LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 26, 2026) – On Wednesday, June 24, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office was notified by the La Plata Police Department of an investigation into the theft of a firearm from a residence in La Plata in which Dayvon Maurice West, 35, of Lexington Park, was identified as the suspect.

Through investigative means, it was determined that, following the theft, West traveled to Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary’s County. An extensive search of the park was initiated, involving members of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, Maryland State Police, and the Maryland Natural Resources Police. Additionally, to ensure public safety, the park was evacuated and closed for several hours while officers searched for West.

West was located, surrendered to deputies, and taken into custody. The reported stolen weapon, a fully loaded Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, was found in West’s possession.

West has been charged with possession of a stolen regulated firearm, handgun on person and loaded handgun on person.

West, a correctional officer with the St. Mary's County Sheriff’s Office, was suspended from duty on March 4 during an unrelated criminal investigation, which resulted in a Criminal Summons filed on June 23.