LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 15, 2026) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Cameron David-Louis Curtis, 23, of Valley Lee, Maryland, was sentenced to 90 years in prison with 30 years of active incarceration for his role in the 2025 attempted murders of four St. Mary’s County men.

Curtis was convicted by a St. Mary’s County jury of two counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of attempted second-degree murder, four counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and one count of handgun in vehicle in November 2025 following a six-day trial.

“This case involved an extraordinary level of danger that unfolded across the county and put countless innocent members of our community at risk,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “Our office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting violent offenders and holding accountable those who threaten public safety.”

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier 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 Amy Lorenzini presided over the case.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – ?June 15, 2026? – The Calvert County Department of Public Works, Water & Sewerage Division, advises residents of water line extension work along Auto Drive in Prince Frederick from June 15 through July 24, weather permitting.  

The project will create a system loop to increase the resiliency of the water supply for businesses on Prince Frederick Boulevard and CalvertHealth Medical Center.  

Temporary single-lane closures on Route 4 are scheduled for June 15 and July 9 during off-peak traffic hours. Access to the hospital from Route 4 will not be affected.  Crews will begin with the southbound lanes before transitioning to the northbound lanes. Each lane closure is expected to last 10 to 15 minutes.  

The exit lane from Auto Drive to Rt4 will be closed during construction from approximately June 22 through July 24. The detour will be removed for the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Traffic will be detoured west on Auto Drive to North Prince Frederick Boulevard and onto Route 4 from Stoakley Road. The detour route will not affect access to CalvertHealth from Route 4. 

The northbound shoulder of Route 4 will be closed from June 26 to July 14. The closure will not affect access to CalvertHealth from Route 4.  

The Calvert County Water & Sewerage Division appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this work. For questions or concerns, call 410-535-1600, ext. 2329.  

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.  

July 24	Last day for in-person paper check payments at branch offices for personal income, pass-through entity, and fiduciary taxes. Branch offices close at 4:30 p.m. Electronic payments and money orders will continue to be accepted.
July 29	Last day to electronically file a return or make a payment through current online systems, by 11:59 p.m. Online filing and payments for individuals will resume in Maryland Tax Connect on September 1.
August 20	Last day to electronically file and pay Business Taxes, by 11:59 p.m.
August 21-31	All tax systems are down for migration of records and data validation. E-check and credit card payments will continue to be accepted and processed during this period, although they will not post to taxpayer accounts until after September 1.
September 1	Maryland Tax Connect for Individual Taxpayers is live. All services resume.

 

**No penalties will be assessed for any payment or filing deadline that falls within the system’s outage window.**

 

E-check payments will remain available throughout the entire transition period. This free, fast, and secure payment method debits directly from a taxpayer’s bank account and can be used for existing balances, estimated payments, and extension payments. More information is available at MarylandComptroller.gov/Payments.

 

Taxpayers, tax professionals, and community partners are encouraged to visit MarylandComptroller.gov/IndividualTaxHub for a complete list of key dates, answers to frequently asked questions, and resources to share with constituents and clients. The page will be updated regularly through the September 1 launch.

 

NEW CARROLLTON, MD (June 15, 2026) – On June 1, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development announced that Southern Maryland counties have received a combined $375,000 through the state’s State Revitalization Programs for projects and activities that promote community development and economic growth in Fiscal Year 2027.

The state's six State Revitalization Programs support revitalization and redevelopment projects and activities including: business expansion and retention; façade and streetscape improvements; homeownership and home rehabilitation incentives; commercial improvement programs; community facilities; mixed-use development, and demolition activities. 

“Each one of these projects advances community-driven priorities tied to revitalization goals, and helps make great places – places that strengthen economic competitiveness and that people want to call home,” said Jake Day, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. “That investment delivers real returns: For every dollar invested through the Department’s revitalization programs, there’s approximately $17.90 in economic impact.”

Projects in Charles and St. Mary’s counties were selected through a competitively-scored, multi-agency review process used for the State Revitalization Programs. These projects are:

• Acquisition and consolidation of lots outside of NSF Indian Head for future development (Charles County);
• Continuation of minor improvements to properties within the downtown business district of Leonardtown (St. Mary’s County).

The Fiscal Year 2027 State Revitalization Program awards include 247 projects, awarded a total $77.3 million. Projects in 21 of Maryland’s jurisdictions received awards through one or more of the programs. For a full list of awards, visit FY27 State Revitalization Program Awards.

For more information about the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and each of the State Revitalization Programs, visit our website.

The Maryland Department of Health announced today an expanded consumer advisory for all cheese products made by Clover Hill Dairy, located in Mechanicsville, Md., due to possible Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) contamination. The facility has agreed to initiate a voluntary recall for all of its cheese products. 

The Maryland Department of Health previously issued a consumer advisory on June 3, 2026 for Clover Hill Dairy requesón/soft ricotta cheese products. Due to the public health risk, the Maryland Department of Health suspended the facility’s operating license on May 30, 2026, and is continuing a follow up evaluation in cooperation with the facility. 

Clover Hill Dairy products are sold directly from their retail market, at farmers markets, and through third party distributors, including in North Carolina, New York, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey and Washington, D.C. Products may be relabeled under a different brand name when distributed, including but not limited to KESSO, QUESOS LA RICURA, IZALCO, DE MI PUEBLO, RIO LINDO. Consumers are urged to check the manufacturer information on packages, if available. The label should identify the Clover Hill Dairy manufacturer permit (or plant) number as “24-128”.

Consumers, retailers and restaurants should not eat, sell or serve cheese products from Clover Hill Dairy, and should dispose of any product containing them. Written as they appear on Clover Hill Dairy products and pricing sheets, these cheeses include but are not limited to:

Soft and Semi-Soft “Spanish Style Cheese Varieties”

• Cuajada
• Soft Cuajada
• Soft Cuajada in Brine
• Soft Cujada Crumbs
• Ricotta/Requeson
• Soft Ricotta w/ Jalapeno’s (Requeson Con Chile)

Mild Cheese Varieties

• Yummy Cheddar
• White Cheddar
• White Colby
• Monterey Jack
• Marble Jack
• Fresh Cheddar Curd
• Snack Pack - Assorted (White Colby, Marble Jack, and Yummy Cheddar)
• 3-in-A-Pack - Assorted (White Colby, Marble Jack, and Yummy Cheddar)

Hard Cheese Varieties

• Yummy Cheddar
• White Cheddar
• White Colby
• Snack Pack Sharp Stix

Smoked Cheddar Cheese Varieties

• Chedder 
• White Cheddar

Flavored Cheeses

• Horseradish
• Old Bay Cheddar

Pepper Cheese Varieties

• Jalapeno Cheddar
• Pepper Jack
• Sizzlin’ Colby (with Habanero Peppers)
• Snack Pack- Assorted Pepper Stix (Jalapeno Cheddar and Pepper Jack)
• 3-in-A-Pack - Assorted (Jalapendo Cheddar, Pepper Jack, and Sizzlin Colby)

Smoked Pepper Cheese Varieties

• Jalapeno Cheddar

To date, whole genome sequencing has identified a total of nine individuals across multiple states infected with this Listeria outbreak strain, including one death in Maryland that occurred in 2023. The Maryland Department of Health will not release additional information about the individuals to protect their privacy. 

L. monocytogenes is a type of disease-causing bacteria, part of the Listeria family, that can grow in unsanitary food production conditions, leading to contamination of the food. When people eat food contaminated with L. monocytogenes, they may develop a disease called listeriosis. It can survive and grow even under refrigeration, and can easily spread to other foods and surfaces. Pets can also spread the bacteria in the home if they eat food contaminated with L. monocytogenes.

Listeriosis can cause a range of symptoms that vary depending  on the severity and form of the illness. It can be serious and life-threatening, particularly for pregnant women, newborns and young children, older adults, and persons with weakened immune systems. Mild symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which often persist for 1 to 3 days. For the more serious form of the disease, symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Although people can sometimes develop listeriosis up to 2 months after eating contaminated food, symptoms usually begin within several days. People should immediately consult with a healthcare provider if they suspect they have developed symptoms that resemble a listeriosis infection. 

Consumers at higher risk for Listeria illness should not eat any soft cheeses that are made with unpasteurized milk. Although pasteurization of milk kills Listeria, soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk can still become contaminated after the pasteurization process and cause Listeria illnesses.

This represents the best information currently available to the Maryland Department of Health.

• Maryland Department of Health: Listeriosis Fact Sheet
• FDA: Outbreak Investigation of Listeria monocytogenes: Soft Cheese (June 2026)
• FDA: Clover Hill Dairy Recalls Soft Ricotta/Requeson Cheese Due to Possible Health Risk
• CDC: Investigation Update: Listeria Outbreak, June 2026

# # #

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 13, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting at the Spark Pax Apartment complex in the 46000 block of Hilton Drive in Lexington Park.

 

At approximately 6:32 p.m., on Saturday, June 13, deputies responded to reports of multiple shots being fired. Upon arrival, deputies located two individuals suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Both victims were flown to regional hospitals for treatment.

 

Community members are asked to avoid the area for the next several hours as the investigation continues.

 

Additional information will be released as available.

The Board of Education of Charles County at its June 9 meeting unanimously approved the fiscal year 2027 operating budget. The $553,532,999 budget represents a $26.02 million increase, or 4.9%, over the fiscal year 2026 operating budget.  

 

The CCPS operating budget is primarily funded through state and county dollars, with about 39% coming from the overall Charles County general fund budget for fiscal year 2027. The approved budget prioritizes employee compensation and mandatory costs.  

 

Mandatory CCPS budget expenses include health care costs, negotiated school bus contractor wages and the replacement of retiring school buses, funding for special education, utility increases and funding to support the continual implementation of the required Blueprint for Maryland’s future policy areas.  

 

The budget also includes one-time cost increases that include portable weapons detection equipment, community and student pilot programs, additional transportation vehicles and the expansion of the gun detect software technology for installation on interior cameras. Budget reductions include the elimination of six central office positions, lapsed salary savings from 47 currently vacant positions (that include a mix of support staff and teaching positions) that will not be filled for the coming school year, and a decrease of funding to the Proximity Learning program.  

 

The fiscal year 2027 budget allocates $16,935,039 for employee compensation. The funding will go toward salary and cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increases for the Education Association of Charles County (EACC) and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) negotiated agreements.  

 

For the 2026-2027 school year, eligible certificated staff that fall under the EACC agreement will receive a one-step/one grade increase and a 3% COLA. CCPS eligible support staff who fall under the AFSCME negotiated agreement will receive a one-step/one grade increase and a 2.5% COLA.   

 

To learn more about the fiscal year 2027 approved operating budget request, visit the CCPS website here.  

 

About CCPS

Charles County Public Schools provides 27,904 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 38 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

 

The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Dr. Mike Blanchard, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event. 

 

CCPS provides nondiscriminatory equal access to school facilities in accordance with its Use of Facilities rules to designated youth groups (including, but not limited to, the Boy Scouts).

(June 11, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will perform routine maintenance on the MD 231 (Hallowing Point Road) bridge over the Patuxent River at the Calvert/Charles County line on Sunday, June 14. Maintenance crews will clean the bridge deck (riding surface) between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m., weather permitting.

One lane of the two-lane bridge will be closed, and crews will direct traffic using a flagging operation. Drivers should plan extra travel time during work. Customers who have questions may contact the District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or toll-free at 800-331-5603.

The State Highway Administration is?Serious About Safety?.? Motorists are urged to remain alert and avoid distractions when traveling through the work zone. Motorists must move over or slow down while driving through work zones.?Motorists can dial #77 on their mobile devices for roadside?assistance.

 

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, news and travel information, visit roads.maryland.gov?.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 11, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026 for the Juneteenth holiday. This includes the main office in Leonardtown and all satellite offices. Normal operations will resume on Monday, June 22, 2026.

Learn more about SMCHD programs, services, and hours of operation at smchd.org/about/locations.

# # #

On June 11, school administrators at Milton Somers Middle School received a report that a student, age 12, was in possession of a knife. The student displayed the knife while on the school bus; no threats were made. An administrative search resulted in the knife being located in the student’s bookbag. In accordance with MD law, the student cannot be charged due to their age. In an unrelated case, school administrators at Mattawoman Middle School learned of a student, age 13, smoking a vape inside a school bathroom. A vape was recovered as well as a knife, which was located in the student’s bookbag. The student was charged with possession of a dangerous weapon on school grounds. Both students face disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools student code of conduct. Parents are urged to speak with their children about the dangers and consequences of bringing weapons on school property.

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. 

 

11. Dereck E. Davis — Maryland State Treasurer
12. Mike Pellicciotti — Washington State Treasurer
13. Jake Barnett — Managing Director, Sustainable Investment Strategies, Wespath Benefits and Investments

The Council of Institutional Investors has requested a meeting with SpaceX and its advisers to discuss the concerns outlined in the letter before the company completes its offering.

The full letter is available here.  

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – June 11, 2026 – Calvert County Government offices will be closed Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. In addition:

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

· The Solomons Septage Receiving Facility will be open Friday, June 19.

· The Water & Sewerage billing and customer service office will be closed Friday, June 19. · Calvert County senior centers will be closed Friday, June 19, and Meals on Wheels will not be delivered. Meal delivery is scheduled to resume Monday, June 22. · All community centers will be closed Friday, June 19. · There will be no county bus service Friday, June 19.

· Calvert Library locations will be closed Friday, June 19, reopening Saturday, June 20. Downloadable materials and virtual services are available 24/7 at calvertlibrary.info/. · The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter and Animal Control Division will be closed Friday, June 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 Friday, June 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cruises will be running aboard the Wm. B. Tennison. · Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center will be open Friday, June 19, and will close early at 4 p.m. · Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center is closed for the summer for renovation work. Cove Point Pool will be open Friday, June 19 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Kings Landing Pool will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. · 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 Friday, June 19. · Chesapeake Hills Golf Course is scheduled to be open with normal hours Friday, June 19. · Flag Ponds Nature Park, Kings Landing Park and Battle Creek Cypress Swamp will be open Friday, June 19, with normal operating hours. · Breezy Point Beach & Campground will be open Friday, June 19, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – June 10, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation has launched the public engagement phase for the 2027 Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan (LPPRP), a comprehensive planning effort that will help guide decisions related to parks, recreation, public access, trails, natural resource stewardship and land preservation throughout the county.

Updated every five years, the LPPRP serves as a roadmap for future investments and priorities that support residents' quality of life while protecting Calvert County’s natural resources and recreational opportunities.

Residents, businesses and visitors are encouraged to participate and help shape the future of parks, recreation and land preservation planning in Calvert County.

Throughout July, members of the LPPRP engagement team will attend community events across the county to answer questions, provide information about the planning process and gather public feedback.

Residents are invited to attend any of the following events:

· Farmers Market at CalvertHealth 130 Hospital Road, Prince Frederick Tuesday, July 7, 2:30-5:30 p.m.

· Farmers Market at Dunkirk District Park 10750 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk Thursday, July 9, 2:30-5:30 p.m.

· Town of North Beach - First Friday Bay Avenue (between 2nd and 7th streets), North Beach Friday, July 10, 5-9 p.m.

· Calvert Marine Museum - Sharkfest 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Residents who are unable to attend an in-person event can participate online through the LPPRP engagement platform. Participants may choose to complete one or all the following activities:

· Complete a brief community survey.

· Explore and comment on an interactive map.

· Participate in budget and priority-setting activities.

· Learn more about the planning process and upcoming engagement opportunities.

For more information about the 2027 Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan and opportunities to participate, visit the engagement platform.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

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LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business day with a joint meeting with the Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS PAX). Discussion topics included the NAS PAX Airshow, the Intergovernmental Support Agreement, an update on the St. Mary’s 2050 Comprehensive Plan, the Defense Community Infrastructure Program, Encroachment and Air Installations Compatible Use Zones, the YMCA, and Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration.

 

The Commissioners then reconvened at 11 a.m. for their regular business meeting, starting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

 

As part of the consent agenda, the CSMC approved appointments to St. Mary’s County Boards, Committees, and Commissions.

 

The Commissioners then presented proclamations in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and National Certified Nursing Assistants Week.

 

The Commissioners also presented the 2026 Safety Matters Employee Awards on behalf of the St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) Safety Committee.

 

For their main agenda items, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Approved the Board of Education’s FY2027 Budget and quarterly payment.
• Approved a request to schedule a public hearing on July 14, 2026, on the proposed ordinance establishing the St. Mary’s County Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund.

 

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the Boys & Girls Club’s lease of the Carver Recreation Center.  
• Approved the FY2026 Defense Community Infrastructure Program grant application for the Willows Road sidewalk and Tuglagi Place Road extension/roundabout projects.
• Approved the Memorandum of Agreement between the College of Southern Maryland and the CSMC for Small Business Development Center services.
• Approved the FY2027 Memorandum of Understanding with Visit St. Mary’s MD.
• Approved the transfer of private activity bond allocation authority for 2026.
• Approved the resolution amending the Length of Service Awards Program.
• Approved the proposed corrective revenue ordinance for the purpose of correcting the service charge for the semiannual payment of property taxes. 
• Approved the assignment of the Dameron, Mechanicsville, and California Crown Castle sublease interests back to Crown Castle.

 

The Commissioners then wrapped up their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

 

There will be no CSMC meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. The next CSMC meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room, on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website by clicking Board Documents from the home page. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on SMCG TV Channel 95 or at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

 

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.

 

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• to incorporate this requirement into the Board’s Rules and Procedures.

 

Public Hearings

Commissioners held a public hearing on Proposed Bill 2026-04: Collective Bargaining Legislation. This draft legislation would establish a formal collective bargaining process for most full-time Charles County government employees by creating a new Article V in Chapter 197 of the County Code.

It grants eligible employees the right to organize, select an exclusive bargaining representative, and negotiate with the County over wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment. The legislation excludes EMS employees already covered under a separate collective bargaining article, as well as supervisors, confidential employees, appointed officials, part-time, temporary, seasonal, and contractual employees.

Commissioners voted unanimously to hold the record open for an additional 14 days, and afterwards the Board will schedule a work session to review input and discuss next steps.

Annual Update

Commissioners received updates from the following county boards and commissions:

• Board of Electrical Examiners
• Library Board of Trustees
• Interfaith Commission

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A Budget Amendment Increase of $430,000 to support immediate and long-term school safety and security initiatives.
• A request to reallocate the remaining funds from the FY2026 Beginner Farmer Equipment Rental Program to purchase additional equipment that supports the Soil Conservation District’s programs and services.
• A letter of support for the Greenwell Foundation’s application to the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. The program provides funding to community-based organizations that deliver services designed to reduce and prevent veteran suicide, improve mental health outcomes, and connect veterans and their families with critical resources and support systems.
• A proposed resolution authorizing the submission of an application to the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust’s Safe and Secure Water Access in Homes Grant Program. The program provides funding to help address water access challenges that impact the health, safety, and quality of life of Charles County residents.

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CDS Violation: 26-46471 On May 26, 2026, at approximately 6:10 a.m., DFC Brown responded to Solomon's Car Wash, located at 14060 H.G. Trueman Road in Solomons, for a report of a suspicious vehicle. Upon arrival, deputies observed a vehicle with its engine running and the driver passed out in the driver's seat. While approaching the vehicle, deputies noticed blood on the ground near the vehicle, as well as several discarded bloody napkins in the area. Deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Christopher William Walls, 36, of Lusby. During the encounter, deputies observed that Walls had slurred speech, red and bloodshot eyes, disheveled clothing, and a moderate odor of alcohol emanating from his breath. After conducting a series of field sobriety tests, deputies determined that Walls was impaired and unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. Walls advised deputies that a plastic bag inside the vehicle contained mushrooms (psilocybin). A subsequent search of the vehicle reportedly revealed multiple large plastic bags containing suspected psilocybin mushrooms, totaling approximately 470 grams, and suspected cocaine totaling approximately 4.58 grams.  Additional items seized as evidence included a Samsung cell phone, $632 in U.S. currency, a one-dollar bill containing white powder residue, a cut plastic straw with white powder residue, black digital scales with white powder residue, plastic cups, 1,726 black sealable bags labeled “Trippy Wizard”, cigarette cartons, and a package of CBD gummies. Walls was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. He was charged with CDS Possession – Not Cannabis, Possession with Intent to Distribute a CDS (Hallucinogen), DWI, DUI, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, Possession of CDS Paraphernalia, and Distribution of Narcotics.

 

CDS Violation: 26-47532 On May 29, 2026, at approximately 3:37 a.m., DFC Campbell conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation at the intersection of N. Solomons Island Road and Main Street in Prince Frederick. Contact was made with the vehicle's occupants, and the driver was unable to produce a valid driver's license. S/Dep. Idol and K9 Benji conducted a free-air sniff of the vehicle, during which K9 Benji positively alerted to the odor of narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed loose copper strands. A search of a passenger, Heather Lynn Davis, 43, of Prince Frederick, resulted in the discovery of two glass smoking devices containing burnt cocaine residue. Davis was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center, where she was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

 

Damaged Property: 26-46920 On May 27, 2026, Sgt. Robshaw responded to the 3400 block of Lancer Court in Dunkirk for a report of property destruction. The complainant reported that unknown suspect(s) damaged the top panel of the victim’s garage. The estimated value of the damage is $500.00.

 

Damaged Property: 26-47324 On May 28, 2026, Master Deputy Burgraff responded to the 12900 block of Barreda Boulevard in Lusby for a report of property destruction. The complainant reported that, sometime overnight, an unknown suspect(s) attempted to break into a camper parked in the front yard of the victim’s residence and damaged the lock. The estimated value of damaged property is $22.

 

Disorderly Conduct: 26-47754 On May 29, 2026, DFC Fleenor responded to the 12000 block of Rousby Hall Road in Lusby for multiple reports of an unresponsive male lying in the roadway. Upon arrival, the individual was identified as Michael Sean Marshall, 40, of Lusby, who was found lying on his back in the middle of Rousby Hall Road without shoes. Marshall was highly intoxicated and became verbally combative with EMS personnel and deputies who were attempting to provide assistance. During the encounter, Marshall spit directly at DFC Fleenor. As deputies placed Marshall under arrest, several nearby residents had gathered outside their homes and witnessed the incident while Marshall continued yelling and causing a disturbance. Marshall was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Second-Degree Assault, Disorderly Conduct, and Intoxicated Public Disturbance.

 

Theft: 26-48352 On May 31, DFC Claggett responded to the 6500 block of 12th Street in Chesapeake Beach for a reported theft. The complainant reported that an unknown suspect(s) stole a reflective pole marker from the victim’s yard. The value of the stolen property is estimated at $25. Theft: 26-47434 On May 28, 2026, DFC Campbell responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office District 2 station located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the reported theft. The complainant reported that after dropping her wallet in the PNC Bank parking lot in Prince Frederick, it was found and turned in by an unknown individual. When she retrieved the wallet, she discovered $80 in cash was missing. Nothing else was reported stolen. 

C-08-CR-25-000627

    

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, June 4, 2026, Charles County Circuit Court Judge H. James West sentenced Jason Shawn Smoot, Jr., 20, to 6 years in prison for Robbery. Upon release, Smoot will be on supervised probation for a period of five years. If he violates the terms of his probation, he faces an additional 6 years in prison.

On April 10, 2026, Smoot pleaded guilty to the aforementioned charge.

On September 29, 2025, officers with Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 300 block of Forest Lane in La Plata for the report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the victim, who reported that he arranged to sell his PlayStation 5 and accompanying controllers through Facebook Marketplace. The victim was contacted by an individual using a profile later determined to belong to Smoot and agreed to meet for the transaction.

Smoot instructed the victim to go to Palmetto Court in La Plata. When the victim arrived with the PlayStation 5, which was stored in an Under Armour backpack, Smoot grabbed the backpack and brandished a weapon. Fearing for his safety, the victim surrendered his property.

Investigators obtained surveillance footage from a nearby residence that captured the suspect wearing a dark blue hooded sweatshirt, black gym-style shorts, and Jordan Nike shoes, which was consistent with the victim’s description.

Through the course of the investigation, Smoot was identified as a suspect and detectives observed Smoot wearing similar clothes as the suspect of the robbery. He was subsequently apprehended and charged in connection with the robbery.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 8, 2026) – On Saturday, June 6, 2026, deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. The victim reported that his 2025 Ford Bronco had been stolen from his residence in Lexington Park.

 

Based on GPS tracking data, the vehicle was determined to be in the Loveville area. Deputies later located the Bronco operating near Point Lookout Road and Hollywood Road in Leonardtown and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The vehicle fled southbound on Point Lookout Road at a high rate of speed.

 

Deputies pursued the vehicle to the 22000 block of Hanover Drive, where four occupants exited the vehicle and fled on foot.

 

The Bronco was recovered, and no injuries were reported.

 

With assistance from witnesses, deputies located and arrested two juveniles in a nearby wooded area. As deputies continued searching the area, a 911 caller reported that a blue Toyota Camry had picked up two individuals matching the descriptions of the outstanding suspects near where the stolen vehicle had been abandoned.

 

Deputies located the Camry and, following an investigation, determined that two of its occupants were the remaining suspects who fled from the Bronco. One suspect was identified as Deshawn Anthony Carey, 18, of Lexington Park. The second suspect was identified as a juvenile.

 

Carey was transported to the St. Mary's County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and charged with 11 criminal offenses, including unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, theft of property valued at $25,000 or more but less than $100,000, theft of at least $1500 but less than $25,000, four counts of theft of at least $100 but less than $1500, two counts of theft of less than $100, theft of a credit card and willful and malicious destruction of property.

 

The three juveniles were referred to the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. Due to legal protections, juveniles are not publicly identified by law enforcement agencies.

 

The stolen vehicle was recovered, and no injuries were reported.

 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office thanks the citizen witnesses whose observations and information were instrumental in advancing this investigation.

 

Anyone with information about criminal activity is encouraged to contact the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office at 301-475-8008 or call 911 in an emergency. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through tip411 by:

 

• Text 847411: start your message with “SMCSO”, add a space, and then your tip.
• Online: Submit a tip through the Sheriff’s Office website at www.FirstSheriff.com/tips.
• App: Send a tip directly through the SMCSO app. Download the free app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Phone: For those who prefer to make a phone call, tips can also be shared through the Crime Solvers line at 301-475-3333.

 

With Crime Solvers, you never have to give your name. You may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 8, 2026) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Joseph Daren Brooks, Jr., 23, of Lexington Park, Maryland, was sentenced to LIFE in prison for the 2024 murder of a 23-year-old man.

On February 26, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of shots fired near Fox Ridge Road and Valley Drive in Lexington Park. Upon arrival, they located an unconscious victim in a vehicle suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. The victim ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

Brooks was convicted by a St. Mary’s County jury of first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime, and illegal possession of a regulated firearm by a disqualified person in November 2025 following a five-day trial.

The Court sentenced Brooks to a total sentence of LIFE plus 25 years in prison, with LIFE plus five years of active incarceration.

“Our community has no room for gun violence, especially when a senseless pull of the trigger comes at the cost of a life. While this sentence cannot undo the devastation inflicted on the victim’s family, it guarantees that this dangerous offender is removed from our streets,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “My office remains steadfast in our commitment to keeping our community safe, and those who choose to bring deadly violence into St. Mary’s County will spend the rest of their lives answering for it.”

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier and Assistant State’s Attorney Shaye Reynolds 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 Stanalonis presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Monday, June 22, 2026.

 

The June 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)
• Department of Recreation & Parks indoor programs and facilities (exceptions below)
• The Animal Adoption & Resource Center
• The St. Mary’s County Soil Conservation District

 

The following SMCG operations will be open on June 19:

• The six Convenience Centers (9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• The St. Andrews Landfill (8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
• Wellness & Aquatics Center (6 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• St. Clements Island Museum*, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum
• The Wicomico Shores Golf Course and Riverview Restaurant

 

*Note: the St. Clement’s Island Museum is operating on a limited basis due to construction. Additional details can be found at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/pio/docs/2025-163NewsReleaseSCIMuseumConstructionClosure.pdf. More information on water taxi operations is available at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/pio/docs/2026-124NewsReleaseWaterTaxi.pdf. 

 

The St. Mary’s County Government Museums Division, in partnership with the Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions (UCAC), will offer free open houses at the Drayden African American Schoolhouse and the U.S. Colored Troops (USCT) Interpretive Center at Lexington Manor Passive Park for Juneteenth from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026; Saturday, June 20, 2026; and Sunday, June 21, 2026.

 

Community members are also encouraged to attend the Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions’ Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 12 to 6 p.m. at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds. This free, family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, cultural performances, educational exhibits, food, vendors, and activities for all ages. Featured performances include Ms. Story’s Living History, the Ni Dembaya African Drum and Dance Ensemble, and the Get2Gether Band. The 2026 theme, “Building on the Promise of Freedom for All,” recognizes both the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary and the continued importance of reflecting on and celebrating freedom, unity, and the African American experience. Additional event details are available at www.ucaconline.org/juneteenth.

 

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.

On Friday, June 5, 2026, deputies from the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office responded to Great Mills High School following a report that a student had been threatened by another student.

 

According to the preliminary investigation, the victim was confronted by the suspect, a 16-year-old juvenile, who was armed with a knife. The victim was able to leave the area and notify a member of the school's administration. The suspect was located and detained, and a fixed-blade knife was subsequently recovered.

 

No injuries were reported.

 

The suspect was taken into custody and is being charged as an adult with first- and second-degree assault, attempted armed robbery, and possession of a weapon on school property.

 

Due to legal protection, juveniles are not publicly identified by law enforcement agencies.

 

The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office takes all threats involving school safety seriously and continues to work closely with St. Mary's County Public Schools to help maintain a safe learning environment for students and staff.

On June 3, school administrators and the school resource officer at Davis Middle School learned that a 12-year-old student had brought energy drinks mixed with alcohol in plastic bottles with the intent to sell them at school. Further investigation showed that two additional students, ages 11 and 12, had consumed the drinks while on the school bus in route to school. One student became ill and was transported to a hospital and later released. All three students were issued juvenile citations and face school consequences in accordance with the Charles County Public Schools student code of conduct. Parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of consuming products that can cause harmful and unpredictable effects in youth.

Due to construction work occurring near the Environmental Health entrance and parking area at the health department on 21580 Peabody Street, Leonardtown, walk-in Environmental Health services will be limited to dropping paperwork off at the Main Entrance of the building on Monday, June 8, 2026.

Environmental Health staff will remain available to assist residents by phone at 301-475-4321 and by email at smchd.env@maryland.gov.

Normal walk-in services will resume on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 7:00 a.m.

Please note that this temporary closure only affects the Environmental Health entrance and walk-in services. All other St. Mary’s County Health Department programs and services will continue to operate as usual.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience during this work.

 

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that a nighttime noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place June 10-25, 2026 from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

 

Pilots at NAS PAX will be conducting Field Carrier Landing Practices (FCLPs). FCLPs are simulated carrier landings conducted to prepare the pilot to land safely on an aircraft carrier. The practices consist of series of touch-and-go maneuvers, “bounces.” Residents may notice increased noise levels due to these operations.

 

As with all operations, NAS Patuxent River takes precautions to lessen the impact of testing activities on the community. For more information, call 1-866-819-9028. To view all current NAS PAX noise advisories please click the following link: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/PaxRiverNoise.

GLEN BURNIE, MD (June 4, 2026) – As the summer travel season gets underway, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office and the Maryland State Police remind Marylanders to be Serious About Safety and prioritize safety on the roadways. The 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are known as the deadliest days of the year as traffic crashes and road fatalities historically increase nationwide during this time.

Throughout the summer months, troopers from all 23 Maryland State Police barracks, including the State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort (SPIDRE) team, and law enforcement agencies across the state will conduct high-visibility enforcement, DUI saturation patrols and public outreach efforts across the state to deter dangerous driving behaviors and keep Maryland roadways safe.

“Summer travel means more vehicles on the road, more celebrations and unfortunately, more preventable crashes,” said Chrissy Nizer, Motor Vehicle Administrator and Governor Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative. “We want every Marylander to enjoy their summer safely by making responsible choices behind the wheel including planning ahead for a sober ride, avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits and always buckling up.”

So far this year, troopers have removed more than 2,000 suspected impaired drivers from our roadways, with the state’s specialized unit of troopers removing another 333 in areas with high rates of impaired driving crashes, particularly in the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan regions. Additionally, troopers have cited 1,600 drivers traveling 30 or more miles per hour over the posted speed limit and 350 drivers exceeding 100 miles per hour.

“In partnership with our law enforcement and highway safety partners, we are committed to ensuring every person who travels our roadways arrives at their destination safely,” said Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police. “Summer should be a season of making memories with family and friends, not tragedy on our highways. We urge motorists to obey the speed limit, never drive impaired, and remain alert, especially in work zones.”

Over the past five years in Maryland, nearly 800 people have been killed and almost 15,000 people injured in crashes involving impaired drivers. Speeding, distracted driving and aggressive driving also remain leading contributors to serious and fatal crashes during the summer months.

Roadway users are encouraged to: 

• Always designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service if consuming alcohol or drugs. 

• Buckle up on every trip, every seat, every time. 

• Follow posted speed limits and avoid aggressive driving behaviors. 

• Make a lane change or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing or parked vehicle displaying warning signals – including hazard warning lights, road flares or other caution signals. 

• Eliminate distractions and keep phones out of reach while driving. 

• Stay alert for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists sharing the road. 

• Slow down when traveling through work zones. 

Pedestrians are also reminded to use marked crosswalks whenever possible, remain alert while walking and wear bright or reflective clothing at night.

The Maryland Department of Transportation continues its commitment to reducing roadway fatalities through its Serious About Safety initiative and Maryland’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

Learn more about the Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office at ZeroDeathsMD.gov or follow @ZeroDeathsMD on social media.