April 24, 2024

(PORT REPUBLIC, MD) – Maryland State Police are asking the public for assistance as investigators continue the search for a 10-year-old boy who was reported missing more than 55 years ago in Calvert County.

Bob Boyes was last seen on Dec. 26, 1968, while walking home with his pet deer on Wash Hance Road in Port Republic. Hundreds of volunteers searched for Boyes by ground and air, combing the wooded area where he was last seen.

“I’ll forever remember the response from the search team that Bobby disappeared in thin air, without a trace,” said Joy Lee, Boyes’ younger sister, who was three years old when he disappeared. “How does that happen? Walking home from the neighbor’s house with his pet deer. His deer comes home but without him.”

Maryland State Police have led the investigation into Boyes’ disappearance. The case turned cold after investigators ran out of leads. Detective Sergeant Kemery Hunt took over the investigation in 2021 shortly after being assigned to the Prince Frederick Barrack. He is hoping that attention to the case will spark new leads from the public.

“We’ve delved into this case deeply, and our plan of attack was to knock on every door that we can,” Detective Sergeant Hunt said. “The original investigators also poured a tremendous amount of time into this case, but it’s just a puzzle that can’t be solved.”

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and the FBI’s Wanted and Missing Persons are assisting with the investigation. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, the FBI recorded nearly 360,000 entries of missing children in 2022, which is about a 6% increase from 2021. The center also assisted with nearly 28,000 cases of missing children in 2022. 

Maryland State Police, in partnership with the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and the NOBLE Maryland Chapter, are distributing 15,000 National Child ID Program kits to protect children. The free kits aid law enforcement in locating missing persons. Visit a Maryland State Police barrack to obtain a kit. Troopers will also distribute them during community engagement events and recruiting fairs.

The search continues for Boyes, who would be 66 years old today. “Deep down, I know, someone knows something, but time is ticking,” Lee said. “I’m pleading to anyone who may know anything to reach out to local authorities.” Anyone with information that could help investigators find Boyes is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Hunt at 410-535-1400 or kemery.hunt@maryland.gov.

Bob Boyes (right)

Knife recovered from a student at Barnhart Elementary School: On April 23 at 10:45 a.m., a student at Barnhart Elementary School was found to be in possession of a knife after it was reported to school administrators. The school resource officer initiated an investigation which is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282 ext. 0608. 

On Tuesday, April 23, Jacob Dyer, Acting Director of the Department of Fiscal and Administrative Services, presented the county’s proposed fiscal 2025 budget of $559,743,200, an increase of 6.1 percent over last year. The proposed budget does not increase the current property or income tax rate while expanding investments in education, public safety, and recreation priorities.

The General Fund budget was developed in alignment with Commissioner goals and objectives, departmental needs, and community input from surveys and town halls. It finances continued investments in infrastructure, supports employee compensation with cost-of-living increases, and applies the use of a new equity tool in allocating resources.

General Fund budget highlights include:

• $12.64 million increase for Charles County Public Schools, which exceeds maintenance of effort by nearly $11.7 million and doubles last year’s total funding increase, in part to pay for costs associated with the Blueprint for Maryland’s future. It also includes funding to support salary increases for their employees and the opening of the Waldorf Early Learning Center for Pre-K students. The total allocation, which also includes funding for the Charles County Public Library and College of Southern Maryland, is $248.57 million, or 44.4 percent, of the General Fund budget.
• $9.28 million increase for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, with a total allocation of $130.59 million, or 23.3 percent of the General Fund budget. It includes funding for 10 new sworn officers and two other positions, continuance of the body worn camera program, and cost-of-living increases.
• $9.81 million increase for County Government operations. The total allocation is $99.52 million, or 17.8 percent, of the General Fund budget. New spending is proposed for emergency services with the addition of 10 emergency medical technicians (EMTs), additional staff for recreation and community services, a new position to support commercial development in the County’s Western Technology Corridor, and administrative tools and support for technology, security, equity, and accountability.
• Debt service totals $32.6 million for FY25 and remaining items are $26.8M for a combined 10.6% of the General Fund Budget.
• A total allocation of $21.63 million, or 3.9 percent, for other government functions, including the State’s Attorney’s Office, Health Department, Circuit Court, Election Board, and other local government agencies.

The proposed fiscal year 2025-29 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Governmental budget is $515.45 million. It provides for county infrastructure including schools, county buildings, roads, and parks. A detailed summary of the CIP budget is located here which includes, in part:

• Construction of a new elementary school, a new middle school, and expanding La Plata High School to accommodate projected growth in La Plata
• Expedited construction of a new sports and wellness center beginning in the fiscal year 2026.
• Continued support for a new La Plata library, and renovation of the previous library building.
• Pedestrian sidewalk improvements including a new sidewalk in Bryans Road.
• Funding for continued development of a new Waldorf Park and Popes Creek Park Phase II.
• Repaving the White Plains golf cart path and renovation of restrooms at various County parks.

The budget also provides capital project funding over the next five years for water and sewer facilities, environmental, and stormwater management which totals $556.53 million.

A public hearing to receive comments on the proposed fiscal 2025 budget is scheduled on Wed, Apr. 24, at 6 p.m. in the Charles County Government building, 200 Baltimore St, La Plata. Commissioners will discuss additions and changes at a budget work session on May 7, and the Fiscal 2025 Budget is scheduled for final adoption on May 14. More information is available at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1302 Calls for service, including 15 Emergency Petitions from April 15 through April 21, 2024.

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

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

ARRESTS:

4/15/24 – Christina Lee Calero, 46, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Travis Wimberly for Second-Degree Assault, Resisting Arrest, and related charges.

4/20/24 – Timothy Henry Fisher, 46, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy First Class Tyler Westphal for CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute.

4/21/24 – Latres Javontae Cockerham, 25, Incarcerated Individual, by Deputy Elijsha Munn for Second-Degree Assault on a Division of Corrections Employee.

DUIs:

4/11/24 - James Thomas Schaffer, 60, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

4/18/24 – Frank Edward Cunningham, 33, of Washington D.C., by Deputy Shanna Peters for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

4/20/24 – Devon Marlik Calhoun, 27, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, Negligent Driving, Reckless Driving, and related charges.

4/21/24 – Kendall James Buckler, 35, of Hughesville, MD, by Corporal Vincent Pontorno for Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges.

SUMMONSES:

4/17/24 – Darius Antonio Varlack, 43, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Elijsha Munn for Theft of $1500-$25000.

4/17/24 – Terry Anthony Wheeler, 55, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Austin Welch for Theft Scheme, Attempted Theft, Theft, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

4/21/24 – Brian Keith Campbell, 61, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore for CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

Charles County’s digital gift card program, “With Love From Charles,” launches on May 6th to kick off Charles County’s 2024 Business Appreciation Week.

Co-organized by the Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) and the Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, “With Love From Charles” is a county-wide digital gift card program that allows consumers to support participating local businesses using just one gift card.

“While Business Appreciation Week is an annual opportunity to support and acknowledge our Charles County businesses, we were looking for an innovative way that our community could support local businesses all year long,” shares Economic Development Director Kelly Robertson-Slagle. “‘With Love From Charles’ will help support local businesses, encourage local spending, and boost the economy.”

Managed by Yiftee, a trusted digital gift card service backed by Mastercard's financial security, “With Love From Charles” is a simple and reliable way for residents and visitors to show love to local businesses in Charles County.

Once purchased, the gift cards will be emailed for immediate access. The digital gift card acts like a physical card, making it user-friendly for both consumers and businesses.

Yiftee reported that 51% of card users are more likely to visit a new business when using a gift card. Participation in the program potentially helps companies reach new customers who may not have previously experienced their establishment.

“Charles County has so many unique shops, businesses, and restaurants that we are excited for people to explore,” said Ashley Chenault, Tourism Chief for Charles County. “‘With Love From Charles’ inspires residents and visitors to experience Charles County’s charm in new ways.”

“With Love From Charles” will launch on May 6 to commence Business Appreciation Week. Gift cards will only be redeemable at participating Charles County businesses. They offer a free and low-risk way for companies to increase traffic, generate revenue, and market their offerings to a broader audience. “With Love From Charles” will continue encouraging local spending in Charles County.

Businesses can register to participate before May 6. To purchase a digital gift card after the launch, register to participate, or learn more about the program, click here.

(Waldorf, Maryland) – On Monday, April 22, 2024, at approximately 1458 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to United States Route 301 (Crain Hwy) at Acton Lane for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation. A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a GMC Envoy operated by Stacy Jermain Barksdale (38 yoa) of Waldorf, MD was traveling on southbound United States Route 301 approaching Acton Lane in the right turn only lane. At the same time, a Ford Expedition operated by Denise Kesterson (55 yoa) of Fort Washington, MD and occupied by Gary Cooper (61 yoa) of Fort Washington, MD was making a left turn from northbound United States Route 301 onto Acton Lane. The Ford had a steady green left arrow signal. Mr. Barksdale failed to obey a steady red traffic signal and failed to turn right as required. The GMC collided into the passenger side of the Ford and then the Ford collided with a guardrail on Acton Lane. Mr. Cooper was pronounced deceased on the scene. Ms. Kesterson was transported by MSP Aviation Command Trooper 2, to University of Maryland Capital Region Hospital with serious injuries. Mr. Barksdale was transported by ambulance to University of Maryland Capital Region Hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries. Mr. Barksdale displayed signs of impairment on the scene of the collision. Troopers are investigating alcohol, speed, and driver error as factors in the collision. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231 or can email a statement to justin.zimmerman@maryland.gov. The investigation is continuing and will be presented to the States Attorney’s Office for Charles County for charges. (24-MSP-012823)

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County and the Commission on the Environment are pleased to announce the 2023 St Mary’s County Sustainability Award winners:

School Category:

• Winner: Father Andrew White, S.J. School
• Honorable Mention: Elms Environmental Education Center, Maryland Master Naturalist Program

Non-profit Category:

• Winner: Southern Maryland Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D)
• Honorable Mention: St Mary’s River Watershed Association

The Sustainability Awards recognize outstanding students, restaurants, businesses, non-profits, and farms in St Mary’s County for their environmental stewardship, resource conservation, innovative best practices, and pollution prevention efforts. All nominees for the 2023 calendar year demonstrated impressive commitment to improving local environmental impacts. 

The winner of the school category is Father Andrew White, S.J. School (FAW). FAW began a food waste program midway through last school year, in late winter to spring of 2023. Victoria Rutherford manages the school’s kitchen, serving up to 200 children and staff each day. When she noticed food being discarded due to absences, she partnered with the school nurse, a volunteer at Summerseat Farm, to devise and implement a plan to reduce food waste.

They collected leftover or spoiled food appropriate for the farm animals to eat, averaging 25lbs of food per week.  FAW hopes to further expand this program to engage elementary students in learning about food waste and separating their cafeteria waste on their own.

“The kitchen now throws away very little actual food,” said Rutherford. “Kitchen waste is relegated to packaging.” Composting and keeping food waste out of the landfill waste stream is economical and a priority project of the Commission on the Environment. 

The winner in the non-profit category is Southern Maryland Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D).  In 2023, RC&D launched several educational programs. RC&D’s Sunday Eco-School, held at the Barns at New Market in Mechanicsville, was designed to provide free environmental education for all ages. Topics in the first year included the importance of wetlands, the history of agriculture in Southern Maryland, native plants, Maryland trees, and soil health. The lessons were valuable for home-schooled kids who have fewer opportunities for environmental education.  RC&D also started a virtual Winter Seminar series, four in total but two taking place in 2023. These well-attended lectures were presented by experts in the field and generated lots of good questions and discussion.

Additionally, RC&D’s Program Director for Land Conservation served as an adjunct professor at St. Mary’s College during the spring and fall semesters, teaching second- and third-year students about careers in the environmental and conservation fields. RC&D also applied for and became a Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps (CCCC) host site in 2023.  This allows RC&D to mentor a young adult to obtain gainful employment in the environmental field.  The mentorship officially began in August of 2023 and will continue until August of 2024.

RC&D has also continued to help implement the State of Maryland’s Rural Legacy Program, which conserves rural land throughout the state. In 2023, RC&D was awarded $1,461,697 in Rural Legacy grant funding. Three new conservation easements went to settlement in 2023, and RC&D has continued to monitor the other 27 conservation easements it holds under this program.

In addition to the two winners, the Commission on the Environment named two Honorable Mentions:  The Elms Environmental Education Center, MD Master Naturalist Program and St Mary’s River Watershed Association. Their efforts in 2023 were also impactful and outstanding! 

Selection of the Sustainability Award winners was based on outstanding demonstrated efforts to improve the environment and for initiatives and projects exceeding business norms and requirements. For more information on the Commission on the Environment, please visit stmaryscountymd.gov/coe.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies recovered drugs and cash early Monday morning following two separate traffic stops.

At approximately 12:27 a.m., on April 22, 2024, Deputy First Class Travis Wimberly stopped a 2021 Nissan Versa at the intersection of Pleasant Mill Drive and Great Mills Road in Great Mills for equipment and traffic violations. After observing controlled dangerous substance (CDS) related items in the vehicle, Deputy Wimberly conducted a search of the car and located a quantity of suspected heroin and suboxone, a bottle of urine containing an enzyme suspected of being used to tamper with drug tests, and paraphernalia with suspected CDS residue.

The driver of the Nissan was identified as Arcel Lamont Hall, 54, of Lusby, MD. Hall was arrested and charged with CDS: possession- not marijuana, CDS: possession of paraphernalia, and related charges.

At approximately 3:31 a.m., on April 22, 2024, while conducting a stop at the intersection of Chancellors Run Road and Combs Aud Way in Lexington Park on a 1999 Ford Explorer for a traffic violation, Deputy Joseph Senatore observed suspected CDS paraphernalia in the vehicle. The resulting search of the Ford uncovered suspected quantities of crack cocaine, heroin, cocaine, suboxone pills, a large amount of cash, a digital scale, and a bottle of urine.

The driver of the Ford, identified as Karim Martinez Bouarfa, 27, of Lexington Park, MD, was arrested on four counts of CDS: Possession – not cannabis, three counts of CDS: Possession – of paraphernalia, and related charges.

Both suspects were transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center to await bond hearings.

 In an effort to enhance accessibility to essential services and support for its residents, Calvert County Government is proud to announce the launch of a new Facebook page dedicated exclusively to community resources. This platform is designed to connect residents with a wide array of information and services aimed at improving quality of life for all county residents.

The Community Resources Facebook page is available at https://www.facebook.com/CalvertCommunityResources . The page serves as a hub where Calvert County residents can easily find comprehensive information and updates about available resources, like housing assistance, food support programs, veterans’ resources, family support services, behavioral health services and much more.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to serve and support our community, we recognized the need for a focused channel that simplifies the process of finding and accessing resources,” said Community Resources Director Jennifer Moreland. “With the launch of this Facebook page, we are taking a significant step toward ensuring that our residents have the information they need at their fingertips.”

The page will feature regular updates on new and existing programs, tips on navigating services, community events, news and more. It also provides an additional platform for residents to ask questions, share feedback and engage with their community in a meaningful way.

Residents are encouraged to follow the Community Resources Facebook page to stay informed about the wealth of services available to them. By doing so, they can also contribute to a community of support and information sharing, that benefits all residents of Calvert County.

The launch of the Community Resources Facebook page is part of Calvert County Government's broader initiative to ensure all residents have the opportunity to achieve the best possible quality of life.

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

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Communities surrounding NAS Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place April 22-25, 2024 from 8 p.m.-midnight.

Pilots at NAS Pax River 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 where airspeed, altitude, and power are precisely choreographed in order for a pilot to approach a ship within an acceptable window to land on the deck safely. FCLP training is essential for the precision and safety of our personnel and the success of their mission. Landing on an aircraft carrier is perhaps the most difficult task in military aviation. 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.

LA PLATA, MD— Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, announced that on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, Charles County Circuit Court Judge Makeba Gibbs sentenced Michael Darrell Dukes, 22, to 10 years with all but 18 months suspended in prison for the Gross Negligent Manslaughter of Zkiara Kemp. Dukes will also be on supervised probation for five years.

Dukes entered a guilty plea to the aforementioned charge on February 26, 2024.

On July 8, 2022, officers from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office responded to Maryland Point Road in Nanjemoy after a single vehicle collision. Upon arrival, they discovered that a black Kia Rio crossed the double yellow center lane markings on the road and struck a tree, ultimately catching on fire. Dukes and another passenger were located outside of the vehicle. Victim Kemp was unable to escape the vehicle and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Dukes and the other passenger were transported to a hospital for their injuries. Dukes was treated for life-threatening injuries; however, both he and the other passenger survived.

An investigation into the collision revealed that at approximately 2:18 a.m., Dukes was operating the black Kia Rio with one passenger in the front seat and victim Kemp, the vehicle owner, in the backseat of the vehicle. The Kia Rio crossed the double yellow center lane markings when the roadway turned to the right. The vehicle struck a mailbox post then collided into a tree. Dukes was able to escape the vehicle and help the other passenger out of the vehicle before it caught on fire. However, Kemp was unable to exit. The fire after the collision resulted in a total loss of the vehicle and its contents.

A toxicology report of Dukes detected cannabis and Benzodiazepine present at the time of the incident.

At sentencing, Assistant State’s Attorney Laura Caspar told the judge that Dukes, “purposefully took a drug to alter his mind then got in the car and drove. – This is the very definition of excessive harm, not only to kill someone but to rob their mother of burying her child.” She furthered, “This was not an accident. It could have been prevented by him not using drugs.”

The Maryland State Highway Administration will perform routine maintenance on two bridges over the Patuxent River in southern Maryland this month. Maintenance crews will clean the bridge grates and drains along the MD 4 (Governor Thomas Johnson) Bridge on Sunday April 21, and then will work along the MD 231 (Benedict) Bridge on Sunday, April 28 weather permitting.

Crews will begin work at 6 a.m. each Sunday morning, weather permitting.  Lanes will open to traffic no later than 2 p.m. that afternoon. Drivers will be guided using a flagging operation with one of the two lanes closed while work is underway. Portable variable message signs will be in place to provide notification of the upcoming work.

The State Highway Administration understands roadwork can be an inconvenience but is necessary to maintain a safe and reliable highway system. Drivers are asked to slow down in the work zone for the safety of all drivers and the crews working to improve our roadways.

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, visit Project Portal or the homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov. 

Burglary: 24-28165

On April 8, 2024, Master Deputy Cress responded to the 120 block of Llewellyn Lane in Huntingtown, for the report of a trespasser. The complainant advised an unknown male suspect was discovered inside the victim’s garage. Once confronted by the homeowner, the suspect, later identified as Mark Emery Cress, 41 of Huntingtown, fled on foot. Deputy Cress quickly apprehended Mark and a search of Mark’s person incident to arrest revealed 13 packages of Suboxone. Cress was charged with Fourth-Degree Burglary and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-29942

On April 13, 2024, Deputy Hill initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of Main Street and Old Field Lane in Prince Frederick. Contact was made with the driver, DaTonya Monique Riley, 37 of Prince Frederick, and passenger Michael Lorenzo Fernanders, 49 of Prince Frederick. Further investigation revealed numerous pills of Oxycodone were located inside the vehicle along with an improvised smoking device.  Both Riley and Fernanders were transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. During a secondary search of Riley, 11 additional Oxycodone pills were located in Riley’s underwear and one Oxycodone pill in Fernander’s sock. Riley was charged with CDS: Possession- Not Cannabis and Possession of CDS While Confined. Fernanaders was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.
        
Damaged Property: 24-28509

On April 9, 2024, Deputy Strong responded to the 3200 block of Ina Chase Street in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of property destruction. The complainant advised on April 8, 2024, at 10:48 p.m., the side view mirror of the victim’s vehicle was destroyed. Investigation revealed the suspect was Calvin Wayne Blackwell, 42 of Chesapeake Beach. Blackwell was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property.

Motor Vehicle Theft: 24-29854

On April 13th, 2024, Deputy Tavares responded to the 11400 block of Rawhide Road in Lusby MD, for the report of a motor vehicle theft that already occurred. The complainant advised his vehicle was stolen between 10 p.m. on April 12 and 6 a.m. on April 13 and returned with damage to the right side of the vehicle and a ¼ tank of gas depleted. The complainant advised the keys were left in the ignition. The estimated value of damaged property is unknown at this time.

Theft: 24-28269

On April 8, 2024, DFC Huy responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for the report of stolen property. The complainant advised a black Firestar M43 was stolen from a residence in the 2200 block of Garrity Road in St. Leonard. The estimated value of stolen property is $300.00.

Theft: 24-29312

On April 11, 2024, Master Deputy Aurich responded to the 200 block of Harbor Drive in Lusby, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised both the front and rear registration plates had been stolen from a vehicle parked outside the residence. The estimated value of stolen property is $160.00.

Theft: 24-29580

On April 12, 2024, Deputy Campbell responded to the Wawa located at 305 Market Square Drive in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised she misplaced her ATM card while at the Wawa and an unknown suspect made unauthorized charges on the card before canceling it. The estimated value of unauthorized charges is $36.76.

Trespassing: 24-28413

On April 9, 2024, Deputy Hill responded to the Wawa located at 305 Market Square Drive in  Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. The complainant advised Timothy Wayne Downs, 41 of no fixed address, had been previously trespassed from the establishment and was observed at the checkout counter. Downs was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.

 

Trespassing: 24-30258

On April 14, 2024, Deputy Tunnell responded to 713 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of trespassing. The complainant advised a female wearing purple sweatpants and brown pants was inside the store asking employees for beer money. Contact was made with the female, identified as Arneisha Brianna Barnes, 28 of no fixed address, sitting on the sidewalk outside the store consuming an alcoholic beverage. Investigation revealed Barnes had been previously trespassed from the establishment. Bares was placed into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with Trespassing: Private Property.
 

PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – Aviation Ordnanceman 2^nd Class Isaiah Mercado is no stranger to high-stress scenarios. As a Navy armament weapons support equipment technician with Navy Munitions Command Atlantic Detachment Patuxent River (NMCLANT DET Pax) his duties include supporting both air- and surface-launched weapons by performing intermediate level maintenance on both peculiar and common ordnance handling and transportation equipment. Maintaining the equipment that transports explosive ordnance requires a strong nerve, so it is no surprise that he was able to coolly and calmly act when he came across a vehicle collision shortly after 10 a.m. Sunday, April 7.  

Driving with his wife, Mercado saw the scene of the collision involving a motorcycle and a compact SUV at Three Notch Road and Tom Hodges Drive in Hollywood, Maryland. Realizing he was the first on scene he went into action without a second thought.

“It was just a natural instinct to stop,” recounted Mercado. “As soon as I saw the accident my first thought was to get there as fast as I could and help out the victims.”

Telling his wife to call 911, he assessed the scene and began to check all parties for injuries. Finding the driver of the SUV responsive and able to talk, she asked Mercado to check on her child in the backseat.

“The child was in the back unconscious from the collision,” said Mercado, going through the scenario play-by-play. “I started to ask if she can hear me or move at all. I checked for a pulse and told the mother her daughter was still alive and with a pulse. My next step was to check on the motorcyclist and I was asking if he could hear me and then I tapped him a couple times and got no response.”

Mercado was then joined on the scene by an off-duty St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Deputy, who began to assist with the injured as well, freeing Mercado to check back on the unconscious child in the SUV.

“My wife handed me the phone since I had a better understanding being in the car and getting a triage done on those involved,” said Mercado. “I told the 911 operator my guess on the age of the two unconscious people and told them I checked for a pulse on the little girl. The off-duty sheriff asked me to help stabilize the girls' neck and he took over the call to the dispatcher.”

Joined by a third passerby, Mercado enlisted her with helping the driver out of the SUV.

“I told her she needs to get the mom and take her out the car because I didn't want her to see her child like this,” said Mercado. “After that the first responders came and asked us if we needed a collar for the child’s neck, then went off to get one and our next focus was to get her out of the car.”

Mercado’s initial assessment of the scene made it clear that the SUV’s door buckled in the collision with enough force to roll the SUV’s frame onto the child’s booster seat, making it difficult to remove her from that side of the vehicle.

“I told them I can just carry her out from the car,” said Mercado. “I unbuckled her and then cradled her and scooted out of the car then carried her to the gurney. They then asked for her name, so I went to the mother and asked her for it. After I got it, I proceeded back to the area where they were tending to her and called her by her name to get a response.”

Tragically, despite the efforts of Mercado and first responders who began CPR, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman and child were transported by ambulance to St. Mary’s Hospital and flown by Maryland State Police to separate hospitals for further care.

For those who know Mercado, his actions that day speak volumes to his character.

“AO2’s ability to jump into a scene and render aide without a moment’s hesitation is exactly why he’s a trusted leader on our team,” said Senior Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Paul Nelson, Senior Enlisted Advisor for NMCLANT DET Pax. “I have no doubt his speed, cool head, and competent actions prevented further loss of life in a difficult situation, and I am incredibly proud have him as a member of NMCLANT DET Pax.”

NMCLANT DET Pax is responsible for providing Fleet Ordnance Support (FOS) to local customers as well as designated research and development projects in support of test and evaluation of fixed and rotary wing aircraft.  DET Patuxent River functions as the principle point of contact for explosive ordnance facility oversight and sustaining stock points assigned; to provide quality and responsive ordnance material handling, technical, material support to the Fleet and other customers in the areas of retail ammunition management; and to manage and operate explosives ordnance facilities at NAS Patuxent River.

Applications are open for the Maryland Corps and the Service Year Option Program, two streams of service created by Gov. Wes Moore’s administration as part of its commitment to public service.

The programs were launched last year when the state’s newly created Department of Service and Civic Innovation piloted the service pathway to education and career opportunities for community members who either recently completed high school or are looking for a career change.

Members, who must be 18 or older, are required to serve full-time at a sponsoring organization and participate in targeted professional development. The program requires a minimum 40 hours per week time commitment between the service at the host site partner and the required professional development.

Participants in the program will be matched with a partner organization that will provide job training, mentorship and other resources. Additionally, participants will earn at least $15 an hour and receive weekly focused professional development.

Recent CCPS graduates can apply online at https://serving.md.gov/auth/signup?role=CANDIDATE. The deadline to apply for the program is Sept. 11.

To learn more, visit the Service Year Option website.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources Division, advises residents that contractors will be repairing the gravel access road to the fishing pier at Kings Landing Park, Monday, April 22 through Thursday, April 25. The pier, kayak launch and gravel access road will be closed to the public during this time.

Thank you for your understanding as we work to maintain the best possible park experience for all.

Kings Landing Park is located at 3255 Kings Landing Road in Huntingtown. For park information, including hours and fees, please visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/KingsLanding.

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.

Residents are invited to “Chalk the Walk” at participating public locations throughout Calvert County to raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health.

The Calvert County Family Network (CCFN) and Department of Parks & Recreation, in partnership with Calvert County Public Schools, Calvert Library, CalvertHealth, Calvert County Behavioral Health, the Local Behavioral Health Advisory Council, and Calvert County local businesses, will host the third annual “Chalk the Walk” event recognizing Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week from May 5-11.

Residents are invited to use chalk to draw pictures and write positive messages and words of encouragement on designated public sidewalks or on their own sidewalk to raise awareness, reduce stigma and help encourage conversations about children’s mental health and well-being. Share photos of your artwork and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #CalvertMentalHealthMatters.

Drop-in chalk events will be hosted from May 6-11, 2024, throughout the county at the following locations:

·         May 6-10 - Calvert County Circuit Courthouse

·         May 6-11 - All Calvert Library locations (Fairview, Prince Frederick, Southern, and Twin Beaches)

·         May 6-11 - CalvertHealth Medical Center

·         May 6-10 - All Calvert County Behavioral Health Locations (Barstow, Chesapeake Beach, Lusby, and Prince Frederick)

·         May 8, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. - Calvert County Parks & Recreation Community Centers (Harriet E. Brown, Mt. Hope, Northeast, and Southern)

·         May 9, 2-4 p.m. - Community Resources Building (30 Duke St., Prince Frederick)

Calvert County offers many resources for youth struggling with mental health needs and their families. Find local resources at OurCalvert.org or contact the Local Care Team at www.calvertcountymd.gov/2629/Local-Care-Team. For more information about children’s mental health, visit www.childrensmentalhealthmatters.org/find-help/parents-families/.

For more information about Chalk the Walk, contact the CCFN at 410-414-5997.

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.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputies served search and seizure warrants on Trevone Damone Butler, 33, of Lexington Park, MD, recovering suspected drugs, paraphernalia, and an unserialized lower receiver for a regulated firearm.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division, with the assistance of the Emergency Services Team and the Vice/Narcotics Support Team, took the suspect into custody without incident at a residence in the 46000 block of Admiral Lane in Lexington Park on Thursday, April 18, 2024.

During the subsequent search, Detectives located U.S. currency, suspected crack cocaine, and a digital scale with residue from what is suspected to be a controlled dangerous substance (CDS). Detectives also discovered a privately manufactured lower receiver for an AR-15-style rifle.

The warrant search of the suspect’s vehicle revealed suspected Ketamine, crack cocaine, and additional paraphernalia. The suspected CDS was in sufficient quantities and packaged in a manner indicative of an intent to distribute.

Butler was charged with multiple felony violations, two counts of CDS: possession with intent to distribute, CDS: possession of firearms during a drug trafficking crime, CDS: possession of firearms, CDS: possession of production equipment, illegal firearm possession by an individual with a felony conviction, and related firearm charges, and is currently incarcerated at the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, MD.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 18, 2024) – The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of Devone Articis Hall, 33, no fixed address, in connection with an assault that happened on April 3, 2024, in Lexington Park, MD. The suspect is approximately 5’ 6” tall with a thin build.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Hall, and detectives from the SMCSO Criminal Investigations Division are asking for the public’s assistance in locating him.

Due to the nature of the assault, Detectives caution that Hall may pose an immediate danger to the public. Individuals are urged not to approach him and to immediately contact 911 if they encounter him.

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

Remember, with Crime Solvers, your identity remains anonymous. You could be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 18, 2024)— Following an extensive investigation, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Vice/Narcotics Unit, assisted by members of the CID Criminal Intelligence Unit and Vice/Narcotics Support Team served a search and seizure warrant on Lakesha Denise Savoy, 37, of Lexington Park, MD, for suspected involvement in trafficking and distribution of controlled dangerous substances. Simultaneously, deputies served a warrant at a residence in the 46000 block of Robert Leon Drive in Lexington Park.

On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Savoy was taken into custody, and U.S. currency and cell phones were recovered on her person. Numerous digital scales containing suspected CDS residue, suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine, and Suboxone (buprenorphine) in sufficient quantities and packaged in a manner indicative of an intent to distribute were recovered from the residence.

The suspect was charged with three felony counts of CDS possession with intent to distribute and is incarcerated at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown.