked questions (FAQ) available on the Maryland Tax Connect website. The FAQ will be updated periodically. 

The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is proposing the installation of a new pedestrian facility along MD 245 in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. This project would result in minor impacts to Miedzinski Park, which is owned and managed by the St. Mary’s County Department of Parks and Recreation and protected under Section 4(f) of the US Department of Transportation Act of 1966 (Section 4(f)). 

Why is this work necessary and what improvements are proposed? The construction of new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant sidewalk along MD 245 will require drainage improvements and a new stormwater management facility south of Baldridge Street. The existing sidewalk within the vicinity of the park will need to be reconstructed and will comply with ADA standards. The proposed work includes: • Upgrade/replacement of the existing sidewalks and ramps to comply with ADA standards • Drainage improvements, including the installation of a new Storm Water Management Pipe • Replacement of existing landscaping

Why are comments being requested? 23 CFR 774.5(b) of Section 4(f) allows the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to determine that certain transportation uses of Section 4(f) land (Miedzinski Park) would have no adverse effect on the protected resource. With respect to publicly owned parks and recreation areas, a finding of de minimis impact may occur if a transportation project, including any proposed mitigation, does not "adversely affect the activities, features and attributes" of the Section 4(f) resource. When this is the case, public notice and opportunity for public review and comment on the finding is required. In addition, the finding of FHWA requires written concurrence from the officials with jurisdiction over the resource. Before concurring, the officials with jurisdiction must consider any public comments received.

What are the impacts to protected Section 4(f) resources? The proposed improvements will require 0.17 acre (7,590 square feet) of temporary construction easement and 0.08 acre (3,468 square feet) perpetual easement from within Miedzinski Park totaling less than 0.25 acre (11,058 square feet). The Miedzinski Park consists of grass, trees, a parking lot, picnic tables, a baseball diamond (60 feet), three multi-sport fields, a batting cage, an accessible playground, and restroom facilities. These minor impacts will occur in the grassy areas along the southwest corner of the park which includes the sidewalk and are not expected to adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes of the Miedzinski Park. The sidewalk will be closed during construction and a detour will be required to maintain pedestrian traffic. The detour will reroute pedestrians to the opposite side of the roadway, while not affecting the pedestrian movement within the park. SHA, through this notice, is notifying the public that it will request that FHWA make a de minimis (or minor) impact finding, in accordance with Section 4(f). The St. Mary’s County Department of Parks and Recreation is being informed of SHA’s intent to seek a Section 4(f) de minimis impact finding. With this notice, the public is afforded the opportunity to provide comments on this finding.

How do I comment? If you have questions or wish to comment, please contact Mr. John Delaney, SHA Project Manager at 410-545-8053 or jdelaney@mdot.maryland.gov, or Ms. Sushmita Sakar, SHA Environmental Manager at 410-545-0392 or ssarkar@mdot.maryland.gov; or visit us at www.roads.maryland.gov. 

The Charles County Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for Cohort 11 of the Business Growth Advantage Program (BGAP), a business training curriculum offered at no cost for Charles County-based business owners. Cohort 11 is specifically designed for businesses in the contracting sector. Applications will be accepted until May 17. Participants of the program can receive a $10,000 grant for working capital.

“We are committed to supporting our local businesses and helping them access the training and resources they need to grow,” said Economic Development Director Kelly Robertson-Slagle. “I’m thrilled with the success of our BGAP program and the number of businesses who are taking the tools and strategies they learned to achieve their business goals.”

Growth planning is a pivotal step in a business’s lifecycle, requiring both time and resources. The BGAP was initiated in 2022 in response to these challenges. It offers dedicated support to businesses that have been active for at least two years and delivers an in-depth eight-week training regimen.

BGAP Cohort 11 begins May 23 and will be held virtually once a week, for 8 weeks. It is designed exclusively for government contracting businesses with a track record of success. To qualify, businesses must have operated for at least two years, generated $300,000 to $3,000,000 in gross revenue, have at least one full-time employee (excluding the owner), and have a genuine aspiration for growth.

This exclusive cohort aims to enhance contract win rates, client relationships, and operational efficiency, potentially benefiting the community through job opportunities, workforce development, economic diversification, and support for local businesses.

“To date, BGAP has successfully graduated nine cohorts, totaling 122 small businesses, showcasing a consistent interest and participation from the local business community. The fact that over $1,015,000 in grant funding has been deployed to assist these businesses further underscores the practical need for financial support and capacity-building,” said Chief of Business Services, Lucretia Freeman-Buster. “The intention for Cohort 11 is to address the unique intricacies of the government contracting space and ensure that businesses in this sector possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for success.”

Upon successful acceptance into the program, business owners will engage in the program's practical sessions on key business operating concepts, collaborative sharing of best practices, and a step-by-step evaluation of operations. Businesses that are interested in participating in BGAP are encouraged to learn more and apply for the program here.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1286 Calls for service, including 13 Emergency Petitions from January 29, 2024, to February 4, 2024.

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public as well as self-initiated events made by deputy sheriffs.

The Emergency Petition statute in Maryland enables the prompt evaluation of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis having the potential to harm themselves or others to be taken to an emergency facility to assess the need for immediate treatment.

ARRESTS:

1/30/24 – John Otha Dickens, 34, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Anthony Cucinotta, for Assault Second Degree on Division of Corrections Employee.

1/31/24 Carroll Leon Alvey, 60, of Lexington Park, MD, by DFC Travis Wimberly, for CDS: Possession – Not Marijuana, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

2/01/24 – Arlon Charles Menchion, 60, of Lexington Park, MD, by DFC Travis Wimberly, for CDS: Possession – Not Marijuana, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest.

2/02/24 – Jawaan Montell Carroll, 39, of Great Mills, MD, by Deputy Aaron Ocasio-Rivera, for CDS: Possession Not Marijuana.

2/02/24 – Benjamin Jamal Washington, 23, of Hyattsville, MD, by DFC Zachary Jerew, for Assault Second Degree on Division of Corrections Employee.

2/02/24 – Johvaun Anthony Champ, 29, of California, MD, by DFC Zachary Jerew, for Assault Second Degree on Division of Corrections Employee.

2/02/24 – Trevon Marquise Butler, 29, of No Fixed Address, by DFC Zachary Jerew, for Assault Second Degree on Division of Corrections Employee.

2/04/24 – Taylor Elaine Griffith, 26, of Lusby, MD, by DFC Katulich, for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

DUIs:

n/a

SUMMONSES:

1/27/24 – Dimarian Eltreek Logan, 20, of Lexington Park, MD, by Corporal Glen Knott, for Burglary Fourth Degree and Malicious Destruction of Property.

WARRANTS:

1/26/24 – Terry Eugene Bailey Jr., 39, of No Fixed Address, by DFC Joseph Bowling, for Failure to Register as Sex Offender.

1/30/24 – Gina Marie Omara, 41, of King George, VA, by Corporal Kenneth Flerlage, for Fraudulent ID Info Theft, Fraudulent Credit Card Presentation.

1/30/24 – Benjamin Jamal Washington, 23, of Hyattsville, MD, by DFC Zachary Jerew, for Failure to Appear: Armed Robbery, Violation of Probation, Escape Second Degree Condition of Release.

Possession of Controlled Substance On January 17, 2024, Trooper First Class Kreczmer #6916 pulled over John Blackwell, 39 year old male of Port Republic, for exceeding the posted speed limit. Once TFC Kreczmer approached the vehicle he observed Blackwell with pinpoint pupils. A Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) was partially performed and unsuccessfully completed while partially refused. Blackwell was placed under arrest for Driving Under the Influence of Controlled Dangerous Substance. A search of Blackwell’s vehicle was performed and a result of that search revealed Suspected Heroin in the center console of vehicle.Blackwell was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged accordingly.

False Statement to Officer & ID Fraud On January 27, 2024 Trooper First Class Kreczmer #6416 pulled over a silver Jeep bearing VA registration for impeding the free flow of traffic. Contact was made with the driver who was later identified as Khary Thomas, a 26 year-old male of Washington DC. Thomas was made aware of the reason for the stop and asked to provide his license and registration for the vehicle. Thomas provided Trooper First Class Kreczmer with the passengers drivers license, later disclosing he did not have a driver's license. When asked his name and DOB Thomas provided a fictitious name and DOB that was ran through METERS/NCIC showing no match. Thomas was detained and advised he would remain detained until he was positively ID. Thomas later provided his full name and DOB revealing he has an active warrant through the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for three (3) counts of theft. Thomas was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where his warrant was left as a detainer and charged accordingly. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The Commissioners then presented proclamations in recognition of Dating Violence Awareness Month and Black History Month.

For their main agenda item, the CSMC welcomed Dr. Tuajuanda Jordan, President of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, for the annual State of the College presentation. 

During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Reviewed upcoming CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Circuit Court’s request for $60,000 in additional funds to cover the costs of juror’s fees through end of 2024.
• Approved the addition of the Deputy County Administrator to the Resolution Delegating Administrative Authority Concerning Ministerial Acts.

The Commissioners then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 9 a.m. with a budget work session (BWS) at 1:30 p.m. CSMC business meetings and BWS are held in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related public documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) Channel 95 or on-demand on SMCG’s YouTube Channel.

For more information on SMCG, please visit: stmaryscountymd.gov.

On Monday, Feb. 6, County Commissioners and Charles County Legislative Delegation members joined Lt. Governor Aruna Miller on a tour of Naval Support Facility Indian Head.

Del. Edith J. Patterson, Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II, Commissioner Vice President Ralph E. Patterson II, Commissioner Gilbert “BJ” Bowling, and Acting Deputy County Administrator Jennifer Ellin participated in the visit.  

Maryland Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony Woods and Amy O’Donnell, Navy Program Director of the Department of Commerce Office of Military and Federal Affairs, were also in attendance.

Capt. David “Donny” Wilson, commanding officer of Naval Support Activity South Potomac, hosted the base visit.

Attendees took a “windshield tour” of base facilities. They stopped at several installation areas for more in-depth discussions of various base activities, including recently signing a 50-year Utilities Privatization Contract with the Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO).

The visit also included an overview of the base’s Chemical Biological Incident Response Force and explosive detection capabilities.

The force serves as the first defense against attacks against Washington, D.C.

Participants also visited the Expeditionary Exploration Unit One and viewed their in-theater labs, where conventional and improvised threats are exploited and analyzed in support of fleet and joint commanders.

Other visits included stopping at the Naval Surface Warfare Center’s cartridge and propellant-actuated devices (CAD/PAD) services.

The United States Navy plans to invest about $1.1 billion into the base because of its role in national security and to bolster the Navy’s research, development, testing evaluation, and manufacture of energetic materials and systems. 

 Plum Point Convenience Center will be closed from 7 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, due to safety requirements while the waste compactor is replaced with a new, larger compactor. The site will open with normal operations at noon.

This project is part of the Department of Public Works, Solid Waste & Recycling Division's ongoing goal to improve services for Calvert County residents at all Customer Convenience Centers and the Appeal Landfill. We appreciate your patience.

Plum Point Convenience Center is located at 2801 Plum Point Road in Huntingtown.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay up to date with Calvert County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCountyMd and YouTube at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov.

Easton, Md. – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, made the following remarks Monday in response to the bipartisan emergency national security supplemental unveiled late this weekend.

“This bill is critically important for us to pass as quickly as possible. It provides needed aid to Ukraine – that’s our frontline for defense of democratic states. It’s a much better investment for us to send funds and military equipment to Ukraine than to send American soldiers. We recognize the great need there. It also helps us in the Middle East, and with regards to China’s potential aggression against Taiwan. All of that is wrapped into this bill along with humanitarian assistance.

“This emergency supplemental package also deals with the broken border that we have here in the United States. We need to have a sensible border security policy that can determine a person’s status immediately, so that people don’t come to this country who are not eligible for immediate admission and wait years for determination of their final status. We will take care of legitimate asylum seekers fleeing persecution, but the heavy volume coming to our border is largely for other reasons, such as economic migrants.  This package will allow us to have an orderly and secure system – fairer and more humane – and help dramatically reduce the numbers of migrants that are showing up every day.

“We need comprehensive immigration reform. This bill is a first step towards that by having an orderly process for determining asylum at our border. We also increase some of the numbers coming in through lawful means – such as through worker visas or family reunification. But we need to have a more comprehensive and rational policy. We need a pathway to citizenship for those who have been here long-term, including Dreamers and TPS holders.  We need a much more orderly process to deal with H2-B visas that are so needed on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, as well as J-1 visas for seasonal workers.  It’s critically important. What is in this bill is a first step. We need more to follow.”

BALTIMORE - The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation today announced the availability of 2024 annual report and personal property tax return filings and extension requests for businesses registered in Maryland. All domestic and foreign business entities must file an annual report or request an extension by April 15 to maintain their "good standing" status with the department. 

“The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation is committed to ensuring that our online filing system remains effective, easy and efficient for all our customers,” said Director Michael Higgs. “Maryland Business Express is an award-winning site allowing customers and aspiring entrepreneurs to plan, start, manage and grow their businesses right here in Maryland with the click of a mouse.”

The department reminds customers about two changes to annual report filings. Due to changes in statute and regulation, businesses with less than $20,000 in business personal property will no longer be required to report personal property with their annual report. Additionally, the expediting fee for the rush review of certain online business filings has been reduced from $425 to $325. 

The quickest and easiest way to submit business filings is through the department’s award-winning Maryland Business Express site. When submitted online, annual reports are updated to a filed status on the business's Maryland Business Express page the same day as online submission. Businesses that request a two-month filing extension through the online extension system will have a deadline of June 15, 2024.

Businesses that own, lease, or use personal property in Maryland may also need to file a personal property tax return with the annual report. More information is located on the departments’ forms page.

Those who do not meet the deadline to file the required annual report risk falling out of "good standing" status and may enter "forfeited" status soon thereafter. Businesses that are currently forfeited because of failure to submit previous annual filings may now file up to ten years of overdue annual reports and personal property tax returns online to regain the ability to legally conduct business in Maryland. 

For more information about the required annual filings or to view the status of your business, visit the Maryland Business Express page on maintaining "good standing" status. To view entity filings for free online and review the legal status of your business, access Maryland Business Express Entity Search. Live processing times for charter filings are also available on Maryland Business Express.

Business owners are encouraged to sign up for the department’s email distribution list to receive timely reminders to file important documents and tax credit applications.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) Program is now accepting applications for the Fiscal Year 2025 Easement Cycle.

Eligibility requirements include a minimum of 50 contiguous acres, land outside of the 10-year water and sewer plan for the county, and a minimum of 50% Class I, II or III soils. For more information on eligibility and the MALPF easement acquisition process, please visit: https://mda.maryland.gov/malpf/Pages/Fact-Sheets.aspx. 

The mission of MALPF is:

• to preserve productive farmland and woodland for the continued production of food and fiber for all of Maryland's citizens,
• to curb the expansion of random urban development,
• to help curb the spread of urban blight and deterioration,
• to help protect agricultural land and woodland as open space,
• to protect wildlife habitat, and
• to enhance the environmental quality of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

MALPF purchases agricultural preservation easements that forever restrict development on prime farmland and woodland. The State of Maryland has preserved in perpetuity more agricultural land than any other state in the country. St. Mary’s County has preserved over 14,966 acres to date, using MALPF easements.

To view the application and apply, visit https://mda.maryland.gov/malpf/Pages/Forms.aspx.

All applications must be submitted by May 15, 2024, to the St. Mary’s County MALPF Program Administrator, Priscilla Leitch, Agriculture & Seafood Division Manager with St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Economic Development. Questions may be directed to Mrs. Leitch at (240) 309-4021 or Priscilla.Leitch@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Submitted applications will be ranked by the St. Mary’s County Agriculture Land Preservation Advisory Board, using the state mandated Land Evaluation and Site Assessment System. The ranked applications will be submitted to the state for consideration.

(MECHANICSVILLE, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred Saturday afternoon in St. Mary’s County.

The deceased is identified as Thomas Christiani, 63, of Mechanicsville, Maryland. Christiani was the driver and sole occupant of a Honda motorcycle involved in the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. No other injuries were reported at the scene.

Shortly before 4 p.m. on Saturday, troopers from the Maryland State Police Leonardtown Barrack responded to the area of Mechanicsville Road and Asher Road for a report of a two-vehicle crash. According to a preliminary investigation, the motorcycle, operated by Christiani, was traveling south on Mechanicsville Road, when for unknown reasons, struck a delivery van, attempting to turn into a residential driveway. Investigators do not believe that impaired driving is a factor in this crash.

Mechanicsville Road was closed for more than 4 hours following the crash. Personnel from Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 2 – Washington, based at Joint Base Andrews in Camp Springs, Maryland, responded to the scene to assist.

The Maryland State Police Crash Team continues to investigate the cause of the crash.

School resource officer investigating an assault involving multiple students: On February 2 at 9 a.m., three students at St. Charles High School assaulted another student during a class change. Administrators separated the students. The student who was assaulted was treated for injuries by the school nurse. The students who initiated the assault will be charged.  The students will also face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cpl. Plunkett at 301-609-3282 ext. 0469.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Board of Education of St. Mary’s County finalized its recommended 2024-2025 school year budget and forwarded it to the Board of County Commissioners of St. Mary’s County for consideration on Thursday, February 1, 2024. In a letter to the Commissioners, Superintendent J. Scott Smith outlined significant challenges in preparing for next year's budget, including the end of federal and state pandemic funding, the impact of mandates associated with the Blueprint legislation, compensation needs for staff, transportation needs, increased health care costs, and inflationary operational costs. Specifically, St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) identified three priorities that must be incorporated within the FY2025 budget: (1) Honoring its negotiated agreements for staff, including compensation associated with the Blueprint; (2) Projected increases in health insurance costs, which are expected to grow by at least 10% in FY2025; and (3) Support for contracted school bus operations with driver wage and contract increases.

Dr. Smith reiterated the importance of the shared commitment between the Board of Education and Commissioners, stating, “Over the past several years, SMCPS and the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) have worked together effectively to uphold our shared obligations to our students, schools, and community. This continued partnership and collaboration will be essential as we find a way to address these latest challenges.” To review the Board’s recommended budget, visit https://www.smcps.org/about-us/budget. This page includes: ? FY2025 Superintendent's Recommended Budget January 31, 2024 ? FY2025 Budget Letter to CSMC ? FY2025 SMCPS Budget Forms for CSMC

For questions regarding the FY2025 budget, please call (301) 475-5511, ext. 32177.

During the week of January 22 – January 28, 2024, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office
Deputies responded to 1,657 calls for service throughout the community to include, but not
limited to:
Check Welfare / Mental Health 51
Disorderly 6
Domestics 28
Motor Vehicle Crashes 38
Patrol Checks / School Checks 737
Suspicious Persons / Vehicles 28
Traffic Complaints 58
911 Hang Ups 50
ARRESTS 18

NOTABLE CASES / INCIDENTS

Burglary: 24-5671
On January 23, 2024, Senior Deputy Mohler responded to the 10400 block of Southern Maryland
Blvd. in Dunkirk, for the report of a burglary that had already occurred. Upon arrival, contact
was made with the complainant who advised sometime between Jan. 1 – Jan. 19, 2024, an
unknown suspect (s) had tampered with the lock box and stole a key. Nothing inside the building
appears to have been stolen and no additional damage was observed. The estimated value of
damaged property is $100.00.

Burglary: 24-6732
On January 27, 2024, at approximately 6:07 p.m., Deputy Brown responded to the 9000 block of
Marcellas Drive in Owings, for a reported burglary. Investigation revealed three juvenile males
were walking down the street and entered a vacant residence. Deputies secured the residence and
contacted the homeowner. The homeowner advised she did not wish to press charges and
juveniles were advised not to return to the residence.

Damaged Property: 24-6842
On January 28, 2024, Deputy Mister responded to the 7000 block of Chesapeake Village Blvd. in
Chesapeake Beach, for the report of damaged property. Upon arrival, he made contact with the
complainant who stated that sometime between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m., an unknown suspect and
vehicle drove through the victim’s yard, striking the mailbox encased in cement. The box and
post were located in the driveway. The estimated value of the damaged property is $1,000.00.

Recovered Property: 24-5651
On January 28, 2024, Deputy McCourt responded to the area of Dawkins Court and Parran Road
in St. Leonard, for the report of an abandoned vehicle. Contact was made with the complainant
who advised he noticed a white unoccupied vehicle parked in the woods next to the
complainant’s tree stand. Investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen from Anne
Arundel County. Anne Arundel County Police responded to retrieve and process the stolen
vehicle. No suspects were located on scene.

Tampering: 24-5418
On January 22, 2024, Deputy T. Bowen responded to Crossroad Church located at 150 Ball Road
in St. Leonard, for the report of motor vehicle tampering. Upon arrival, contact was made with
the complainant who advised sometime between 5 a.m. and 2 p.m., an unknown suspect (s)
tampered with the victim’s vehicle after breaking off two-wheel studs and stealing three lug nuts.
The estimated value of stolen property is $300.00.

Theft: 24-5424
On January 22, 2024, Senior Deputy Mohler responded to Walmart located at 10600 Town
Center Blvd. in Dunkirk, for the reported theft. Upon arrival, contact was made with the
complainant who advised on Sunday, Jan. 21 around noon, an unknown black female stole two
televisions from the store. The female was observed pushing a shopping cart containing the
stolen items out of a rear exit. The suspect then entered the passenger side of a silver Chrysler
sedan with no front registration plate and unknown rear registration. The estimated value of
stolen property is $476.00.

Theft: 24-5491
On January 22, 2024, Master Deputy Aurich responded to Sneades Ace Hardware located at
1750 Prosper Lane in Owings, for the reported theft. Upon arrival, contact was made with the
complainant who advised a white male wearing a dark jacket, a black knit hat, and glasses
entered the store and removed a Milwaukee Quietshell heated camo jacket from the shelf. The
male was observed removing the jacket from its packaging concealing it under his dark jacket
and exiting the store without making payment. The unknown male got into a maroon Ford pickup truck with a ladder rack and left the scene. The estimated value of stolen property is $229.00.

Theft: 24-5724
On January 23, 2024, Deputy Daily responded to the 5600 block of Victoria Lane in Sunderland,
MD for the report of a theft. The complainant advised two packages containing emergency kits
delivered to the residence had been stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $119.29.

Theft: 24-6865
On January 28, 2024, Deputy Mister responded to the 8100 block of D St. in Chesapeake Beach,
for a reported theft. Upon arrival, contact was made with the complainant who advised a rear
Maryland registration plate was stolen from his vehicle sometime between 1 a.m. and 10 a.m.
The estimated value of stolen property is $180.00.

DS Violation
On January 26, 2024, Deputy Zinn initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle speeding in the area of S.
Solomons Island Road and Western Shore Blvd. in St. Leonard. Contact was made with the
driver, Solana Katherine Fulmore, 33 of Prince Frederick, and passenger Zachary Matthew
Williams, 34 of Prince Frederick. Investigation revealed a positive alert on the vehicle as a result
of a K9 sniff from K9 Atlas. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a pill crusher and a
cut straw covered in a white residue along with a bottle containing urine. During a search of
William’s person, 44 ½ pills of Amphetamine and a large amount of US currency ($824.00) were
found. Fulmore and Williams were both transported to the Calvert County Detention Center.
During a strip search of Williams at the Detention Center, a tear-off containing 8 Oxycodone
pills was located. Williams was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis (x2), CDS:
Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Contraband in a Place of Confinement, Altering a
Drug or Alcohol Test, and CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics. Fulmore was
charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis, CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, Altering a
Drug or Alcohol Test, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, and Conspiracy.

For the week of January 22 - 28, 2024, the school arrest data is as follows:
DUI Arrests for the week of January 22 – January 28
Date of Arrest Name Age Hometown Arresting Deputy
January 21 Brandy L. Leagan 30 Prince Frederick Deputy Tavares
January 23 Thomas J. Woodward 37 Broomes Island Deputy Gadwill
January 25 Michael D. Granados 28 Huntingtown Deputy Claggett
January 26 Rusty D. Jones 57 Huntingtown Deputy Dymond
January 28 Suraj Mohammed 41 Glenarden DFC Grierson
Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (410) 535-2800 and reference
the case number provided. Citizens may remain anonymous thru the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County
Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email
ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov

Prince Frederick, MD—The Calvert County Board of Education will hold an unscheduled meeting on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM for a Budget Work Session regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. The meeting will be held at the Brooks Administration Building at 1305 Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick, Maryland. 

On Thursday, February 1, 2024, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to a robbery at a commercial location in the 21000 block of Great Mills Road.

Witnesses reported an unidentified male entered the business and demanded service. Upon refusal of service, the individual pulled a gun from his waistband. The suspect then stole cash from a bowl on the counter and fled the scene on foot.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigation Division have taken the case and are actively pursuing several investigative leads. Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact Detective Kortnie Marsch at 301-475-4200, ext. 8179, or by email at Kortnie.Marsch@stmaryscountymd.gov.

School resource officer investigating altercation at La Plata High School: On February 1 at 2:15 p.m., three students at La Plata High School were engaged in an altercation. The school resource officer and school administrators were able to separate the students. Two of the students were treated for what appeared to be minor injuries. All of the students were released to their parents. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact M/Cpl. Burger at 301-609-3282 ext. 0475. The students face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. The investigation is ongoing.

Suspected cannabis recovered from student at North Point High School: On February 1, a school administrator at North Point High School found suspected cannabis on a student. The school resource officer was contacted and he recovered the cannabis. In accordance with MD law, the student was charged with a civil citation for possession of cannabis. The student also faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Parents are urged to speak with their students about the dangers of consuming or inhaling substances that could contain unknown, dangerous elements. Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Cook at 301-609-3282 ext. 0580. 

NAS Pax River's Gate 1 will close from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. for scheduled maintenance Friday, Feb. 2.
Pax River's Gate 2 will be open for traffic at this time.

 State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Malcolm Carl Young, 47, of Forestville, Maryland, was sentenced to 60 years in prison with 30 years of active incarceration for a homicide that occurred on August 9, 2022, in Lexington Park, Maryland. 

During today’s sentencing hearing, the State asked the Court to sentence Young to the maximum penalty of 60 years in prison: 40 years for second-degree murder, and 20 years for the firearm count, with both counts to run consecutive to each other.

The Defendant was convicted after a four-day jury trial and the Court sentenced him as follows:

• Second-degree murder: 40 years in prison with 30 years of active incarceration; and
• Use of a firearm in the commission of a felony: 20 years of active incarceration to run concurrently with the second-degree murder sentence.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Ashley Sowls and Jeffrey Maylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Warren Forinash of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

Detectives identify and arrest juvenile suspect in connection with an armed robbery of store: Detectives assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division have identified and charged a man in connection with a robbery. The robbery occurred on December 28, 2023, at a convenience store located in the 7700 block of Leonardtown Road in Hughesville. In this case, the suspect entered the store, produced a firearm, and stole money from the register. He fled in a waiting vehicle. During the investigation, detectives identified the suspect as a 17-year-old male from Temple Hills. Search and arrest warrants were obtained and during the search warrant, detectives recovered evidence linking the suspect to the robbery. The suspect was charged as an adult with armed robbery, first-degree assault, and other related charges. At the time of his arrest, the suspect was wearing an electronic monitoring system for a previous handgun charge. He is currently being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Baxley at 301-609-6508. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. 

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman and the Office of the Comptroller will mark February 1, 2024, as Unclaimed Property Day in Maryland, which will coincide with National Unclaimed Property Day.  

Nationally, one in seven people has unclaimed property, and more than $5 billion is returned by states annually. In 2023, the Maryland State Comptroller’s Unclaimed Property Division brought in $315 million in unclaimed property, honored nearly 34,470 claims, and returned $81 million to rightful owners. 

“Our Unclaimed Property Division works diligently to secure old bank accounts, uncashed checks, unused utility deposits, and forgotten insurance proceeds from businesses and other state agencies and then do what they can to return them to their rightful owners,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to visit our website every few months to see if you have missing money or other property waiting to be claimed.”  

Unclaimed property can take many forms, but it is most commonly money reported to the Comptroller’s Office by financial institutions, insurance companies, and corporations. If an account at a financial institution or business has no activity or a check is unclaimed for three years, the property in that account is considered unclaimed and must be reported to the state.  

Examples include unclaimed wages, commissions or other benefit distributions to employees, unclaimed bank accounts, contents of safe deposit boxes, insurance benefits, security deposits, stock dividends, traveler’s checks, overpayments by customers, or prepayments or refunds due to customers and other funds. 

In Maryland, there is no time limit by which the property must be claimed by individuals or their legitimate heirs. The Office of the Comptroller provides a free service to reunite Marylanders with unclaimed assets, including an online search tool. To learn more about unclaimed property and to use the state’s free online search tool, visit https://www.marylandtaxes.gov/unclaimed-property/.  

In 2023, the Unclaimed Property Division expanded its outreach to include more events throughout the state to give Marylanders greater opportunities to search for their Unclaimed Property.  

Marylanders can share their unclaimed property stories on social media using the hashtag: #GetYourMoneyMD.

On Tuesday, Jan. 30, Wes Adams, County Attorney, presented commissioners with a proposed bill that adopts changes to the county’s code of ethics to reflect a change in state law. The changes included definitions for principal address and secondary home, added a one-year prohibition barring a former lobbyist, who is subsequently elected to office, from participating in certain matters, and other changes.

The county attorney informed the commissioners that the changes were made to reflect changes meant to take place as the result of a previous audit. Commissioners introduced the bill and scheduled it for a public hearing on Tues, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m.

Briefings

• Danielle Mitchell, Associate County Attorney, gave commissioners a legislative update on the 2024 Maryland General Assembly session. Commissioners also gave consensus to send letters of support for several bills, including a bill that would create regulations on how golf carts can be operated in Cobb Island.
• Staff presented a briefing and requested approval to introduce and schedule a public hearing for Zoning Text Amendment 23-177: Changes to the Transit Oriented Development Zone. Introduced as Proposed Bill 2024-02, the amendment would allow motor vehicle fuel sales use and car washes in the Transit Oriented Development District. Commissioners Introduced the bill and scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m.
• Stacy Schaefer, Executive Director of the Resilience Authority of Charles County, provided an update on efforts by the Resilience Authority of Charles County over the last year.
• Staff provided a briefing on updates to the marketing of county boards and commissions.

Annual reports

Commissioners received updates on the activities of the Charles County Planning Commission, Charles County Board of Appeals, and the Charles County Board of License Commissioners (Liquor Board) over the last year.

Recognition

Commissioners recognized length of service awards for the fourth quarter of 2023 and the top performer of the fourth quarter of 2023.

Viewing option of the meeting and the Commissioner Listening Session: Click Here

Next Commissioners Session: Feb. 7, 2024.

Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258. 

Student at Barnhart Elementary School in possession of knife: On January 3 at 11 a.m., a student at Barnhart Elementary School was found to be in possession of a butterfly knife. The student indicated they found the knife and brought it to school to show friends. In accordance with MD state law, the student will not be charged due to their age. The student faces disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608.  

SRO investigating a threat of violence at Piccowaxen Middle School: On January 31 at 11:30 a.m., a student at Piccowaxen Middle School made a threat of violence while in the cafeteria during lunchtime. The SRO initiated an investigation, contacted the student’s parents, and made a home visit. The student will not be charged criminally; however, they do face disciplinary consequences from the Charles County Public Schools. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cpl. Caballero at 301-609-3282 ext. 0573.

Vape pens containing possible THC recovered from students at John Hanson Middle School: On January 31, at 11:30 a.m., two students at John Hanson Middle School were found to be in possession of vape pens containing possible THC. The school resource officer recovered the vape pens and initiated an investigation. The students were issued juvenile civil citations and released to their parents. They will also face school disciplinary action. Parents are urged to talk with their students about the dangers of consuming or inhaling products containing unknown substances. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Hancock at 301-609-3282 ext. 0499.