Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) will offer additional space in its prekindergarten program for three-year-old students. To be considered for a three-year-old PreK space, a child must be three years old on or before Sept. 1, 2024. The child's family must also meet income eligibility requirements to apply and live in Charles County. Three-year-old children with an active IEP are also eligible for a PreK space. The application opens Wednesday, May 15, and closes July 1. Admission for three-yearold students is not guaranteed and spots are limited. Applications for the program must be completed online using the CCPS registration system in ParentVue. The program will be housed at the Early Learning Center (ELC), La Plata; ELC, Waldorf; Mary H. Matula and Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy elementary schools. The program will operate as a full day program and will follow the CCPS Parent Handbook/Calendar with the first day of PreK starting on Sept. 3, 2024. Parents will need to meet income eligibility requirements. The household income must be 185% of the Federal Poverty Level or less to apply. Income eligibility guidelines are below with additional requirements posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/departments/prekindergarten. Income eligibility must be verified with one of the following: • Copy of current Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, approval letter listing date range the supplements are valid and household members. • Three recent, consecutive paystubs for each earner in the household. • Completed and signed Tax Return for 2023. • To verify homeless or foster care status, contact the Office of Student Services at 301-934-7326. Parents with children already enrolled in CCPS can use their active ParentVue account to register a child for prekindergarten. After logging in, parents can select Online Registration from the upper-right hand corner. The application will not be available in ParentVue until May 15.

Parents new to CCPS will need to create a ParentVue account to complete an online prekindergarten application. This process requires a valid email address. Click here to access ParentVue or visit www.ccboe.com and select ParentVue from the top right menu. Application requirements All required documents must be uploaded before an application can be processed. Applications that have incorrect or missing documentation will be denied. These documents include: • Income verification documents for each wage earner in the household. • Two proofs of domicile. • Child’s birth certificate. • Child’s immunization record. • Copy of parent/guardian driver’s license. Parents with questions about the required documents can visit https://www.ccboe.com/parents/online-registration. Additional information about the CCPS prekindergarten program is posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/departments/prekindergarten. Parents who need assistance with the 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 16, 2024) - The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) hosted a site visit for Maryland’s Commission on Public Health on April 19, 2024.

The visit highlighted some of the local public health initiatives of SMCHD and tours of both the St. Mary’s County Health Hub and the Spring Ridge Middle School-Based Health Center. The Health Hub offers a wide range of services, including behavioral health screening, crisis counseling, a jail diversion program, community mediation, and primary care medical services. The School-Based Health Centers – located at Spring Ridge Middle School and Margaret Brent Middle School – offer routine and urgent medical care, rapid testing and treatment for colds and chronic illnesses, sports physicals, and treatment of minor injuries for SMCPS students and employees during school hours and for all community members after school dismissal.

“We were honored to welcome members of the Commission on Public Health to Maryland’s mother county and highlight the work of our local health department,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “This site visit was an opportunity for the Commission to better understand local public health in Maryland and how important it is for local health departments to be able to navigate the unique needs of their jurisdictions.” 

Maryland’s Commission on Public Health is tasked with studying the foundational public health capabilities of state and local health departments in Maryland and the state’s ability to respond to major public health challenges. The Commission will make recommendations for reform in several areas, including the organization of public health departments; information technology, information exchange, and data analytics; workforce; procurement; funding; and communication and public engagement.

For more information on the Maryland Commission on Public Health, please visit smchd.org/CommissionOnPublicHealth.

To learn more about the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, visit hub.smchd.org.

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

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 National Drug Court Month, Stroke Awareness Month, Lyme Disease Awareness Month, Older Americans Month, and Historic Preservation Month.

The CSMC and Department of Land Use & Growth Management then presented the annual Historic Preservation Awards. The Historic Preservation Commission invites all residents to attend their upcoming lecture on “Early Southern Maryland Tobacco Barns” taking place on May 30, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas. 
• Approved the letter of intent to the Maryland Higher Education Commission for funding to renovate Building A on the College of Southern Maryland Leonardtown campus.
• Approved the update to the American Rescue Act grant plan.
• Heard an update on the County’s financial health and update on the Committed Fund Balance from First Tryon Advisors; and approved the recommended change to the Committed Fund Balance and calculation of County Reserves.

The Commissioners then wrapped the meeting with Commissioner Time.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 9 a.m. beginning offsite with the Joint Meeting of CSMC and the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission at 23121 Camden Way in California, MD. The CSMC will reconvene at 11 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1^st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown) for remaining business. CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the county government website in BoardDocs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov. Visit stmaryscountymd.gov for more information.  

 Following an ongoing investigation by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, Jontae Lamont Proctor, 21, of No Fixed Address, was apprehended on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, in connection with the April 2 shooting at Applebee’s in California, MD.

Proctor was arrested without incident in the parking lot of a business in Mechanicsville on open warrants for Attempted First-Degree Murder, Attempted Second-Degree Murder, Assault First-Degree, Assault Second-Degree, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence, related firearms charges, and Violation of Probation.

During the arrest, Proctor was found to have a fully loaded handgun on his person and was charged with six additional counts of firearms violations.

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

####

Original News Release

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Shooting at Local Restaurant

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 3, 2024)—On April 2, 2024, at approximately 11:11 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Applebee’s Restaurant on Miramar Way, California, MD, for the report of a shooting.

Detectives and Crime Lab personnel from the Criminal Investigations Division assumed the investigation and determined there was an altercation that led to one victim being shot while inside the restaurant. Deputies administered life-saving measures until the victim was transported to an area trauma center for medical treatment.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Warren Forinash at 301-475-4200, ext. 8072, or Warren.Forniash@stmaryscountymd.gov.

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.

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. If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will offer license-free fishing days for all state residents and visitors on June 1, June 8, and July 4. These annual events provide anglers a unique opportunity to explore the state’s diverse fishing without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration. 

The department hosts license-free fishing every year on the first two Saturdays of June and on the Independence Day holiday to take advantage of peak spring and summer fishing. On these days, any individual may catch and possess finfish for recreational purposes in any tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland. All anglers must follow all current regulations, including size and catch limits found in the department’s fishing and crabbing guide. 

The department also has dozens of other resources to help new or experienced anglers, including angler access maps and fish identification charts. In addition, anglers of any level are encouraged to sign up for the weekly Maryland Fishing Report, which provides up-to-date fishing information. 

This year the department is encouraging anglers to catch invasive species such as snakeheads and blue catfish, which are affecting the overall Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. Both fish are great options for eating and a wide variety of recipes are available on the Maryland’s Best website.

Aside from these free fishing days, and certain license-free areas, anyone 16 or older fishing in Maryland must possess a license, which can be obtained or renewed online, through the department’s mobile app, or in person at a department service center, a participating retail sports license agent in the state, or by calling 866-344-8889 during normal business hours.

Unofficial 2024 Presidential Primary Election Results for Saint Mary's County

Last refreshed: 05/15/2024 05:00:05 AM

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NR: not reported

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President of the United States

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Congressional District 5

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

U.S. Senator

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Representative in Congress

District 5

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Judge of the Circuit Court

Circuit 7

Democratic Ballots - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Republican Ballots - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Delegates to the Republican National Convention

District 5

Republican Candidates - Vote for up to 3

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Alternate Delegates to the Republican National Convention

District 5

Republican Candidates - Vote for up to 3

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Delegates to the Democratic National Convention

District 5
*Winners based on the Delegate Selection Plan

Democratic Candidates - Vote for up to 9

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Board of Education At Large

Non-Partisan Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Board of Education

District 2

Non-Partisan Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

District 4

Non-Partisan Candidates - Vote for 1

(28 of 28 election day precincts reported)

Unofficial 2024 Presidential Primary Election Results for Charles County

Last refreshed: 05/15/2024 05:00:05 AM

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President of the United States

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Congressional District 5

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

U.S. Senator

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Representative in Congress

District 5

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Delegates to the Republican National Convention

District 5

Republican Candidates - Vote for up to 3

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Alternate Delegates to the Republican National Convention

District 5

Republican Candidates - Vote for up to 3

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Delegates to the Democratic National Convention

District 5
*Winners based on the Delegate Selection Plan

Democratic Candidates - Vote for up to 9

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Board of Education At Large

Non-Partisan Candidates - Vote for 1

(34 of 34 election day precincts reported)

Unofficial 2024 Presidential Primary Election Results for Calvert County

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resident of the United States

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Congressional District 5

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

U.S. Senator

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Representative in Congress

District 5

Democratic Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Republican Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Delegates to the Republican National Convention

District 5

Republican Candidates - Vote for up to 3

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Alternate Delegates to the Republican National Convention

District 5

Republican Candidates - Vote for up to 3

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Delegates to the Democratic National Convention

District 5
*Winners based on the Delegate Selection Plan

Democratic Candidates - Vote for up to 9

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

Board of Education

District 3

Non-Partisan Candidates - Vote for 1

(18 of 18 election day precincts reported)

 Angela Alsobrooks was named the projected winner of the Democratic Maryland Senate primary, beating opponent David Trone.

Angela Alsobrooks was named the projected winner of the Democratic Maryland Senate primary, beating opponent David Trone. (7News)

The race was one of the closest in Maryland.

Alsbrooks has served as Prince George’s County Executive for eight years.

She will face former Governor Larry Hogan, the Republican primary winner in the General Election in November. 

On Tuesday, May 14, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a balanced General Fund budget of $561,338,600, an increase of 6.4 percent over last year. The approved budget does not increase the current property or income tax rate while expanding investments in education, public safety, and recreation priorities. It also boosts employee compensation through merit and cost-of-living increases and a $750 base-pay increase for eligible full-time employees in July.

"The Fiscal 2025 budget underscores our dedication to meeting the diverse needs of our community, emphasizing crucial areas such as education, public safety, and infrastructure, and increasing funding for youth programs," said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. "This allocation reflects our unwavering support for our public schools, the Sheriff's Office, and the essential services provided by County Government, and highlights our commitment to addressing the needs of young people in our community.”

Budget Highlights

The General Fund budget funds the ongoing costs of government and includes:

• $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 $248.77 million, or 44.3 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, the continuance of the body-worn camera program to include four new record technicians, two other positions, and salary increases for staff.
• $10.36 million increase for County Government operations. The total allocation is $100.07 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 $27.4M for a combined 10.7% of the General Fund Budget.
• A total allocation of $21.85 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 fiscal year 2025-29 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget is $1.07 billion. It provides for county infrastructure, including schools, county buildings, roads, parks, water and sewer facilities, and stormwater management. A detailed summary of the CIP budget is located here.

The real property tax rate is maintained at $1.141 for County Government and $0.064 for Fire and Rescue per $100 of assessed value. The income tax rate of 3.03 percent remains unchanged.  The adopted fiscal 2025 budget details are available online.

The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office handled 1313 Calls for service, including 4 Emergency Petitions from May 6 through May 12, 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:

5/06/24 – Timothy Wayne Downs, 41, of Prince Frederick, MD, by Deputy Ryan McLean for Burglary First-Degree, Malicious Destruction of Property less than $1000, Theft: $100 – less than $1500, and Theft Less than $100.

5/07/24 - Kandice Lynn Drinks, 30, of New Port News, VA, by Detective Kortnie Marsch for Child Abuse Second-Degree: Custodian.

5/09/24 - Austin Brent Leaman, 29, of Lusby, MD, by Deputy First Class Zachary Jerew for CDS: Possession - Not Cannabis and two counts of CDS: Possession Paraphernalia. Leaman was also arrested on a Warrant for Attempted Theft less than $100.

5/12/24 - Scott Eric Broome, 54, of Lexington Park, MD, by Deputy Bradley Kirscht for CDS: Possession - Not Cannabis and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia. Broome was also arrested on a warrant for Malicious Destruction of Property of more than $1000 and Theft: $100 to less than $1500.
 

DUIs:

5/04/24 – Cholak Mani Upadhya, 43, of Callaway, MD, by Deputy Joseph Senatore 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, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, and related charges.

5/05/24 – Kaleb Spencer Twigg, 28, of Hollywood, MD, by Deputy Helen Deitrich for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, and related charges.

5/11/24 – Phillip Chainey Farrell, 38, of Coltons Point, MD, by Deputy First Class Austin Edelen for Driving a Vehicle While So Far Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance Cannot Drive Safely, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol, Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol, and related charges. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

5/11/24 – Jose Erin Guzman Pineda, 36, of Silver Spring, MD, by Deputy Aaron Ocasio-Rivera for Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol and Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol.

5/12/24 – Colette Jane Gibson, 61, 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, and related charges.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Calvert – St. Mary’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (C-SMMPO), the board that administers the transportation planning process in designated areas of Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties, will hold a council meeting on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. in the Waterfront Lounge at the Calvert Marine Museum, located at 14150 Solomons Island Road in Solomons, MD. This meeting is open to public attendance; residents may also participate virtually via Zoom:

• Meeting ID: 430 427 6617
• Call-in number is (301) 715-8592
• Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4304276617?omn=88681279280

The C-SMMPO Council meeting will include discussion and action on the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) FY 2025. The UPWP establishes transportation planning activities to be completed with federal, state, and local resources during the next fiscal year. Community members are encouraged to view the update of the UPWP online at: www.calvert-stmarysmpo.com/DocumentCenter/View/536

Questions may be directed to Karly Maltby, Calvert–St. Mary’s MPO Administrator, with St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Land Use & Growth Management at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1507 and comments regarding the UPWP should be sent via email to: Karly.Maltby@stmaryscountymd.gov. If you need special accommodations, please notify the C-SMMPO at least 72 hours prior to the date of the scheduled meeting so that necessary arrangements can be made to facilitate participation.

About the Calvert – St. Mary’s Metropolitan Planning Organization

The Calvert – St. Mary’s Metropolitan Planning Organization is the designated policy board that administers the metropolitan transportation planning process, in partnership with federal and state transportation officials. Each year the C-SMMPO must update the UPWP. St. Mary’s County Government is collaborating with Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Calvert County to finalize updates to this plan during May 2024. Learn more about the C-SMMPO at: www.calvert-stmarysmpo.com

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $35,046,616 in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funding for 17 Maryland housing authorities to renovate, improve and build public housing throughout the state.

“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. That’s why, as a delegation, Team Maryland is committed to finding solutions and increasing affordable options to address the housing crisis that has impacted so many in our state. These federal dollars will help provide a safe, dignified space for more Marylanders in need of an affordable place to live,” said the lawmakers. 

The following housing authorities received awards:

1. $21,865,262, Housing Authority of Baltimore City
2. $3,017,295, Hagerstown Housing Authority
3. $2,338,316, Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis
4. $1,192,353, Housing Authority of the City of Cumberland
5. $1,180,247, Housing Commission of Anne Arundel County
6. $1,120,357, Frederick Housing Authority
7. $1,025,970, Housing Authority of Prince George’s County
8. $1,009,997, Housing Authority of Crisfield
9. $497,018, Wicomico County Housing Authority
10. $360,007, Housing Commission of Talbot
11. $300,056, Rockville Housing Enterprises
12. $250,489, Housing Authority of the City of Frostburg
13. $249,306, College Park Housing Authority
14. $213,056, Elkton Housing Authority
15. $197,760, Glenarden Housing Authority
16. $170,395, Havre de Grace Housing Authority
17. $58,732, Housing Opportunity Commission of Montgomery County

The awards were made available through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Capital Fund Program, which the lawmakers supported and increased funds through the Senate FY 2024 THUD bill.

The Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning is pleased to announce it has been awarded two grants to fund a Nontidal Water Monitoring Program. Calvert County has been awarded the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Chesapeake Small Watershed Grant (SWG) and the Cove Point Natural Heritage Trust Nontidal Water Monitoring Grant, for a combined total of $95,000.

The SWG program funds projects within the Chesapeake Bay watershed that promote community-based efforts to protect and restore the diverse natural resources of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams.

When the program begins in 2025, Calvert County will use these grants to sample nontidal streams throughout the county and to analyze land use in impaired watersheds to assess future watershed restoration needs. The project will establish water quality trends for 27 nontidal stream sites, gain knowledge on interactions with downstream tidal rivers, and guide future land use planning and implementation of best management practices.

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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LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) are pleased to invite the entire community to attend the 2024 Flag Day Celebration on Friday, June 14, 2024, at 6 p.m. on the St. Mary’s County Governmental Center Lawn, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. This annual community event features:

• A procession by various color guards and veteran groups from around St. Mary’s County.
• A special Flag Day Service, highlighting the history of the American Flag.
• An official Flag Retirement Ceremony, demonstrating the dignified and proper method of disposing of worn, torn, or tattered flags.
• Hand-held American Flags, food, music, fun for the kids, and more!

We are pleased to welcome the cast from the Recreation & Parks 42^nd Annual Summerstock Production, Cinderella who will sing our National Anthem and St. Mary's County Song during the event. For more information on Summerstock, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/summerstock or follow the show dates on Facebook at https://fb.me/e/1HXIRlyuG.  

Seating will be provided, but attendees are also welcome to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the festivities from the comfort of the lawn. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will relocate to the inside of the Leonard Hall Recreation Center, adjacent to the lawn.

Citizens may drop off flags in need of retirement to the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown. For more information, contact the Public Information Office at (301) 475-4200, ext. 1340 or via email to PIO@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Stay up to date with St. Mary’s County Government news and events! Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/signup to sign up for News Releases or follow us on social media at: Facebook.com/StMarysCountyGovernment or on Twitter and YouTube @StMarysCoGov.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Latres Javontae Cockerham, 26, of California, Maryland, was convicted of the first-degree murder of a 19-year-old victim and the attempted first-degree murders of five additional teenagers for his participation in a drive-by shooting that occurred on January 12, 2022.

“The Defendant deliberately maneuvered his vehicle as his co-defendants rapidly fired bullets into another vehicle on a busy road in broad daylight, which provided for the murder of one teenager and the extreme endangerment of five others, while putting the neighboring community and all other drivers on the road at risk. It is no small miracle that additional lives were not lost,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “Our thoughts remain with the victims and their families. We hope that this verdict brings them some comfort.”

The Defendant will be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing. He faces a maximum penalty of six consecutive life sentences, plus eight years for related firearm charges.

Sergeant Austin Schultz and Detective Taylore Nauman of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were the lead investigators.

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

The Honorable David W. Densford presided over the case.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) is excited to announce its Community Appreciation Day event, set to take place at Hallowing Point Park on Sunday, June 2, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is free and open to people of all ages.

Community Appreciation Day aims to foster a sense of unity, pride and gratitude within our community, by acknowledging the diverse talents and hard work of our community members and to thank them for their positive impact and continued support.

The event will feature a variety of activities designed to entertain and engage attendees of all ages, including live music and interactive games. Families, friends and neighbors are invited to come together in a festive atmosphere and enjoy the beauty of Hallowing Point Park, located at 4755 Hallowing Point Road in Prince Frederick.

For more information about Community Appreciation Day and other upcoming events, please contact CCPR at parksandrecreation@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-1600, ext. 2649.

The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation strives to enhance the health, economy and well-being of the Calvert County community through sustainable practices, leisure opportunities and environmental stewardship. For more information about Parks & Recreation facilities and programs, visit online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ParksandRecreation.

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

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

CDS Violation: 24-34711

On April 30, 2024, deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) observed a hand-to-hand drug transaction at the corner of Lake Drive and Pine Lane in Lusby. Contact was made with a male who advised he purchased crack cocaine from a female identified as Chelsea Lee Hoofnagle, 37 of Lusby. Detectives observed Hoofnagle riding a mini bike on a walking path nearby. Contact was made with Hoofnagle who admitted to selling the male crack cocaine. Hoofnagle was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with CDS: Distribution of Narcotics, CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics, and CDS: Possession- Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 24-35108

On May 2, 2024, Deputy Tunnel observed a seatbelt violation on a vehicle traveling south on Rt. 4 in the area of Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick. Deputy Hendrickson initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle in the parking lot of the Walmart located at 150 Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick. Further investigation revealed K9 Atlas conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert. During the vehicle search, 17 Suboxone strips were located. The driver, David Lee Strawser, 52 of Prince Frederick, was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he was charged with CDS: Possession-Not Cannabis.

Damaged Property: 24-35065

On May 2, 2024, DFC Tavares responded to the 400 block of Hawthorne Drive in Lusby, for the report of property destruction. The complainants advised that between 8 pm on May 1 and 7 am on May 2, a cluster of mailboxes were destroyed by a blunt object. The estimated value of damaged property is $600.00.

Damaged Property: 24-35871

On May 5, 2025, DFC. Dymond responded to the Prince Frederick Dodge Dealership at 265 S. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for a report of property destruction. A white 2023 Chevrolet Camaro had its passenger-side window shattered. The estimated value of damaged property is $300.00.

Disorderly Conduct: 24-34946

On May 1, 2024, Sgt. Foote responded to the 14000 block of S. Solomons Island Road in Solomons, for a disorderly subject. The complainant advised an unknown male was causing a disturbance at the Solomons boat ramp shouting derogatory racial remarks and making threats. The subject identified as Howard Fawcett Heston, 65 of no fixed address, was asked numerous times to leave the property and failed to comply. Heston was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and charged with Disorderly Conduct.

Indecent Exposure: 24-34397

On April 29, 2024, Deputy Brown responded to the 11000 block of Big Sandy Run Road in Lusby, for a disorderly subject. The complainant advised there was a verbal dispute with Mary Beth Honeycutt, 62 of Lusby, and Honeycutt proceeded to expose herself. Children were playing in the cul-de-sac at the time of the incident and witnessed Honeycutt’s actions. Honeycutt was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where she was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Indecent Exposure.

Theft: 24-35646

On May 4, 2024, DFC Shoemaker responded to the 300 block of Clubhouse Drive in Lusby, for a theft report. The complainant advised the air conditioning unit had been tampered with and the side panels, refrigerant hose, and refrigerant were missing. The estimated value of damaged and stolen property is $6,000.00.

Theft: 24-34704

On April 30, 2024, at 6:45 p.m., Deputy Morrison responded to Ulta Beauty located at 845 N. Solomons Island Road in Prince Frederick, for the report of a theft. The complainant advised three black females in their twenties, wearing face masks entered the business, grabbed shopping bags, and proceeded to steal multiple fragrance products. The suspects fled the store in a gray 2022 Honda SUV registered to Avis Budget Rental, LLC. Deputy Lee observed the suspect vehicle northbound on Rt. 4 and Towne Center Blvd. in Dunkirk and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect vehicle fled from the traffic stop and struck Deputy Lee as he was out of his vehicle. Deputy Lee was transported to Calvert Health with non-life-threatening injuries. The estimated value of stolen property is $2,000.00+. Anyone with information in regards to this case is asked to contact Det. McDowell at Wyatt.McDowell@calvertcountymd.gov. Please refer to case number 24-34704.

Theft from Vehicles

The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office is investigating multiple thefts from motor vehicles and vehicle tampering cases that occurred on May 5, 2024, between the hours of 2:45 a.m. and 3:15 a.m. in the Chesapeake Village subdivision in Chesapeake Beach. The theft reports were received from victims residing on Cavalcade Drive, Cannoncade Court, and Meridan Court. The investigation is ongoing.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 10, 2024) – St. Mary’s County Sheriff's Office Deputies recovered drugs and cash following two separate traffic stops.

On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Patrol and Criminal Investigations Divisions conducted a vehicle stop in the area of Briarwood Court and Fox Ridge Road in Lexington Park, MD, for equipment and traffic violations.

During the traffic stop, the operator and sole occupant, Rico Kinta Keyes, Jr., 29, of Lexington Park, MD, fled on foot into a nearby wooded area, where he was quickly apprehended. A subsequent search warrant was conducted on a nearby residence in relation to Keyes and this traffic stop.

Deputies located cocaine and crack cocaine packaged in quantities and a manner indicative of an intent to distribute, United States currency, ammunition, and additional firearms-related evidence as a result of this investigation. 

Keyes was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center (SMCDRC) and charged with CDS: Possession – not marijuana, CDS: Possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and Resisting Arrest.

At approximately 10:41 p.m., on May 8, 2024, Deputy First Class Tyler Westphal initiated a traffic stop on a 1993 Ford Taurus at the intersection of Lexwood Drive and Lexwood Court in Lexington Park, MD, for a traffic violation and for operating a vehicle registered as a “historic motor vehicle” in violation of Mayland Traffic Law. Upon approaching the vehicle, Deputy Westphal saw suspected cocaine in the center console area and initiated a probable cause search of the vehicle. Suspected crack cocaine and suspected buprenorphine were located in the vehicle.

The driver of the Ford was identified as Charles Edwin Compton, 38, of Lexington Park, MD. Compton was arrested and transported to SMCDRC and charged with two counts of CDS: Possession – not marijuana.

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter will remain closed to the public through Monday, May 13, to provide veterinarian care and assessments to dogs rescued in an animal control investigation. The shelter will reopen to the public on Tuesday, May 14, by appointment only for meet and greets with potential adopters.

Calvert County Animal Services removed more than 70 dogs from a residence in Calvert County on Thursday, May 8, 2024. Because this is an ongoing investigation, additional details are unable to be released at this time.

During the closure, the shelter will remain accessible for emergencies and intakes for stray animals but will not be open for adoptions or owner surrenders, unless special accommodations are made for surrenders by contacting the shelter directly at 410-535-7387.

Animal Control officers are not impacted by the closure and have normal hours of operation. For questions or concerns related to Animal Control services, contact 410-535-1600, ext. 2526.

 “The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter remains committed to finding loving forever homes for all the animals in our care,” said Public Safety Director Dave McDowell. “An investigation like this involves a great deal of time, attention and workload. This is a collaborative effort and we will rely heavily on our community during this time. The shelter and staff are appreciative of the ongoing support as we work toward a positive outcome for these animals.”

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter encourages residents to consider adoption or fostering animals in need when the shelter reopens. Animals will also be available for rescue pull.

The Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter, located at 5055 Hallowing Point Road, in Prince Frederick, is an open-admission animal shelter managed by the Animal Shelter Division of the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. Contact 410-535-7387 for inquires or to schedule an intake appointment. For updates on available animals, how you can help, and more information about adopting from the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter, visit www.CalvertCountyAnimalShelter.com.

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

On May 9, 2024, around 1:35 a.m., deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau responded to the Yardley Hills neighborhood in Prince Frederick, for the report of a stabbing.

A preliminary investigation revealed an altercation ensued between the victim and suspect, escalating into a physical confrontation resulting in the victim, Calvin Antonio Robertson, 37 of Prince Frederick, receiving multiple stab wounds. The victim was flown by Trooper 7 of the Maryland State Police Aviation Command to an area trauma center for medical treatment, where he is currently in stable condition.

The suspect,  Anthony Joseph Holland, 60 of Lusby, initially fled the scene but was found hiding in the brush. Holland was apprehended and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center where he is facing charges of Attempted First-Degree Murder, First-Degree Assault, and Second-Degree Assault.

This appears to be an isolated incident. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to please contact Detective M. Mudd at 410-535-2800 or via email at Michael.Mudd@calvertcountymd.gov. Please reference case # 24- 36865. Citizens may remain anonymous through the ‘Submit a Tip’ feature on the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office mobile app. To download, visit https://apps.myocv.com/share/a39520678 . Tipsters may also email ccsotips@calvertcountymd.gov.

The investigation is ongoing. 

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 9, 2024) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Devron Ny’Quez Murray, 20, of Lexington Park, Maryland, was sentenced to life in prison plus five years consecutive to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the shooting homicide that took place at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department Carnival on July 15, 2022.

Following an eight-day jury trial in November 2023, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Murray of first-degree murder for the death of a 16-year-old victim and the attempted first-degree murder of a 17-year-old victim.

“The Defendant’s actions terrorized and shook our community to its core. I hope this sentence provides justice to all who attended the Carnival and experienced one of the most tragic events in St. Mary’s County, especially for the families of the victims,” said State’s Attorney Sterling. “The Defendant’s sentence appropriately reflects the gravity of the senseless acts of violence he committed and his absolute disregard for human life during one of our community’s most cherished events.”

Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Alena Mosier and Sarah Proctor prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Tyler Payne and Deputy First Class Daniel Sidorowicz of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were the lead investigators.

The Honorable Amy D. Lorenzini presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 9, 2024)—The St. Mary’s County Health Department will not be able to process vital record requests on Friday, May 10, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

To learn more about obtaining a vital record from the SMCHD, including document requirements, fees, and application downloads, please visit smchd.org/applications-forms-records.

Charles County is pleased to announce that the 2023 Annual Report is available online for public viewing. The Annual Report offers a comprehensive look back at 2023 and is organized by departments, showcasing the county’s accomplishments and key milestones.

"The 2023 annual report showcases Charles County's significant strides in achieving our goals and objectives.” Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. said, “I’m pleased with what our county departments and the Board of Commissioners have accomplished to drive progress together.”

The Annual Report uses local area photos and charts to cover the achievements in education, health, public safety, and quality of life in 2023.

Visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/AnnualReport, to view or download a Portable Document Format (PDF) version of the annual report. Adobe Reader is required to view PDF files. 

To request a copy of the report, email PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov or 301-885-2779. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.