LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 15, 2025) — The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging community members to take advantage of its Digital Online Reporting System, a convenient tool that allows residents to file certain non-emergency police reports online.

The system helps improve public accessibility while allowing the Sheriff’s Office to better allocate personnel and resources.

The online reporting system provides a fast and efficient way for community members to report incidents such as fraud, hit-and-run crashes, identity theft, lost property, single-vehicle crashes, and now, vandalism. Residents can complete eligible reports online rather than visiting a district station or requesting an in-person deputy response for lower-priority incidents.

Adding vandalism reporting to the system gives community members another convenient option for reporting incidents involving graffiti, damaged property, broken windows, mailboxes, or other intentional property damage. However, incidents involving active vandalism or situations where the suspect is known are not eligible for online reporting. Community members witnessing vandalism in progress or who know the identity of the person responsible should contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office directly at 301-475-8008 or call 911 in an emergency.

The Digital Online Reporting System is available through the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office website at FirstSheriff.com. Community members can access the reporting portal by selecting the Digital Online Reporting System link on the homepage.

Residents should continue to call 911 for emergencies or crimes in progress.

On May 12, CCSO Judicial Services and the U.S. Marshals Office Capital Area Task Force located Jaquan Devon Dorsey, 22, of no fixed address, in the area of Brandywine. Dorsey had an active arrest warrant relating to a citizen armed robbery that occurred early last year. Dorsey was taken into custody without incident. During his arrest, Dorsey was found to be in possession of a fully loaded semi-automatic handgun. The firearm was confirmed stolen from a different jurisdiction.

The charges stem from an armed robbery that occurred on March 19, 2025, in the 1100 block of Bannister Circle in Waldorf. Four suspects traveling in a burgundy vehicle approached a male victim and his pregnant girlfriend, robbed the victim of his coat and shoes at gunpoint, and attempted to steal the female victim’s cellphone before fleeing the area. Responding officers quickly located the suspect vehicle and arrested Jontez Davon Dorsey, 25, of Waldorf; Marquise Antoine Taylor, 25, of Waldorf; and a 17-year-old male from Waldorf who was charged as an adult. A fourth suspect, Jaquan Devon Dorsey, 22, fled from the vehicle and an arrest warrant was obtained. After Dorsey’s apprehension, he was charged with armed robbery, possession of a regulated firearm, two counts of first-degree assault, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of reckless endangerment, theft valued between $100 and $1,500, conspiracy to commit robbery, and conspiracy to commit armed robbery. He is currently being held at the Charles County Detention Center without bond. Cpl. T. Rickard made the apprehension.

Bomb Threat: 26-39195
On May 1, 2026, Cpl. Buck responded to the Rod “N” Reel Resort, located at 4160 Mears Ave. in Chesapeake Beach, for the report of a bomb threat. Patrol units arrived and evacuated the entire resort. Patrol deputies and K9 handlers conducted a safety sweep of the premises with negative results to substantiate the threat. This case remains under investigation.

CDS Violation: 26-39418
On May 2, 2026, at approximately 1:23 a.m., Deputy Angell responded to the area of Arthur King Road and Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick for a report of an individual slumped over inside a vehicle stopped in the roadway. Upon contact, the driver was identified as Barry Jeremiah Parran, 58 of Prince Frederick. Deputy Angell observed Parran nodding off, and a strong odor of alcohol was emitting from his person. Parran admitted to consuming a significant amount of alcohol. Further investigation indicated Parran was unable to safely operate a motor vehicle, and was placed under arrest. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a clear bag  containing a white powdery substance, suspected to be cocaine. Parran was transported to the
Calvert County Detention Center, where he was charged with CDS: Possession of CDS – Not Marijuana and CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia, DWI, and several other traffic related charges.

Damaged Property: 26-38863
On April 30, 2026, Deputy Snyder responded to the 1700 block of Prosper Lane in Owings for the report of damaged property. The complainant reported that his vehicle had been struck by a suspected gunshot. According to the victim, he was driving eastbound near the intersection of Mt. Harmony Road and Mt. Harmony Lane when he heard an object hit his vehicle and felt a shockwave consistent with a gunshot. The vehicle sustained visible damage, including a shattered window. The estimated cost of the damage is $300.00.

Damaged Property: 26-38853
On April 30, 2026, Deputy Connolly responded to the 700 block of War Bonnet Trail in Lusby for a report of property destruction. The complainant advised that sometime between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., an unknown suspect attempted to break into the victim’s vehicle, causing damage
to the door handle’s locking mechanism. The estimated value of the damage is $1,500.00.

Damaged Property: 26-37929
On April 26, 2026, Deputy MacWilliams responded to the Calvert County Detention Center for the report of property damage. Correctional staff advised that inmate Jacob Fuller Wilson, 27, of Deale, had ripped a telephone from the wall inside his cell. The estimated value of the damage
is $600. Wilson was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property (value less than $1,000).

Disorderly Conduct: 26-39364
On Friday, May 1, 2026, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office deputies patrolling the First Friday event along the North Beach boardwalk responded to a reported fight. They observed two juvenile females in a physical altercation and immediately gained control of the suspects. Both juveniles were identified and charged with Disorderly Conduct and Second-Degree Assault.

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Shawn Michael Clarke, 43, of Leonardtown, Maryland was convicted of assault and motor vehicle theft stemming from a domestic violence incident.

On October 26, 2025, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a car wash in California, Maryland, regarding a domestic assault in progress inside a vehicle. Upon arrival, the female victim told deputies she escaped by jumping out of the moving vehicle. Her attacker then fled the scene in her car. Deputies observed multiple marks and abrasions on the victim.

After a 2-day jury trial, a St. Mary’s County jury found Clarke guilty of the following offenses:

• Second-degree assault (maximum penalty of 10 years in prison); and
• Unlawful taking of a motor vehicle (maximum penalty of 5 years in prison).

“The victim was forced to jump out of a moving car to escape the Defendant’s relentless attacks. No person should have to risk their life to survive an act of domestic violence,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “Thanks to the courage of the victim, the Defendant now faces serious consequences for his actions.”

Clarke will continue to remain held without bond pending a sentencing hearing where he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Donna Pettersen, Chief of the Domestic Violence Unit, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Deputy Nathaniel Morrison of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Amy Lorenzini presided over the case.

The Charles County Department of Health is alerting all citizens and visitors to a rabies case identified in Waldorf, MD. One cat tested POSITIVE for rabies on May 14, 2026, in the vicinity of Dartmouth Rd, Waldorf, MD.  If you or your pet recently had contact with an unknown cat from this location, please call the Charles County Department at 301-609-6768.

We urge everyone to avoid contact with unknown animals and wildlife. Rabies is a disease of animals and people, spread through the saliva of a rabid animal. Usually, this occurs when a rabid animal bites or scratches a person or animal. Secondary exposure can occur from saliva on the coat or fur of an animal that was exposed to a rabid animal. The virus can get into the body through open cuts or wounds, or through the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Domesticated animals like dogs, cats, and ferrets can contract rabies from wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, skunks, and bats. Getting your pets vaccinated against rabies will prevent them from contracting the disease. Livestock may also be infected with rabies. You should contact your veterinarian for information on rabies and livestock vaccination. It is important to teach your children to stay away from wild and unknown animals.

 A current rabies vaccination for your pet is vital. Please get in touch with your local vet for an updated vaccine for your pets. Rabies vaccines are available through your veterinarian, as well as at local businesses including Petco, Banfield, and Tractor Supply, as well as through the FREE drive-through rabies clinics hosted by the Charles County Health Department and Charles County Animal Control on Sunday, May 17th and June 7th for dogs, cats, and ferrets. The clinics will be held at 10425 Audie Lane in LaPlata, MD, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Please bring your previous rabies certificate to receive a 3-year vaccine. Please contact 301-609-3425 or 301-609-6751 for questions.

PHILADELPHIA — FEMA recently approved $1,541,450,296 in funding to support recovery in Washington D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. This includes $1.53 billion to reimburse for costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and $3 million for recovery work related to past natural disasters. This regional funding is part of FEMA’s announcement of $5.6 billion in federal assistance to states, Tribal Nations and territories for COVID-19 and disaster recovery.

FEMA conducts a review process for all recovery grants that includes verifying compliance with program eligibility rules, ensuring proper documentation of expenses and confirming that claimed activities are consistent with program eligibility criteria to ensure taxpayer dollars are used appropriately.

In alignment with President Trump’s executive order establishing the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, FEMA conducted thorough reviews of claimed costs to identify duplication of benefits, specifically with patient care revenue. These actions help ensure that the COVID-19 Public Assistance funds being obligated are consistent with the executive order’s focus on preventing fraud, waste and abuse. Based on these reviews, FEMA is confident that the costs being reimbursed are eligible and not fraudulent.

Some FEMA Public Assistance grants recently approved to DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia communities include:

• $262 million to the Maryland Department of Health for Alternate Care Site contracts to help reduce or eliminate the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
• $14.2 million to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Allegheny County for temporary staff contracts to help reduce or eliminate the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
• $1.1 million to the Abraham and Laura Lisner Home for Aged Women in Washington, D.C. for labor costs to help reduce or eliminate the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
• $1 million to the Virginia Department of Transportation to repair sections of ten state routes in Wise County, Va. as a result of damage caused by severe winter storms in February 2025.

FEMA will continue to review additional projects and obligate funds on a rolling basis as eligibility is confirmed and scopes of work are finalized.

On Tuesday, May 12, the County Commissioners unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The balanced General Fund budget totals $644,157,500 for Fiscal Year 2027, representing an 8.2 percent increase over the previous year while maintaining current property and income tax rates without increases. For full details, refer to the Fiscal Year 2027 budget news release.

Briefings

• Dianna Abney, Health Officer, and Amber Starn, Director of Community Health and Evaluation, Charles County Department of Health, presented the Bi-Annual Health Department Update. The briefing included an update on respiratory virus activity in the state of Maryland, emergency preparedness activities, and updates on various nursing program activities.
• Michael Heim, Chief of Operations and Supporting Services, Charles County Public Schools, held a discussion on the costs of DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) Soldiers Semi-Pro Basketball holding home games at St. Charles High School. As part of the conversation, presenters discussed the fees the team pays for use of the St. Charles High School Gym. The team is charged $5,280 for the combined use of the gym and locker rooms for the 12 home games at St. Charles High School. 

Approval Items

Commissioners approved:

• A letter of support for the Maryland State Library Agency FY28 Capital Grant for the New La Plata Library.
• A letter of support for a new grant-funded initiative for cardiovascular health programs for seniors.
• A letter of support and a resolution for the Southern Maryland Interest Group Inc.’s official Chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
• A request for community support funds for the Interfaith Commission 2026 Prayer Breakfast.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 14, 2026) - The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is inviting community members to participate in the 2026 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at Leonardtown High School. Registration begins at 7:00 a.m., with the event starting at 8:00 a.m. Participants may walk, run, or ruck.

The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run unites participants from across the United States and more than 40 countries in support of Special Olympics athletes. Locally, the event brings together law enforcement officers, community members, businesses, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics Maryland.

New this year, the St. Mary’s County event will include a ruck division. Teams are encouraged to participate in friendly competitions while supporting Special Olympics athletes and the mission of inclusion and opportunity through sports.

Participants who want their time officially recorded or who plan to participate in the ruck must preregister online at www.runtheday.com by searching “SMCSO – Law Enforcement Torch Run/Ruck.” The event is chip-timed, and online registration is $38.45. Online registration closes Aug. 31.

Community members who do not wish to be timed and plan to walk or run may participate by purchasing an official 2026 Torch Run hat or T-shirt for $20. Those who do not plan to participate in the event are also encouraged to purchase and wear event merchandise to support Special Olympics athletes.

Official Torch Run hats and T-shirts are available in advance or on-site on the day of the event. Advance purchases may be made at the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters, 23150 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Payment may be made by cash or Venmo. Merchandise is also available at the District 3 Station, 23125 Camden Way in California.

Community members may also arrange advance purchases by contacting Sgt. Angela Delozier at Angela.Delozier@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Additional information, registration details, merchandise purchases, and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.firstsheriff.com/community/torch-run.

[Wednesday, May 13] On Tuesday, May 12, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a balanced General Fund of $644,157,500, an increase of 8.2 percent over last year. The approved budget does not increase the current property or income tax rate and aligns with the Commissioners’ strategic priorities.

“Throughout this year’s budget process, we remained focused on listening to our community, making thoughtful decisions, and staying true to our shared priorities. This adopted budget reflects a balanced approach that invests in our residents, supports important public safety, housing, and accountability efforts—including initiatives such as pretrial services, the rental registry program, and the Office of the Inspector General—and plans responsibly for the future without increasing the tax burden,” Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II stated. “I appreciate the collaboration of my fellow Commissioners and the engagement of our community in helping shape a budget that moves Charles County forward.”

FY27 General Budget Highlights

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

• $13.1 million increase for Charles County Public Schools, which exceeds maintenance of effort by nearly $15.8 million. This year’s record $255.8 million investment supports Blueprint implementation, salary increases, and transportation costs.  This includes an additional $1 million in funding, assigned by the Board of County Commissioners during a prior budget work session, to support operational needs.

• $655,200 increase for the College of Southern Maryland (CSM), with a total allocation of $12.8 million.
• The total education allocation, which also includes $6.4 million for the Charles County Public Library, is $280.1 million, or 43.5 percent of the General Fund budget. The Library’s budget includes $142,200 in additional funding designated by the Board of County Commissioners to implement the results of the Library’s Compensation Study.
• $6.3 million increase for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, with a total allocation of $145.2 million, or 22.5 percent of the General Fund budget. The budget supports compensation adjustments, new positions, technology enhancements, and capital equipment.
• $10.9 million increase for County Government operations. The total allocation is $117.1 million, or 18.2 percent, of the General Fund budget. Funding includes expanded emergency medical services staffing, new positions to support the new Animal Care Center, which is scheduled to open during fiscal year 2027, the new rental licensing program, facility maintenance, technology improvements, and other enhanced community programs. This funding also includes additional funding assigned by the Board of County Commissioners to support a new Executive Commissioner Specialist full-time position and a part-time position for the Office of Equity and Access.
• A total allocation of $25.4 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.
• Debt service totals $35.8 million for FY27, or 5.6 percent, of the total budget.

Following the county’s presentation of the proposed FY27 budget, important additions were funded through the fund balance that reflect the Board’s consensus priorities to strengthen community services, expand educational and workforce initiatives, and support operations. Key investments include increased funding for pre-trial services, food insecurity programs, agricultural initiatives, and a new water and sewer financial payment assistance program, alongside commitments such as the UMD Incentive Awards Program and the Commissioner Cares Scholarship. Additional allocations support staffing, equity initiatives, a feasibility study for a multi-generational facility, and an added day of paid leave for county employees.

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 Year 2027 budget details are available at https://charlescountymd.info/Budget.

2027-31 Capital Improvement Program

The fiscal year 2027-31 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget is $1,139,498,000. It provides funding 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.

Highlights include:

• $258.2 million for Board of Education projects, including funding to renovate La Plata High School, a new middle school, and capacity improvements.
• Continued investment in transportation projects such as road reconstruction, traffic safety improvements, and sidewalk expansion.
• Funding for public safety and government facilities, including emergency services stations, communications upgrades, and detention center improvements.
• Investments in parks, recreation, and community amenities, including Waldorf Park development and facility improvements.
• Other additions by the Board of County Commissioners include targeted. .investments in parks and recreation, which includes funding to repair and renovate the tennis courts and basketball courts at Southern Park in Cobb Neck, funding to shorten the White Plains Golf Course driving range into a smaller short distance warm-up, practice swing area to allow for additional park amenities at the park, to fully replace tennis courts at White Plains Regional Park, and to enhance safety through new parking lot lighting at Stethem Park.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – May 13, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation (CCPR) advises residents that the Northeast Community Center in Chesapeake Beach will close Friday, May 22, at noon and remain closed through Monday, May 25, for floor maintenance. Normal hours will resume Tuesday, May 26.

The Northeast Community Center is located at 4075 Gordon Stinnett Ave. in Chesapeake Beach. CCPR appreciates the community’s patience as the department works to improve and maintain recreation facilities.

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

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

The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) will host a routine potassium iodide (KI) distribution event on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This drive-thru event will be held at the SMCHD Main Office in Leonardtown.

SMCHD conducts periodic KI distribution events as part of standard public health preparedness activities for communities located near the Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center. These events are intended to ensure that eligible residents have access to KI as a precautionary measure. Please do not contact the Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center for KI tablets.

Potassium iodide (KI) is a medication that can help protect the thyroid gland in the unlikely event of a radiological emergency. KI should only be taken if and when directed by public health officials during an actual emergency.

To help reduce wait times, participants are encouraged to arrive with a completed registration form. Registration forms will be available on-site for those unable to print a completed form in advance. There is no need to submit a registration form to SMCHD before the event on May 30, 2026.

Community members are encouraged to bring any expired KI tablets for proper disposal. Free hand-crank solar-powered emergency radios will also be available for participants receiving KI, while supplies last.

Who is Eligible?
St. Mary’s County residents who live or work within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) for the Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center (Zones 6 and 7), including the following ZIP codes:

• 20659 – Mechanicsville

• 20636 – Hollywood

• 20619 – California

• 20653 – Lexington Park

“Providing KI to our community is a routine part of emergency preparedness,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “While a radiation emergency is very unlikely, having KI on hand ensures residents are prepared and able to follow public health guidance if it is ever needed.”

Residents interested in learning more about emergency preparedness, including radiological safety, are encouraged to join the St. Mary’s Local Public Health Corps to receive updates on future trainings, exercises, and community engagement opportunities.

For additional information about KI or this event, please visit:
smchd.org/resources/emergency-preparedness/potassium-iodide-ki

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business day by hosting a joint meeting with the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (MetCom). Discussion topics included updates on Capital Improvement Projects, the St. Mary’s 2050 Comprehensive Plan, and more. The CSMC wrapped the joint meeting by approving MetCom's Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Capital Improvement Budget and FY 2028–2032 Plan.

The Commissioners reconvened at 10:27 a.m. for their regular business meeting, starting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of Lyme Disease Awareness Month, National Skilled Nursing Care Week, Older Americans Month, National Transportation Week, and Historic Preservation Month.

The Commissioners also presented the 2026 Historic Preservation Awards on behalf of the Department of Land Use & Growth Management and the Historic Preservation Commission.

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

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Approved the request from the State’s Attorney’s Office to convert the vacant Deputy Director of Victim Services position to a Victim Witness Advocate Coordinator position.  
• Authorized a letter of objection to the rate increase case requested by Washington Gas Light Company, currently pending before the Public Service Commission.

The CSMC then received a legislative update from the Office of the County Attorney.

The Commissioners then wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The CSMC reconvened at 1:30 p.m. for a Budget Work Session.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room on the first floor of the Chesapeake Building, located at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website by clicking Board Documents from the home page. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on SMCG TV Channel 95 or at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 12, 2026) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Leroy Christopher Neal, 50, of Mechanicsville, Maryland, has been sentenced to LIFE plus 20 years in prison, with LIFE plus 5 years of active incarceration for first-degree murder and related firearm charges.

On December 5, 2025, after a 5-day jury trial, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Neal of killing a 46-year-old St. Mary’s County man.

On November 4, 2023, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a liquor store in Great Mills to find a man suffering from gunshot wounds to his chest and arm. An investigation revealed that the victim had been lured to a secluded area of the parking lot at the rear of the building backing up to the wood line before being shot. He later succumbed to his injuries.

“The Defendant executed the victim in cold blood by shooting him in the back as he tried to escape,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “This was a merciless and premeditated killing that stole a man’s life and devastated his family. For years, his loved ones have carried the weight of this unimaginable loss while waiting for justice and accountability. My heart remains with them, and I hope this outcome brings them a measure of peace and closure.”

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

Detective Kortnie Marsch of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) recently received a grant toward teacher recruitment and retention from the state’s Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program. 

The grant funding, awarded through Gov. Wes Moore’s office, addresses teacher shortages by providing more opportunities for non-licensed school employees to become full-time teachers. 

CCPS was awarded $2,042,630 from the competitive grant, and was one of 13 Maryland school systems awarded funds. The grant awarded $19 million to school systems across Maryland. 

The funding supports the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program, also known as RTAP. “We recognized early on that the program offers a powerful opportunity to expand career pathways for support staff who already play a critical role in our schools,” Holly Dolan, CCPS staff growth and retention specialist, said. “With RTAP, CCPS can intentionally remove financial and structural barriers that have historically limited access to the teaching profession, allowing instructional assistants and other support staff to build on their experience and transition into professionally licensed teaching roles while remaining rooted in our district and community.”

The Grow Your Own grant paves the way for current school employees to become licensed teachers while continuing to work in schools. CCPS will address educator shortages in specific subject areas including but not limited to special education, math and the English Language Development (ELD), through RTAP. 

The program is a pathway that combines on-the-job training with mentorship and free coursework. Once an employee earns a teaching license through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), they must fulfill a three-year commitment to work as a teacher with CCPS. 

“Through the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program, we are intentionally investing in our support staff — individuals who already know our schools, our students, and our values — by fully supporting their journey to becoming professionally licensed educators,” Dolan said. “This work strengthens a diverse, locally rooted teacher workforce and ensures that the future of teaching in Charles County is built by those who are truly connected to the communities we serve.”

CCPS is partnering with the College of Southern Maryland and Notre Dame of Maryland University for the apprenticeship program. 

The state’s Grow Your Own was expanded through the recent Excellence in Maryland Public Schools Act which takes additional steps to address the teacher shortage by developing fully licensed teachers through recruitment campaigns and supporting debt-free pathways to teacher licensure.

Part of the plan 

Grow your own initiatives are not new to CCPS. They are part of the 2025-2029 CCPS Strategic Plan which guides the work of the school system through the next four years, including employee recruitment and retention. Goal 3 of the plan focuses on attracting, developing and retaining education professionals to support student success.

To learn more about the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program (RTAP) visit https://www.ccboe.com/staff/myccps/benefits/registered-teacher-apprenticeship-program-rtap.

To read more about the program visit https://bit.ly/4uymE4g.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government is inviting community members to help shape the future of transportation in Lexington Park by participating in an upcoming Community Planning Meeting for the FDR Boulevard Extension Planning Study.

The Community Planning Meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Lexington Park Library, located at 21677 FDR Boulevard in Lexington Park. The meeting will be held in an open house format, allowing community members to attend and participate at their convenience.

Community members can access additional meeting information, including flyers in both English and Spanish, by visiting the project website at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/FDR.

This planning study focuses on extending FDR Boulevard from Pegg Road to MD 246 (Great Mills Road). The extension is being planned in accordance with the concepts outlined in the Lexington Park Development District Master Plan and is intended to improve traffic flow to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, reduce emissions, shorten travel times, and reduce congestion and traffic accidents.

“Route 235 is the busiest and most heavily traveled corridor in our community, with thousands of people relying on it eis pegvery day to get to work, school, and local businesses,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy. “Community feedback is critical as we evaluate strategies to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and ensure this project reflects the needs and priorities of the people who use these roads every day.”

Can’t attend the meeting? Community members can still provide feedback by completing the survey online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/FDRBlvdExtensionPlanningStudy.

All comments must be submitted by Tuesday, June 9, 2026. All feedback received — both online and in person — will be considered as the planning study moves forward.

Community members are encouraged to visit the project website to learn more about the study, review project materials, and participate in future public engagement opportunities. The Public Engagement Plan (PEP), available in both English and Spanish, provides additional information on how the community can stay involved.

Questions regarding the project may be directed to the St. Mary’s County Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T) Project Manager, Allen Settle via email to Allen.Settle@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling (301) 475-4200, ext. 3525. For more information, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/FDR.

Individuals needing accommodation or assistance to participate in the Community Planning Meeting, such as language translation or accessibility support, should contact DPW&T Project Manager Allen Settle at (301) 475-4200, ext. 3525, at least two business days prior to the meeting. Please note the meeting location is physically accessible.

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

State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Shaekwon Talib Jackson, 25, of Lexington Park, Maryland, was sentenced to 40 years in prison with 15 years of active incarceration for a shooting that occurred on October 11, 2025, in Leonardtown, Maryland.

On April 20, 2026, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Jackson following a three-day jury trial.

The Court sentenced Mr. Jackson to the following:

• First-degree assault: 15 years in prison, with 6 years of active incarceration;
• Use of firearm in the commission of a crime of violence: 15 years in prison, with 5 years of active incarceration;
• Reckless endangerment: 5 years in prison, with 2 years of active incarceration; and
• Reckless endangerment: 5 years in prison, with 2 years of active incarceration.

The total sentence imposed was 40 years in prison, with 15 years of active incarceration.

“The Defendant brazenly opened fire during closing time outside of a popular bar and carelessly placed many lives at risk. This night could have ended more tragically because of the sheer number of innocent bystanders that were spilling out into the parking lot,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “It was miraculously and thankfully a non-fatal incident. The safeguarding of our community remains the top priority of our office.”

Assistant State’s Attorneys Shaye Reynolds and Savanna Duncan prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

Detective Warren Forinash of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.

The Honorable Amy Lorenzini presided over the case.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) are pleased to invite the entire community to attend the 40^th Annual Flag Day Celebration on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Leonard Hall Recreation Center, located at 23145 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown.

This year’s ceremony marks a meaningful milestone as we come together to celebrate four decades of this cherished event honoring the American flag and the values it represents. As the nation approaches the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this year’s event carries added significance—offering an opportunity to reflect on our shared history, patriotism, and community pride.

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!

Additionally, we are pleased to welcome the cast from the Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) 44^th Annual Summerstock Production, Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical, who will perform the National Anthem at the event. For more information on Summerstock, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/summerstock.

Community members may drop off flags in need of retirement in advance at 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.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County is proud to be home to three county-sponsored farmers markets offering a wide variety of locally produced goods, including fresh seasonal produce, locally raised meats and seafood, flowers, baked goods, handmade products, local wines and spirits, and much more. These markets provide a great opportunity to support local farmers, watermen, and small businesses while enjoying the best products our community has to offer.

St. Mary’s County Government encourages all community members to visit The Barns at New Market, Home Grown Farm Market, and the California Farmers Market this season!

Home Grown Farm Market

• Open year-round
• Hours: Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Location: 21078 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park
• Information: www.facebook.com/HomeGrownFarmMarket

The Barns at New Market

• Open April 1 through October 31
• Hours: Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (inside and outside), and Monday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (limited outside vendors).
• Location: 29133 Thompson Corner Road, Mechanicsville
• Information: www.facebook.com/TheBarnsatNewMarket

California Farmers Market

• Open May 2 through November 21
• Hours: Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Location: BAE parking lot, 22810 Three Notch Rd, California
• Information: www.facebook.com/CaliforniaBAEFarmersMarket

Additional information, including vendor applications and resources related to St. Mary’s County Farmers Markets, can be found at https://www.yesstmarysmd.com/industries/Agriculture-and-Aquaculture. Questions may be directed to the Department of Economic Development, via email to Sydney.Garner@stmaryscountymd.gov or by phone at (240) 309–4022.

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 11, 2026) – Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded Sunday night to the Royal Farms convenience store on Tulagi Place in Lexington Park for a reported assault involving a handgun.

The victim told deputies the suspect entered the store to purchase items and became verbally aggressive following a conversation. The victim reported that the suspect then exited the store, retrieved a handgun, and made verbal threats to shoot him. The victim called 911, and the suspect fled the area.

Deputies identified the suspect through video surveillance and located Brett Andrew Taylor, 26, of Lexington Park, at his residence. Taylor was taken into custody without incident and charged with first- and second-degree assault and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Taylor is being held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown pending a bond hearing.

Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division have assumed the case. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective James Morgan at 301-475-4200, ext. 8170, or by email at James.Morgan@stmaryscountymd.gov.

Tipsters can also submit tips anonymously to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office through tip411:

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

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

LEONARDTOWN, MD – As part of a five-year master planning process, St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) is updating the department’s Land Preservation, Parks, and Recreation Plan. R&P is seeking community input to help identify needs, set priorities and shape practical, community-driven recommendations for future decisions about parks, recreation programs, facilities, and natural areas in St. Mary’s County.

County residents can share their feedback in two ways — via an interactive website or by attending one of four upcoming in-person community engagement events at different locations across St. Mary’s County.

Online input is now being accepted and can be submitted until Friday, July 10. Residents can participate online using an interactive map, posting to an ideas wall, using a budget prioritization tool, and by completing a short survey. To participate, please provide your input here: https://engageberrydunn.mysocialpinpoint.com/st-marys-county-lpprp-update.

Input collected using the interactive site will be combined with data analysis, upcoming stakeholder input, and a statistically valid survey to support informed planning decisions. A paper survey will be mailed to randomly selected county households in the coming weeks.

Upcoming in-person community engagement events include:

• Thursday, June 4: 9:30 – 11 a.m. (St. Mary’s Gymnastics Academy, Lexington Park)
• Friday, June 5: 9:30 – 11 a.m. (Charlotte Hall Library)
• Friday, June 5: noon – 1:30 p.m. (Leonardtown Library)
• Saturday, June 6: 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. (Wicomico Shores Golf Course, Mechanicsville)

For more information about St. Mary’s County Recreation & Parks, please visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/recreate.

Stay up to date with R&P events and happenings on social media! Follow us at: www.Instagram.com/StMarysRecAndParks and www.Facebook.com/StMarysMDRecreation.