PHILADELPHIA (Aug. 29, 2024) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today a final settlement over alleged violations related to wastewater treatment plants with Manufactured Home Community (MHC) management company Horizon Land Management, LLC (Horizon), and four of the MHCs it manages located in Lothian and Harwood, Maryland. Horizon is the managing agent for over 170 MHCs across the country. 

Through four administrative consent agreements with EPA, Horizon and the four MHCs—Boone’s Estates MHC, LLC, Lyons Creek MHC, LLC, Maryland Manor MHC, LLC and Patuxent MHC, LLC—will pay a combined total of $1,136,162 in penalties for alleged Clean Water Act violations associated with discharges from their wastewater treatment plants into local waterways, including suspended solids, nitrogen, dissolved oxygen and E. coli.  From January 2019 to October 2023, Boone’s had 194 exceedances of permit limits, Lyons Creek had 50 exceedances, Maryland Manor had 33 exceedances, and Patuxent had 38 exceedances.  These exceedances introduce illegal pollutants into the Patuxent River and its tributaries, negatively impacting water quality in those water bodies, which flow to the Chesapeake Bay.

The four MHCs are located in potential Environmental Justice Areas of Concern, and experience other environmental stressors from other industrial activity.  Maintenance of the wastewater treatment plants in each community was neglected for years.  In December 2023, EPA Region 3 entered into four Administrative Orders on Consent for Horizon and the MHCs to repair and improve the maintenance of each wastewater treatment plant to bring the plants back into compliance with their permits.

EPA Region 3 worked in conjunction with the Maryland Department of the Environment to address these cases. 

This settlement also furthers EPA’s obligation to reduce significant noncompliance and improve surface water quality by addressing unauthorized discharges and other violations that may impact public health and the environment. 

For more information about the Clean Water Act permit program, visit www.epa.gov/npdes.

BALTIMORE, MD (August 29, 2024) – The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Board today approved a $73 million contract (Phase 1) that awards Kiewit Infrastructure Co. as the Progressive Design-Builder that will undertake the complete design and construction of the I695 Francis Scott Key Bridge replacement. Proposals were evaluated by the MDTA selection committee, and the contract was awarded to the proposal deemed most advantageous to the State. The rebuild project is slated to begin in 2025 and the replacement bridge is expected to open in Fall 2028.

 

For this critical project, the MDTA is using a Progressive Design-Build process, which brings on board a project delivery team under one entity and a single contract to provide both design and construction services. The MDTA will work to foster collaboration among the project team, local communities and stakeholders, ensuring open communication and inclusive partnership opportunities, particularly for small and disadvantaged businesses. The project scope of work and accelerated timeline will require a substantial amount of skilled labor to complete the construction expeditiously, safely and reliably.

 

The two-phase Progressive Design-Build process emphasizes cooperation and flexibility to adapt to emerging needs and changes. The process involves a single contract that unites MDTA with Kiewit, which includes contractor and designer roles. Kiewit was procured as a qualified team for initial services to develop the project scope and requirements in collaboration with MDTA and project stakeholders. Upon successful completion of Phase 1, Kiewit will have exclusive negotiating rights for Phase 2, which includes project final design/engineering and construction. In the event a guaranteed maximum price is not agreed upon, the MDTA will deliver the work under a separate contracting mechanism.

 

The MDTA Board also approved the temporary suspension of toll collection on I-695/Exit 44 turnaround until the completion of the rebuild project. The MDTA began this pilot program in May to mitigate the effect on local traffic while providing truck and commercial vehicles with direct and easy access to the Port of Baltimore, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding communities and traffic. The MDTA is dedicated to creating a safer, more efficient transportation environment for all users, and recognizes this initiative will benefit customers.

 

In July, the Federal Highway Administration issued a Categorical Exclusion classification and National Environmental Policy Act approval for the I-695 Francis Scott Key Bridge Rebuild Project. The federal agency determined that because the replacement bridge will be within the former bridge’s right-of-way and have the same capacity of four travel lanes, it is not anticipated to significantly impact community, natural or cultural resources. The approval document can be viewed here. The MDTA released a Request for Proposals (RFP) in July for the General Engineering Consultant, who will serve as MDTA’s engineering representative for the Rebuild. The MDTA expects to award the $75 million contract in January 2025. As design advances, the MDTA will continue to engage with Marylanders on the future of the bridge. The MDTA would like to thank all of the teams who offered their services during the contract proposal process. Visit KeyBridgeRebuild.com for more information. 

A new poll finds the state's Senate race is a dead heat, and Marylanders 50 and older are highly motivated to vote. The bipartisan poll conducted on behalf of A-A-R-P Maryland surveyed more than 12-hundred likely voters. It found the Senate race between former Governor Larry Hogan and Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks is tied at 46-percent each, with 7-percent of voters undecided. Pollster Jeff Liszt with Impact Research says at this point in the race, name recognition is big.

 
"There are a lot of voters in Maryland who still don't know Alsobrooks, and so part of the reason that Larry Hogan is right now doing as well as he is with a lot of Democratic-leaning constituencies is that younger voters know Larry Hogan a lot better than they know Alsobrooks."

 
The poll found Kamala Harris leading Donald Trump in the state by a wide margin. With Hogan polling much better than Trump, Liszt says 33-percent of voters over 50 are currently splitting their tickets between the presidential race and the Senate contest.

 
Top issues resonating with Maryland voters 50 and older include the economy and jobs, threats to democracy, immigration and border security along with inflation and rising prices. The poll found more than 80-percent of voters 50 and older support funding the state grant program for family caregivers to cover some out-of-pocket expenses. A-A-R-P Maryland state director Hank Greenberg says there are several hundred-thousand family caregivers in the state.

 
"There are over 770,000 self-identified family caregivers, their out-of-pocket expenses are about $7,200 a year, and in fact, nearly a third of them, according to the survey that was just done, they're spending over 21 hours a week doing family caregiving, and they could really use some assistance in that regard."

 
The new Caregiver Expense Grant Program took effect July 1st and offers up to 25-hundred dollars a year to help cover care related expenses.

 
When pollsters asked voters 50 and older about specific issues, Greenberg says they found that Social Security was the top concern.

 
"52% of older voters say that Social Security is going to be a major source of their income, or is a major source of their income, and that's according to this study, and that 79% of older voters say that that candidate's position on Social Security is extremely or very important. "

Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) recently announced updates to the Income Eligibility Guidelines (IEGs) for free and reduced-price school meals. The guidelines, updated annually by the federal government, were adopted by MSDE through June 30, 2025. 

“Access to healthy, nutritious meals during the school day is an essential part of being ready to learn,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “We encourage all families to look for information about the free and reduced-price meal application process at the beginning of the school year from their child’s school.”

Eligibility is typically determined based on household size and income. For example, a child from a family of four qualifies for free school meals if their household's annual income is below $40,560. If the family's income falls between $40,561 and $57,720, the child becomes eligible for reduced-price meals. 

Application process highlights:

• Make sure to submit complete applications in full. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. 
• Following a review, schools will notify households about their children's eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. In cases where there are concerns or disagreements, parents and guardians can request clarification from school officials, appeal the decision or request a hearing with school district administrators.
• Certain groups of children, such as those enrolled in Head Start, Even Start, certified as homeless, migrant, runaway, foster children, or living in households receiving Food Supplement Program (FSP) or Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) benefits, automatically qualify for free meals and do not need to submit an application.
• Parents and guardians are encouraged to reapply at any time during the school year if there are any changes in household size, employment, income, or if their household becomes eligible for FSP or TCA. 

School meal programs are overseen by MSDE and adhere to nutrition standards set by the USDA. State funding through the Maryland Cares for Kids Act covers the cost of reduced-price meals. 

Adjustments to the IEGs are carried out annually by USDA to directly benefit children who are most in need. The IEGs were established by multiplying the 2024 federal income poverty guidelines by 130% to determine the household income levels for free meal eligibility, and by 185% for reduced-price meal eligibility. U.S. citizenship is not a requirement to apply.

For additional information, visit www.eatsmartmaryland.org or contact the Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs at 410-767-0219.

Free Meals

 

Household Size	Annual	Monthly	Twice per Month	Every Two Weeks	Weekly
1	$19,578	$1,632	$816	$753	$377
2	$26,572	$2,215	$1,108	$1,022	$511
3	$33,566	$2,798	$1,399	$1,291	$646
4	$40,560	$3,380	$1,690	$1,560	$780
5	$47,554	$3,963	$1,982	$1,829	$915
6	$54,548	$4,546	$2,273	$2,098	$1,049
7	$61,542	$5,129	$2,565	$2,367	$1,184
8	$68,536	$5,712	$2,856	$2,636	$1,318
For each additional family member add...	$6,994	$583	$292	$269	$135

Reduced-Price Meals

 

 

Household Size	Annual	Monthly	Twice per Month	Every Two Weeks	Weekly
1	$27,861	$2,322	$1,161	$1,072	$536
2	$37,814	$3,152	$1,576	$1,455	$728
3	$47,767	$3,981	$1,991	$1,838	$919
4	$57,720	$4,810	$2,405	$2,220	$1,110
5	$67,673	$5,640	$2,820	$2,603	$1,302
6	$77,626	$6,469	$3,235	$2,986	$1,493
7	$87,579	$7,299	$3,650	$3,369	$1,685
8	$97,532	$8,128	$4,064	$3,752	$1,876
For each additional family member add...	$9,953	$830	$415	$383	$192

 

 

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 CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of Women’s Equality Day.

 

For their main agenda item, the CSMC approved the request from County Attorney to schedule a public hearing regarding the proposed changes to the St. Mary’s County Ethics Ordinance.

 

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the FY25 Cooperative Reimbursement Agreement for the Child Support Grant.
• Accepted the Adult Recovery Court and Family Recovery Court award.
• Approved the Family Services Court Grant award. 
• Approved the State’s Attorney’s Office FY25 Gun Violence Reduction Grant award.
• Approved for the reclassification of the Administrative Coordinator position to a Coordinator II Marketing position for the Department of Recreation & Parks. 
• Approved the spending plan for the Maryland 9-1-1 Board Trust Fund.
• Authorized the Procurement Officer to execute the Contract Award for FDR Boulevard Phase 3B construction to the Great Mills Trading Post Company, Inc.

 

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

 

The CSMC will not meet on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. Visit stmaryscountymd.gov for more information. 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Monday, August 26, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge William R. Greer, Jr. sentenced Dustin Marcel Brown, 39, of Waldorf, to 35 years in prison for five counts of Child Pornography: Film in Sex Act. Brown will be on supervised probation for five years after his release. Upon his release, he is also required to register as a Tier II sex offender for 25 years.

Brown pleaded guilty to the aforementioned charges on March 8, 2024.

On August 29, 2023, officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in Waldorf for the report of a suspicious item located inside the residence. Officers spoke with the victim’s mother upon arrival. The victim’s mother reported that she located a hidden camera inside a ceiling-mounted smoke alarm in her then-16-year-old daughter’s bedroom. 

An investigation revealed that Brown, who was known to the victim and her mother, installed the camera in the victim’s bedroom without their knowledge. Two micro-SD cards were recovered from inside the residence. The SD cards contained over 4,000 video clips. One of the SD cards contained 81 videos identified as pornography.

During the investigation, Brown admitted to installing the camera.

During sentencing, the Assistant State’s Attorney assigned to the case told the judge, “This young lady, her mother, and [Brown’s] children will forever be changed and impacted by [Brown’s] actions.” She furthered that Brown was supposed to protect the victim, not act in his own “selfish, self-satisfying interest.”

 

Sentence

Count 2

• Child Pornography: Film in Sex Act
  • 10 years

Count 4

• Child Pornography: Film in Sex Act
  • 10 years
  • Consecutive to Count 2

Count 6

• Child Pornography: Film in Sex Act
  • 10 years
  • Consecutive to Counts 2 and 4

Count 8

• Child Pornography: Film in Sex Act
  • 10 years with all but 5 years suspended
  • Consecutive to Counts 2,4, and 6

Count 10

• Child Pornography: Film in Sex Act
  • 10 years will all suspended
  • Consecutive to Counts 2,4,6, and 8

5 Years of Supervised Probation

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) regularly partners with the Maryland State and Charles County boards of elections. Many CCPS facilities, including schools, serve as polling locations during local, state and national elections.

 

Staff from the Charles County Board of Elections is set to visit the seven CCPS high schools next month to share information with students about how to vote, voter registration and how to serve as an election judge.

 

These visits will occur during school lunch shifts so student instructional time is not impacted. Schools will notify parents/guardians of the schedule in advance so they can talk with their child about the opportunity to learn about voting.

 

• Monday, Sept. 16: La Plata High School.
• Tuesday, Sept. 17: North Point High School.
• Tuesday, Sept. 17: Thomas Stone High School.
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: St. Charles High School.
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: Westlake High School.
• Thursday, Sept. 19: Henry E. Lackey High School.
• Thursday, Sept. 19: Maurice J. McDonough High School.

 

Charles County Board of Election staff are State of Maryland employees with the Maryland State Board of Elections and do not represent any political party or affiliation or candidate in any election cycle.

 

CCPS plans to offer this opportunity to high school students annually.

 

To learn more about the Board of Elections, visit

https://www.charlescountymd.gov/government/board-of-elections.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, August 22, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Donine Carrington Martin sentenced Joseph John Bonaiuto, Jr., 56, of Waldorf, to 8 years in prison for First-Degree Assault and Fourth-Degree Sexual Offense. Bonaiuto will be on supervised probation for five years upon release. Upon his release, he is also required to register as a Tier I sex offender for 15 years.

On June 24, 2024, Bonaiuto pleaded guilty to the aforementioned charges.

On December 26, 2023, officers responded to Bonaiuto’s residence in Waldorf for a welfare check after receiving a call from Bonaiuto’s brother stating that he was holding the victim hostage. The victim, who was Bonaiuto’s significant other, opened the door when the officers arrived and appeared to have been crying before their arrival. Officers also made contact with Bonaiuto, who stated that he pointed a firearm at his head and the victim’s head.

An investigation revealed that during the evening hours of December 25, 2023, Bonaiuto and the victim were located inside their residence when Bonaiuto became frustrated with the victim. After taking a walk, Bonaiuto went to his bedroom to retrieve his firearm. Bonaiuto unloaded the firearm, put it to his head, and pulled the trigger. He then went downstairs with the unloaded firearm and ordered the victim to get on her knees. Bonaiuto asked the victim if she was scared of him; the victim replied yes. He then put the firearm to the victim’s head and pulled the trigger. Bonaiuto dropped the firearm after the victim flinched. Shortly after, he forced the victim to perform a sexual act on him. During the assault, Bonaiuto let the victim have breaks to cry, blow her nose, and get a drink. After the assault, Bonaiuto and the victim eventually went to sleep. Bonaiuto slept in his bed while the victim slept on the couch.

The next day, Bonaiuto drove to the courthouse to obtain divorce paperwork. He also drove to his daughter’s residence and told her some of the details of the assault. The daughter reported the assault to Bonaiuto’s brother, who called the police.

Bonaiuto admitted to officers that he assaulted the victim over the course of hours and told them that he was being a “disgusting degenerate to her” and treated her “as badly as she deserved to be treated in that moment”.

During sentencing, the Assistant State’s Attorney assigned to the case asked that Bonaiuto be sentenced to 20 years in prison with an additional 6 years suspended due to “the gravity of the offense.” She told the judge that Bonaiuto “needs to be held accountable for his actions” and that the victim did not deserve to be treated in the “inhuman, cruel, violent, self-serving manner” that Bonaiuto treated her.

Before sentencing Bonaiuto, the Honorable Judge Carrington Martin told him, “For hours upon hours, [the victim] was abused by you.” She furthered that “the consequences of your actions, regardless of the sentence, is you hurt her.”

The Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership (HSMP) will host their Annual Meeting on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the SMART Building at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland at 44219 Airport Rd, California, MD 20619.

All community members are invited to register and attend this free event. Participants will learn from subject matter experts and receive updates on health improvement efforts happening within St. Mary’s County. To register, please visit https://forms.gle/DNpwKsR1ESEy6zky8.

HSMP will also host a Healthy Food Drive at the 2024 HSMP Annual Meeting. All community members are invited to attend the HSMP Annual Meeting or drop off healthy food donations during the event. For examples of healthy food donations and tips to host your own Healthy Food Drive, visit healthystmarys.com/healthy-food-drive.

The 2024 HSMP Annual Meeting will include learning sessions from distinguished speakers on various topics related to four priority health issues facing St. Mary’s County:

• Behavioral Health (including mental health and substance use prevention and control)
• Chronic Disease
• Environmental Health
• Violence, Injury, and Trauma

“This year’s Annual Meeting is the perfect opportunity to get involved and learn more about health improvement in St. Mary’s County,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer and HSMP Co-Chair. “Participants will also learn about the various health improvement initiatives HSMP has implemented in the past year.”

For more information on speakers, session topics, or the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership, please visit healthystmarys.com/hsmpannual2024.

Due to forecasted high temperatures for Wednesday, Aug. 28, animal owners or custodians are required to provide appropriate protection from the weather including providing adequate shelter, water, space and access to shade.

Pay special attention to animals that are most prone to heat stroke:

·         Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with short noses, such as bulldogs, pugs, boxers, Persians and Shih Tzus, have compromised airways that make it difficult for them to cool themselves through panting.

·         Older Animals: Senior pets often have health conditions that make them less able to regulate their body temperature, increasing their risk of heat stroke.

·         Young Animals: Puppies and kittens are less capable of handling extreme temperatures due to their developing bodies.

·         Animals with Preexisting Health Conditions: Pets with respiratory, cardiovascular or other health issues are at higher risk of heat stroke due to their compromised health.

·         Thick-Coated Breeds: Animals with dense fur, such as huskies, malamutes and long-haired cats, may struggle to stay cool in hot weather.

·         Outdoor Animals: Animals kept outdoors should be monitored at all times and brought into a temperature-controlled environment if they begin to show signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, dizziness, disorientation, seizure or heavy panting.

Take preventative measures to protect animals during hot weather:

·         Provide ample water and shade to help them stay cool.

·         Avoid hot surfaces such as pavement and asphalt to prevent burns and overheating.

·         Adjust activity levels and exercise animals during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and keep sessions short.

·         Use cooling aids like cooling mats, fans, or damp towels for animals to lie on, and consider using pet-safe cooling vests.

·         Never leave pets in parked cars, which can quickly reach lethal temperatures, even with the windows slightly open.

·         Monitor at-risk pets closely and keep them indoors as much as possible during excessive heat.

·         Be vigilant for symptoms of heat stroke, including excessive panting, drooling and lethargy.

If you suspect an animal is suffering from heat stroke, immediately:

·         Move the animal to a cooler area.

·         Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.

·         Wet the animal with cool water and use a fan to aid cooling.

·         Contact a veterinarian immediately for further instructions.

Any person in violation of the requirements set forth in this alert may be subject to enforcement, which could include fines up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail.

To report concerns, citizens may contact the Animal Control Division at 410-535-1600, ext. 2526, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If the office is closed, reports may be made to the non-emergency line at 410-535-3491.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared in the event of an emergency by visiting www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Alerts and signing up for Calvert County Alert to receive timely information about various emergency and non-emergency situations in the county.

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.

Student in possession of cannabis at Davis Middle School: On August 27, a school resource officer at Davis Middle School was contacting a student regarding an unrelated incident. As he approached, the student passed an item, found to contain suspected cannabis, to another student. The officer recovered the cannabis, and the student was issued a juvenile citation. Parents are urged to talk with their students about the dangers of consuming or inhaling products containing unknown substances as they could contain potentially lethal substances such as Fentanyl. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Douglas at 301-609-3282 ext. 0658.  

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 27, 2024) – At approximately 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, officials in the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center (SMCDRC) were alerted that Jordan Poetzman, 29, of Leonardtown, removed his GPS monitoring device while attending court authorized inpatient treatment at a facility in California, MD.

 

Captain Richard Russell, Special Operations Commander for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, was off duty and returning from jury duty service when he heard the notification broadcast. He spotted the suspect while en route back to the office and, after a brief foot chase, successfully apprehended Poetzman at approximately 11:51 a.m.

 

"As law enforcement officers, we are committed to our civic duties both on and off duty," said Sheriff Steve Hall. "Captain Russell's actions exemplify our dedication to keeping our community safe, whether serving in court or responding to a call. His quick thinking and response highlight the importance of being vigilant and ready to act at all times."

 

Poetzman is incarcerated at the SMCDRC while facing neglect of a minor, controlled dangerous substance possession charges, and traffic violation charges following a June 2024 arrest.

 

Deputies from the Patrol Division responded to the scene, and Poetzman was transported back to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center to face escape charges.

 

BALTIMORE (August 27, 2024) – Results from the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) for the 2023-2024 school year showed modest increases statewide in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics scores.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) released complete results today during the State Board of Education meeting.

This year’s student proficiency rates indicate continued progress in reversing post-pandemic learning loss. An estimated 48.4 percent of students showed proficiency in ELA, up from 47.9 percent in 2022-2023. The mathematics proficiency rate in mathematics was 24.1 percent compared to 23.3 percent for the previous school year. 

“It is clear that we must accelerate gains urgently for students across Maryland,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “This is not just about proficiency rates on statewide assessments. A comprehensive approach is needed to meet our goals of ensuring that all students are ready for college, career and life.”

“More than ever, it is critical that we focus on the core work in schools,” said Dr. Joshua Michael, State Board of Education President. “We must get back to basics — ensuring students arrive each day ready to learn, engaging families as true partners, and supporting teachers to lead effective instruction each day. With strong leadership at MSDE, full implementation of the Blueprint, and strengthened partnerships with local school districts, we expect to see significant progress moving forward.”

The 2023-2024 school year marks the third full administration of the ELA and mathematics assessments after a shortened test for the 2021-2022 school year. No assessment was administered in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Other highlights of the 2023-2024 assessments:

• Most student groups maintained similar proficiency levels in ELA over the past year. ELA proficiency increased by 0.6 to 1.7 percentage points for most student groups, except for Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and multilingual students, which experienced slight declines. 
• No student group experienced a decline in mathematics proficiency. 
• Achievement gaps persist among student groups in both ELA and mathematics. Multilingual students, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities had lower proficiency rates as compared to the overall student population.

In January, the State Board set an aspirational target for Maryland to be among the top 10 states for literacy instruction by 2027. MSDE has also launched a $6.85 million, four-year philanthropic partnership with the nonprofit Ibis Group to increase literacy outcomes statewide. 

MSDE plans to continue working alongside local school systems in providing additional student supports, high-quality instructional materials, ongoing professional learning and data-driven academic interventions. MSDE is facilitating statewide professional learning for all educators on the Science of Reading and hosting Mathematics Learning Labs to assist school systems with data analysis and review.

Earlier this year, Dr. Wright created a task force to examine the state’s assessment and accountability systems for increased transparency and better connections between school ratings and student achievement. The Assessment and Accountability Task Force is expected to provide a report at the end of 2024. 

State ELA and mathematics assessments are administered annually in grades 3-8 and once in high school. ESSA also requires a statewide assessment in science for each grade band – grades 3-5, grades 6-8, and once in high school. 

The MCAP assessments measure mastery of Maryland content standards to ensure that all students are progressing and receiving the necessary resources for remediation and enrichment. MCAP assessments include four student performance levels: Beginning Learner, Developing Learner, Proficient Learner, and Distinguished Learner. Both distinguished and proficient learners are considered proficient.

State, school system, and school-level data will be published on the Maryland Report Card website in early September.

On August 26, a Youth Engagement Advocate at Thomas Stone High School located an unattended backpack in a hallway of the school. The backpack had a strong odor of cannabis emanating from it. Upon checking the bag, cannabis was located inside. The student the backpack belonged to was identified and will be charged on a juvenile civil citation with possession of cannabis. Parents are urged to talk with their students about the dangers of consuming or inhaling products containing unknown substances as they could contain potentially lethal substances such as Fentanyl. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PFC Ondrish at 301-609-3282 ext. 0636. 

Reckless Endangerment on Flaherty Place in Waldorf: On August 23 between 4:30 p.m. and 5 p.m., an adult male reported he was riding a motorcycle in the area of Flaherty Place in Waldorf when he thought he was struck by a rock. He went home and realized he was bleeding and then went to a nearby hospital where he was informed the wound was from a gunshot. Officers canvassed the area and detectives are investigating. Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call Detective Johnson at 301-609-6453. The investigation is ongoing.

NAS Patuxent River will close Cedar Point Road in the vicinity of Cedar Point Beach for equipment movement Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Drivers transiting to Atlantic Test Ranges (ATR) will have to access ATR from the south during this time.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – All St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) administrative offices will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of Labor Day. Offices will resume normal operating schedules on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

 

The September 2 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
• The six Convenience Centers and the St. Andrews Landfill

 

• The Animal Adoption & Resource Center

The following SMCG operations will be open on September 2:

• Great Mills Pool (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wellness & Aquatics Center (6 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
• St. Clements Island Museum, Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Old Jail Museum (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
• Wicomico Shores Golf Course (8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.)
• Riverview Restaurant (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
• Elms Beach, Myrtle Point & Snow Hill waterfront parks (8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.)
• Splash Pad at Nicolet Park (12 p.m. – 6 p.m.)

 

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

CDS Violation: 24-63071
On August 17, 2024, DFC Lewis and Deputy Tunnell initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle at the
intersection of Main St. and N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for a suspended
registration. Investigation revealed two halves of a pill, a steel razor blade, two blue capsules,
and two cut straws with white powdery residue were located inside the vehicle. The driver,
William Allen Carter, Jr., 58 of St. Leonard, was arrested and transported to the Calvert
County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession
of Paraphernalia.

CDS Violation: 24-63377
On August 18, 2024, Deputy Daily initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for multiple traffic
violations at the Sunderland Park & Ride in Sunderland. Contact was made with the driver,
Christopher Berry Walton, 49 of Chesapeake Beach and the passenger, Meagan Marie
Bailey, 30 of Harpers Ferry, WV. Further investigation revealed three clear smoking devices
with burnt residue, a crack pipe, a push rod, and crack rocks were located throughout the vehicle.
Walton was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he informed deputies he
was possessing a plastic bag containing a large amount suspected crack (14 grams). Walton was
charged with CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, CDS: Possession-Not
Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. Bailey was transported to CCDC and charged
with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Property Destruction: 24-63164
On August 17, 2024, Cpl. Barger responded to the Calvert County Detention Center in Prince
Frederick, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed, that inmate Ronald Lee
Russey-Thyes, 25 of no fixed address, broke a sprinkler head off the wall while in a booking
cell. The broken sprinkler head caused water to come out of the cell door and the fire alarm
activated. Russey-Thyes was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property less than $1000.00.

Resisting Arrest: 24-63257
On August 18, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the Prince Frederick Inn located at 75 Main
Street in Prince Frederick, for the report of a suspicious person. Contact was made with Quinn
McDonald Bannister, 59 of Prince Frederick. Bannister who initially refused to identify
himself. Further investigation revealed Bannister had an active warrant for his arrest. Bannister
became combative while resisting arrest. Bannister was transported to the Calvert County
Detention Center and charged with Resisting/ Interfere with Arrest, Failure to Obey a
Reasonable/ Lawful order of a Law Enforcement Officer, Trespassing on Private Property, and
served his warrant. 

Non-Fatal Shooting on Industrial Park Drive / Possible Road Rage Incident: On August 20 at 9:28 p.m., officers responded to EMS 3 in Waldorf for the report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they learned the victim was a passenger in a car being driven by an acquaintance and was traveling on Route 5 near Post Office Road in Waldorf. A vehicle got near them, and the driver was flashing lights and honking the horn. The vehicle turned onto Industrial Park Drive and stopped. The victim pulled alongside the car at which time the driver in the other vehicle fired a gunshot, striking the victim in the leg. The driver who was with the victim drove her to a nearby EMS station where she was treated. Detectives assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division responded. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Burgess at 301-609-6494. 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. Investigators are working on obtaining a good description of the suspect’s vehicle and the investigation is ongoing.   

Non-Fatal Shooting on Eden Woods Drive: On August 16 at 9:38 p.m., officers responded to the 2300 block of Eden Woods Drive in Waldorf for the report of gunshots.  A large amount of shell casings were located in the parking lot of the leasing office. One unrelated vehicle in the parking lot was damaged. Officers then received a report of two males at a nearby hospital with gunshot injuries. Detectives responded to the hospital; however, the males provided little information. Detectives are pursuing leads and ask anyone with information to call Detective Bringley at 301-609-6499. 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

Commercial Armed Robbery: On August 16 at 8:29 p.m., officers responded to the 4100 block of Royal Bengal Place in White Plains for the report of an armed robbery of an auto parts store. A preliminary investigation revealed the suspect, who was wearing all black with a mask and gloves, entered the business, displayed a handgun, and demanded money. The employees complied and the suspect fled. Anyone with information is asked to call the robbery unit at 301-609-6491. 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.

Patrol officers recover a stolen vehicle and arrest suspect in attempted credit card fraud case: On August 15 at 8:54 a.m., officers responded to a gas station/mini mart in the 6900 block of Indian Head Highway in Bryans Road, MD for the report of an attempted fraud that just occurred. The caller reported someone attempted to use his debit card that was stolen with his vehicle earlier in the morning. Officers checked camera footage and determined a female attempted a purchase with the stolen card, then fled in the stolen vehicle, a red Nissan Kicks. A photograph of the female was disseminated to officers. Based on further investigation, officers identified the driver of the stolen car as James Keith Hare, age 36, of Bryans Road. The female was identified as Giavonnie Shardonnay Johnson, age 27, of Bryans Road. Officers checked locations where both suspects frequent and observed them nearby. The suspects were arrested, and the victim’s debit card was recovered. Hare was charged with theft and was held without bond. Johnson was charged with theft, destruction of property, assault, and attempted theft using stolen debit card. On August 15, Johnson was released from the Charles County Detention Center by a district court commissioner on personal recognizance. Officers Giroux and Thomson are investigating.

Patrol officers recover loaded handgun and arrest suspect: On August 24 at 2:10 a.m., officers were conducting a neighborhood check when they observed a vehicle parked in the area of Thomas Hardy Place in Waldorf. Officers made contact with three occupants and detected the odor of cannabis. While conducting an investigation, one of the passengers fled from the car on foot. He was apprehended and found to be in possession of a loaded handgun with an extended magazine in his waistband. Jason Raymond Castro, Jr., age 20, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm, handgun in a car, and a handgun on person. The remaining subjects were released. On August 26, a judge ordered Castro to be held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. PFC Swann is investigating.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 26, 2024) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Markko Darvelle Morsell, 34, for escape. On August 22, 2024, while at his residence, Morsell removed his electronic monitoring device and fled the area.  Morsell was on pretrial release, facing charges of three counts of second-degree assault, one count of theft of $100 to under $1500, and one count of arson/threat.

 

Morsell is a black male, 6’3”, weighing approximately 319 pounds.

 

 

Anyone with information about Morsell’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at Joseph.Bowling@stmaryscounty md.gov, or at 301-475-4200, ext. 1959.

 

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. Type "Tip239" in the message block and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

 

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. 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.

The County Administrator wishes to remind residents of changes to operating schedules for the month of September: 

 

Monday, September 2 (Labor Day)

• All Charles County Government offices and the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville are closed.
• The Charles County Landfill, all Recycling Centers, and the Piney Church Road Mulch Facility are closed.
• Curbside recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed one day for the remaining week, Tuesday, Sept. 3 through Saturday, Sept. 7.
• VanGO services will not be operating.
• Port Tobacco Recreation Center, Elite Gymnastics, Waldorf Senior Recreational Center, and all school-based community centers are closed.
• The following indoor pools will be open for open swim from noon to 5 p.m.: Donald M. Wade Aquatic Center and North Point. Lackey pool will be closed. 

 

Operating status for other County affiliated agencies:

• Charles County Parks and Tourism Facilities: www.CharlesCountyParks.com/about-us/operating-status
• Charles County Public Library: www.ccplonline.org

• Charles County Health Department: www.CharlesCountyHealth.org
• Charles County Public Schools: www.ccboe.com

 

For questions about County Government holiday closures, contact the Public Information Office at 301-885-2779 or PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

 

BALTIMORE, MD (August 26, 2024) – The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) encourages drivers to strategize on their travels while maintaining the one common goal that we all have, which is to safely reach our holiday destinations. Including patience on your pack list along with driver courtesy will help us all accomplish this goal. For motorists traveling the Baltimore metropolitan area, it is important to note that the southeast section of I-695 remains closed at MD 173 (Exit 1) on the Outer Loop and MD 151/North Point Boulevard (Exit 42) on the Inner Loop. For more information visit https://mdta.maryland.gov/HarborCrossings.

 

The I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel and I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel have restrictionss on hazardous materials, width and height. Vehicles carrying hazardous or explosive materials, including bottled propane gas in U.S. DOT approved containers larger than 10 pounds (maximum of 10 ten-pound containers) are prohibited from using both tunnels. It does not matter whether or not the bottles are empty or full. This is the case for personal and business usage. These vehicles should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels. Note: Hazmat prohibitions and permissions within the tunnels are governed by the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR): Title 11, Subtitle 7, Chapter 1 (11.07.01). Based on COMAR, certain hazmats are permitted to travel the tunnels. Learn more by visiting https://mdta.maryland.gov/TunnelRestrictionsAndVehiclePermits.

 

Work zones are present within the heavily traveled I-95 corridor. The MDTA urges all motorists to focus, slow down and stay alert when driving through or near work zones. ESSENTIAL BAY BRIDGE TRAVEL INFORMATION For 24/7 real time Bay Bridge traffic information call 1-877-BAYSPAN (1-877-229-7726) or visit Baybridge.com. For real-time updates on major incidents on Maryland toll roads follow https://x.com/TheMDTA on X/Twitter. More than 350,000 vehicles will cross the Bay Bridge between Friday, August 30, and Labor Day Monday, September 2. Expect travel delays in both directions – often simultaneously – at the bridge and along the US 50 corridor throughout the entire holiday travel period when traveling peak hours. Motorists should stay on US 50 on both sides of the bridge to keep local roadways open for first responders and residents. 

 

The best times to travel across the Bay Bridge this holiday period include the following off-peak times: • Thursday, August 29 – before 12 p.m. and after 8 p.m. • Friday, August 30 – before 10 a.m. and after 9 p.m. • Saturday, August 31 – before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. • Sunday, September 1– before 11 a.m. and after 6 p.m. • Labor Day Monday, September 2 – before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m. Weather and traffic permitting, two-way operations will be implemented to help prevent eastbound queues from becoming gridlocked approaching the Bay Bridge. Two-way operations may be limited based on westbound traffic volumes, as bridge officials strive to mitigate delays on both sides of the bridge. Two-way operations are prohibited during bridge wind warnings/restrictions, fog/limited visibility or times of precipitation, and may be prohibited during incidents. Drivers who travel during peak hours should expect significant delays when crossing the bridge. We remind drivers that the core issue is traffic volume exceeding lane capacity, not two-way operation timing nor management. Lane use signals apply to travel lanes BEFORE, ON and AFTER the bridge wherever lane use signals are present. • RED X: Means the lane is closed. You MUST NOT enter or travel in any lane over which a RED X signal is shown. • YELLOW X: Prepare to vacate the lane beneath the YELLOW X signal and move to a lane with a DOWNWARD GREEN ARROW. • DOWNWARD GREEN ARROW: Motorists can drive in the lane beneath the GREEN ARROW signal. Commercial vehicles must travel across the Bay Bridge in the right lane. The MDTA Police and its law enforcement partners continue regular patrols and targeted traffic safety initiatives to keep every motorist safe. This includes enforcement when motorists fail to obey the lane-use control signals on the highway approaches and on the bridge. MANY DRIVERS, MANY ROADS, ONE GOAL: ARRIVE SAFELY. • Remember that Maryland’s Move Over law applies to all stopped vehicles displaying any type of caution signals or warning lights. If you cannot safely move over into an available lane that’s not immediately adjacent to the stopped vehicle, slow down. • Allow for extra time to get to your destination. • Adhere to speed limits. Speeding gives you less time to react and increases the severity of a crash. • Avoid distractions when driving. It only takes a second to wreck it. • There’s no excuse for impaired driving. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi or ride-share service or use Maryland Transit Administration’s public transportation options. • Look twice for motorcycles. Riders must have a valid motorcycle license and should stay up to date on motorcycle safety. Maryland requires that all riders must wear U.S. DOT certified helmet. • Make sure your vehicle is road ready. If your vehicle breaks down, exit the roadway. If that isn’t possible, remain inside your vehicle and call #77 for assistance. • Stay in your lane. Double (side-by-side) separation of lanes with solid–white lines in the same direction indicates lane changing is prohibited. Changing lanes in tunnels and on bridges can be hazardous, especially with minimal or no shoulders. The MDTA Police will remain vigilant and target dangerous drivers, seat belt violations and criminal activity throughout the holiday travel period. To report aggressive or dangerous driving on Maryland toll roads, call MDTA Police Dispatch at 410-537-7911. ALL-ELECTRONIC (CASHLESS) TOLLING METHODS Tolls in Maryland are collected through E-ZPass, Pay-By-Plate and Video Tolling. E-ZPass is the most cost-effective, saving drivers up to 77% versus the higher rates –and also saving the additional paperwork – that comes with Video Tolls. With Pay-By-Plate, tolls are automatically billed to the driver’s registered credit card as they use Maryland toll facilities, with no need for a transponder or pre-paid deposit. Pay-By-Plate rates are the same as former cash rates. Learn more and enroll in E-ZPass or sign up for Pay-By-Plate at https://www.driveezmd.com/acct-types/.

 

If using a rental vehicle over the holiday, you can add vehicle information temporarily to an E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate account. Otherwise, be sure to alert the rental car company before traveling a route that includes a toll facility. Use our toll rate calculator to plan your driving routes and estimate the cost of tolls based on your vehicle at https://driveezmd.com/toll-rate-calculator/. DriveEzMD Customer Service Centers will be closed Monday, September 2. Visit DriveEzMD.com, download the DriveEzMD mobile app or use the automated system at 1-888-321-6824 for 24/7 account maintenance or to make payments. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) continues to offer free mulch for residents to pick up from the St. Andrew’s Landfill.

Mulch is available for residents to pick up between the hours of 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday, as supply allows. The St. Andrew’s Landfill is closed on Sundays.

Residents are reminded that they are responsible for the loading and delivery of the free mulch at and from the landfill. Please bring a shovel, pitchfork, or similar hand tool to load the mulch and a tarp to cover the load, if necessary.

More information is available by calling DPW&T at (301) 475-4200. Additional recycling and solid waste program information is also available online at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/dpw.

 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, August 23, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge H. James West sentenced Andre Taylor, 63, to Life in prison for the First-Degree Murder of Vickie Lynn Belk. Taylor was convicted of the aforementioned charge by a Charles County jury on July 18, 2024.

On August 28, 1979, Belk’s then-boyfriend reported her missing to the Prince George’s County Police Department after last seeing her the day before at their shared place of work in Washington, D.C. Belk had not returned to her apartment in Suitland, MD.

On August 29, 1979, a local teenager called 911 after noticing a body on the ground in a wooded location in the area of Metropolitan Church Road and Route 227. Officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to the location and discovered the body of a woman with a gunshot wound to the right side of her head and undressed from the waist down.

On August 30, 1979, Belk was positively identified as the woman who was discovered in the wooded area. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore ruled her cause of death to be from the gunshot wound. 

Investigators recovered, processed, and maintained evidence during the initial investigation; however, the case went cold. In the following years, several detectives worked on the case. In more recent years, Detective Sergeant John Elliott of the CCSO’s Criminal Investigations Division continued the investigation and worked with various agencies to pursue leads.

As forensic technology advanced, the evidence of the murder continued to be re-examined. In 2022, the CCSO’s Forensic Science Section re-evaluated the evidence and submitted Belk’s clothing for testing with newer technology. A profile was developed and entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a national DNA database.

On November 1, 2022, Noelle Gehrman, the Deputy Director of the CCSO’s Forensic Science Section, was notified of a DNA match between the profiles developed from the evidence obtained from the Belk case and Taylor.

While investigating Taylor’s background, detectives learned that he was arrested for violent crimes that occurred in Washington, D.C. It was also discovered that Taylor lived at a residence in Bryan’s Road around the time of the murder. The address was less than 4 miles from where Belk’s body was discovered. Taylor also had connections to the area of Washington, D.C. where it is believed that Belk was abducted. 

Detectives began trying to locate Taylor, but he had no known address since 2019. In collaboration with the United States Homeland Security Investigations, DC Metropolitan Police Department Homicide, and the U.S. Secret Service Baltimore Field Office, detectives of the CCSO were able to locate Taylor in Washington, D.C., where he resided.

On June 22, 2023, Taylor was arrested by detectives assigned to the CCSO’s Criminal Investigations Division, CCSO’s Warrant/Fugitive Unit, the United States Marshals Service, Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, and members of the Metropolitan Police Department.

In an interview with detectives, Taylor admitted to actions that amounted to the rape of Belk, but he denied having any part in her murder.

At the time of the murder, Belk was 28 years old, and Taylor was 18 years old. There is no evidence that indicates that Belk and Taylor knew each other before the incident.

During sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney John Stackhouse told the judge that the incident caused “generational trauma because it went on for 45 years. [Belk’s] son grew up without a mother. Her parents had to bury their daughter. Her parents had to lay on their deathbed not knowing who killed their daughter. Her grandchildren never got a chance to meet their grandmother. – Yet all throughout this case, I’ve never seen a family with so much grit, determination, and grace.” He furthered that “when you victimize someone like this and then murder them, it really doesn’t get more horrific than that.” Echoing the word of Belk’s son, he asked the judge to “use the power you have to get justice, and justice in this case is Life.”

Before sentencing Taylor to Life in prison, the Honorable Judge West said that Belk “had a presence or spirit that has endured in ways that I’ve honestly never seen before,” furthering that the “victim leaves a tremendous legacy, and the family carries on a tremendous legacy.” He also stated that “the crime is a horrific loss of a life – the violence was extreme. The amount of fear and terror that preceded the violence doesn’t exist in most cases. [The incident was] so heinous, I can’t think of a lesser sentence that would be appropriate.”

LEONARDTOWN, MD - Esperanza Middle School will resume in-person instruction on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Working with the St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS), ServPro was contracted to complete the mold mitigation process. ServPro has been on site, has developed a plan, and has begun their work. In an abundance of caution, additional air quality testing from ESI Environmental Solutions is being conducted and Esperanza Middle School (EMS) will remain virtual through Tuesday, August 27th. For both Monday, August 26th and Tuesday, August 27th students will follow the regular bell schedule to attend all of their classes online.

 

The classrooms requiring mold mitigation are in the lower level of the building. ServoPro created a negative air pressure barrier using plastic polyethylene sheeting to seal off the affected areas, preventing the contamination of other areas. As a result, that part of the building will not be accessible and the school will not have the classroom space to bring all students back into the building. Therefore, 6th and 7th grade students will return to the building on Wednesday, August 28th, once we have the final comprehensive air quality assessment of the entire building and are confident that all other spaces are safe.

 

SMCPS has partnered with the University System of Maryland Southern Maryland (USMSM) in California, Maryland who has available instructional space to accommodate EMS 8th grade students while their classrooms are being remediated. 

 

Ms. Jennifer Consalvo, Principal of Esperanza Middle School said, “We are grateful that USMSM is accommodating our students. They have been an excellent partner, providing state-of-the-art instructional spaces for our students and staff so that we can resume in-person learning.”  

 

Esperanza Middle School 8th grade students will be attending school on the USMSM campus beginning August 28. Instruction will be delivered in their core content classes (English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Spanish, and Lit. Lab) at USMSM by their current EMS teachers. They will return to EMS at mid-day, where they will have lunch and attend their special areas classes.  EMS 8th grade teachers, along with support staff, such as an assistant principal, guidance counselor, nurse, and secretary will be on site each day at USMSM, supporting students. Additional communication will be shared with EMS families.

 

 Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed a search and seizure warrant on a residence in the 46000 block of Columbus Drive in Lexington Park on Saturday, resulting in the recovery of a weapon and the arrest of one individual.

 

As part of an ongoing weapons violation investigation, deputies secured a warrant to search the Lexington Park residence of Kyreek Montrel Adams, 20. The Criminal Intelligence Unit, in conjunction with members of the Emergency Services Team, conducted the operation.

 

During the search, deputies recovered a loaded Glock 9mm handgun equipped with a "switch" conversion device, which converts the firearm from semi-automatic to fully automatic.

 

Adams was taken into custody and charged with multiple offenses, including possession of a regulated firearm after being convicted of a disqualifying crime, possession of a firearm by an individual under the age of 21, and possession of a machine gun, among other related charges.

 

The suspect was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, where he awaits a bond hearing.

 

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place Aug. 22 – Sept. 6, 2024 from 8 a.m. – 10 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, or “bounces.” Airspeed, altitude and power are all precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach the ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our service members and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. It is a highly complex and perishable skill, and requires intense period of training before pilots deploy. 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

On August 22, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) Vice Narcotics Unit executed search and seizure warrants at two Southern Maryland residences as part of an ongoing drug distribution investigation.

 

The investigation, which began over a year ago and included additional search and seizure warrants in December 2023, led to the indictment and arrest of three individuals. John Kevin Fitzgerald Reed, 60, of Charlotte Hall; James Nathaniel Reed, 77, of Mechanicsville; and Francis Lavern Reed, 55, of Mechanicsville, were charged with multiple felony drug and firearm offenses.

 

As a result of the investigation, SMCSO recovered over 1,150 grams of cocaine, more than 455 grams of cannabis, over 500 various unprescribed pills, more than $17,700 in U.S. currency, 15 firearms, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. All three suspects are prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior convictions, and two of the recovered firearms were previously reported stolen.

 

The operation was conducted with support from the SMCSO Criminal Investigations and Patrol Divisions, Emergency Services Team, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

 

 On Thursday, August 22, 2024, at approximately 9:21 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 46000 block of Columbus Drive in Lexington Park following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired.

 

Witnesses reported seeing several individuals fleeing the area immediately after dozens of gunshots were heard. The investigation at the scene determined numerous residences and vehicles were struck, but no injuries were reported. Multiple shell casings were recovered.

 

The Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the investigation. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Warren Forinash at Warren.Forinash@stmaryscountymd.gov or by phone at 301-475-4200, ext. 8072.

 

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. Type "Tip239" in the message block and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

 

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. 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.

The Maryland Commission on Public Health wrapped up a flurry of activity after continuing its busy summer schedule of regular monthly meetings, hearing from local communities, and visiting health departments.

On July 30, the Commission met with Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) leadership in Silver Spring. County Executive Marc Elrich welcomed the Commission and shared remarks on his vision for advancing health equity by improving access to health care and tightly integrating health and human services.  DHHS Director Dr. James C. Bridgers, Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Kisha N. Davis, and Chief of Public Health Services Dr. Nina Ashford hosted the event.  After the site visit, the Commission held its second central region public listening session in Rockville.

Days later, Dr. Meena Brewster, Commission co-chair and St. Mary’s County Health Officer, presided at the August 1 meeting of the Commission on Public Health.  The Commission welcomed Dr. Georges C. Benjamin, president of the American Public Health Association and former Maryland Secretary of Health, to share his perspective on Maryland’s public health capabilities and opportunity for transformation.  The Commission also heard from academic partners at the University of Maryland and Morgan State University. These partners, along with the CDC Foundation, are supporting the Commission in conducting the statutorily required assessment of Maryland’s state and local public health system. The August 1 Commission meeting recording is available at smchd.org/coph.

On August 7th, the Commission visited the Talbot County Health Department’s (TCHD) new offices in Easton, representing the Commission’s fifth site visit to a local health department. Talbot County Health Officer Dr. Maria Maguire and TCHD team members highlighted several unique efforts of the health department, including special initiatives to support health and wellness for seniors. All nine local health officers representing Maryland’s Eastern Shore jurisdictions contributed to the discussion of the region's public health challenges, sharing their respective insights on rural health needs. Significant challenges remain with ensuring access to direct clinical services in more remote areas of the state and recruiting workforce.

The final public listening session will be hosted by the Baltimore City Health Department in October 2024. Details will be posted at smchd.org/coph when finalized.

The Commission on Public Health’s next meeting is September 5th and will be held at the Prince George’s County Government Building in Upper Marlboro. The meeting will be accessible online and recorded.  For more information about scheduled meetings or to provide input to the Commission, please visit the Commission’s website at smchd.org/coph.

Hotline or online form available; reports contribute data to marine science

Dolphins off the Ocean City inlet, photo by Mark Odell/Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources asks residents and visitors enjoying coastal and tidal waterways to remain alert for marine mammals and sea turtles through the end of summer and early fall. Dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, whales, and other marine wildlife are regular seasonal visitors to the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries, the Atlantic Ocean, and coastal bays.

Anyone who sees a marine mammal or sea turtle in Maryland waters is encouraged to report it via the Maryland Natural Resources Police Hotline, 800-628-9944, or use a simple online form to report deceased marine mammals or sea turtles. Anglers, boaters, and beachgoers should especially be on the lookout for stranded, dead, sick, injured, or entangled animals.

Since 1990, Maryland’s Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Response Program has answered reports of more than 1,400 strandings along Maryland’s 3,190 miles of coastline.

“Our responsibility is to respond to calls regarding deceased marine mammals and sea turtles,” said Stranding Response Program Coordinator Amanda Weschler. “While the death of marine wildlife can be a difficult reality, every report and the select necropsies we perform contribute valuable information to the scientific understanding of these species, their habitats, and the challenges they face in our waters.” 

So far in 2024, program staff have responded to 42 animals, including:

• 24 bottlenose dolphins
• 8 loggerhead sea turtles
• 3 grey seals
• 2 Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles
• 1 unknown balaenopterid (unidentified large whale skull)
• Single cases of harbor porpoise, harp seal, humpback whale, and striped dolphin

The Standing Response Program supports federal regulations, such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, which safeguard these marine species. By conducting necropsies on stranded marine mammals and sea turtles, the program gathers essential data about the health of individual animals, the status of coastal populations, and the overall condition of Maryland’s marine environment.

A necropsy, similar to an autopsy performed on humans, is a comprehensive examination of an animal’s body to determine the cause of death. This process involves organ sampling and diagnostic tissue analysis. Marine mammals strand for a variety of reasons including old age, disease, major trauma (vessel strike), predation, entanglement in fishing gear, and parasitism. 

Not all reported animals are viable for necropsy due to factors such as decomposition, resource availability, and the accessibility and safety of the stranding site. In cases where necropsy is not feasible, Stranding Response Program staff record details of the case, and the bodies are often left at the stranding site to decompose naturally, benefiting the ecosystem. Alternate disposal methods include burial on-site or removal to designated disposal facilities, depending on the circumstances and local regulations.  A list of relevant contacts for individuals seeking assistance with disposal is listed on the DNR website. 

The department urges anyone who encounters a stranded animal, alive or dead, to maintain a safe and respectful distance and record details, including photos, to provide with a report.

Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) held its 86th Annual Meeting on August 21, 2024, at the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall in Mechanicsville, Md.

The following SMECO members were elected to serve on SMECO’s Board for three years: Susan Hance-Wells of Calvert County; Kenneth W. Cross and Edward Holland of Charles County; and Walter Rayner Blair III and William R. Cullins III of St. Mary’s County.

More than 7,400 members voted in the SMECO election and results were announced at the meeting. SMECO’s election was conducted by mail and members could also vote electronically by casting their ballots online. Ballots were mailed to members on July 15. The deadline for submitting ballots by mail or electronically was August 14. Seventy-three percent of the ballots were returned by mail and 27 percent were cast online. Members who returned their ballots or voted online were eligible to win one of 30 electric bill credits of $50 each.

Blair, Chairman of the SMECO Board of Directors, welcomed SMECO’s members to the event and called the meeting to order. SMECO’s president and CEO, Sonja Cox, introduced the video version of the cooperative’s 2023 annual report.

The video underscored the impact of the cooperative’s longstanding relationship with Southern Maryland, highlighting the cooperative’s dedication to supporting local and diverse businesses, advancing charitable initiatives, and protecting the environment, while also maintaining its high standards of reliability even in the face of quickly rising costs.

“In 2023, the cooperative continued its efforts to upgrade and enhance the system’s infrastructure, taking care to maximize the value of every dollar spent, while still maintaining the level of reliability and quality customer service SMECO members expect and deserve.” Cox said.

Cox also answered questions about Rider-G, a Standard Offer Service option available to cooperative members who choose to have 100 percent of their electricity supplied from renewable sources.

 “SMECO was built by this community for this community, and we will continue to take the steps necessary to ensure the sustained financial wellbeing of the cooperative while remaining committed to our mission of providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions for our members,” Cox said. “We love our community and we want to see it thrive.”

 

 

Below are the results of the voting. You may use this information at your discretion:

 

            Calvert County (one elected)

Susan Hance-Wells                 4,000 votes

Ronald Nahas                         509 votes

Terry W. Schroepfer               1,036 votes

Timothy P. Twigg                   1,040 votes

Charles County (two elected)

Kenneth W. Cross                   5,950 votes

Edward Holland                     5,772 votes

 

St. Mary’s County (two elected)

Walter Rayner Blair, III          5,579 votes

William R. Cullins, III            6,005 votes

 

 

SMECO—The Cooperative Difference

SMECO was incorporated in 1937 and is one of the 15 largest electric cooperatives in the United States with more than 170,000 member accounts in Charles County, St. Mary’s County, southern Prince George’s County, and most of Calvert County.

Electric cooperatives are shaped by the communities they serve, because co-ops are owned by their customers.  Co-op members elect the men and women who serve on the Board of Directors. Members share the responsibility of ownership by financing the cooperative’s operations, but they also share its rewards.

At the end of each year, SMECO’s margins (profits) are allocated to members’ capital credit accounts. SMECO uses its profits to invest in new construction, system improvements, and facility upgrades. The Board of Directors regularly evaluates the financial condition of the co-op and determines when members will receive a refund. Since 1937, SMECO has refunded more than $128 million.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary's County Government (SMCG) is actively recruiting a highly qualified and motivated individual to serve as the next Director for the Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P). This key leadership role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of recreational services and facilities across the county, ensuring vibrant, engaging, and inclusive community spaces for all residents.

The Director of Recreation & Parks will be responsible for directing, coordinating, and evaluating the work of the department's staff to achieve both long-term and short-term goals. Reporting directly to the County Administrator, the Director will also play a key role in developing and implementing comprehensive strategies to enhance the county's parks, public landings, recreational facilities, and museums. The position requires extensive knowledge of public park planning, recreation program development, and the ability to work effectively with various advisory boards and community stakeholders.

"As we embark on the search for a new Director, I want to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary contributions of our current, Arthur Shepherd, who has served our community for over 40 years with county government,” said Commissioner President, James Randy Guy. “Arthur has been a steadfast leader, dedicated to enriching the lives of our residents by enhancing our parks, public beaches, museums, and recreational programs. He has overseen transformative improvements that have elevated the quality of life for us all and his legacy will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for the next leader stepping into this vital role."

With an annual salary range of $165,000 to $185,000, this position is based in Leonardtown, Maryland. Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, with a master’s degree preferred, and have at least seven years of related experience in a supervisory or managerial capacity. The successful candidate will be a resident of St. Mary’s County and demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and fiscal management skills, along with a deep commitment to public service.

"For 40 years, I've had the privilege of serving this community, not just as a job, but as a calling fueled by my passion for our parks, our people, and the spirit that makes this county so special,” said Arthur Shepherd, Director of Recreation & Parks. “The joy of seeing our parks flourish, our beaches come alive, and our recreational programs grow has exceeded my expectations. I came back to this role because of our community, and it has been an honor to lead such an incredible R&P team. But now, the time has come to pass the torch to someone who shares this passion, someone who will bring fresh energy and vision to carry forward the work we've started. This role isn't just about managing parks—it's about shaping the very heart of our community. I encourage those with a passion for public service, a vision for growth, and a dedication to community well-being to step forward and be a part of something truly special."

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/careers. The application process is open continuously until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to the Department of Human Resources at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1100.

About St. Mary's County Government
St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) delivers high quality public services, fosters opportunities for residents and businesses, and works to preserve the county’s natural environment, rich heritage, and rural character. Learn more at www.stmaryscountymd.gov.

Never miss an update! Subscribe for SMCG notices at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/signup.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Thursday, August 15, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Makeba Gibbs sentenced Sabrina Cocheye Embrey, 51, of Waldorf, to 6 months in jail for Second-Degree Child Abuse and Second-Degree Assault. Embrey will be on supervised probation for three years upon release.

On May 16, 2024, a Charles County jury found Embrey guilty of the aforementioned charges.

On October 3, 2023, an officer with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in Waldorf for the report of a domestic assault. An investigation revealed that Embrey got into a verbal disagreement with the 12-year-old victim, who was living with her. The disagreement escalated in Embrey’s bedroom, and she threatened the victim with pepper spray. The victim left Embrey’s bedroom however, Embrey followed the victim into his bedroom with pepper spray. The victim became combative, and Embrey pepper sprayed him.

Embrey previously used pepper spray on the victim during a separate altercation and was warned by Child Protective Services not to do it again.

During sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney Edward Stickles told the judge, “It is the State’s hope that this never happens again.” Assistant State’s Attorney Blaec Shaw furthered that Embrey “very clearly antagonized the victim throughout the incident” and that she took “action both physically and mentally that will forever affect [the victim].” 

 

 Sentence

Count 1

• Second-Degree Child Abuse
  • 10 Years with all but 6 months suspended

Count 2

• Second-Degree Assault
  • 10 years with all suspended
  • Concurrent with Count 1

 

The Maryland State Board of Education will hold a public hearing Tuesday, August 27 on the draft Comprehensive K-3 Literacy Policy proposed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). The Board will hear public testimony at 3:30 p.m. 

The one-hour hearing will be held during the regular State Board monthly meeting. The State Board will receive comments from up to 20 members of the public. A virtual option is also available for testimony.

The revised policy is available for review on the MSDE website. 

The literacy policy was revised based on feedback given during the original open comment period that ended last month. Major revisions include clarifying the role of family partnerships, implementing grade promotion and retention policies, and offering options in lieu of retention.

A timeline for implementation is also included. 

Following the public hearing, the literacy policy will be finalized for the State Board’s consideration and vote at its September meeting.

Members of the public will be able to view both the regular meeting and the public hearing via livestream. Registration to provide comments during the public hearing ends Monday August 26 at 3 p.m. Interested individuals can register to provide in-person or virtual testimony by completing this online form. 

Confirmed registrants for public comment will be notified. Comments are limited to three minutes for each speaker and monitored by staff.

The State Board will also hold its usual public comment period for 30 minutes during the morning portion of the meeting. Members of the public can find more information regarding the public hearing on the MSDE website. The complete agenda and livestream for the August 27 meeting will be available online. The meeting will also be on YouTube.

Baltimore, Maryland –Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Bijon A. Mostoufi and Joseph Wenner will lead the efforts of his Office that support the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024 general election.  AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the District of Maryland, and in that capacity, they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints involving voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, all in consultation with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C.
 

The Department of Justice plays an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud, wherever they may occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
 

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they must be able to vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 
 

U.S. Attorney Barron stated: “Voting is a hallmark of our democracy and an essential right in our State and in this country.  My Office is committed to protecting that right and to pursue and prosecute those who discourage or interfere with the exercise of it.  I am proud to lead the District of Maryland’s efforts to support the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program.”  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner will be on duty in Maryland while the polls are open.  AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner can be reached at 301-344-4433. Any allegation of election fraud or voting rights violations will be reviewed in consultation with state and federal authorities where appropriate, and we will pursue any case that warrants prosecution.”         
 

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 410-265-8080.

 

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .

 

Protecting the right to vote, prosecuting election fraud, and securing our elections are all essential to maintaining the confidence of all Americans in our democratic system of government. The department encourages anyone with information regarding concerns in these subject areas to contact the appropriate authorities.
 

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

 

Baltimore, Maryland –Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Bijon A. Mostoufi and Joseph Wenner will lead the efforts of his Office that support the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024 general election.  AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the District of Maryland, and in that capacity, they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints involving voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, all in consultation with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C.
 

The Department of Justice plays an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud, wherever they may occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
 

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they must be able to vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 
 

U.S. Attorney Barron stated: “Voting is a hallmark of our democracy and an essential right in our State and in this country.  My Office is committed to protecting that right and to pursue and prosecute those who discourage or interfere with the exercise of it.  I am proud to lead the District of Maryland’s efforts to support the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program.”  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner will be on duty in Maryland while the polls are open.  AUSAs Mostoufi and Wenner can be reached at 301-344-4433. Any allegation of election fraud or voting rights violations will be reviewed in consultation with state and federal authorities where appropriate, and we will pursue any case that warrants prosecution.”         
 

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 410-265-8080.

 

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .

 

Protecting the right to vote, prosecuting election fraud, and securing our elections are all essential to maintaining the confidence of all Americans in our democratic system of government. The department encourages anyone with information regarding concerns in these subject areas to contact the appropriate authorities.
 

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

 

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place Aug. 22 – Sept. 6, 2024 from 8 a.m. – 10 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, or “bounces.” Airspeed, altitude and power are all precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach the ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our service members and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. It is a highly complex and perishable skill, and requires intense period of training before pilots deploy. 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

Several Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) students will receive free breakfast this school year as part of funding provided by the Maryland Meals for Achievement program.

The program, known as MMFA, is offered through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and provides funding that supplements federal reimbursements CCPS receives from the USDA School Breakfast Program. The MMFA program provides students with access to a healthy breakfast daily at school. Last year, 28 schools received free breakfasts. This year, the number has increased by two, bringing the total up to 30 schools. The Early Learning Center, La Plata, and Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School have been added this year.

 

“This program is one that we are very proud of,” Crystal Richardson, CCPS supervisor of food and nutrition services, said. “It provides an added service to our students and parents because there is no cost to any child in the school for breakfast each day.”

 

Schools are eligible for the program if the percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals is above 40%. Eligibility is based on counts from the previous school year. MSDE must approve all MMFA participating schools in advance. Schools listed below with (CEP) next to the name are also providing free healthy lunches to students this year through a federal grant program called Community Eligibility Provision, also known as CEP. To learn about CEP, visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/cn/community-eligibility-provision.

 

Parents of students who attend MMFA designated schools should still complete the meals benefit application. The MMFA program does not provide for free lunches for students. However, students who attend schools that are designated as both an MMFA and CEP school receive free breakfast and lunch.

 

Students who attend the following schools can eat breakfast free for the entire school year. CEP schools are also designated below (students at those schools get free breakfast and lunch).

 

Elementary Schools

· C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School.

· Berry Elementary School.

· Billingsley Elementary School.

· Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School (CEP).

· Gale-Bailey Elementary School.

· Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School.

· Indian Head Elementary School (CEP).

· Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary School (CEP).

· Malcolm Elementary School.

· Arthur Middleton Elementary School (CEP).

· Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School (CEP).

· Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School (CEP).

· Mary B. Neal Elementary School.

· J.C. Parks Elementary School.

· J.P. Ryon Elementary School (CEP).

· Eva Turner Elementary School (CEP).

· William B. Wade Elementary School.

 

Middle Schools

· Theodore G. Davis Middle School.

· John Hanson Middle School (CEP).

· Matthew Henson Middle School.

· Mattawoman Middle School.

· General Smallwood Middle School (CEP).

· Benjamin Stoddert Middle School (CEP).

 

High Schools

· Henry E. Lackey High School.

· St. Charles High School.

· Thomas Stone High School (CEP).

· Westlake High School.

 

Centers

· Early Learning Center, La Plata.

· F.B. Gwynn Educational Center.

· Robert D. Stethem Educational Center.

 

Data collected from such forms allows CCPS to continue to provide free meals to students. The application is posted on the CCPS website under the Quick Links menu at www.ccboe.com.

CCPS posts breakfast and lunch menus on the school system website at www.ccboe.com. Parents can create an account to follow the menus posted for their child’s specific schools.

For questions about the CCPS Food and Nutrition Services program, call 301-392-5570.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Webster Outlying Field, and areas out to Fort Walker, Virginia are advised that noise-generating nighttime testing events are scheduled to take place Aug. 22, 2024  from 7 p.m. through 10 p.m. Night testing and training is essential for the precision and safety of our military men and women and the success of their mission. 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.

The Calvert County Department of Community Resources is seeking public feedback on the draft American Disabilities Act (ADA) Self-Assessment & Transition Plan, an initiative designed to identify and rectify barriers within county facilities and programming. Your honest and critical feedback will help ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities.

View the draft plan and submit feedback online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ADAPlan. Physical copies of the plan are also available for review at the Department of Community Resources located at 30 Duke St. in Prince Frederick, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Community members are encouraged to share their opinions and suggestions by email at adacoordinator@calvertcountymd.gov or by calling the ADA Coordinator at 410-535-1600, ext. 8802. 

Learn more about the Department of Community Resources at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/CommunityResources, and follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CalvertCommunityResources.

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.

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On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at approximately 6:40 p.m., Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded to a report of a single-vehicle collision on Forest Park Road in Lexington Park. The passenger of the Jeep Grand Cherokee told deputies the driver was having a medical emergency when the vehicle left the roadway.

 

The driver was transported to the hospital and pronounced deceased. As a precautionary measure, the passenger was transported for a medical evaluation.

 

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any additional information is asked to contact Deputy Bianca Melton at 301-475-4200, ext. 8185, or by email at Bianca.Melton@stmaryscountymd.gov.

On August 18, Charles County Sheriff's officers received a call to check on the welfare of a woman, whose family was concerned for her safety. The woman’s family, who reside out of state, reported that she was in a physically abusive relationship with her boyfriend, Howard Theodore Coleman, Jr., age 42, of Waldorf, and had not been heard from for several days.

 

Patrol officers responded to the residence in the 9300 block of Brechin Place in Waldorf, attempting to contact the woman; however, their efforts to reach her were unsuccessful. After learning additional details, detectives assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) were notified and took over the investigation. A search warrant was obtained for the residence, and the CCSO’s Emergency Services Team (EST) was deployed to serve it. Upon arrival, Coleman refused to cooperate. Officers utilized a drone and made entry into the house. Hostage negotiators contacted Coleman, who was agitated and refused to cooperate, and learned the woman had been stabbed several times and had severe lacerations. Coleman was known to have firearms and other weapons and he had a previous history of violent criminal activity. 

 

Understanding the critical nature of the situation, numerous facets of the CCSO mobilized to ensure the woman’s safe rescue. Hostage negotiators played a pivotal role, attempting to de-escalate the situation while members of the EST developed a safe plan to enter the house. While Coleman was on the phone with negotiators, members of the EST made their way into the house and were able to rescue the woman and get her outside to Waldorf emergency medical personnel, who were standing by. Almost simultaneously, the suspect shot himself; he was pronounced deceased on the scene and a gun was by his side. Members of the CCSO’s Forensic Science Services (FSS) processed the scene, recovering one rifle, a handgun, bulletproof vests, and large-capacity magazines.

 

The woman was flown to a hospital with critical injuries including multiple stab wounds to the head and upper body and a possible broken jaw.

  

“This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of swift, coordinated action by law enforcement. The officers and medical responders played a crucial role in ensuring the successful rescue of the victim and immediate medical care. We are committed to supporting her through her recovery,” said Sheriff Troy D. Berry. Detective Worley is investigating.

 

As a result of air quality issues and the presence of mold spores in parts of the building, Esperanza Middle School (EMS) will remain closed to students and staff during the week.

 

Due to the scope of the remediation area, the opening of EMS for students will be delayed, with the following schedule for the remainder of this week:

• EMS staff will be teleworking Wednesday-Friday.
• Students will participate in virtual instruction on Thursday and Friday, August 22-23, 2024.
• Tech Support will be available for students on Thursday and Friday.
• Schoology support resources have been provided. 
• Additional details have been provided to students and families.

 

Our priority remains the well-being of all EMS staff, students, and families. Understanding and patience is appreciated as we work diligently to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Darrick Monte Evans, 45, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 16 years in prison for the distribution of fentanyl that caused a fatal overdose.

In March 2022, Evans distributed fentanyl, which was sold and stamped as oxycodone, to an individual who overdosed and died. The Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death as fentanyl intoxication. By examining the victim’s phone records, investigators discovered text messages, phone calls, and a transfer of funds that revealed Evans to be the individual who distributed fentanyl to the victim.

“There must be severe consequences for anyone engaged in the distribution of this deadly drug. Fentanyl, especially fentanyl deceptively marked as a prescription pill, is inherently dangerous. In this tragic case, the Defendant’s criminal actions led to the loss of a life,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “Our office will continue to vigorously prosecute those who threaten public safety by trafficking this toxic and lethal poison.”

Evans was convicted of felony distribution of fentanyl. Although the Maryland Sentencing Guidelines called for a sentence between two and eight years, the prosecutor requested Evans to be sentenced to the maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The Court sentenced Evans to 16 years in prison, an active sentence above the sentencing guidelines range.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Ridge, Chief of Narcotics, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Corporal David Potter of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.

 

Charles County Government is proud to announce the launch of a new digital community engagement website to foster trust and collaboration with the local community. This new website, named "Stay Engaged, Charles County," serves as a vital channel for residents to actively participate in shaping the future of their county by sharing their insights, concerns, and ideas on upcoming plans and initiatives.

With “Stay Engaged, Charles County,” Charles County Government establishes interactive engagement options on local projects, connecting residents with comprehensive information and directly asking for their valuable input. In preparation for launching this expanded tool, Charles County Government has used the Engage platform to enhance communications for the fiscal 2025 budget cycle and begin the stakeholder engagement process for the new Sports and Wellness Complex located at St. Charles Towne Center.

 

“We are always striving to engage with more of our residents, and this new tool is designed to promote two-way dialogue, encourage feedback, and strengthen trust between residents and county government,” stated Deborah E. Hall, Acting County Administrator. “The official launch of this website is a significant step toward directly collaborating with our community to bring their needs and concerns to the fore, helping us make the best decisions for the future of our county."

 

This tool builds on a digital platform supported by Zencity that the county acquired in 2022 to facilitate feedback from more residents and get meaningful and actionable insights. This new tool component, a community engagement website, will inform and gather input from residents in up to 27 languages and make it easier for residents to participate—on their own time, from wherever is convenient. Residents are encouraged to use "Stay Engaged, Charles County" to learn more about current and upcoming projects in the county. Click here to view the Charles County Engage page.

 

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md.— Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) is establishing a joint Family Life Committee of educators who work in CCPS and community representatives who reside in Calvert County for the purpose of reviewing and commenting on, and where appropriate, recommending instructional materials. Members will serve for a one-year term. The Family Life Committee will meet the 2nd Monday of each month, January through May at 6PM. At the initial meeting, the purpose, expectations, and the process for reviewing materials will be reviewed. Following full group sessions, the committee will divide into an elementary and a secondary committee where specific family life instructional materials will be reviewed and discussed. CCPS is asking for any community member or parent residing in Calvert County to consider serving on this committee. Eight community members and parents representing elementary and secondary schools will be randomly selected. An official notification will be sent to those who are selected by September 20. If you are interested in serving on the Family Life Committee, please complete the survey on this form: https://forms.office.com/r/t5g5KLbvuN by August 30. Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) is establishing Library Reconsideration Committees for Elementary, Middle, and High School. Members will serve for a one-year term. CCPS is asking for any community member or parent residing in Calvert County to consider serving on these committees. Each committee will consist of administrators, teachers, librarians, students, community members and parents. These committees will meet based on need. 

One (1) community member and two (2) parents will be randomly selected to serve on each committee. An official notification will be sent to those who are selected by September 20. If additional committees are needed, members will be selected at random from the original list. If you are interested in serving on a Library Reconsideration Committee, please complete the survey on this form: https://forms.office.com/r/DBa5b0Jzgg by August 30.

The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. to receive and consider comments regarding a proposed ordinance to enact and adopt a local business preference program. The public hearing will be held in the Commissioners Hearing Room, located in the Calvert County Circuit Courthouse, Second Floor, at 175 Main St. in Prince Frederick.

The public may dial in by phone (audio only) to participate remotely:

·         Toll-free: 301-715-8592

·         Meeting ID: 899 4188 8251

·         Passcode (if asked): #

·         To provide public comment: *9

To ensure full public access, the hearing will be streamed live during the regular Aug. 27 BOCC meeting on the Calvert County Government YouTube page at www.youtube.com/CalvertCountyGov and through the Calvert County Government website at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Meetings.  The meeting will also be broadcast live on Comcast channel 99 and 1070 HD. Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities or linguistic barriers should be requested by contacting the BOCC office at 410-535-1600, ext. 2202, or TTY 1-800-735-2258.

A local business preference ordinance is a policy intended to give a competitive advantage to local businesses when bidding for county contracts. The proposed ordinance is designed to prioritize companies based in Calvert County, even if their bid is slightly higher than non-local competitors. To learn more and review the ordinance in its entirety, visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/LocalPreference.

The BOCC is considering the local business preference ordinance with the following tentative timeline for its potential implementation:

·         Aug. 20: The BOCC held an initial work session to review the draft of the ordinance during its regular meeting at 10 a.m.

·         Aug. 27: A public hearing is scheduled at 10:30 a.m. during the BOCC’s regular meeting. This hearing will provide an opportunity for public input on the proposed ordinance.

·         Sept. 3: A final draft is completed, incorporating public feedback.

·         Sept. 10: A second work session may be held by the BOCC to discuss any final revisions.

·         Sept. 24: The BOCC may vote on the proposed ordinance.

·         Oct. 1: If adopted, the new ordinance would take effect.

Please note that all dates are subject to change based on BOCC review and public feedback. Community participation in the public hearing will help guide the decision-making process. View BOCC meetings and agendas at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Meetings.

Interested persons are encouraged to attend the public hearing in person or virtually. Individuals may also submit written comments. Written comments may be submitted by email to procurement@calvertcountymd.gov or mailed to the BOCC at 175 Main St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678.

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 – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County are pleased to announce the appointment of Vanetta N. Van Cleave as the new Chief Financial Officer for St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG). Van Cleave brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to public service, having held key financial leadership roles in various healthcare systems and public organizations across the nation. Van Cleave will assume her role effective October 21, 2024.

Prior to joining St. Mary’s County, Ms. Van Cleave held influential positions with organizations such as Ernst & Young Healthcare Sciences Advisory Services, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation in Alaska, Alameda Health System in California, and North Tahoe Public Utility District. Her career has been distinguished by her dedication to optimizing resources for the greater good, ensuring responsible financial management, and protecting the long-term sustainability of the organizations she served.

Ms. Van Cleave is a graduate of San Diego State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance, graduating Magna Cum Laude with Distinction. She also holds a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from the Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Davis. She is an active member of the Government Finance Officers Association and has been recognized for her academic and professional excellence through membership in the Phi Kappa Phi and Beta Gamma Sigma honor societies.

"We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Van Cleave as our new Chief Financial Officer,” said Commissioner President, James Randy Guy. “Her extensive experience and dedication to service will be invaluable as we continue to ensure the responsible stewardship of our resources."

"I am deeply honored to join this exceptional leadership team and to be entrusted with the role of Chief Financial Officer for St. Mary’s County,” said Van Cleave. “I look forward to supporting the Commissioners and County Administrator in their service to the residents of St. Mary’s County and in implementing their vision for the future.”

For more information on the Finance Department, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/finance.

Luricko Amazzio Clyburn Jr., 18, of Great Mills, was arrested on Monday, August 19, after an investigation into an assault at a local business in the 21000 block of Great Mills Road.

 

Deputies responded to the incident around 5:40 p.m. and spoke with witnesses who reported seeing a fight between two men. A victim was found with a stab wound to the abdomen and was taken to a nearby hospital by Emergency Medical Services. He is currently in stable condition. The suspect had fled the scene.

 

Deputies later found the vehicle the suspect used to flee and detained him. Detectives and Crime Lab Technicians from the Criminal Investigations Division took over the investigation, arrested Clyburn, and transported him to the St. Mary's County Adult Detention and Rehabilitation Center. He has been charged with First- and Second-Degree Assault.

 

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Kortnie Marsch at 301-475-4200, ext. 8179, or by email at Kortnie.Marsch@stmaryscountymd.gov.

The Charles County Department of Health will hold back-to-school immunization clinics next month on Sept. 10 and 12. The clinics will be held from 8 a.m. to noon, and from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Vaccinations offers include those for Tdap, meningococcal (MCV4), and varicella (chicken pox).

There is no registration for the clinics, parents/guardians need to accompany their children to the clinic at 4545 Crain Highway in White Plains. For more information, call 301-609-6835 and reference the mass vaccination clinic. Visit the health department’s website to learn more about vaccinations and dates of upcoming clinics.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Emergency Services (DES) urges community members to stay prepared throughout Atlantic hurricane season, which continues through November 30, 2024. The peak of Atlantic hurricane season is late August through September. While severe weather can happen outside of this timeframe, it is the most active for hurricane and tropical storm activity.

In effort to support community preparedness, the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) will provide self-service sandbag pickup for residents on Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the St. Andrews Landfill (44837 St. Andrews Church Road).

Residents are encouraged to stock up on sandbags now so that they are prepared before a storm strikes our area. Sandbags are not pre-filled and are limited to 10-25 bags per person, while supplies last. DES will also be onsite distributing free hurricane preparedness supplies and information.

“We all know that storm systems can move and change rapidly,” said Commissioner President James R. Guy. “Distributing sandbags in advance is the best way to ensure our residents have what they need should a storm system threaten our area.”

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

• Make emergency kits: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/kit
  • Home Kit: include a flashlight, batteries, blankets, spare clothing, a battery-operated radio, hygiene supplies, medication, a first aid kit, food that is easy to open and prepare, and clean drinking water. 
  • Be sure to consider the needs of your family, including infants and children, the elderly, those with functional needs, and pets.
• Have a plan: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/plan
  • Know Your Zone and plan your evacuation route ahead of time. Identify a safe place to go, and a way to get there, if an evacuation is ordered by local officials.  Keep your gas tank full in case you need to evacuate quickly.
  • Discuss with loved ones how you will communicate before, during, and after a potential emergency or severe weather event.
• Sign up for local emergency notifications at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/CodeRed
• Hurricane preparedness basics:
  • Secure or bring indoors all outdoor toys, furniture, and items that could be moved by heavy winds; de-clutter drains and gutters; and consider hurricane shutters.
  • Check on your neighbors, friends, and family members, especially if they are elderly and/or have functional needs. 
  • Bring your pets indoors during severe weather.
  • Know where the main valves and switches are for gas, water, and electricity – and ensure someone you trust can operate them in case you need to shut them off.
  • Follow the instructions of local emergency management officials.

Knowing what to do before, during, and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference, when seconds count.

Learn more about and prepare for potential emergencies at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/em.

Burglary: 24-60137
On August 6, 2024, DFC Plant responded to All-American Towing & Recovery located at 2055
N. Solomons Island Road in Huntingtown, for the reported trespassing/burglary. Investigation
revealed Diego Alejando Trejo, 29 of Washington D.C., removed the lock and chain and
entered the storage lot where he was observed on video surveillance inside a vehicle. Trejo was
located hiding in the wood line near the business where he was placed into custody. Trejo was
charged with Burglary- Forth Degree-Storehouse and Trespassing- Posted Property.
Diego Alejando Trejo

 

CDS Violation: 24-60306
On August 6, 2024, DFC Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation in
the area of NB Rt. 4 and St. Leonard Road in St. Leonard. Contact was made with the driver,
Kendall Allen Francis, 39 of Windsor Mill, and passenger Veromica Elizebeth Barnes, 40 of
Hagerstown. An open air sniff of the vehicle was conducted resulting in a positive alert for
narcotics. A vehicle search revealed 44.7 grams of crack cocaine packaged in 12 baggies, 7.2
grams of Heroin contained in 22 capsules and 94 pills and 2 broken pieces weighing a total of
28.8 grams of suspected Fentanyl. Additionally, deputies located $594 in US currency. Francis
and Barnes were transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS:
Possession- Large Amount (Opium/Cocaine), Possession with Intent to Distribute
Fentanyl/Heroin, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, and CDS Possession- Not
Cannabis.

 

CDS Violation: 24-61233
On August. 10, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to Mom and Pops located at 3500 Williams
Wharf Road in St. Leonard, for the report of a disturbance. The complainant advised that Royce
Theopolis Heigh, 37 of Lusby, had stolen ice cream from the store without making payment.
Contact was made with Heigh who was observed possessing a folded-up dollar bill covered in a
white powdery substance. A vehicle search revealed a Newport cigarette box with a second
folded-up dollar bill containing a white powdery substance. Heigh was transported to the Calvert
County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

 

Damaged Property: 24-61212
On August 10, 2024, Cpl. R. Shrawder responded to the corner of Rt. 4 and Calvert Beach Road
in St. Leonard, for the report of malicious property destruction. The complainant advised an
unknown suspect(s) defaced a political sign. The estimated value of damaged property is
$500.00.

 

Damaged Property: 24-60836
On August 8, 2024, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the 9700 block of Tara Drive in Dunkirk,
for the report of damaged property. The complainant advised sometime after 3 p.m. on August 8,
an unknown suspect(s) ran over the victim’s mailbox and garden. The estimated value of
damaged property is $250.00.

 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-61068
On August 9, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to the area of St. Leonard Rd and Western Shores
Blvd. in St. Leonard, for the report of a male standing in the travel portion of the roadway. Upon
arrival, contact was made with Richie Aaron Harper, 46 of no fixed address, who was observed
in the middle of the road waving his arms trying to hit passing cars. Previous to this call, deputies
had been out with Harper five times prior in regards to Harper being in the roadway causing a
hazard. Harper’s continuous course of conduct standing in the roadway preventing the flow of
traffic for drivers resulted in his arrest. Harper was transported to the Calvert County Detention
Center where he was charged with Disorderly Conduct.

 

Theft: 24-60223
On August 6, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to the Ford dealership located at 10 Solomons
Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised 14 dealer tags
had been stolen. The estimated value of stolen property is $5,600.00.

 

Theft: 24-60307
On August 6, 2024, Master Deputy Wood responded to 8800 block of LaFayette Drive in
Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) stole a
package containing 4 cellular telephones, sometime between 2:32 p.m. and 3 p.m. The estimated
value of stolen property is $1,000.00.

 

Theft: 24-60322
On August 6, 2024, Master Deputy Wilder responded to Calvert Marina located at 14485 Dowell
Road in Solomons, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a trailer with various tools
inside was stolen sometime before 5 p.m. on August 5. The trailer is described as a white, 2022
Arising 6’ x 12’ enclosed trailer with a single axle. The estimated value of stolen property is
$16,595.00.

 

Theft: 24-60298
On August 6, 2024, Deputy Claggett was dispatched to the 8700 block of Southern Maryland
Blvd. in Owings, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised two iPhones were delivered
to the residence by FedEx at 11:49 a.m. At 12:49 p.m., a black male approximately 6 feet tall,
wearing a Pittsburgh Pirates hat with a black short-sleeved t-shirt and black shorts was observed
on video surveillance approaching the residence, stealing the package, fleeing in a silver motor
vehicle. The estimated value of stolen property is $2,798.00.

 

Theft: 24-60731
On August 8, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to 70 Sherry Lane in Prince Frederick, for the
report of a theft. The complainant advised her front Maryland handicapped license plate had
been stolen sometime between Aug. 3 and Aug. 5. The estimated value of stolen property is
$20.00.

 

Trespassing: 24-60534
On August 7, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the Safeway located at 80 W. Dares Beach
Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. The complainant advised a female in the
cart return had been previously trespassed from the property. Contact was made with the female
who initially provided a false name. The female was advised she had been trespassed and was
asked to leave the property in which she failed to do. The female later identified as Rachael
Nicole Wood, 33 of no fixed address, was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center
and charged with Trespassing: Private Property, Obstructing and Hindering and Fraud- Per
Identification to Avoid Prosecution.

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) announces intermittent closures of the School-Based Health Centers at Spring Ridge and Margaret Brent Middle Schools between August 20 and August 23, 2024.

Margaret Brent Middle School-Based Health Center will be closed on the following dates:

• August 20, 2024 from 11:00 - 4:30 p.m
• August 21, 2024
• August 22, 2024
• August 23, 2024 from 8:00 - 12:30 p.m

Spring Ridge Middle School-Based Health Center will be closed on the following dates:

• August 20, 2024
• August 23, 2024 from 11:30 - 4:30 p.m

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) main office in Leonardtown and the St. Mary’s County Health Hub will maintain regular operations on these dates. Normal operations are expected to resume on Monday, August 26, 2024.

For more information on School-Based Health Centers, visit: smchd.org/sbhc.

Search warrant served, large amounts of drugs, cash recovered: On August 15, as part of an ongoing drug investigation, detectives assigned to the Narcotics Enforcement Section served a search warrant in the 4000 block of Night Heron Pl. in Waldorf, MD. The suspect, Melvin Andre Smoot, 37, of Indian Head, was taken into custody away from the home. During the search, cocaine, crack cocaine, PCP, psilocybin mushrooms, and cannabis valued at over $80,000 was recovered, along with over $10,000 in cash and other evidence. Smoot was charged with multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute drugs and other related offenses. On August 19, a judge ordered Smoot to be held at the Charles County Detention Center without bond. The investigation is ongoing.

On Friday, August 16, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office executed a search and seizure warrant at a residence in the 26000 block of Cox Drive in Mechanicsville, MD: one person from the residence was arrested.

 

During the operation, a juvenile was arrested on an open warrant, charging them as an adult with attempted second-degree murder, assault first-degree, assault second-degree, reckless endangerment, firearm use in the commission of a violent crime, handgun on person, and loaded handgun on person.

 

The warrant was issued following a criminal investigation into a June 26, 2024, shooting that took place in Lexington Park in which responding deputies discovered casings, live rounds, and a projectile at the scene; no injuries were reported.

 

Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from publicly identifying a juvenile, even when charged as an adult, due to legal protections safeguarding the juvenile’s identity throughout the judicial process.

 

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Eric Dickerson, 51, of Abell, Maryland, was sentenced to eight years in prison for stealing nearly $100,000 of cannabis from his place of employment.

The felony theft occurred in August 2023 from a business licensed with the Maryland Cannabis Administration. Dickerson was employed as a member of the custodial staff for approximately seven months at the company’s growing and processing location in Abell, Maryland. During this period, Dickerson had unfettered access throughout the entire facility.

“The Defendant leveraged his position of trust and with a nefarious purpose, removed large amounts of cannabis, concealed it into trash bags, and ultimately stole the large haul. What elevates the ugliness factor of this crime is the stolen items are controlled dangerous substances,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “This cannabis could have contributed to broader illegal drug distribution and criminal activity. We must hold all individuals accountable at every level for the safety of our community.”

Dickerson was found guilty of felony theft and although the Maryland Sentencing Guidelines called for a sentence between six months and five years, the State requested the Court sentence the Defendant to 10 years in prison.

The Honorable Michael J. Stamm sentenced the Defendant to serve eight years in the Maryland Division of Corrections, significantly above the six months to five years guideline range, and additionally ordered the Defendant to pay $99,480 of restitution, which was executed as a civil judgment.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Ridge, Chief of Narcotics, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Deputy Christopher Truss of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator with the assistance of the Criminal Investigations Division, Vice/Narcotics Unit.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) is excited to announce that the application process is now open for volunteer coaches to support our annual Youth Recreational Basketball League. This beloved community program offers fantastic opportunities for passionate individuals who are eager to make a positive impact on local youth basketball players.

The program runs from November 2024 through March 2025 at numerous St. Mary’s County Public School locations and R&P facilities. This program is designed to provide a fun, educational, and competitive environment for children of all skill levels. Coaches will play a crucial role in developing players skills, promoting teamwork, and fostering a love for the game. Volunteer coaches are expected to hold one practice per week, at a designated time and location, as well as attend one game each weekend.

Interested candidates must be at least 18 years of age. Coaches must possess knowledge of the game of basketball, be ready to create team unity, and to help develop young players. Candidates must register online, complete a volunteer form, and complete and pass a background check. Volunteers are also required to complete assigned training.

To apply to become a coach, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/sports and click on the Links of Interest for Volunteers to complete your online application.

For more information, residents may contact our R&P Sports Coordinator, Zachary Zalovick at zachary.zalovick@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling (301) 475 – 4200 ext. 1830.

Follow R&P on social media for updates at: Instagram.com/stmarysrecandparks and Facebook.com/StMarysMDRecreation.

(CAMP SPRINGS, MD) – Maryland State Police are actively investigating a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 16-month-old infant in Prince George’s County. 

The deceased victim is identified as Za'riyah Plummer, 16-month-old, of Virginia Beach.  She was flown by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. where she was pronounced deceased by hospital personnel.

Two other juveniles were transported by ground to Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. for medical treatment. They are identified as Zayin Plummer, 7, and Zayir Plummer, 5, both from Virginia Beach, Virginia.

The driver of the vehicle is identified as Dana Plummer, 36, of Virginia Beach, Virginia.  He was transported by ground to Capital Region Medical Center for medical treatment.  Plummer was the driver of a black Honda SUV involved in the crash. All three children were inside his vehicle at the time of the crash. Charges are pending the outcome of the investigation and consultation with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney.

Maryland State Police received a call for assistance shortly before 9:00 a.m. from the Virginia State Police in reference to an active Amber Alert requested by the Virginia Beach Police. Virginia State Police requested assistance with a police pursuit coming into Maryland.

Shortly after 9:00 a.m., a black Honda SUV crossed the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and continued northbound on I-495 and attempted to take the ramp from northbound I-495 to southbound Route 5/Branch Avenue where he crashed into other vehicles causing his vehicle to overturn. Troopers from Forestville Barrack responded to the scene. Three vehicles, including the black Honda SUV, were found to be involved in the crash. There were no other reported injuries in the crash.

Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the crash investigation. Virginia State Police is leading the investigation into the police pursuit. Virginia Beach Police Department coordinated the Amber Alert with the Virginia State Police which was issued at 2:00 a.m. today.

 

Maryland State Police were assisted on the scene by officers from the Prince George’s County Police Department and personnel from the Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department. Troopers from the Criminal Enforcement Division and crime scene technicians from the Forensics Sciences Division are assisting with the ongoing investigation. Personnel from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration assisted with lane closures and detours.

Anyone with information relevant to this crash is urged to contact Sergeant Zimmerman at 301-392-1231. Callers may remain anonymous.

The Maryland State Police crash investigation continues.

As a result of well pump failure at Piney Point Elementary School, the opening school schedule for this site is impacted, with the first day for students at Piney Point Elementary delayed one day. The full schedule for Piney Point’s beginning of the 2024-2025 school year is outlined below.

 

The Capital Improvements Program provided funding for the replacement of the 1997 Piney Point Elementary School (PPES) HVAC system. The renovation project has been ongoing throughout the summer and has been meeting expected timelines. On Monday, August 12, 2024, it was reported that the well pump at the PPES site had failed, leading to a complete lack of available water on the premises. Upon receiving the notification of the issue, our dedicated maintenance team promptly assessed the situation and identified the root cause of the malfunction.

 

Without water, Operations staff was unable to complete the necessary cleaning regiment required post construction in many classrooms. We anticipate that the water system will be fully operational by Monday, August 19, 2024. All PPES staff will have full access to their classrooms on Tuesday, 8/20/24.  Therefore, open house, preK orientation, and student’s first day will be delayed at PPES as follows:

 

Wednesday, 8/21

 

• Open House
  • 1:00-2:00 Meet and Greet
    • Student last names A-L
  • 3:00-4:00 Meet and Greet 
    • Student last names M-Z

Thursday, 8/22

• First student day, grades K-5
• PreK orientation - 10-11:30 am

 

Friday, 8/23

• First day for PreK students
• All students in school

 

Our priority remains the well-being of all PPES staff, students, and families. Understanding and patience is appreciated as we work diligently to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.

 

 Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect(s) involved in a car theft and the attempted theft of another vehicle. On August 13, during the overnight hours, an unknown suspect(s) stole an Infiniti sedan parked on Sourwood Avenue in Waldorf. While conducting the investigation, officers canvassed the area and observed a Lexus vehicle, which was also parked on Sourwood Avenue, with the windows broken out. Over the last few weeks, several vehicles have been reported stolen throughout the county. Anyone with information about these thefts is asked to call Detective Sgt. Hemsley at 301-609-6562. 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 an arrest in these cases.   

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. 

Ocean City, MD – The Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Consortium, comprising representatives from Anne Arundel, Calvert, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, and St. Mary’s counties, released the findings of a feasibility study for a Chesapeake Bay passenger ferry system at this year’s Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Conference in Ocean City, MD, on August 15, 2024. The results of the year-long study were presented during MACo’s Solutions Showcase breakout session, titled “Navigating Opportunity: Results of the 5-County Coalition on the Chesapeake Bay Ferry System Feasibility Study.” The study identified a promising opportunity to enhance transportation and economic growth across 21 coastal communities in Maryland. This initiative aims to restore vital water connectivity, promote tourism, and boost local economies by linking residents and visitors to bayside destinations. The proposed Baseline Passenger Ferry System, initially focusing on 14 key communities, has the potential to generate significant regional economic benefits, including job creation and increased tourism revenue. The study, conducted by Cambridge Systematics, Inc., also found significant support from community partners and stakeholders for a regional ferry system, with sixty-seven percent of survey respondents expressing interest in the ferry service and sixty-two percent of community partners interested in engaging activities for visitors as well as residents. "The Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Feasibility Study and the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Consortium showcase the transformative potential of our region," said Kristen Pironis, executive director of Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County. "Five counties across the state joined forces to work on this effort. As we explore next steps, this opportunity can expand to include partners across the Bay. We are optimistic about the study results and the path forward, which could better connect our Chesapeake Bay destinations and create economic impact across the entire state." Members of the Consortium have provided the following quotes with attribution: "The results of the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry feasibility study mark a promising step forward in this project. The ferry service could provide a new transportation link for our community and has the potential to significantly enhance tourism and boost the local economy for not just Calvert County, but all of the Chesapeake Bay region. We look forward to collaborating with our neighboring counties to further explore this opportunity." -- President Earl “Buddy” Hance, Calvert County Commissioner “We look forward to continued collaboration with the 5-county consortium as we move to the next phase of this initiative. The potential Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry system presents a unique economic development opportunity to boost tourism and strengthen connections within the Chesapeake Bay Region.” -- Heather Tinelli, Director Queen Anne’s County Economic and Tourism Development “Somerset County is pleased to be a member of the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Feasibility Study Consortium; we are excited to release the results of this comprehensive study and are eager to pursue the next steps in the process in cooperation with our partners. The potential realization of this ambitious project could have a significant economic impact for Somerset and the entire region.” -- Charles Laird, President, Somerset County Commissioners “St. Mary’s County looks forward to participating in the next phase of the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry project. It is a priority of our Tourism and Hospitality Master Plan and the County Comprehensive Plan to expand water access along our nearly 500 miles of shoreline. This thoughtful and collaborative approach to attract visitors is a recipe for success for St. Mary’s County and the entire State of Maryland.” -- Chris Kaselemis, AICP Director, Department of Economic Development St. Mary’s County For the complete report, see www.ChesapeakeBayFerry.com

The Calvert County Department of Community Resources, Office on Aging, is excited to announce a new partnership with ServingTogether. Beginning Aug. 14, 2024, ServingTogether will be at the Southern Pines Senior Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each second Wednesday and fourth Friday of the month. No appointment is necessary, and drop-ins are encouraged. Southern Pines Senior Center is located at 20 Appeal Lane in Lusby.

ServingTogether is a registered nonprofit program through EveryMind that assists military veterans and their families by helping with benefits navigation, getting connected to resources and providing referrals to services they may need. ServingTogether has successfully connected service members, veterans and their families to clothing and household goods, education, employment, mental and behavioral health, money management, physical health and so much more.

“Our desire is to better serve the many veterans and their families in our community who have sacrificed so much for our nation,” said Community Resources Director Jennifer Moreland.   “We are excited and honored to bring this partnership to Calvert County and strive to provide the best service to our veterans.”

For more information on ServingTogether, visit servingtogetherproject.org. For appointment-related questions, email dwilliams@every-mind.org or call 240-240-9259.

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.

BALTIMORE – Many Maryland customers face average annual electricity bill increases of hundreds of dollars in the coming years because of problems in the regional market run by PJM Interconnection, LLC, the entity that administers the wholesale power market and is responsible for transmission planning, according to a report released today by the Office of People’s Counsel. The initial round of rate hikes is driven in part by PJM’s recent auction that saw prices beginning next June for electric generation capacity—a historically small but soon-to-be-large part of customer bills—spike by more than 800 percent.

“Customers are facing massive rate increases from potential retirements of old and uneconomic fossil fuel power plants—potential retirements that were entirely foreseeable and that PJM should have planned for,” said Maryland People’s Counsel David S. Lapp. “Customers will bear the brunt of PJM’s planning failures and other dysfunctional market rules, while generation companies will walk away with record profits.”

Aside from increased rates from the auction results, Maryland customers face additional rate increases to pay the owner of old fossil fuel plants, Talen Energy, to delay the retirement of the plants, as well as future costs to pay Exelon—the Illinois-based owner of Baltimore Gas & Electric and other Maryland utilities—for $725 million in capital expenditures for transmission upgrades that serve as PJM’s solution for resolving reliability issues associated with the eventual power plant retirements.

Talen is seeking to recover from Maryland customers more than $629 million under what PJM calls a “reliability must run” or “RMR” arrangement to continue operating its Brandon Shores and Wagner power plants near Baltimore beyond their proposed retirement of June 1, 2025. Those costs will be incurred while Exelon completes the transmission projects—which have an estimated completion date of December 2028. The RMR costs could be higher if the transmission projects take longer to complete. PJM could also determine the plants continue to be necessary for other reasons, extending the RMR costs paid by ratepayers.

The report, prepared by Synapse Energy Economics, further reveals how PJM has constructed its market in ways that leave customers highly vulnerable to price swings and the decisions of generation companies. The analysis highlights a scenario under which the removal of the Brandon Shores and Wagner power plants, totaling about 2,000 MW, from the resources bidding into and clearing the auction—the equivalent of less than 1.5 percent of the 135,000 MW that cleared the auction—had a region-wide impact that will benefit generators (and cost customers) over $5 billion. It further explains that Talen stands to gain $360 million compared to the scenario in which its Baltimore-area plants participate in the auction.

“The fact that the retirement of such a relatively small amount of generation could cause capacity market price spikes that cost customers across PJM more than $5 billion shows the PJM’s market is stacked against the customers that pay the bills,” Lapp said.

For the RMR costs, BGE customers can expect to pay an estimated 74 percent—or roughly $159 million per year. As a result of just the RMR costs, OPC’s report shows that BGE customers could see their bills increase by approximately 5 percent, resulting in an average residential bill increase of $5 per month due to RMR costs alone. When combined with the incremental impact of the capacity market costs alone, electric customers in the BGE area will see average bill increases of $21 per month, or about $250 per year starting around June 2025, according to OPC’s analysis.

Although the largest rate impacts will affect BGE customers, customers of other utilities also face rate hikes caused by the RMR and the recent capacity market auction. Utility bills for the average Potomac Edison customer will increase by $18 per month, while the average bills of Pepco and SMECO customers will increase by $15. Delmarva Power customers are currently bearing the higher costs in their rates of an acknowledged error in PJM’s previous auction—a result OPC continues to challenge before FERC. The RMR and auction results lock in those higher Delmarva Power rates for another year, with an additional increase to the average customer’s bill of $4/month.

The auction results released July 30 are for the PJM “capacity” market, which is designed to assure adequate generation is available to meet peak electricity demands and reliability standards. Historically, the auctions occur three years in advance of the year the generation is to be available to deliver energy. PJM is behind schedule, and the July auction is for the delivery year starting June 1, 2025. Across the entire PJM region, the auction will result in a total annual cost to electric customers of $14.7 billion, a substantial increase from the $2.2 billion in capacity costs for the delivery year that started June 1, 2024.

PJM also administers an “energy” market that supplies the power consumed by customers continuously over time, and it is responsible for transmission planning and procurement. According to OPC’s report, the costs of the energy and capacity markets and transmission costs are the three main wholesale electric cost components borne by electric customers. In 2023, they comprised 62 percent, 8 percent and 27 percent of wholesale electric costs, respectively, on average across the PJM footprint. With the results of the recent capacity auction, capacity costs beginning June 1, 2025 will increase from 8 percent to nearly 27 percent of total wholesale costs, assuming energy and transmission costs remain near 2023 levels.

The recent capacity auction results will be in place just one year and in theory would incentivize new generation to enter the market and lower the results in the next auction. But because PJM’s auctions are behind what historically has been a three-year advance schedule, future auctions will be held in December of this year and June 2025 for the delivery years starting June of 2026 and 2027—long before PJM’s transmission solution for the plant retirements will be in place and before significant new generation is likely to be available to mitigate high auction prices. As a result, OPC’s report concludes that “high capacity prices could continue escalating costs for Marylanders for years to come.”

The Maryland Office of People’s Counsel is an independent state agency that represents Maryland’s residential consumers of electric, natural gas, telecommunications, private water and certain transportation matters before the Public Service Commission, federal regulatory agencies and the courts.

The fall edition of The GUIDE will be available online on Wednesday, Aug. 14, at www.CharlesCountyParks.com. The GUIDE features classes, sports programs and leagues, special events, swim lessons, guided kayak tours, historic sites, places to visit within the county, and opportunities to experience the outdoors.

Read the GUIDE and see what programs interest you. You can view The GUIDE digitally at www.CharlesCountyParks.com. Connect with us and learn more about our programs on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CharlesCountyParksRecreation.

For more information on other events and opportunities offered by the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, visit www.CharlesCountyParks.com or call 301-932-3470.  Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

Pax River Gate 1, Webster Field Main Gate Maintenance Friday, Aug. 16

 

NAS Patuxent River will close Gate 1 on Friday, Aug. 16, 2024 from 9-10:30 a.m. for scheduled maintenance.

NAS Pax River’s Gate 2 will keep three lanes open for inbound traffic during that time.

 

Webster Field's Main Gate will close on Friday, Aug. 16, 2024 from 1-2:30 p.m. for scheduled maintenance.

Webster Field's Back Gate will be open to traffic during that time.

 Calvert County Parks & Recreation is excited to announce the opening of new pickleball courts at Hallowing Point Park. The courts are completed and available for use by the community.

Pickleball is a popular paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Players are encouraged to bring their own paddles and balls.

"We are thrilled to open these new pickleball courts at Hallowing Point Park," said Parks & Recreation Director Bob Branham. "Pickleball is a great way to stay active and have fun with friends and family."

Hallowing Point Park is located at 4755 Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick. In addition to the new pickleball courts, Hallowing Point Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors, including playgrounds, picnic areas/pavilion, hiking trails, walking and jogging trails and more. The park is also home to baseball fields, basketball courts and tennis courts. The pickleball courts will be available for use during regular park hours. Find hours, a park map and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/HallowingPointPark.

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

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.

Detectives charge man with rape, false imprisonment, use of a firearm, and other violent crimes: On August 9 at 7:25 p.m., Charles County Sheriff’s officers responded to a call for a sexual assault that occurred at a house in the 7300 block of Tottenham Drive in White Plains. When officers located the victim, she reported she was sexually assaulted at gunpoint inside the home. The victim, a house cleaner, was inside the house when a resident, Jordan Keith Proctor, age 29, approached her, displayed a firearm, threatened to shoot her, and placed her in handcuffs. He sexually assaulted the woman and beat her repeatedly over the course of several hours, before allowing her to leave. The victim called 9-1-1, and officers responded to the house. A short time later, the suspect exited the home and was taken into custody. A search warrant was obtained, and evidence, including a firearm, was recovered. The victim was transported to a hospital where she was treated for multiple injuries including a possible fractured jaw. Proctor was arrested and charged with first-degree rape, first-degree assault, sex offenses, false imprisonment, use of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, and other related offenses. On August 12, Proctor was released from the Charles County Detention Center after a judge ordered he could be released on electronic monitoring. Det. Singh is investigating.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 13, 2024) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Tyler Ray Marini Sater, 22, of Stoney Beach, Maryland, was sentenced to 59 years in prison with 44 years of active incarceration for multiple criminal convictions stemming from his week-long, one-man crime spree in December 2022.

On December 13, 2022, Sater committed a robbery by knifepoint at the Cloud Smoke Shop in California, Maryland. On December 19, 2022, just six days later, he committed an additional series of crimes at the Wildewood Shopping Center. As a result, he was convicted of robbery, attempted armed carjacking, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, attempted harm of a law enforcement animal, and rogue and vagabond. While pending trial, Sater fled to Charles County. He was subsequently charged and convicted of second-degree escape.

“While the Defendant was on supervised probation in several other counties for disturbingly similar crimes, he fled to our County and initiated a one-man crime spree. His deliberate actions victimized multiple community members, each suffering from the impact of his criminal conduct,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “This sentence serves as a critical step toward safeguarding the public and ensuring that this Defendant can no longer target the citizens in our community.”

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Warren Forinash, Detective Daniel Sidorowicz, and Detective Taylore Nauman of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were the lead investigators.

The Honorable Michael J. Stamm presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 13, 2024) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about recent phone scams in which callers impersonate deputies and demand money for supposed warrants. These scammers use caller ID spoofing to make it appear that the calls are coming from the Sheriff’s Office.

 

The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that it will never call residents to demand cash or payment for any legal issue, including warrants.

 

Tips to Avoid Being Scammed:

 

1. Don’t Trust Caller ID: Scammers can manipulate their phone number to make it appear that they’re calling from the Sheriff’s Office. Always verify the call's legitimacy by contacting the Sheriff’s Office directly at 301-475-8008.
2. Never Send Money: The Sheriff’s Office will never ask for immediate payment over the phone. Be wary of requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, as these are common methods scammers use.
3. Beware of Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly. Take your time, think carefully, and verify any claims before taking action.

 

If you receive one of these calls, hang up immediately and report it to the Sheriff’s Office by calling 301-475-8008. Protect yourself by staying informed and vigilant against these types of scams.

NEW CARROLLTON, MD (August 12, 2024) - The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced awards of more than $8.4 million through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for Fiscal Year 2025. The grants from the CDBG State Program will support 14 projects in 12 counties, including the creation of affordable housing, improvements to infrastructure and community facilities, and programs serving homeless persons, persons with disabilities and low to moderate income individuals.

“The Community Development Block Grant has received ongoing support in Congress for 50 years because it works. It works here in Maryland’s counties, cities, and towns, and it works in communities in every state and territory,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “Maryland will continue to be competent and compassionate stewards of CDBG resources and partner with local governments to achieve their redevelopment goals.”

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the national Community Development Block Grant program was enacted into law by Congress as part of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Since then, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program has supported community redevelopment, affordable housing, disaster recovery, and the expansion of economic opportunities. CDBG consists of two parts. The Entitlement Program is managed by HUD and provides federal funds directly to larger metropolitan counties and cities. The State Program provides federal funds to states which then distribute assistance to more rural counties, cities and towns.

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development manages the state’s annual allocation from the CDBG State Program, administering funds through a competitive application process with priority given to emergency health and safety initiatives. For Fiscal Year 2025, the department received applications requesting more than $12.1 million and awarded more than $8.4 million for 14 projects, including:  

• Renovations to a family homeless shelter in Westminster (Carroll County) to increase services and promote safety;
• Expansion of a child advocacy facility in Elkton (Cecil County) that serves low to moderate income families;
• Land acquisition and construction fees to support creation of 48 new affordable rental units in La Plata (Charles County);
• Infrastructure including roads, storm drains, and water and sewer lines to support construction of 52 new units of affordable senior housing in the Town of Millington (Kent County); and
• Creation of 15 apartments near Boonsboro (Washington County) to house girls who age out of the foster care system with program support to prevent homelessness and assist in their transition into adulthood.

Since its creation in 1987, Maryland's CDBG Program has awarded more than $327 million to local government grantees for 1,103 projects. These projects have leveraged approximately $1.38 billion in additional private and public investment. For a full list of the Fiscal Year 2025 awards, visit dhcd.maryland.gov.

Here’s what local leaders are saying about the announcement: 

"Securing the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for the preliminary architectural and engineering services is a monumental step forward for the Town of Berlin. This funding is crucial in transforming the site of the former Flower Street School into a future Community Center—a place where our residents can gather, learn, and grow together. It's not just about building a facility; it's about investing in the heart of our community and preserving the legacy of this historic site for generations to come." Berlin, MD, Mayor Zack Tyndall

“Cecil County is honored and pleased to receive this generous grant award from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. Community Development Block Grant funding will be used to expand the building footprint of the Cecil County Child Advocacy Center thereby increasing the provision of services to victims of child abuse, domestic violence and human trafficking.” Cecil County, MD

“The City is incredibly grateful to the state for recognizing the importance of our work and investing in the future of our young people. This funding will allow us to reach more children and teens, offering them the support and guidance they need to achieve their full potential.” Cambridge, MD, Acting City Manager David Deutsch 

“On behalf of the Town of Millington, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development for their continued support and assistance to construct the much needed 52 units of affordable senior housing and its associated infrastructure.” Town of Millington, MD

“The Town of Pittsville received $800,000 in CDBG funding to assist us with our Water Treatment Plant Upgrade/Phase IV project. The Town is delighted to have received approval of our application. The CDBG funding will reduce our local share of the project to only 15 percent. A big deal!” Pittsville, MD, Town Manager Joe Mangini

"With this funding, the City will be able to continue our long-running CSO separation projects on Center and N. Grant Streets, which will continue to have positive impacts on both the city's infrastructure and the environment.  Kudos to our hardworking city staff who were able to obtain this funding again this year."  Frostburg, MD, Mayor Todd J. Logsdon

"Time and time again, the CDBG program has benefited the Grantsville community, and the entirety of Garrett County, in areas that we otherwise would have experienced a shortfall! Oftentimes the programs these grants support serve our most underserved and at-risk residents, and we are extremely grateful for their continued support." Grantsville, MD, Mayor Emily Newman-Edwards

"We are grateful to receive this funding through the Maryland Community Development Block Grant program, as it empowers us to bring essential resources and opportunities to our residents. By working together through strategic partnerships, we will use this investment to uplift our community, ensuring no one is left behind as we continue to build a vibrant and resilient Charles County." Charles County, MD, Commissioner Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq.

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (August 12, 2024) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Anthony Terrell West, 54, for escape. On July 26, 2024, West removed his electronic monitoring device following his pretrial release from the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown.

 

West is a black male, 5’8”, weighing approximately 300 pounds.

 

 

Anyone with information about West’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at Joseph.Bowling@stmaryscounty md.gov, or at 301-475-4200, ext. 1959.

 

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. Type "Tip239" in the message block and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

 

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. 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 (August 12, 2024) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Laray Anthony Maddox, 42, of California, Maryland, was sentenced to 30 years in prison with 11 years and 6 months of active incarceration for drug-related charges in reference to the recovery of over two kilograms of cocaine.

Maddox was found guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics in relation to a 2022 incident, as well as Controlled Dangerous Substance Possession Large Amount and Controlled Dangerous Substance Proceeds in relation to a 2023 incident. The Court ordered the sentences for both incidents to run consecutively to each other.

Officers from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a wooded area in California, Maryland, on November 2, 2022, for a report of an abandoned suspicious bag. The bag contained a box with approximately 158 grams of cocaine that was found to belong to Maddox. On July 14, 2023, officers observed Maddox enter the same wooded area, and a search after Maddox’s departure revealed two kilograms of cocaine. A search warrant was subsequently executed on Maddox’s residence, and a large amount of cash and other evidence of distribution were seized.

“Removing drug dealers from the streets of St. Mary’s County is paramount to our community’s safety and well-being,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “The inherent danger of this poisonous substance was further exacerbated by the defendant when he left such a large amount of cocaine easily accessible and thereby significantly increased the potential for harm to unsuspecting individuals, including our children and families. Thank you to the members of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, Vice/Narcotics Unit, for their thorough investigation of this case and their unwavering commitment to public safety.”

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Ridge, Chief of Narcotics, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Lieutenant Brian Fennessey of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Michael J. Stamm presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and leaders from across St. Mary’s County Government will be attending the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) summer conference in Ocean City, MD, from August 14-17, 2024.

The 2024 theme "Turning the Tide" promises innovative solutions for today’s challenges to ensure tomorrow’s success. This year's conference will examine ways counties can, with an eye on the future, foster and fund priorities like planning for sustainable growth and modernizing mental health and public safety services.

Over 3,000 county and state government representatives and commercial companies will convene at the 2024 MACo Summer Conference. Participants can expect a dynamic and enriching experience, discovering best practices, innovative county solutions, and potential partnerships. Showcasing a diverse program of events, attendees can partake in five enlightening general sessions, delve into more than 50 educational sessions, explore a vast 300-booth tradeshow, and discover cutting-edge solutions at the 60-booth Tech Expo. The conference will also offer numerous networking events, fostering invaluable connections within Maryland's governmental and business communities.

“The MACo conference offers the opportunity to learn about important legislative changes and other key issues facing local governments, such as workforce retention, affordable housing, cyber security, and more,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy, who also serves on MACo's Board of Directors and Legislative Committee.

Commissioner President Guy will moderate the session on the Open Meetings Act, a core course for fellows in the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance.

Additionally, St. Mary’s County Government is proud to have two team members presenting at the 2024 conference. Ben Cohen, with our Department of Economic Development will present as a panelist on the session, “Navigating Opportunity: Results of the 5-County Coalition on the Chesapeake Bay Ferry System Feasibility Study” and Captain Shawn Moses, with St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office will present as a panelist on the session, “Called to Corrections: What's Working in Officer Recruitment and Retention”.

Note to Members of the Press: You are invited to attend the conference as complimentary guests and may register through MACo's website:  www.mdcounties.org/SC24OnlineRegistration.

Please note the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County will not meet on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. Visit stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge William R. Greer, Jr. sentenced Deanthony Lamont Warrick, 35, of Indian Head, to Life Without Parole (LWOP) in prison for the First-Degree Murder of Jasmine Lakesha Hicks and related charges. Warrick was convicted of the charges by a Charles County jury on June 6, 2024.

In commenting on the Court’s sentence, Covington said, “The decision to seek a LWOP sentence – the most serious penalty in the State of Maryland - is mine and not made lightly. Unless I give the defendant advance notice that we are seeking LWOP, the Court cannot impose it. We did give proper notice in this case, and I am gratified that the Court, having heard all the evidence at trial and all the testimony and arguments during sentencing, saw this case the way I did and imposed LWOP. The vicious and callous way he committed this crime, in my mind, says he should never walk free in our community again. He purposefully and permanently erased Jasmine Hicks from this planet – forever. Justice requires he be held accountable.  The jury held him accountable with their verdict and the Judge imposed the proper and just sentence we requested.”

On April 12, 2023, in the early morning hours, officers responded to a residence in Bryans Road for the report of an unconscious female in the yard. Upon arrival, officers discovered Ms. Hicks lying in the yard with several stab wounds. Unfortunately, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

An investigation of the murder revealed that Warrick and Ms. Hicks were outside of Warrick’s residence prior to the stabbing. Warrick and Ms. Hicks began engaging in a verbal altercation about items that Warrick claimed had been stolen from him by another individual.  During the altercation, Warrick began stabbing Ms. Hicks about her head, face, neck, shoulders, back, chest, abdomen, and arms.  An autopsy revealed 20 distinct wounds on Ms. Hicks.

Audio of the murder was captured on a nearby surveillance camera. As Warrick was repeatedly stabbing Ms. Hicks, he can be heard to say, “Don’t make me kill you.” After the stabbing, Warrick fled the scene leaving Ms. Hicks in the yard.  She remained there from midnight until approximately 6:30 a.m. when her body was discovered by a neighborhood resident.

During the investigation, Warrick confessed to the murder.

At sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney Laura Caspar told the Court, “If I have ever seen a case that deserves life without parole, it is this one.  The defendant left her in that yard, all alone, in the dark, to bleed to death. And, as we know from the surveillance audio, her death did not come mercifully quick. She suffered greatly before her death. This was vile, malicious, and vengeful.”

Judge Greer, in sentencing the Defendant, said, “This was a heartless death...cold-blooded and vile.”

 

 

Sentence

• First-Degree Murder of Jasmine Lakesha Hicks
  • Life Without Parole

 

• Wear and Carry of a Dangerous Weapon with the Intent and Purpose of Injuring Jasmine Lakesha Hicks
  • 3 years

 

• Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance to wit: Phencyclidine
  • 1 year

 

• Possession of a Regulated Firearm, to wit: Taurus 9mm handgun, after being convicted of a crime of violence
  • 15 years

 

• Possession of a Regulated Firearm, Rifle/Shotgun, after being convicted of a crime of violence
  • 15 years

###

 

CDS Violation: 24-58318
On July 29, 2024, Deputy Hill was on routine patrol in the area of Old Field Lane and Main
Street in Prince Frederick, when he observed a suspect wanted through the Calvert County
Sheriff’s Office. Contact was made with Corey Carnall Thomas, 44 of Prince Frederick, where
he was taken into custody for his active arrest warrant. A search incident to arrest revealed a
metal smoking device. Thomas was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and
charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-59302
On August 2, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the 200 block of Dares Beach Road in the Calvert
Village Shopping Center in Prince Frederick, for the report of a disorderly subject. Investigation
revealed Quinn McDonald Bannister, 59 of Prince Frederick, was threatening patrons with a
baseball bat. Bannister had locked the doors of local businesses preventing patrons from entering
and exiting the building. Bannister was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention
Center where he was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Disturbing the Peace/Hindering
Passage.

Fleeing and Eluding: 24-59436
On August 3, 2024, the Calvert Control Center dispatched a lookout for a vehicle connected to a
double stabbing in St. Mary’s County. Cpl. Bowlan spotted the suspect vehicle driving
northbound on Rt. 4 in the area of Calvert Beach Road in St. Leonard. The vehicle was missing a
front tire and was riding on the rim. The vehicle and sole occupant eventually stopped at
Broomes Island Road, then fled on foot across Rt. 4 into a nearby field. After a brief foot chase,
deputies apprehended Terek Demaury Ross, 28 of Lexington Park. Ross was then transferred
into the custody of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and charged with two counts of
Attempted First-Degree Murder, two counts of Attempted Second-Degree Murder, two counts of
First-Degree Assault, and related charges. Additional charges are pending in Calvert County.

Property Destruction: 24-58927
On August 1, 2024, Deputy Claggett responded to the Mellomar Golf Park located at 6215
Scaggs Road in Owings, for the report of property destruction. Investigation revealed unknown
suspects took two golf carts and a John Deere UTV for a joy ride across the golf green. 
Management discovered both carts and the John Deere were damaged. The estimated value of
damaged property is $5,500.00.

Theft: 24-58465
On July 30, 2024, Deputy Tunnell responded to the Safeway located at 80 W. Dares Beach Road
in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised a suspect described as a
black male in his late 20’s to early 30’s, wearing a red shirt and khaki pants loaded up 16 cases
of Deer Park water outside the front door of the business into a blue Subaru Outback and fled the
area without making payment. The estimated value of stolen property is $112.00.

Theft: 24-58561
On July 30, 2024, Deputy Newton responded to the Giant Food located at 10790 Town Center
Blvd. in Dunkirk, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed a male had walked out of the
store with a cart full of groceries without making payment and fled in a silver passenger car. Cpl.
Callison observed the suspect vehicle and initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle for an equipment
violation. Upon making contact with the passenger, Dwayne Melvin McMillan, 47 of Temple
Hills, groceries were observed in the back seat in plain view. McMillan stole miscellaneous
meats, produce, health items, bakery, and dairy products totaling $1,208.00. McMillan was
transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Theft: $100 to Under
$1500- Shoplifting.

Theft: 24-59027
On August 1, 2024, DFC Grierson responded to the Lusby Market Exxon located at 11805 HG
Trueman Road in Lusby, for the report of a theft. Investigation revealed a white male,
approximately 40-50 years old with facial hair, wearing a white t-shirt, light blue shorts, black
tennis shoes, and a light-colored baseball hat entered the store and stole at least two “S.W.A.G
Sex With A Grudge” packs and exited the store without making payment. The estimated value of
the stolen property is $15.98.

Traffic Arrest: 24-59493
On Aug. 3, 2024, Deputy R. Contic initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle along Rousby Hall Road
in Lusby, after observing numerous traffic violations. The driver failed to comply with the stop
and was observed throwing drug paraphernalia from the vehicle while continuing to display
unsafe driving patterns. The driver accelerated and was traveling at speeds over 130 mph while
continuing to evade law enforcement. Deputy Contic initiated a precision immobilization
technique (PIT) maneuver bringing the vehicle to a stop near Calvert Beach Road in St. Leonard.
The driver, Tyonte Ajee Raymond Thomas, 29 of Lusby, was taken into custody without
incident. Thomas was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged
with Fleeing and Eluding, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, and other related charges.

Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle: 24-59730
On August 4, 2024, DFC Huy located a suspicious vehicle parked in a woods in the area of Rt.
260 and Thomas Ave. in Owings. The vehicle was a U-Haul truck with Arizona tags and a flat
tire. As DFC Huy approached the vehicle, a female identified as Paula Rosa Banegas Oliva, 43
of Ft. Washington, was sitting on a count in the rear of the vehicle. Investigation revealed the UHaul was rented and due back on Aug. 1. Oliva was placed into custody and transported to the
Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is working with Pure Play Every Day to showcase the importance playing has on a child’s development, which can improve their cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills.

At the Charles County Fair, held Sept. 12 to 15, representatives of Pure Play Every Day and CCPS will be available to share activities with children and information with families about the importance of playing and engaging the mind beyond the use of electronics and devices.

 

Through playing, children develop cognitive skills that help them think, remember, pay attention and solve problems. Social and emotional skills gained by playing aid children in relating to others, understanding emotions in themselves and others, and teaching them lessons in sharing, patience and cooperating. Playing develops language skills, promotes physical fitness and builds confidence.

 

Pure Play Every Day and CCPS are seeking volunteers, including students who are 14 and older and are looking to earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours, to volunteer during the fair overseeing play equipment and monitoring the Pure Play Every Day information table. The volunteer shifts are in increments of two-to-four hours.

 

To sign up to volunteer, visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084EABA823AAFBC16-50429504-volunteer#/.

 

CCPS students who are 14 and older can also learn more about the volunteering opportunity by contacting the SSL coordinator at their school. The fairgrounds are at 8440 Fairgrounds Road in La Plata.

As part of an ongoing narcotics investigation by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division into drug distribution activities, multiple search and seizure warrants were executed at two residences in St. Mary’s County at approximately 7:13 p.m. on August 8, 2024.

 

Through a search of a residence located in the 22000 block of Towey Ct., Great Mills, MD, the occupants and three seized vehicles, officers recovered a cache of drugs, including 1,057.81 grams of fentanyl and 294.13 grams of cocaine. Also recovered were significant quantities of methamphetamine, amphetamine, and controlled prescription medications, along with $9740 in US currency, a digital scale, packaging materials, a shotgun, and four cellular phones.

 

A concurrent search at a residence located in the 20000 block of Ridge Road in Lexington Park resulted in the recovery of US currency, a digital scale, a cellular phone, and CDS paraphernalia.

 

The operation involved assistance from the SMCSO Emergency Services Team, Patrol Division, and allied partners from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

 

James William Blackiston III, 31, Jasmine Samaria Votra, 36, and Willis Matthews Brooks, 43, all of Great Mills, MD, were arrested and charged with four counts of CDS Possession – Not Cannabis and Possession with Intent to Distribute. Additionally, Blackiston and Votra were charged with CDS possession of a large amount (fentanyl), while Brooks was charged with possession of a firearm with a drug trafficking crime connection.

 

Following the arrests, Sheriff Steve Hall said, “This is the largest seizure of fentanyl ever made in St. Mary’s County. It points to the scope of the problem we face daily to keep our community safe from this dangerous and deadly substance. The investigation and seizure are a testament to the level of commitment our deputies have to continue this fight against crime.”

 

The three suspects were transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown to await bond hearings.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding Webster Outlying Field are advised that noise-generating low altitude testing events involving tiltrotor aircraft are scheduled to take place Aug. 14-15, 2024 from 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

 

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.

 

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) announces the intermittent closures of the School-Based Health Centers at Margaret Brent and Spring Ridge Middle Schools between August 12 and August 16.

Margaret Brent Middle School-Based Health Center will be closed on the following dates:

• August 12, 2024
• August 14, 2024
• August 15, 2024
• August 16, 2024

Spring Ridge Middle School-Based Health Center will be closed on the following dates:

• August 13, 2024

The SMCHD main office in Leonardtown and the St. Mary’s County Health Hub will maintain regular operations on these dates. Normal operations are expected to resume on Monday, August 19, 2024.

For more information on School-Based Health Centers, visit smchd.org/sbhc.

The Charles County Department of Public Works is pleased to announce that mattress recycling is now available at the Charles County Landfill (12305 Billingsley Road, Waldorf) from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

 

The program, which began on Aug. 1, allows residents to bring either 1 Mattress and Box Spring or two mattresses for free daily to be recycled. Additional residential mattress recycling units are $10 each. Commercial mattress loads are subject to a $10 per unit fee.

 

Dedicated mattress recycling helps reduce unnecessary items in the county landfill, and the materials from mattresses can provide resources that can be reused for new items.

 

Accepted items include all sizes of traditional and memory foam mattresses, hybrid (foam/latex) mattresses, crib mattresses, and futon mattresses. Standard box spring foundations used in place of box springs and mattress toppers are also accepted.

 

Heavily contaminated mattresses, such as those with severe mold, mildew, or pest infestations, and heavily soiled, water-damaged mattresses with large tears, are prohibited. Non-mattress items such as pillows, cushions, bedding (sheets, blankets, comforters, etc.), furniture, and non-mattress household waste are also prohibited.

 

Residents with additional questions can visit https://charlescountymd.info/mattressrecycling or call the Department of Public Works Facilities Curbside Recycling department at 301-932-3599 or 301-932-5656.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Deputies responded to two separate residential locations in Lexington Park for reports of shootings in the early morning hours of Thursday, August 8, 2024.

 

At approximately 4:24 a.m., deputies were dispatched to the 21000 block of Primrose Willow Lane after a caller reported hearing a gunshot followed by the sound of glass shattering. Upon arrival, deputies recovered a projectile from one of the residential units. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division were notified and assumed the investigation. Upon assuming the investigation, detectives were informed that an individual was inside the unit adjacent to where the projectile was found. Despite repeated attempts, deputies were unable to contact the individual, leading to the declaration of a barricade situation at approximately 7:53 a.m. The barricade was resolved at around 11 a.m. No arrests were made, and no injuries were reported.

 

At approximately 5:26 a.m., patrol deputies responded to a separate shooting complaint at a residence in the 22000 block of Valley Estates Drive. Upon arrival, deputies observed multiple bullet holes in the rear of the residence. Similar to the earlier incident, no arrests were made, and no injuries were reported. The Criminal Investigations Division has also taken over this case.

 

Both incidents remain under active investigation. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information about these events to contact Sergeant Austin Schultz at 301-47-4200, ext. 1953, or by email at Austin.Schultz@stmaryscountymd.gov.

 

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. In the message block, type "Tip239" and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

 

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. 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.

Self-serve sand and sandbags are available at the following locations during regular business hours for Calvert County residents who need them to protect property in preparation for possible flooding conditions from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby:

·         Appeal Convenience Center (200 Sweetwater Road, Lusby)
Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

·         Barstow Convenience Center (350 Stafford Road, Barstow)
Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 7 p.m.

·         Mt. Hope Convenience Center (96 Pushaw Station Road, Sunderland)
Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Staff is available at each site to assist. Sandbags are limited to 20 per person.

It is important to stay informed about potential severe weather through official channels, as information may change rapidly. Stay tuned to local radio and TV stations for official weather information, alerts, and warnings; follow instructions and advice given by emergency officials.

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.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1378 calls for service, including 11 Emergency Petitions, from July 29 through August 4, 2024.

 

Calls for service include requests for police assistance originating from the public and 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:

7/27/24 – Victor Christopher Gonzalez, 41, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Paul Rodriguez for First-Degree Assault and Second-Degree Assault.

 

7/29/24 – David Cary Meinhardt, 60, of Mechanicsville, MD, by Deputy Cody Donaldson for First-Degree Assault and Second-Degree Assault.

 

7/30/24 – Martha Jean Cotterell, 58, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Devin Absher for Theft of $1500 to under $250000 and Theft Scheme of $1500 to under $25000.

 

8/02/24 – Joshua Antoine Miles, 35, of Newburg, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. Miles was also arrested on bench warrants for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

8/03/24 – Blanton Everett Roberson, 20, of Raleigh, NC, by Deputy Cody Donaldson for Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm, Illegal Possession of Ammunition, and related charges.

 

DUIs:

7/27/24 – Ausha Elizabeth Anne Edwards, 24, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Erik Fleenor for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

 

7/30/24 – Jarrett Matthew Myles, 30, of Leonardtown, MD, by Corporal Dianne Hersh for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

 

 

-MORE-

 

8/01/24 – Jevonna Breahna Perry, 31, of Clinton, MD, by Deputy Joseph Reppel for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

 

8/02/24 Richard Lee Marquardt, 32, of Bushwood, MD, by Deputy Joseph Wagner for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol While Transporting a Minor, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol While Transporting a Minor, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

 

8/04/24 – Dillon Joseph Clancy, 23, of Swan Point, MD, by Deputy Taylor-Lynn Kril for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

 

8/04/24 – Zelene Gil-Orea, 36, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Madison DeVries for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE.

 

8/04/24 – Julius Lamund Camp Jr., 29, of Leonardtown, MD, by Deputy Joseph Wagner for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

 

8/04/24 – Emily Marie Beckler, 29, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Devin Absher for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se,  Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While So Far Impaired Cannot Drive Safely.

 

SUMMONSES:

7/26/24 – Sandra Denise Evans, 43, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for Vulnerable Abuse/Family Member and Second-Degree Assault.

 

7/29/24 – Bonnie Lee Tippett, 58, of Hollywood, MD, by Sergeant Timothy Snyder for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

7/30/24 – Gabriel Enrique Garay, 39, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy James Morgan for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and Possession of Contraband in a place of confinement.

 

WARRANTS:
8/04/24 - George Ashley Parker, 36, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Austin Welch for CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Cannabis, and CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation and Parks (R&P) is thrilled to announce the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the newly constructed playground and picnic pavilion at Snow Hill Park on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 1:30 p.m.

This celebration is open to the entire community! The first 50 children in attendance will receive a ticket for a free cup of back-to-school ice cream, generously provided by the Salted Scoop. Ice cream will also be available for purchase for all other attendees at a cost of $6 per scoop.

Snow Hill Park, located at 26590 South Sandgates Road in Mechanicsville, MD, is a 163-acre waterfront park that opened in 2017. The park offers stunning views of the Patuxent River and is a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. For more details about Snow Hill Park, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/snowhill.

For more information on local beaches, parks, and public landings, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate.

Follow R&P on social media for local news and updates at: www.instagram.com/stmarysrecandparks and www.facebook.com/stmarysmdrecreation.

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today signed a State of Preparedness declaration ahead of possible effects from the remnants of Hurricane Debby later this week. While the path is still uncertain, possible effects on Maryland could include heavy rain and winds, inland and tidal flooding.

“The safety of Marylanders is our top priority. By declaring a State of Preparedness, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby,” said Gov. Moore. “Residents and visitors should monitor local weather forecasts, remain vigilant, and be prepared to follow safety instructions from local emergency officials.”

Last November, Governor Moore signed an executive order establishing a State of Preparedness, which enhanced the state's ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats in advance of an actual disaster. The order directs the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of state government ahead of potential impacts from hazards or threats, providing a vital layer of protection for Marylanders without necessitating a State of Emergency. 

The latest National Hurricane Center forecast for Tropical Storm Debby brings potential remnants into the Mid-Atlantic later this week and into the weekend. At this time, rain, heavy at times, and tidal flooding are the main threats. Uncertainty exists regarding the track over the Mid-Atlantic, which will greatly influence rainfall amounts.

Based on the latest National Hurricane Center forecast, the main impacts would be later Thursday into Saturday. Impacts will be dependent upon how long Tropical Storm Debby sits on the Southeast U.S. Coast and tracks into the Mid-Atlantic.

Preparedness Recommendations:
 

• Encourage your family and friends to finish preparedness activities now. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
• You may have to evacuate quickly due to a storm if you live in an evacuation zone. To learn if you live, work or vacation in an Evacuation Zone in Maryland, please visit our Know Your Zone page. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay. 
• Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state and local agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
• Keep your cell phone, tablet and laptop charged when you know a storm is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
• Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.
• Have enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.

To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.

For more information, residents can also go to MDEM’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow MDEM’s Twitter feed at @MDMEMA, or follow MDEM’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA. You can also monitor power outages through the MdReady installable app and website: MdReady.maryland.gov

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Self-service sandbags will be available for residents wishing to prepare for possible flooding conditions due to Tropical Storm Debby on Wednesday, August 7, and Thursday, August 8, 2024, at the St. Andrews Landfill (44837 St. Andrews Church Road) during regular business hours (8 am – 4:30 p.m.) Sandbags are not pre-filled and are limited to between 10 and 25 sandbags per person, while supplies last.

Stay informed during the storm! Residents are encouraged to:

• Sign up to receive SMCG News Releases at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/news
• Sign up for Emergency Weather Notifications at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/codered

For more information on sandbag distribution, please contact the Department of Public Works & Transportation at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3551.

Learn how you can be prepared during emergencies at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/prepare.

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 The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Derrick Clifton Marshall, 45, for escape. On July 26, 2024, Marshall removed his electronic monitoring device while receiving care at a medical facility in Baltimore, MD, and fled the area.

 

Marshall is a black male, 6’ 3”, weighing approximately 250 pounds.

 

 

Anyone with information about Marshall’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Joseph Bowling at Joseph.Bowling@stmaryscounty md.gov, or at 301-475-4200, ext. 1959.

 

Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or text Crime Solvers at 274637. Type "Tip239" in the message block and select SEND. After you get a response, continue your conversation.

 

Note: Tip239 is case-sensitive and must be typed in the message block as shown. 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.

 

Two St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) initiatives received awards last week from the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO). NACCHO, the national organization representing over 3,000 local health departments across the country, selects outstanding local public health programs as Model Practices or Promising Practices. A rigorous peer evaluation process recognizes exemplary programs that other communities would be able to replicate. A national database includes the selected programs to encourage their use by local health departments across the country. NACCHO presented the awards during its annual conference in Detroit, Michigan, on July 25, 2024.

The St. Mary’s County Health Hub was recognized as a Model Practice. It is an all-agency effort managed by the SMCHD Behavioral Health Division and supported by many community partners. Since the Health Hub's launch in late 2022, over 2,400 individuals have received primary care, behavioral health care, and services addressing wellness and social needs.

The Prenatal Care Program through SMCHD’s Maternal, Child, and Elder Health Unit in the Division of Health Promotion and Community Services was recognized as a Promising Practice. This program includes initiatives such as Improved Pregnancy Outcomes and Thrive by Three, which increase access to pregnancy care and support for very young children. These initiatives have been particularly successful in improving access to prenatal care for pregnant women who are uninsured, underinsured, or have recently moved to the county from another country.

"Our health department team members and organizational partners have worked so hard to make the Health Hub and our prenatal care programs match the needs of our community members,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “It’s wonderful to see this dedicated public service recognized through the NACCHO Model Practice and Promising Practice awards. We are so thankful that NACCHO will share these example programs with other local health departments so that work like this can support individuals and families across the country.”

“Each year, we are thrilled to recognize the incredible work of local health departments through our Model and Promising Practice Awards,” said Lori Tremmel Freeman, CEO of the National Association of County and City Health Officials. “This year’s awardees have demonstrated exceptional service in developing programs to address substance use, health inequities, infant and child health, health literacy, immunization, foodborne illnesses, hepatitis, and other pressing health challenges in their regions. This recognition is sure to inspire continued excellence and progress in public health practices across the country.”

To learn more about SMCHD and its programs, visit smchd.org.
To learn more about NACCHO and its mission, visit naccho.org.

(PIKESVILLE, MD) –The Maryland Department of State Police is eager to engage with communities across Maryland for National Night Out, an annual event designed to strengthen bonds between law enforcement and the communities we serve and protect.

Since its inception in 1984, National Night Out has been celebrated on the first Tuesday of August. This year, the event is on Tuesday, Aug. 6. Troopers from all 23 Maryland State Police barracks and police officers will be in communities connecting with residents. Festivities at National Night Out sites are family-friendly and may include food, games or music.

Maryland State Police will participate at the following locations:

• Waterloo – Clarksville Commons, 12230 Clarksville Pike, Clarksville, 5-8 p.m.
• Frederick –
  • 79 W. Frederick Street, Walkersville, 6-8 p.m.
  • 5420 Ballenger Creek Park, Frederick, 5-8 p.m.
• Cumberland – 200 S Water Street, Frostburg, 5-7:30 p.m.
• Bel Air – Harford County Equestrian Center, 608 N Tollgate Rd, Bel Air, 5-9 p.m.
• Salisbury – Salisbury City Park, Main Street / Snow Hill Rd, Salisbury, 5-8 p.m.
• Westminster – Manchester VFD Activity Grounds, 3297 York Street, Manchester, 5-7 p.m.
• LaPlata – Waldorf
  • Laurel Branch, Valley Drive / Vista Ct., 6-8 p.m.
  • Bannister, 1001 Armes Drive, 6-8 p.m.
  • Pinefield Community Park, Pinefield Rd, 6-9 p.m.
  • Sheffield, 12416 Pawtucket Ln, 6-8:30 p.m.
  • Wakefield, 2002 Nantucket Drive, 6-8 p.m.
  • The Church @ St. Charles, 136 Stoddert Ave, 6-8 p.m.
  • New Hope AME Church, 12310 Washington Square, 6-8 p.m.
  • Dorchester, 5005 Dorchester Cir, 6-9 p.m.
  • Hampshire, Hampshire Cir, 6-10 p.m.
  • Lancaster, 4150 Lancaster Cir, 6-10 p.m.
• North East –
  • Meadow Park, on Delaware Ave, Elkton, 5-8 p.m.
  • Cecilton VFD, 110 E Main Street, Cecilton, 5-8 p.m.
• Easton –
  • Moton Park, 501 Port Street, Easton, 5-8 p.m.
  • Michaels Community Center, 103 Railroad Ave, St. Michaels, 5-8 p.m.
• Annapolis – Chesapeake Christian Fellowship, 377 Central Ave, 6-8 p.m.
• Forestville –
  • 8511 Legation Rd, New Carrollton, 5-8 p.m.
  • 3330 Northview Drive, Bowie, 6-8 p.m.
  • 16608 Brandywine Rd, Brandywine, 5-8 p.m.
  • Goodwin Park, 311 68th Pl, Seat Pleasant, 5-7 p.m.
• JFK Highway – Harford County Equestrian Center, 608 N Tollgate Rd, Bel Air, 5-9 p.m.
• Rockville – Silver Spring
  • Ellsworth Drive / Fenton Street, 5-8 p.m.
  • 11105 Foxglove Ln, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • 10615 New Hampshire Ave, 5-7 p.m.
  • 2600 Hayden Drive, 7-8:30 p.m.
  • 1101 Corliss Street, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • 9000 Manchester Rd, 5-7:30 p.m.
  • 3300 Briggs Chaney Rd, 4-6 p.m.

                  Gaithersburg

• • 29 Goodport Ln, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • Casey Community Center, 810 S Frederick Ave, 6-8 p.m.
  • Community Pool, Saybrooke Oaks Blvd, 5-7 p.m.
  • Kentlands, 960 Main Street, 6-8:30 p.m.
  • Travis Park, 391 Travis Ave, 5-8 p.m.

• • Montgomery College, 20200 Observation Drive #4067, Germantown, 4-8 p.m.

• Hagerstown –
  • Shafer Park, 37 Park Drive, Boonsboro, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Veterans Park, 68 W Water Street, Smithsburg, 5-8 p.m.
  • Widmeyer Park, 126 W High Street, Hancock, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Byron Memorial Park, on Park Road, Williamsport, 5-8 p.m.
• Glen Burnie –
• • 1001 Kinder Farm Park, Pasadena, 6-8 p.m.
  • 10th Avenue Park, Brooklyn, 6-8 p.m.
• College Park –
  • 8511 Legation Rd, New Carrollton, 5-8 p.m.
  • 3330 Northview Drive, Bowie, 6-8 p.m.
  • 16608 Brandywine Rd, Brandywine, 5-8 p.m.
  • Goodwin Park, 311 68th Pl, Seat Pleasant, 5-7 p.m.
• Golden Ring –
  • White Marsh Volunteer Fire Co., 10331 Philadelphia Rd, White Marsh, 4-8 p.m.
  • Greens Apartment Information Center, 1300 Middleborough Rd, Essex, 5:30-8:30p.m.
  • 110 Sudbrook Ln, Pikesville, 5:30-9 p.m.
  • Chartley Park Shopping Center, 106 Chartley Drive, Reisterstown, 6-9 p.m.
  • Christian Temple, 5820 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, 5-9 p.m.
  • 1900 Northeast Ave, Halethorpe, 6-9 p.m.
  • 2610 Garrison Blvd, Baltimore City, 5-9 p.m.
• Centreville – 101 – 119 Lawyers Row, Centreville, 6-8 p.m.
• Leonardtown –
  • 26845 Cox Drive, Mechanicsville, 6-8 p.m.
  • Golden Beach Waterview Drive, Mechanicsville, 6-8 p.m.
  • Breton Bay, Leonardtown, 6-8 p.m.
  • Cecil Mill, Great Mills, 6-8p.m.
• Prince Frederick – Prince Frederick
  • Calvert Towne, 100 Serenity Ct, 4-6 p.m.
  • Oakland Hall, 2425 Comptrollers Ct, 4-6 p.m.
  • Patuxent View, Seagull Beach Rd / Dawn Drive, 4-5 p.m.
  • Gray-Ray American Legion Post, 2105 Sixes Rd, 5-6 p.m.
  • Prince Frederick Village, 340 Fairground Rd, 5-6 p.m.
  • Yardley Hills, 700 Yardley Drive, 6-8 p.m.
  • Bayside Forest, Deane Ave / Chesapeake Bay, 7-8 p.m.

                  Huntingtown

• • Huntingtown Volunteer Fire, 4030 Old Town Rd, 6-7:30 p.m.
  • Queensberry / Larkspur Cr, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• • 3825 Gordon Stinnett Ave, Chesapeake Beach, 6-7 p.m.
  • White Sands, 8585 Sycamore Rd, Lusby, 6-8 p.m.
• Berlin –
  • White Horse Park, 11647 Beauchamp Rd, Ocean Pines, 6-8 p.m.
  • Henry Park, 125 Flower Street, Berlin, 4-7 p.m.
• McHenry – Garrett County Fairground, 270 Mosser Rd, McHenry, 4-8 p.m.
• Princess Anne – Garland Hayward Youth Center, 30660 Hampden Ave, Princess Anne, 6-8 p.m.

For details, contact your local barrack. Maryland State Police look forward to meeting the community!

###

The safety of roads for all citizens is a top priority for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO). We continue to receive complaints regarding people illegally operating dirt bikes, off-road, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on public roadways.

 

Operating off-road vehicles on public roads is illegal and unsafe. These vehicles are not equipped with the necessary lights, signals, and mirrors required for road use, making it difficult for operators to communicate their intentions to other drivers and increasing the risk of collisions. Also, unlike cars, ATVs generally lack essential safety features such as seat belts, airbags, and crumple zones, putting riders at a higher risk of injury in the event of a collision.

 

To curb unsafe road conditions for all, SMCSO is taking a ZERO TOLERANCE stance regarding the illegal operation of off-road vehicles. Operators could face multiple fines, points on their Maryland Driver’s License, and mandatory court appearances for operating an off-road vehicle on the roadway.

 

Off-road vehicle owners and parents can face fines for ALLOWING the operation of a dirt bike or ATV on the roadway. Off-road vehicles found operating on public roadways will be towed at the operator or owner’s expense. Teens and young adults who receive citations could be delayed or prohibited from becoming future licensed drivers.

 

Those witnessing illegal off-road vehicles operating on public roads may submit tips to SMCSOTrafficSafety@stmaryscountymd.gov. Please include the following details in the email:

• Location and time of the illegal operation
• Make, model, and color(s) of the ATV
• Physical description of the ATV operator
• Address where the ATV(s) are kept or stored
• Any pictures or videos you have of the illegal operation
• Your contact information if you wish to be contacted

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of our roadways for all citizens.

###

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) invite residents to submit legislative proposals for consideration during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly session.

The CSMC will hold a joint meeting with members of the St. Mary’s County Legislative Delegation on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 6 p.m. to review legislative requests from the Commissioners as well as proposals submitted by residents and/or local organizations.

Residents can access the form to submit legislative proposals on our website at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/CountyAttorney or the form can also be accessed directly at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Docs/2025LegislativeProposalForm.pdf.

All proposals must be submitted by August 21, 2024, to be considered at the October 1, 2024, joint meeting. Proposals may be submitted to:      

 

Commissioners of St. Mary’s County        AND                TODD MORGAN, Delegate

41770 Baldridge Street                                                         District 29C, St. Mary’s County

P.O. Box 653                                                                               215 House Office Building

Leonardtown, MD  20650                                                         6 Bladen Street

csmc@stmaryscountymd.gov                                                     Annapolis, MD 21401

todd.morgan@house.state.md.us

 

The joint meeting will be held in the CSMC Meeting Room, located on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on our website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

 

For more information on the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County, including contact information, meeting schedules, and more please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/csmc.

 

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Michelina Desiree Goodwin, 46, of Great Mills, Maryland was sentenced to 61 years in prison, the maximum allowable sentence, for the homicide and dismemberment of a 50-year-old male victim that took place in December 2022.

 

Following an eight-day jury trial that concluded in March 2024, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Goodwin of murder in the second-degree, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and the unauthorized disposal of a body.

 

“The Defendant’s heinous act of shooting the victim in the back pales in comparison to the gruesome details following the murder. After killing the victim, the Defendant dismembered him, and scattered his remains throughout our County and a neighboring county,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “My hope is that with the outcome of today’s sentencing hearing, the victim’s family can finally find peace, justice, healing, and closure after the horrifying homicide of their beloved family member.”

 

Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Donna C. Pettersen and Jeffrey R. Maylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

 

Sergeant Roger Schwarb of the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit and Trooper First Class Evan Ruggles of the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division were the lead investigators.

 

The Honorable Terrence J. McGann presided over the case.

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River and Webster Outlying Field are advised that noise-generating nighttime testing events are scheduled to take place Aug. 6 - Aug. 7, 2024 from 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

 

Night testing and training is essential for the precision and safety of our military men and women and the success of their mission. 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.

On August 2 at 9:21 p.m., Charles County 9-1-1 Public Safety Communications received a call from the Regency Furniture Stadium reporting that a moon bounce house became airborne due to a wind gust, while children were inside it. At the time, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs baseball team was playing a game, and the moon bounce was carried approximately 15 to 20 feet up in the air, causing children to fall before it landed on the playing field.

Charles County EMS personnel, who were already stationed at the stadium for the game, along with trainers from the baseball team and several Volunteer first responders who were in attendance, swiftly began patient care within minutes of the incident. One pediatric patient sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported by Maryland State Police (MSP) Trooper 2 to Children’s Hospital. This patient, a five-year-old male from La Plata, was later pronounced deceased. A second pediatric patient who sustained non-life-threatening injuries was also flown out by MSP Trooper 7.

“We extend our deepest empathy to the children and their families during this difficult time,” stated Charles County Government Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. “We thank our EMS team and the Maryland State Police for their swift actions to ensure the children received immediate care.”

Courtney Knichel, General Manager of the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs stated that “our entire organization shares our condolences with the family mourning the loss of a child, and concern for the child who was injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all.” The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have cancelled tonight’s baseball game and all baseball activities for today, Saturday August 3, 2024, and are offering counseling and support to families, players, and fans who attended the game.

 

 Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a stabbing in the 21000 block of Ronald Drive at approximately 4:45 a.m. on August 3, 2024.While en route, deputies were advised that two victims had been stabbed by an individual known to them.

 

According to the victims, Terek Demaury Ross, 28, of Prince George’s County, had broken into their residence and used a knife from the home to stab the first victim, an adult female, multiple times. The first victim managed to escape and call 911. Ross then attacked the second victim, also an adult female, stabbing her multiple times before she fled to a neighboring residence and called 911.

 

Ross subsequently stole a car belonging to one of the victims and fled the scene. Neighboring jurisdictions were alerted, and the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) located and apprehended Ross traveling north on Maryland Route 4. Ross was then transferred into the custody of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

 

Both victims were transported to an area hospital, where they are listed in stable condition.

 

Ross was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and has been charged with two counts of Attempted First-Degree Murder, two counts of Attempted Second-Degree Murder, two counts of First-Degree Assault, and related charges.

 

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, August 2, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 5-day trial, convicted Jeremiah Terrell Bryant, 25, of Armed Robbery and related charges.

On January 9, 2024, detectives with Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Sunoco Gas Mart in Waldorf for the report of a commercial armed robbery. Detectives spoke with a store employee who reported that the suspect, later determined to be Bryant, pointed a semi-automatic handgun at him and took money from the cash register and the employee’s phone.

An investigation revealed that Bryant entered the store, approached the sales counter, and handed the employee a brown plastic shopping bag while simultaneously pointing a handgun at him. Bryant demanded the employee to put money in the bag. When the employee opened the cash register, Bryant reached over the counter and took $494.00 from the cash register.  He then left with the cash and the employee’s cell phone.  However, Bryant left the plastic bag at the store.

Surveillance video captured the incident, as well as Bryant arriving and leaving in a Mitsubishi Outlander with a broken passenger side mirror. Detectives later located the Mitsubishi Outlander outside of Bryant’s mother’s residence.

The plastic bag Bryant left on the scene was processed and the fingerprints recovered belonged to Bryant.  Cell site analysis of Bryant’s cell phone also placed him at the scene of the Armed Robbery.

A sentencing date for Bryant has been set for September 26, 2024. Bryant faces up to 78 years in prison.

 

CONVICTED

• Armed Robbery
• Two Counts of Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence
• Robbery
• First Degree Assault
• Theft
• Possession of a Regulated Firearm
• Transporting a Handgun on Person
• Transporting a Handgun in Vehicle
• Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery
• Conspiracy to Commit Robbery

Watermen harvested 430,000 bushels of Maryland oysters

A waterman harvests oysters in Fishing Bay, Dorchester County. Photo by William Whaley, winning entry in 2017 Maryland DNR Photo Contest (second place, winter category).

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources estimates that over 430,000 bushels of oysters were harvested commercially in Maryland from October 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024. This was the fifth season in the past 30 years when the harvest surpassed 400,000 bushels.

“Maryland’s oyster population has notably improved in recent years,” said Department of Natural Resources Shellfish Division Director Christopher Judy. “This season’s harvest far exceeded the average yield over the last several decades.”

The preliminary harvest numbers are based on Maryland seafood dealer buy tickets. The estimated dockside value of this year’s oyster harvest is $15 million, with an average dockside price per bushel of $35. 

Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Limited market demand partially disadvantaged the 23-24 oyster season’s success, which pushed watermen to keep their boats tied up several days a week. In the past two seasons, when the harvests exceeded 700,000 and 500,000 bushels, oystermen were working and delivering product to the shucking houses virtually every day. 

Another factor at play was oyster abundance. This season, there were generally fewer oysters in the population available for harvest than in the prior two seasons. Oyster abundance is strongly affected by spat set, the quantity of newly-attached juvenile oysters growing on existing shells. Strong sets yield a robust population several years later, after the young oysters have grown. Low sets yield a lower population. The very strong spat set of 2020 helped produce the recent high harvests of 500,000 and 700,00 bushels but the lower spat sets of 2021 and 2022 offered a lower abundance of market oysters for the fishery currently.  

Most recently, the 2023 Fall Oyster Survey recorded a high spat set, spread across a broader geographic area than usual for Maryland. “With the right environmental conditions, the notably widespread spatset from last summer could bode well for future harvests,” Judy said.

All sectors of Maryland’s oyster management efforts are experiencing growth. The 2023-24 season saw a record yield of oysters from shellfish aquaculture operations and many oyster sanctuaries are showing promising signs of recovery.

Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office made three drug-related arrests during separate traffic stops within a six-hour period as part of proactive traffic enforcement.

 

At approximately 10:05 p.m. on Thursday, August 1, Deputy Joseph Senatore and Deputy First Class Travis Wimberly were patrolling in Lexington Park when Deputy Senatore observed a silver Jeep Cherokee abruptly leave a residential parking lot at a high rate of speed, and Deputy Wimberly observed the vehicle failing to stop at a stop sign.

 

After initiating a traffic stop for the violation, the deputies requested K9 assistance. Corporal Lacey Smith and her K9 partner, Kyra, responded and conducted a free-air sniff, which detected narcotics in the vehicle. A search of the car revealed suspected CDS paraphernalia containing suspected cocaine, buprenorphine hydrochloride pills, and a suboxone strip.

 

The driver, James Henry Elam III, 42, of Lexington Park, was searched, and a plastic bag containing suspected crack cocaine was found on his person. The passenger, Antonio Roberto Belen, 38, of Lexington Park, was also found in possession of suspected CDS paraphernalia containing suspected cocaine.

 

Both suspects were arrested; Elam was charged with three counts of CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and three counts of CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia; Belen was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

At approximately 3:30 a.m. on Friday, August 2, Deputy Joseph Senatore initiated another traffic stop on a blue Jeep Cherokee for an equipment violation at Three Notch Road and Miramar Way in California, MD.

 

Deputy Senatore contacted the vehicle's occupants, including the rear-seat passenger, Kevin Wendell Barnes, 55, of Lexington Park. Based on the circumstances, Deputy Senatore requested K9 assistance. K9 Kyra conducted a free-air sniff, detecting the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search revealed bags on the rear seat containing suspected CDS paraphernalia, crack cocaine, and cocaine residue.

 

Barnes was arrested and charged with two counts of CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and two counts of CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

All suspects were transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown to await bond hearings.

 

Burglary: 24-56517 On July 23, 2024, Deputy Deinert responded to the Project Echo Thrift Store located at 885 Main Street in Prince Frederick, for the report of a burglary that already occurred. Investigation revealed an unknown white male entered the business and stole clothes and books. The estimated value of stolen property is unknown at this time.

 

Disorderly Conduct: 24-56569 On July 23, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to Giant located at 655 Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, Maryland, for a disorderly subject. Investigation revealed, Richie Aaron Harper, 46 of St. Leonard, had ripped down a sign, was screaming profanities, and was aggressively walking up to patrons. Harper was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct. 

 

Theft: 24-56144 On July 22, 2024, Deputy H. Jones responded to the College of Southern Maryland Campus located at 115 J W Williams Road in Prince Frederick, for a reported theft. The complainant advised an unknown black male entered the building began pulling on locked classroom doors, and stole a fire extinguisher. The suspect fled in a 4 door, dark-colored SUV with no front license plate. The estimated value of stolen property is $120.00.

 

Theft: 24-56189 On July 22, 2024, DFC Sturdivant responded to the Giant located at 10790 Town Center Boulevard in Dunkirk, for the report of a shoplifting theft. Investigation revealed two unknown males entered the store and began placing items into two separate carts. Both males walked past all points of sale and exited the business. The males unloaded the stolen items into a red Toyota Camry and fled the area. The estimated value of stolen merchandise was $208.73.

 

Theft: 24-57799 On July 27, 2024, Deputy Morrison responded to Baia Coastal Italian Kitchen located at 8323 Bayside Road in Chesapeake Beach, for a reported theft. The complainant advised a female patron stole a gold octopus statue from the restaurant's hostess stand. The suspect is described as a white female with blonde hair wearing a light beige/cream-colored dress. The estimated value of stolen property is $150.00.

 

Trespassing: 24-57130 On July 25, 2024, DFC Tavares responded to the Southern Branch Library located at 13920 HG Trueman Road in Solomons, for a welfare check. The complainant advised a male was consuming alcoholic beverages outside the establishment. Witnesses observed the male, Michael Sean Marshall, 38 of no fixed address, sleeping in the library on top of a table prior to the 911 call. Contact was made with Marshall who had been previously trespassed from the property. Marshall was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Trespassing Public Agency During Hours.

The Department of the Navy, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington, and Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River, in cooperation with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), announces the availability of the following document for public review and comment: Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis (EE/CA) for Munitions Response Site UXO-002, OU-2 Former Skeet Ranges The EE/CA describes the Navy’s proposed “non-time-critical removal action (NTCRA)” to address environmental concerns at Operable Unit (OU)-2 (Former Skeet Ranges) a portion of Munitions Response Site UXO-002 (Former Small Arms Ranges) at NAS Patuxent River, St. Mary’s County, Maryland. The Navy intends to remediate lead and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the soil at Former Skeet Ranges through excavation and off-site disposal of all wastes to eliminate the need for institutional controls at the site and to ultimately support unrestricted land use. The public is encouraged to comment on this EE/CA. The NTCRA will be implemented only after the 30- day public comment period has ended. An alternative removal action may be selected only after all comments have been received from the public. The EE/CA is available for public review at:

NAS Patuxent River Public Website Community Outreach: Public may use a computer to access the website at: St. Mary’s County Public Library 21744 FDR Boulevard Lexington Park, MD 20653 301-863-8188 https://go.usa.gov/xSjbt Hours: Monday-Thursday: 9:00 a.m. — 8:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A 30-day public review period for the EE/CA will begin on August 1, 2024, and end on August 31, 2024. Written comments on the EE/CA may be sent to any of the following points of contact: NAS Patuxent River Public Affairs Attn: Patrick Gordon 22268 Cedar Point Road, Bldg. 409, Patuxent River, MD 20670-1154 patrick.a.gordon10.civ@us.navy.mil U.S. EPA Region 3 Attn: Ms. Jenna O’Brien Federal Facilities Branch 1600 John F. Kennedy Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029 Maryland Department of the Environment Attn: Mrs. Jenny Herman Land and Materials Administration/Land Restoration Program 1800 Washington Boulevard, Suite 625 Baltimore, MD 21230 After the EE/CA public comment period has ended, and comments have been reviewed and considered, the Navy, in partnership with the USEPA and MDE, will select a cleanup method. For additional information, please contact the Public Affairs Officer at (301) 757-3343 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays.

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Deputy Zachary Wolfe responded to Friendship School Road and Jones Road in Leonardtown for the report of a suspicious vehicle. After arriving on the scene, Deputy Wolfe observed a vehicle running and a male asleep in the driver’s seat.

 

After waking the driver and initiating a conversation, Deputy Wolfe saw a holstered Glock 22 Gen 4 .40 caliber handgun in plain sight and took possession of the weapon. The driver then told Deputy Wolfe there was a second loaded gun in the car.

 

James Gregory Smith, 26, of Hollywood, MD, provided a valid Maryland wear-and-carry permit. However, a check of the serial numbers on both guns revealed that Smith was the registered owner of only one. The other gun, a Kahr Arms CW9, had been reported stolen in 2020 and was seized.

 

A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered suspected CDS paraphernalia. Smith was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a regulated firearm and four counts of CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

 

The suspect was transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown to await a bond hearing.

Charles County, MD – Charles County Sheriff Troy D. Berry is pleased to announce that Captain Clarence Black of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has successfully graduated from Cohort 2024-1 of the DC Police Leadership Academy (DCPLA), hosted by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

Sheriff Berry expressed his pride in Captain Black's achievement, stating, “I am proud of Captain Black’s accomplishment. Continuing education is critical for our employees, and I’m confident that Captain Black will apply the knowledge, skills, and abilities he gained to enhance leadership throughout our Agency.”

Captain Black, a dedicated member of the CCSO for 23 years, has served in various capacities, including Patrol Officer, COPS Officer, School Resource Officer, Sergeant (Patrol Supervisor and Administrative Sergeant), Lieutenant (Patrol Shift Commander and School Resource Commander), and currently as Patrol Commander North.

The DC Police Leadership Academy focuses on developing leaders who uphold high standards of integrity and respect. Captain Black remarked, “The presenters, all experts in their field, facilitated a culture of positive leadership and professionalism within the law enforcement community. The training covered a wide range of topics affecting law enforcement and provided invaluable networking opportunities with approximately 70 other agencies from across the nation. I look forward to applying these insights to further enhance our service to the community.”

The CCSO remains committed to advancing leadership skills across all ranks and is honored to participate in the DCPLA. This program fosters a growth mindset and essential management approaches, contributing to the development of both personal and organizational leadership skills.

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. 

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, today applauded the Senate’s passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA 2024), which is the primary authorization for the Civil Works programs of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and enables their critical work to manage our nation’s water resources. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers works to maintain our ports and harbors, inland navigation, and provide communities with flood and storm protection.

 

“Simply put, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers makes Maryland safer, healthier, and more productive. The Maryland Delegation has always understood the importance of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s deep expertise in executing complex projects, but after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge this March, the whole world witnessed their professionalism first hand. I am proud to support this legislation, which will enable the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to execute their mission and advance several important Maryland projects.”

 

“The Senate-passed bill includes a wide range of important provisions for Maryland’s economy and its environmental priorities, including climate resilience. The legislation advances my longstanding effort to support oyster restoration projects, which are critical to Chesapeake Bay restoration, and my work to expand the use of dredged spoil to restore ecosystems as is done at Poplar and Mid-Bay Islands. In addition, the legislation supports economic development at the Port of Baltimore, which is the economic powerhouse of the state. No less important, it enables dredging projects in small harbors in Maryland, which are vitally important to local tourism economies.”

 

Key Maryland Wins in WRDA 2024:

 

Seagirt Loop Channel

WRDA 2024 authorizes $64 million towards deepening the federal channel at Seagirt Marine Terminal. Seagirt is the Port of Baltimore’s main container terminal, handling 97 percent of its container volume. This project proposes to further widen and deepen (to a 50-foot depth) a channel near terminal so that large container vessels can more efficiently enter and depart the terminal.

 

Oyster Program Authorization Increase

WRDA 2024 increases the program authorization for oyster restoration to $120 million. The Army Corps’ program for oyster restoration (“704b”) has completed important work in Maryland tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay including in Harris Creek and the Tred Avon River.

 

Small Waterways and Community Harbors

WRDA 2024 builds off a provision Senator Cardin secured in WRDA 2022 to support small harbor dredging. These projects are critical for sustaining working waterfronts and tourism businesses, but historically don’t rise to the top of the Army Corp’s list of priority channels. Through WRDA 2024, I am continuing to push the Corps to capture the full range of benefits these harbors have in Chesapeake Bay communities, including how dredge material can be used for ecosystem restoration, in their project decisions.

 

In addition, the legislation includes a Sense of Congress that states shallow draft dredging in the Chesapeake Bay is critical for tourism, recreation, and the fishing industry and that additional dredging is needed. It encourages the Army Corps to use existing statutory authorities to address the dredging needs at small harbors and channels in the Chesapeake Bay.

 

Baltimore Coastal Storm Risk Management Projects

WRDA 2024 directs the USACE to complete expeditiously the Baltimore Coastal Storm Risk Management Study, which examines the coastal storm risk to Baltimore and its critical structural infrastructure. 

 

Feasibility Study for Coastal Highway (Route 528)

The bill authorizes a feasibility study for Route 528 near Ocean City, Maryland. The route follows the Atlantic Coast and is highly vulnerable to damage from erosion, flooding, and waves caused by coastal storms. The Army Corps-partnered study will help identify measures to help protect public infrastructure as well as lives and property and ensure access in times of emergency.

 

Feasibility Study for Route 50 in Prince George’s County

The bill authorizes a feasibility study for Route 50 is a key connector corridor between Washington and Baltimore, but it is prone to flooding during extreme storms. Specifically, flooding from Beaverdam Creek can affect both vehicular traffic and CSX and Amtrak rail traffic. The Army Corps feasibility study will help identify possible solutions for mitigating this flooding.

Parents and guardians who need assistance in registering their child to attend Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) can get in-person help at select schools. Due to employee work schedules during the summer, some schools do not have a dedicated staff member to process registrations. While parents and guardians can complete the registration process online at https://www.ccboe.com/parents/online-registration, those in need of in-person assistance can visit a school to work with a CCPS staff member familiar with the process.

 

Most CCPS high schools and middle schools have staff to process registrations — parents needing to register their child in middle or high school can visit the school directly. To guarantee a staff member is available to help, parents should contact the school to set up a day and time to visit. For a list of school contacts,  click here. Click the grade level, then the school’s name. Contact information is in the footer of each school’s website. Families of General Smallwood Middle School can visit North Point High School for registration assistance.

Five elementary schools serve as hubs, or a centralized location, for registration assistance. Those schools are Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School, Dr. James Craik Elementary School, Eva Turner Elementary School, Mary H. Matula Elementary School and William A. Diggs Elementary School. CCPS middle schools and high schools also serve as hubs for some elementary schools.

There is no hub for the Phoenix International School of the Arts (PISOTA). New students to PISOTA can apply on PISOTA’s website at https://pisota.org/apply or by registering at their home school.

School                                                                    Registration hub

C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School	William A. Diggs Elementary School
Berry Elementary School	Mattawoman Middle School
Billingsley Elementary School	Benjamin Stoddert Middle School
Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School	Dr. Brown (registration hub)
Dr. James Craik Elementary School	Dr. Craik (registration hub)
William A. Diggs Elementary School	Diggs (registration hub)
Gale-Bailey Elementary School	Maurice J. McDonough High School
Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School	Piccowaxen Middle School
Indian Head Elementary School	Craik
Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary School	Westlake High School
Malcolm Elementary School	Thomas Stone High School
T.C. Martin Elementary School	Mary H. Matula Elementary School (registration hub)
Matula	Matula
Arthur Middleton Elementary School	Dr. Brown
Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School	Milton M. Somers Middle School
Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School	Craik
Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School	St. Charles High School
Mary B. Neal Elementary School	Eva Turner Elementary School
J.C. Parks Elementary School	Matthew Henson Middle School
J.P. Ryon Elementary School	John Hanson Middle School
Eva Turner Elementary School	Turner (registration hub)
William B. Wade Elementary School	Theodore G. Davis Middle School
General Smallwood Middle School	North Point High School

 

For additional help, email OLRSupport@ccboe.com. For more information about registering a child for school or to complete the registration process online, visit https://www.ccboe.com/parents/online-registration.

LA PLATA, MD—Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Friday, July 26, 2024, a Charles County jury, after a 10-day trial, convicted Marvin Ernesto Funez-Martinez, 22, of White Plains, of the Second-Degree Murder of Marco Alexander Pulido-Castro and the Wear and Carry of a Dangerous Weapon with the Intent to Injure.  

In the early morning hours of October 29, 2023, officers responded to a residence in White Plains for the report of an assault and stabbing. While at the scene, officers located victim Pulido-Castro in the trunk of a Nissan Sentra. The victim was found unresponsive in the fetal position and had numerous stab wounds. Unfortunately, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 

An investigation revealed that Funez-Martinez hired the victim to drive him and two other individuals to a club in Washington, D.C. The victim went into the club with the occupants of the vehicle. The victim then drove Funez-Martinez and the other individuals back to their home in White Plains. Before they arrived in White Plains, the victim stopped at a gas station, where he requested additional money for gas. The victim’s vehicle began overheating at the gas station; however, he was still able to drive the occupants to their home.

 

On the way to White Plains, Funez-Martinez and the victim were involved in a small argument because the victim requested more money.

 

Upon arrival at the residence, the victim’s engine continued overheating, and the victim remained outside. Funez-Martinez, who was already carrying a pocketknife, went inside his residence and retrieved a larger knife from the kitchen. The victim was checking under the hood of the vehicle when Funez-Martinez returned outside, and Funez-Martinez began stabbing the victim repeatedly. The victim tried to escape to a yard across the street, but Funez-Martinez followed him and continued to stab him. Funez-Martinez ultimately stabbed the victim 59 times and knocked out multiple teeth. After the stabbing, Funez-Martinez dragged the victim to his vehicle and placed his body in the trunk. He then fled to the rear of his residence. Witnesses reported Funez-Martinez’s location to responding officers, who apprehended him that morning. At the time of arrest, Funez-Martinez had multiple cuts on his hand.

 

During the investigation, Funez-Martinez admitted to the murder. The victim’s blood was found on Funez-Martinez’s hands, the knife used in the attack, as well as the sweatshirt that Funez-Martinez was wearing. 

 

A sentencing date for Funez-Martinez has been set for October 23, 2024. He faces 43 years in prison.

The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, is extending an invitation to Farmers and Watermen to participate in the Southern Maryland listening sessions regarding the regional Blue Catfish and Agriculture & Aquaculture studies.

These sessions aim to gather community stakeholder input on the Southern Maryland Blue Catfish Industry Feasibility Study and the Southern Maryland Agriculture & Aquaculture Infrastructure Gap Study currently being conducted by PierWater International on behalf of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, with support from the Rural Maryland Economic Development Fund (RMEDF) Grant.

The meetings will take place in-person with a virtual call-in option available through the TEAMS platform.

To attend, RSVP via email to swatsonhampton@smadc.com with "Catfish & Ag Meeting" in the subject line. Please indicate your attendance preference (in-person or virtual) in the email. For virtual attendees, the meeting link will be sent by 3pm on the meeting day.

Your participation and input are highly encouraged!
 

For more information, visit the News & Events section on SMADC.com.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (August 1, 2024) — Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman today announced the return of Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Sunday, August 11 through Saturday, August 17. During Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week, shoppers will not pay Maryland’s 6% sales tax on clothing and shoes under $100 or the first $40 for backpack sales. The annual sales tax holiday begins the second Sunday in August and coincides with the time many Maryland families shop for items ahead of the new school year. 

“Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week is a great time for shoppers to save money on essential items and help their budgets stretch further, especially as we continue to grapple with rising prices and consumers feel like they are paying more for less,” Comptroller Lierman said. My hope is that this temporary relief helps boost customer traffic and sales for our local businesses and purchasing power for shoppers in Maryland.” 

Between August 11 and August 17, any single qualifying article of clothing or footwear priced at $100 or less will be exempt from sales tax, regardless of the number of items purchased.  

“Maryland retailers are the backbone of our state’s economy,” said Cailey Locklair, President of the Maryland Retailers Alliance. “Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week is an opportunity for shoppers from Maryland and beyond to save money and support their community by checking out their nearest retailers, as well as restaurants, entertainment venues, and other local businesses with the money they save.” 

For online purchases, items qualify for the sales tax exemption if they are paid for and delivered or paid for and accepted for immediate shipment during the tax-free period.  

Find more information about Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week in our Frequently Asked Questions document 

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Latest in the “Deep Roots & Many Branches Series “

Charles County Government Television is proud to announce the release of “Training For Equality: The Story of Camp Stanton,” the latest installment of the award-winning documentary series “Deep Roots & Many Branches: The African American Experience in Charles County.”

Directed, filmed, and edited by Lee Ann Stone, Video Production Specialist, “Training For Equality” recounts the story of Camp Stanton, a training base for black union soldiers in Benedict that began operations in October 1863.

Camp Stanton was organized after President Abraham Lincoln allowed black soldiers to join the Union Army in May 1863 and served as an education and training ground for the seventh, ninth, 19th, and 30^th United States Colored Infantry regiments. The first soldiers left camp in March 1864 and participated in battles such as the Battle of the Crater in Petersburg, Virginia, a pivotal battle in the Union campaign to capture Richmond, Virginia.

The documentary features re-enactment, letters from individuals stationed at Camp Stanton, and interviews with descendants of Union soldiers who served there. “Training for Equality” premiered at a screening held in June at the Waldorf West Library.

“Training for Equality” continues the legacy of the two-time Telly-Award-winning documentary series that honors the rich contributions of Black Americans to the history of Charles County. Click here to view “Training for Equality,” and click here to view the entire series.

 

Maryland Reports Steady Underwater Grass Abundance in Chesapeake Bay for 2023

July 31, 2024

Eelgrass (Zostera marina). Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo.

Underwater grass abundance–a key indicator of water quality and habitat–remained steady in 2023 in the state’s portion of Chesapeake Bay, reaching 37,770 acres, according to data released this week by the Chesapeake Bay Program and Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 

Overall, an estimated 82,937 acres of underwater grasses, also called submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), were distributed throughout Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries in 2023, a 7% increase over 2022 acreage.

In Maryland, all or part of four rivers surpassed their restoration goals. These include the Northeast River at 109%, the Upper Chester River at 432%, the Honga River at 138%, and the Wicomico River at 270%. An additional three segments reached 75 percent or more of their restoration goals, including the Northern Chesapeake Bay that encompasses the Susquehanna Flats at 86%, the Bush River at 83%, and Mattawoman Creek at 98% of their goals. 

“I’m glad to see the Bay’s underwater grasses continue to recover following losses in 2019, and despite some declines in the upper Bay, the Susquehanna Flats are holding strong and the news is positive,” said Brooke Landry, Maryland DNR’s Program Chief of Living Resource Assessment and Chair of Chesapeake Bay Program SAV Workgroup. “ I am confident that we will continue to make progress on restoration, especially with species like Horned pondweed and Sago pondweed becoming so abundant in the mid-Bay. Their skyrocketing expansion in recent years, according to observations that my colleagues and I are making along with data collected by Chesapeake Bay SAV Watchers program volunteers, is exciting to see since both plants offer such beneficial ecosystem services.”

Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), also known as underwater grasses, play a critical role in maintaining the health of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. These grasses absorb and filter out nutrients and sediment, reduce shoreline erosion, provide habitat and protection for important species such as blue crabs and largemouth bass, support and sustain migrating waterfowl, and mitigate climate impacts.

The annual underwater grass survey was conducted by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science between May and November 2023. While the acreage falls short of Maryland’s 2025 restoration goal of 79,800 acres, airspace restrictions prevented complete surveys of the Upper and Middle Potomac River, including Piscataway Creek. If these areas had been fully mapped, observations suggest that Maryland’s SAV acreage would have been higher in 2023.

A significant loss of freshwater grasses in the upper Bay in 2023 offset an equally significant expansion of brackish water grasses in the mid- and lower portions of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. The loss of freshwater grasses did not extend to the iconic Susquehanna Flats grass beds, which continued to expand and now cover over 11,000 acres. Grass beds in the mid-Bay were bolstered by the continued expansion of Sago pondweed (Stuckenia pectinata), a species that doesn’t get much attention in the grand scheme of Chesapeake Bay SAV dynamics. According to observations made by Bay scientists and data collected by Chesapeake SAV Watchers volunteers, Sago pondweed is possibly the most abundant species in several Maryland rivers on both the eastern and western shores, including the Severn and Choptank Rivers, and Eastern Bay.

Further south and into slightly saltier water, widgeon grass (Ruppia maritima) continued to recover from major losses in 2019. Both widgeon grass and eelgrass (Zostera marina) are common in Tangier Sound, where grass beds gained 1,285 acres of SAV between 2022 and 2023.

The overall health and expansion of SAV in the Chesapeake Bay are vital for the ecosystem’s resilience and the overall water quality. These underwater grasses are essential for providing habitat, food, and shelter for various aquatic species, thus supporting the biodiversity of the region.

Charles County Crime Solvers offering cash reward for the identity of suspect in indecent exposure case: Charles County Sheriff’s officers are seeking the identity of a male who exposed himself to a woman while inside a grocery store on King Street in Waldorf. A photo of the suspect, which was recovered from a store surveillance camera, was obtained. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect is asked to call Officer Vanover at 301-609-6282 ext. 0727. 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. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for the tip that leads to an arrest in this case.

The Charles County Department of Health has received the results of the recreational water samples taken on July 29, 2024 at Friendship Landing Boat Ramp.  Those results are within acceptable limits.  We are now lifting the beach water contact advisory.  All signs will be removed by August 1, 2024.   

Swimming in natural waters is never risk free even with the best monitoring data available. To minimize the risk associated with swimming in natural waters, the following tips are provided:

• Check with your local health department or MDE before swimming in natural waters.
• Avoid swimming within 48 hours of a heavy rain event.
• Do not swim near storm drains located along the beach area.
• Do not swim near where the water looks cloudier than usual, is discolored, or smells bad.
• Do not swim if you see any pipes draining into or around the water
• Try not to swallow beach water.
• Avoid swimming if you feel ill or have open cuts or sores.  If water contact can't be avoided, cover your open cut or sore with waterproof bandages. 
• Always take a shower or bathe after swimming.
• If they are available use diaper-changing stations in restroom facilities, or change diapers away from the waters' edge.
• Remember to properly dispose of used diapers.
• Wash your hands with soap and warm water after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
• Pick up waste from your pets and dispose of it in the trash.
• Get involved and volunteer in local beach clean up efforts.
• Do your part and encourage others to keep picnic areas near the beach free of debris and garbage. 
• Do not attract duck, geese, or seagulls by feeding them.
• When boating, use an approved marina pump-out station for boat waste disposal.
• If you have a septic tank system, keep it maintained and in good working order.
• If you see any unsafe or unhealthy conditions, report them to a lifeguard or beach manager.

 

LEONARDTOWN, MD – Did you know that St. Mary’s County is home to an Amish community of approximately 350 families? In honor of Amish Safety Day on August 1^st, St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) reminds residents to slow down and be courteous when driving near Amish horses and buggies. Many people do not expect to see Amish buggies on the road, and they are not as visible as cars, trucks, and bicycles. These factors make them more vulnerable when on public roads. Accidents between a car and buggy can be serious and have often led to severe injury or death.

Chaptico and Mechanicsville are the primary areas of residence for the Amish community in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. Highways which serve as major arteries for Amish horses and buggies are Thompson Corner Road (Maryland Route 236) and Budds Creek Road (Maryland Route 234). Amish buggies may also be seen on other St. Mary’s County roads, including Point Lookout Road (Maryland Route 5) and near the St. Mary’s and Charles County line.

Here are some tips for how to travel safely around Amish horses and buggies:

• Take it slow in areas where there is a high prevalence of Amish. The average horse and buggy only travels 15-20 miles per hour.
• Give them room by passing in the other lane whenever possible. Allow 20 feet between your vehicle and the horse before returning to the travel lane.
• Do NOT use the horn or make any unexpected or loud noises. Horses can be easily spooked, especially by loud noises such as a car horn, revving engine, noisy exhaust pipes, or squealing brakes. This can cause a safety hazard for the Amish horse and buggy operator, as well as the vehicle operator.
• Do not stop to take photos. While horses and buggies can be very interesting, it can be dangerous for the horse and the operator if you stop nearby for a photo-op, especially if stopping in front of or next to the horse.
• Observe driving habits. A horse and buggy is not the same as a motorized vehicle, and therefore will not behave as one. Buggies will drive as close to the right side of the road as possible but may move toward the center when making a turn. Most buggies do have turn signals.

 

• Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the back of the buggy when stopped at an intersection. A buggy may roll back slightly once stopped, or a horse may take a few steps backward. This could cause damage to the front of your vehicle if you are stopped too close.
• Be alert for horses at night. Most buggies utilize flashers during the day and night, but the horses may be harder to see at night.
• Stop the car if the driver signals the horse is spooked and wait as long as reasonable and necessary until the horse is calm enough to safely pass.

For information regarding the SMCG, please visit: http://stmaryscountymd.gov.

Follow SMCG on social media for regular updates at https://x.com/StMarysCoGov and https://facebook.com/StMarysCountyGovernment.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) is proud to announce the launch of a new webpage dedicated to community resources. The webpage, accessible at firstsheriff.com/community/resources, aims to serve as a comprehensive hub for residents seeking information and support on a wide range of topics.

 

This new online resource offers detailed information on various community services, including mental health support, substance abuse resources, and elder care assistance. It also features links to local organizations, hotlines, and other critical support systems, making it easier for residents to find the needed help.

 

Alexis Higdon, SMCSO's Mental Health Liaison, who led the charge to create the webpage, said, “Navigating community resources can be intimidating, and many people don’t know where to start. Combining all the resources the County offers in one central location helps to remove that barrier and promotes a healthier, more connected St. Mary’s County.”

 

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office encourages all residents to visit the new webpage and take advantage of the wealth of information available.