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St. Mary's
State Police Tipline 301-475-2936

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Lying about Name, Drugs

LEXINGTON PARK — On 3/13/04, at 4:54 p.m., TFC C. A. Tyer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle on Route 235 in Lexington Park. The operator, Walter J. Ford Jr., 18, of Lexington Park, was subsequently arrested for giving a false name. A search incident to arrest revealed a bag containing suspect marijuana in the vehicle and a plastic wrap containing suspected crack cocaine on the ground at the passenger’s door. Mr. Ford and Thomas W. George, 33, both of Lexington Park, were arrested and charged with possession of CDS. They were incarcerated in the Detention Center pending a bond hearing.

Man Pinned Trooper, Went to Jail

LA PLATA -- On 03/10/04 11:05 p.m. State Police responded to the 300 block of Prospect Street for a malicious destruction of property in progress. A male and female were observed arguing and they had to be separated.
Michael Allen Reed, 23, of La Plata, exited a residence and became
disorderly. The male subject was attempting to leave when TFC S. Bolger
ordered him not to.  Reed told the subject to leave, and as Tpr. J.
Zimmerman attempted to go after the subject, Reed stepped in front
of Tpr. Zimmerman and held him back.  Reed was arrested and charged with second degree assault. He was incarcerated in the Charles County Detention Center pending a bond review. Tpr. J. Zimmerman made the
arrest.

On 3-2, TFC Davis responded to the Prince Frederick K-Mart for a shoplifting complaint. Investigation revealed that Amy Marie Blount, 25, of Lusby, exited the store without paying for merchandise. She was transported to the Prince Frederick Barrack and charged with theft (under $500). After processing, she was incarcerated in the CCDC to await a commissioner’s hearing.

On 3-5, TPR Whipp responded to the Prince Frederick Wal-Mart for a shoplifting complaint. Investigation revealed that a 14-year-old female, of Owings, had concealed merchandise on her person and attempted to leave the store without paying for it. She was charged with theft (under $500) and released to a parent.

On 3-5, TPR Whipp responded to the Prince Frederick Wal-Mart for a shoplifting complaint. Investigation revealed that Lisa Janine Underwood, 32, of Port Republic, had exited the store without paying for merchandise. She was charged with theft (under $500) on a criminal citation and released.

On 3-5, 12:37 AM, TFC Bennett stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. Upon contact with the operator, Henry Jackson Hardy, Jr., 43, of Prince Frederick, TFC Bennett observed a shotgun lying on the floorboard of the vehicle. After checking to see if the shotgun was loaded, TFC Bennett found a loaded handgun under the driver’s seat. Mr. Hardy was transported to the Prince Frederick Barrack and charged with DUI and transporting a handgun (concealed deadly weapon). After processing, he was incarcerated in the CCDC to await a commissioner’s hearing.

On 3-6, TPR Whipp responded to the Prince Frederick Wal-Mart for a shoplifting complaint. Investigation revealed that a 13-year-old male, of Owings, had exited the store without paying for merchandise. He was charged with theft (under $500) and released to a guardian.

On 3-10, 2:22 AM, Rt. 4, Dunkirk, TPR Bowling stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. Upon contact with the operator, William Samuel Sevier, 19, of Dunkirk, TPR Bowling detected the odor of suspected marijuana. A search was conducted and suspected marijuana was located in the vehicle. Mr. Sevier was transported to the Prince Frederick and charged with possession of marijuana. After processing, he was incarcerated in the CCDC to await a commissioner’s hearing. TPR Bowling was assisted at the scene by DFC Foote, CCSO.

Party Crowd Will See The Judge
CALIFORNIA — On February 142004,  at 3:38 a.m., Tpr. R. B. Rezza initiated a traffic stop. Upon contacting the occupants, Tpr. Rezza observed alcohol in the vehicle and detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the driver’s breath.
As a result, Jessica R. Dugan, 18 years and Jamie J. Bly, 19 years, from Leonardtown, were issued Civil Citations for a person under the age of 21 possessing an alcoholic beverage.
The driver, Melissa A. Bellis, 19 years, of Leonardtown, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence and was issued a Civil Citation for a person under the age of 21 possessing an alcoholic beverage.

Pirates Sought

LA PLATA — On February 9, 2004,  at 3:45 p.m., Officer R. Snyder responded to the 5200 block of Gwynn Road in La Plata for the recovered property report. Investigation revealed a previously reported stolen 1990 Regal brand Ambassador 233XL cabin cruiser boat and boat trailer had been found. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff’s Dept. at 301-743-2222.

HOLLYWOOD —- On February 19, 2004 at 1950 hours, DFC David M. Yingling arrested Carlos Yates, 30, of Hollywood on an outstanding Charles County District Court Warrant for Theft Under $500.00 and Bad Checks.

Burglary Charged
LEXINGTON PARK — On February 19, 2004 at 1840 hours DFC Michael D. Peacher arrested Michael Lee Beall, 34, of Lexington Park via Circuit Court Criminal Summons for previous District Court charges of felony Burglary, Property Destruction under $500.00, and two counts of Second Degree Assault. Beall was issued a court date and released on his own recognizance.

Not His Vehicle
LUSBY --- On February 18 2004, at 9:30 PM, in the Chesapeake Ranch Ests., Lusby, Tony Izzio Moore, 48, of Lusby, was arrested by TFC Carter on an outstanding warrant and summons. Both documents charged Mr. Moore with theft (over $500), unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and motor vehicle theft. The warrant/summons were issued for two incidents that occurred in December, 2003. After processing, he was incarcerated in the CCDC to await a commissioner’s hearing.

Burglary and Theft Alleged
LEXINGTON PARK — On February 19, 2004 at 2200 hours DFC Michael D. Peacher arrested Donald Taylor III, 23, of Lexington Park via Circuit Court Criminal Summons for previous District Court charges of felony Burglary, Theft under $500.00, and Property Destruction under $500.00. Taylor was issued a court date and released on his own recognizance.

 Burglars Strike Charles County Homes

INDIAN HEAD — Sometime between 5:30 a.m. on February 5 and 3:30 p.m. on February 8, 2004,   suspects(s) forced entry into a residence on Dove Tree Court in Indian Head, stole jewelry and a CD player and fled the scene. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff’s Office at 301-743-2222. Officer R. Snyder is investigating.

HUGHESVILLE — Sometime between 3:30 p.m. on February 11 and 8 a.m. on February 12, 2004, suspect(s) entered a home under construction in the 12800 block of Grosstown Road in Hughesville, stole a refrigerator and left the scene. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff’s Office at 301-932-2222. Officer L. Elliot is investigating.

WALDORF — Sometime between 12:45 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on February 11, 2004 suspect(s) forced entry into a residence in the 6300 block of Lemur Court in Waldorf, stole a digital camera and fled the scene. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff’s Office at 301-932-7777. Officer A. Schwab is investigating.

Children Played Nearly Naked In Snowstorm
While Mother Was Nearly Unconscious
CALLAWAY ---  State Police are investigating what caused a woman to become nearly unconscious and incoherent while her two infants were outside in the snow playing with scarcely a shred of clothes, according to Detective Sgt. Barrilone of the Maryland State Police Barracks in Leonardtown.   Sgt. Barrilone reports that a call from a neighbor at the Hunting Quarters subdivison in Callaway brought a Maryland State Trooper riding with a National Guard officer in a Humvee to the home where they found two infants outside playing with barely a stitch of clothes on.  One child, about 1 to 2 years old was wearing only a diaper and open-toed sandals while the other, about 2-3 years old, was dressed only in a jacket over pajamas and lady's shoes.  No one answered the door at the residence where a neighbor said that the children lived and police had to force their way inside.  Once inside, Troopers Lt. Brian Cedar, Cpl. William Rosado and Tpr. A. J. Rossignol found that the children's mother was nearly incoherent.  An ambulance could not make it's way into the housing area due to snow not being cleared and the troopers had to carry the woman out of the project in the Humvee to the main road where she was then transported to St. Mary's Hospital.  The children were taken to a local burger joint for nourishment and then back to the State Police Barracks for care until a Grandmother could be located.  The children are being taken care of by the grandmother while officials try to figure out what happened to the mother.
Sheriff Zylak Bringing Record Budget to Board
LEONARDTOWN ---  See this week's print edition now on newsstands detailing the huge new budget, a record in all of county history, being proposed to the St. Mary's Commissioners by Sheriff David Zylak.  The new budget for fiscal year 2004 is being proposed at a level of 30 percent over last year's approved budget. 
Too Drunk to Notice Flat Tire
WALDORF -- On December 8 at 10 p.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers received a lookout for an intoxicated driver traveling northbound on Leonardtown Road with a flat tire. Shortly thereafter, PFC R. Glover, Jr. located the vehicle on Mattawoman Beantown Road, near Poplar Hill Road in
Waldorf. PFC Glover conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and found the driver, Tony Lorenzo Felton, 20, of Waldorf, to be intoxicated. Felton was charged with DWI and is being held at the
Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
Gunman Scared Off, Flees from Movie Theatre Without Loot
BRYANS ROAD --- On December 7 at 10:20 p.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to the Indian Head Cinema on the 3400 block of Marshall Hall Road in Bryans Road for the attempted armed robbery. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect forced his way into the theater after it had closed, brandished a handgun and demanded money from the employees. The suspect heard a noise and then fled the scene without taking any money. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6 feet 3 inches tall, 180 lbs., 18-years-old and wearing all black clothing. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PFC W. Welch is investigating.
No Yield Bad Idea
WALDORF --- On December 7 at 6:18 p.m., a Volvo 740 GL driven by Louise Barr, 65, of Waldorf, made a left turn through a red light from southbound Route 5 onto southbound Route 205. The vehicle collided with a Ford Focus driven by William Lomax, 42, of Hughesville, that was traveling north on Route 5. The Focus subsequently collided with a Dodge Caravan stopped at the red light at Route 205 and Route 5. Neither Lomax, Barr nor the driver of the Caravan, Len Dale Gray, 38, of Waldorf, sustained any injuries. Barr was issued a citation for Failure to Yield the Right of Way on a Left Turn. PFC R. Glover, Jr. investigated.
Kid Slammed Dad to Floor
WALDORF --- On December 7 at 5:30 p.m. Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to the 3300 block of Capt. Dement Drive in Waldorf for the report of an assault. Investigation revealed a 16-year-old male pushed his 40-year-old father to the floor during an argument. The son was charged with Second Degree Assault and is being detained by the Department of Juvenile Services. PFC. R. Gover, Jr. investigated.
Charlotte Hall Woman Blew Stop Sign;
Victim Flown to Trauma Center
WALDORF --- On December 7 at 5:06 p.m., a Plymouth Voyager driven by Francis Irene Tyson, 59, of Charlotte Hall, was traveling east on Billingsley Road when it failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of Billingsley Road and St. Charles Parkway. The Voyager subsequently struck a Ford Taurus traveling northbound on St. Charles Parkway. Tyson
sustained incapacitating injuries and was treated at Civista Medical Center. An 8-year-old passenger of Charlotte Hall did not sustain any injuries. The driver of the Taurus, Matthew Bowman Cornelison, 32, and a passenger, Donna Angelica Cornelison, 34, both of Brandywine, each sustained incapacitating injuries. Matthew Cornelison was flown to Prince George's
General Hospital and Donna Cornelison was transported by ambulance to Civista Medical Center. Tyson was charged with Failure to Stop at Stop Sign. POI E. Travers investigated.
Armed Gang Robs Bar; Shoots
One Customer After Robbing Patrons
GALLANT GREEN --- On December 7 at 1:12 a.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to Gallant Green Bar on the 14900 block of Woodville Road in Waldorf for the shooting.
Investigation revealed three unknown suspects entered the bar, brandished handguns and forced the patrons to the floor. One of the suspects struck one of the patrons, a 57-year-old man of Waldorf, with a gun. The suspects demanded money and the manager complied. As the suspects fled the scene, one of them fired several shots, striking a 57-year-old Upper Marlboro man. The suspects then fled the scene with the undisclosed amount of money. The suspects are described as males wearing black clothing and ski masks and armed with handguns. The assault victim was treated and released from Civista Medical Center and the shooting victim was flown to MedStar Hospital where he was treated and released. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222 or Det. D. Stahl at 301-609-6492 or 301-609-6496. Det. Stahl is investigating.
Wild Man Saul Sluged 2 Women
WALDORF --- On December 5 at 10:30 p.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to a residence on the 8000 block of Warren Drive in Waldorf for the Hang-Up 911 call. Upon arrival, officers learned Saul Joseph Kittrell, Jr., 26, of Pomfret, had an argument with two Pomfret women, ages 48 and 77. Kittrell assaulted the victims, damaged property and then fled the scene.
Kittrell was located shortly thereafter and was charged with Second Degree Assault and Destruction of Property Under $500. He is being held at the Charles County Detention Center on a $3,500 bond. Neither of the victims required medical treatment. PFC J. Carlson investigated.
Getaway Car Left Without Armed Robber; K-9 Dogs Nails Gunman Hiding in Fallen Trees Behind Safeway
LA PLATA --- On December 6 at approximately 1:55 p.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to the Safeway on the 6600 block of Crain Highway in La Plata for the armed robbery. Investigation revealed Teddy Lewis McCain, 43, of Gaithersburg, entered the Safeway and demanded money from an employee. The employee complied and McCain fled the scene with the undisclosed amount of money.
Patrol officers, detectives and members of the K9 unit responded to the scene for the investigation. Cpl. C. Roberts and his K9 partner Ike conducted a track from the scene which led To a wooded area behind the store. McCain was located there at approximately 2:30 p.m. and Charged with Armed Robbery and First Degree Assault. He is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
"Teamwork and astute police work led to a very quick apprehension in this incident," said Sheriff Frederick E. Davis. "All of the officers who responded to the scene demonstrated the Dedication and professionalism that has come to define the Charles County Sheriff's Office. I especially want to recognize Cpl. Roberts and Ike for their role in locating the suspect. The dogs in our K9 unit are invaluable tools to the Sheriff's Office and their success in incidents like these Is a direct reflection of the aptitude of their handlers."
Det. P. Gregory investigated.

State Police Catch Gun Shop Burglars in Western Maryland
LEONARDTOWN ---  Two suspects from Waldorf were caught in a traffic stop on Rt. 220 in Allegheny County in Western Maryland by State Trooper C. W. Miller at 1:23 am on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2002.  The trooper noticed the two men in the gold Dodge Intreped were attempting to conceal items in their waistbands when he approached the car.
The two failed to obey the trooper's orders to keep their hands in plain sight, report police.  Calling for backup, the trooper, now assisted by Tfc. Lindner ordered the pair out of the car and the driver, Thaddeus Lamont Wills, 29,  was found to have a loaded and cocked gun stuck in his waistband.  Another loaded handgun was found under the driver's seat and another was found concealed in the dashboard.  Wills and his passenger, Justin Alexander Iwanicki, 25, were found to also be in the drug dealing business or perhaps just like to know the exact weight of anything as they were carrying a set of scales with them.  In addition to the scales was a bag of pot, which police say weighed 104 grams.   Police report that a bunch of tools used by burglars were also found in the car along with clothing used for concealment.  The guns were checked and were found to have been stolen in the burglary of the Southern Maryland Firearms shop on St. Andrews Church Road (Rt. 4) in Leonardtown, according to First Sgt. Mike Thompson, Assistant Barracks Commander of the Leonardtown Barracks. The homes of the two suspects were raided by State Police SWAT teams armed with search warrants.  The pair of pot pals, now cooling their heels in jail and with Iwanicki confessing to Tfc. Riley of the Leonardtown Barracks that he also committed another burglary on Christmas Eve in Charles County, can be expected to spend a lot of time in jail.  The Tackle Box gun shop in Lexington Park was the subject of a burglary attempt on Dec. 22nd when the perpetrators ran a vehicle into the back door and set off an alarm.  St. Mary's Dfc. Wayne Milam was on the scene about 30 seconds after the call was relayed through an alarm company and no entry was made, said Tackle Box owner Ken Lamb.  'Wills is being held on a $100,000 bond with a boat load of criminal charges placed against him and another ton soon to be dumped as the police accumulate more evidence.  Iwanicki was being held on $85,000 bond and he will be charged with more violations also, as various gun and drug charges are already placed.
Burglars Hit Lanham Cycle
WHITE PLAINS ---  On December 30 at 2:54 a.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to a commercial intrusion alarm at Lanham Cycle and Turf on Demarr Road in White Plains.
Investigation revealed unknown suspect(s) entered the business and stole more than $500 worth of property. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. POI J. Bender is investigating.
Hate on Toyota
WALDORF ---  Sometime between 5 p.m. on December 28 and 4 p.m. on December 29, unknown suspect(s) used unknown means to scratch a religiously-offensive symbol on the left rear door of a 1999 Toyota 4-Runner parked on the 2900 block of Hickory Valley Drive in Waldorf. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. POII S. Stanley is investigating.
Officers Disarm Man at Entrance to St. Charles Mall
WALDORF ---  Anyone who doesn't think that all the problems of crime in DC and PG County haven't descended upon Waldorf with the advancing minority population which came with the proliferation of townhouses and apartments can just stick their heads in the sand and whistle out their butts. On December 28 at 7:30 p.m., a citizen approached Officer D. Gross to report a man
with a gun at the Food Court entrance of the St. Charles Towne Center on the 11000 block of Mall Circle in Waldorf. Officer Gross responded to the area to investigate and located a person who matched the description of the accused. Officer Gross found the accused, Bryan Rene Powe,19, of Clinton, to be in possession of a handgun. Powe reached for the handgun and a struggle
ensued as Officer Gross and Officer C. Black, who had also responded to the scene, attempted to subdue Powe. Powe assaulted the officers but was eventually subdued. Powe was charged with Possession of a Handgun, Concealed Deadly Weapon, First Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest and Reckless Endangerment and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner. Officer Gross investigated.
Not a Nice Way to Treat The Wife at Christmas
WALDORF --- On December 26 at 1:33 p.m., Officer E. Travers responded to a
residence on Sandra Court in Indian Head for the assault. Investigation revealed a 40-year-old man tied his 28-year-old wife's wrists, put paper in her mouth and left her in the residence with their three-year-old son. He then fled the scene. Officers responded and the man was located shortly thereafter and charged with False Imprisonment and Second Degree Assault and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner. Officer Travers investigated.

STOLEN VEHICLE RECOVERED: On December 27 at 2:30 p.m., Officer G. Barnhart responded to the area of Central Avenue in Waldorf for the abandoned motor vehicle. Upon arrival, Officer Barnhart recognized the vehicle as one which he had take a stolen vehicle report for earlier. The vehicle, a 1992 Ford F150 pick-up truck, blue in color, had been stolen sometime
between December 17 at 12 p.m. and December 20 at 3 p.m. by unknown suspect(s) from the 3300 block of Leonardtown Road in Waldorf. The truck was carrying three-foot-long tool boxes, white in color, which were also recovered. The truck displays the words "Condon-Reed Inc. Air conditioning" on the doors and tailgate and bears Virginia registration LXK219. Anyone with
information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301- 932-2222. Officer G. Barnhart is investigating.

DISTURBING THE PEACE: On December 27 at approximately 12:01 a.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to a residence on the 2600 block of Husk Place in Waldorf for the domestic disturbance. Investigation revealed Damon Andre Adams, 27, of no fixed address, made several harassing phone calls to a 25-year-old female acquaintance and then went to her
home, where he became disorderly. After refusing officers' requests to quiet down and leave the area, Adams was charged with Disturbing the Peace, Trespassing, Harassment and Telephone
Misuse and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner. PFC G. Higgs investigated.

DWI: On December 21 at approximately 9:40 p.m., while off duty, PFC K. Mullings observed a
vehicle driving erratically on Oliver Shop Road, in the area of Gross Town Road. PFC J.
McGuigan responded to the area and located the vehicle at Charles Street and Bel Alton Road in
La Plata. PFC McGuigan stopped the vehicle and found the driver, Michael George Dyer, 48, of
La Plata, to be intoxicated. Dyer was charged with DWI and is being held at the Charles County
Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
184 Deaths Predicted Due to Drunk Driving
     Despite designated driver campaigns and even public service announcements from alcohol manufacturers promoting "safe drinking", the National Safety Council predicts 184 people will die during the New Year's holiday period and another 10,000 will incur serious injuries due to traffic accidents involving alcohol.   According to the annual Household Survey on Drug Abuse 25 million Americans reported driving under the influence of alcohol in 2001.  For younger adults aged 18-25, nearly 23 percent reported driving after drinking.
       Alcohol kills over 6 times more young people than all other illicit drugs combined. The younger a person begins drinking the more likely they are to develop alcohol problems later in life, including dependency and driving under the influence.
       To characterize the rate of alcohol-related fatal crashes among young drivers, CDC analyzed unpublished data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), a national database of information on fatal crashes.  More than 17,000 were killed in alcohol-related crashes last year, representing over 40% of all traffic deaths, with around 500,000 injured annually. The economic burden of annual alcohol-related crashes equates to $114 billion.
       One organization dedicated to fighting driving under the influence is Mothers Against Drunk Driving ( www.madd.org ), founded in 1980.  Statistics like the ones in this article are staggering to say the least, and organizations such as MADD and drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs are vital tools in the battle to overcome substance abuse. Don't let a loved one become a statistic; please be safe. 
Trash Truck, Tractor Trailer Collide, Close Rt. 4 for 6 Hours
LUSBY ---  State Police report that on Sat. Dec. 28 a tractor trailer making a turn from the southbound lane of Rt 4 into Rt. 760 struck a northbound trash truck driven by Reginald Bush of Mechanicsville.   Both drivers survived the massive crash and were flown to shock trauma unit by Maryland State Police Med-Evac helicopters Trooper Seven and Trooper Two
State Police Commanders Switched
PIKESVILLE ---  State Police Superintendent Col. David B. Mitchell transfered two local State Police Barracks Commanders as part of a statewide series of promotions and transfers.  Lt. Homer Rich and Lt. Brian Cedar were switched with Rich going back to Leonardtown from Prince Frederick, a post he has held before.   Rich had several clashes with former Calvert Sheriff John A. "Rodney" Bartlett and Bartlett had a close relationship with Col. Mitchell.  Insiders say that the transfer was a favor to Bartlett.   Mitchell will soon be replaced by Baltimore City Police Commissioner Ed Norris, one of the first appointments of Gov.-Elect Robert Ehrlich. 
Baby Shot on Tuesday Now Dead
LA PLATA ---  A brutal slaying took place in Charles County on Tuesday when a 26-month old toddler who was shot died on Wednesday, according to Charles County Sheriff's officers.
William James Meadows, the 26-month-old victim in the shooting that occurred yesterday in Bryantown was pronounced dead at approximately 11:20 a.m. this morning at Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C. His father remains hospitalized at
Washington Hospital Center in critical condition.
Subsequent to this, John Adrian Booth, Jr., the suspect in this case, will now be charged
with one count of First Degree Murder and one count of Attempted Murder, as opposed to being charged with two counts of Attempted Murder.
The man who has now been charged with murder surrendored to Virginia State troopers just hours before the baby died from the wounds he received at the hands of John Adrian Booth, Jr.
At approximately 8:36 a.m. on October 30, John Adrian Booth, Jr., the suspect in a shooting that occurred in Charles County yesterday, was located in Virginia.
Two Virginia State Troopers were assisting a disabled vehicle on Southbound Route 95,
just south of Dumfries Truck Scale, when Booth pulled in behind the troopers' cruisers. He informed the troopers that he was wanted in Charles County, and the troopers arrested Booth.
Booth was transported to the Prince William County Police, Garfield Station. Booth will
be charged in Virginia as a fugitive and have an extradition hearing. The date of this hearing has not yet been set.
Booth is charged in Charles County with two counts of Attempted Murder, two counts of
First Degree Assault, two counts of Carrying a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Injure and one
count of reckless endangerment.
"I would like to thank the Virginia State Police, the men and women of the Charles
County Sheriff's Office, the news media and the citizens of Charles County. It is through the collective efforts of these entities that we were able to quickly identify and apprehend the suspect in this matter. Such partnerships are essential to ensuring that Charles County remains a safe and secure place to live and work. Today, as we move forward on this case, the thoughts and prayers of the Charles County Sheriff's Office are with the victims and their family," said Sheriff Frederick E. Davis.
Calvert Bus Driver Arrested for DWI After
Wrecking with Kids On Board
LUSBY --- On Monday, Oct. 14, at about 2 pm Calvert Sheriff's Deputy A. C. Moschetto arrested John Raul Rodriquesz II, 39, of St. Leonard on a charge of driving while impaired by drugs and also for failing to control speed to avoid a collission. The school bus was traveling on Sollars Wharf Road about a quarter mile north of Mears Creek Road when the bus skipped off the roadway on the right causing the rear of the bus to skid to the left and then strike a power pole. Two kids on board were taken by ambulance to Calvert Memorial Hospital and treated for minor injuries and released. The deputy questioned the bus driver and determined he was impaired. A certified drug recognition expert from Charles County Sheriff's Office tested Rodriquez and as a result of that testing he was charged and later released.
Burglar Sold Loot Taken from Home
CALIFORNIA --- Christopher J. Kurkowski, 25, of California has been arrested and charged with stealing over $1,700 worth of possessions from Tammy m. Ellis, 21, and Jeffrey S. Russell, 25, by breaking into their residence in Leonardtown. Included in the stolen property were firearms, all of which were recovered from the third party to which they were sold, reports St. Mary's Sheriff's Sgt. Daniel Alioto.
Man Charged as Accomplice
in Murder Attempt
MECHANICSVILLE --- St. Mary's Sheriff's detectives arrested Dwight L. Scriber, 37, of Hollywood and charged him with attempted first degree murder, according to Sgt. Daniel Alioto. Deputies say that Benjamin Chase Jr, was attempting to kill Anthony Forbes with a shotgun on Oct. 3 at a home in Mechanicsville and instead shot Julie Clarke in the leg when she opened her door to her home. Chase turned himself in and is being held in jail without bail. Scriber is accused of then driving Chase as he escaped the scene after the shooting. Scriber was held on $50,000 bond. more arrests are pending, say police.
Two Wanted on Attempted
Murder Charges Turn Selves In
LEONARDTOWN --- Anthony D. Forbes, 39, who was the victim in a murder attempt allegedly by Benjamin Alexander Chase, 23, ought to breathe a little easier now that Chase is in jail without bond, according to St. Mary's Sheriff's Sgt. Daniel Alioto. He is also charged with first degree assault on Julie Clarke.
Man Charged with Series
of Stalking, Damaging Vehicle
GREAT MILLS --- A Great Mills woman was the victim of at least four incidents of damage to her vehicle in the last two weeks while parked at both home and at work. Detectives at the St. Mary's Sheriff's Department began working leads of a possible suspect, who was identified as Garry Keith Rosengrant, 44, of Lexington Park. Police served a search warrant on his home on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2002 and numerous items were seized and Rosengrant was arrested and charged with stalking, harassment, and property destruction and he was later released on $3,500 bond.
Avoiding the Cash Register
WALDORF --- On October 13 at 4:45 p.m., an unknown suspect was observed removing store property from a shelf at K. B. Toy Store on the 11100 block of Mall Circle in Waldorf and conceal it on his person. Store employees approached the suspect and attempted to recover the property but the suspect refused to comply. The suspect threw a container of suspected
cocaine onto the display shelf and then fled the scene without paying for the merchandise. The suspect is described as a black male with a medium
build. His hair is in dread locks and was pulled back into a pony tail and he was last seen wearing a blue and gray t-shirt and camouflage sweatpants
with cargo pockets. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PO II R. Snyder
is investigating.
Officer Witnessed Woman Slug Woman
WALDORF --- On October 13 at 1:30 a.m., PFC R. Glover, Jr. was in the parking lot of Pinefield Shopping Center on the 2100 block of Crain
Highway in Waldorf when he observed Katherine Alane Simms, 24, of Waldorf, assault a female victim. PFC Glover intervened and Simms was charged with
Second Degree Assault. Simms is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
Peeping Taster Lights Homes
WALDORF --- On October 12 at approximately 8:35 p.m., an unknown suspect(s) shined a laser light into several windows of a residence on the
12000 block of Calico Woods Place in Waldorf. This activity has occurred several times over the past month. Anyone with information about this
incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PO II R. Snyder is investigating.
Shoppers Robbed at Gunpoint by Gang When Leaving St. Charles Mall
WALDORF --- On October 12 at 7:15 p.m., two girls, ages 16 and 15, both of Waldorf, and an 18-year-old woman of Camp Springs exited St. Charles Towne Center with four unknown suspects, all of whom they had just met. The victims and the suspects approached the suspects' vehicle and the suspects brandished a handgun and a shotgun and demanded property. The victims complied and the suspects fled the scene in an unknown direction.
The suspects are described as black males between 20 and 22 years of age.
Suspect one is dark-complected, Suspect two is short, Suspect three is tall and Suspect four is heavy-set. The suspects' vehicle is described as an
older-model Ford Crown Victoria or Chevrolet Caprice, light blue in color with a black top. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to
contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PFC L. Potter and POII G. Barnhart are investigating.
All the Wrong Moves for Drunk Driver
LA PLATA --- On October 12 at 6 a.m., PFC R. Glover, Jr. observed an Eagle Talon leave the 100 block of Drury Drive in La Plata with no front tag on the vehicle. PFC Glover conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and the driver, Richard Hartford Holt, 23, of La Plata, was determined to be intoxicated. Holt was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Failure to Display Front Tag and Failure to Wear Seatbelt and
is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
Super 8 Motel Robbed at Gunpoint
WALDORF --- On October 12 at approximately 5:51 a.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to Days Inn on the 11300 block of Days
Court in Waldorf for the report of a commercial armed robbery. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect entered Days Inn, brandished a handgun and
demanded money from the manager. The victim complied, and the suspect fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of money. The vehicle was last seen in the Pembrooke area heading toward Old Washington Road. The suspect is described as a white male, six feet tall, approximately 35 years old. He has black hair and a goatee and was last seen wearing a gray or white raincoat or windbreaker and dark pants. The vehicle is described a dark-colored conversion van. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PO II J. Jones
is investigating.
Walking Out With New Shoes
WALDORF --- On October 12 at approximately 3:25 p.m., a loss prevention officer at J.C. Penny on the 11100 block of Mall Circle in Waldorf observed a
17-year-old male of Indian Head remove a pair of shoes from a display shelf in the store. The accused put the shoes on his feet and walked out of the
store without paying for the merchandise. The loss prevention officer detained the accused until an officer arrived. The accused was charged via a
Juvenile Offense Report with Theft Under $500 and was referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice. PO II R. Snyder investigated.
Woman was on Thundering Booze Cruise
WALDORF --- On October 12 at 2:30 a.m., Sgt. J. Stine
observed a Ford Thunderbird traveling at a high rate of speed swerve on the road in the area of Crain Highway and Route 6. The driver, Jacqulin Yvonne
Marshall, 33, of Waldorf, was found to be intoxicated. Marshall was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and was released from the Charles County
Detention Center. Sgt. Stine and POI E. Starcher investigated.
Woman Was On Late Night Drinking Expedition
LA PLATA --- On October 12 at 1:09 a.m., PFC R. Glover, Jr. observed a Ford Expedition, white in color, traveling southbound on Washington Avenue. The vehicle made a left turn onto Charles Street in La
Plata without displaying turn signal. PFC Glover conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and the driver, Kimberly Ransom, 42, of Welcome, was found to be
intoxicated. Ransom was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Failure to Give Signal of Intention to Turn. Ransom signed the citation and was
released.
Gallant Burglars Cleaned Out Business
GALLANT GREEN --- Sometime between 11:30 p.m. on October 8 and 9:30 a.m. on October 9, two unknown suspects forced entry into Gallant Green Bar on the 14900 block of Woodville Road in Waldorf and stole money and property. The suspects then fled the scene. The suspects are described as an unknown man and an unknown woman. No further description is available. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PO II R. Snyder is investigating.
Shopper Laid Down
Purse in Bra Shop
WALDORF --- Sometime between 6 p.m. October 8 and 9:15 s.m. October 9, an unknown
suspect stole a wallet from a purse that was left unattended in Victoria's Secret on the 11100 block of Mall Circle in Waldorf. The suspect then made
several purchases with the credit cards that were in the wallet. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County
Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. PO II R. Snyder is investigating.
Virginia Man Charged with Wreck Which Devastated Clements Family
BEL ALTON --- The Charles County Sheriff's Office has charged Jamal Levar Thompson, 24, of King George, Virginia, for a serious motor vehicle crash that occurred on May 19 in Bel Alton in which alcohol was a factor.
At 7:40 p.m., the Mazda 626 driven by Thompson was traveling south on Crain Highway north of Chapel Point Road when it struck a Chevrolet Malibu driven
by David Knott, 36, of Clements, in the rear.
Knott's vehicle subsequently struck a Nissan Sentra driven by Ronald Barnes, 20, of Washington, D.C., in
the rear. Thompson sustained incapacitating injuries and was transported by ambulance to Southern Maryland Hospital. Knott and a passenger, Jill Knott,
34, of Clements, sustained incapacitating injuries and were flown to Med Star. Their injuries have left them paralyzed.   The Knott's two children, ages four and six, sustained incapacitating injuries and were
flown to Children's Hospital and they have since recovered. Barnes and a passenger, Kisha Sharmain Belton, 20, of Frederick, did not sustain any
injuries. Thompson was charged on October 2 with six counts of Life Threatening Injury Under the Influence, DWI, DUI, Negligent Driving, Failure to Control Vehicle Speed on Highway to Avoid Collission and Driving Uninsured Vehicle.

WHITE PLAINS --- Man Dead in Fire
Charles Campo, 82, was killed in a fire which damaged his  home on Bensville Road near White Plains.  The blaze began in the living room of the two story home at about 9:17 am.  When firefighters first arrived, they found the victim on the front porch of the burning home, wrapped in a blanket. He was taken to Civista where he died.  Damage was set at $50,000. Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the fire, according to Deputy State Fire Marshal Faron Taylor.
HUGHESVILLE --- Pedestrian was drinking
prior to fatal stagger into traffic on Rt. 231
12/01/02 0020 hours.  A 1991 Chevrolet Lumina being operated by
William Andrew Young, 73 years, of Hughesville, was traveling westbound
on MD Rt. 231, west of MD Rt.381.  A pedestrian, John Everett Long, 22
years, of Mechanicsville, was walking westbound on MD Rt. 231, west of
MD Rt. 381, when he entered the roadway and was struck by the Young
vehicle.  Mr. Long died on the scene, and his body was transported to
the Medical Examiner's Office in Baltimore.  Mr. Young was not injured.
Preliminary investigation reveals that alcohol was a contributing factor
in this accident.  Tfc. R. Lemerise is conducting this investigation.
Bicyclist Critical After Weaving into Traffic, Hit by Truck
WALDORF --- 12/01/02 2244 hours.  Alcides NMN Pena, 24 years, of Waldorf,
was riding his bicycle on southbound U.S. Rt. 301, south of Billingsley
Road.  Mr. Pena crossed in the path of a 1988 GMC Jimmy truck being
operated by Raymond Louis Walker, 30 years, of Clinton, and was struck.
Mr. Pena received incapacitating injuries and was flown to Prince George
Hospital by Maryland State Police Trooper 2 helicopter where he is
listed in critical condition.  Mr. Walker was not injured.  Alcohol was
not a contributing factor in this accident.  Tfc. D. Collins is
conducting this investigation.
Crack Dealer Sidelined by Trooper
WALDORF --- 11/30/02 2359 hours.  A vehicle
traveling on Acton Lane at Shawnee Lane was stopped for speeding.
Brandon Lee Tyree Sr., 21 years, of Capital Heights, was arrested for
driving under the influence of alcohol.  A search incident to arrest
revealed a large quantity of suspected marijuana and crack cocaine.  Mr.
Tyree was subsequently charged with possession with the intent to
distribute crack cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute
marijuana, possession of crack cocaine, possession of marijuana and
possession of drug paraphernalia.   His passengers, Joseph Axzavis
Stewart, 22 years, and Tamika Danielle Stewart, 18 years, both of
Waldorf, were charged with possession with the intent to distribute
crack cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute marijuana,
possession of crack cocaine, possession of marijuana and possession of
drug paraphernalia.  They were incarcerated in the Charles County
Detention Center pending a bond review.  Tfc. S. Bolger conducted this
investigation.

Cops Say Bozo Stole Tags Rather Than Stand In Line at MVA
WALDORF --- On December 2 at 9:45 a.m., PFC R. Glover, Jr. was in the 9400 block of Berry Road in Waldorf when he observed a Ford pick-up truck traveling at a high rate of speed. PFC Glover conducted at traffic stop on the vehicle and investigation revealed the vehicle's tags had been reported stolen in Prince George's County. The driver of the vehicle, Boyd Stacey Verdelotti, 42, of Fort Washington, was charged with Theft Under $500 and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
Teen Hoodlum Carjacks Man
WALDORF --- On December 2 at 7:07 a.m., a 25-year-old man was attempting to enter his vehicle, which was parked in front of his residence on the 200 block of Charleston Court in La Plata, when he was approached by an unknown suspect who demanded money, property and the vehicle. The victim complied and the suspect fled the scene in the vehicle, a
1996 Oldsmobile Cutlas, tan in color. The vehicle was found shortly thereafter on Glen Albin road at Jazz Place; it had been involved in a single vehicle accident causing property damage
only and the suspect had already fled the scene. The suspect is described as a black male in his teens, between 5 feet 7 inches and 5 feet 8 inches tall and was wearing a black leather jacket with white sleeves, a dark-colored baseball hat and a blue bandanna over his face. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. POII D. Walker is investigating.
Drunk Drivers' Flat Tire Ended Booze Cruise
WHITE PLAINS --- On December 2 at 4:20 a.m., POI J. Bender was traveling in the 4000 block of Crain Highway in White Plains when he observed a disabled vehicle. The vehicle had sustained a flat tire and the driver, Peter James Yousko, 41, of Alexandria, Virginia, parked the vehicle in the area of Billingsley Road with the motor still running. Yousko was found to be intoxicated. He was charged with DWI and DUI and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
Produce Stand Owner Charged with Shooting Employee
SHOOTING: On December 1 at 10:13 a.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to Howard's Produce at the intersection of Renner Road and Route 5 in Waldorf for the report of a shooting. Investigation revealed Harrison Wayne Howard, 31, of Waldorf, was involved in an argument with the victim, a 26-year-old Waldorf man who also worked at the produce stand. During the argument, the victim attempted to leave the area in his vehicle, at which time Howard shot the victim. An acquaintance who was on the scene then took the victim to a residence and called 911. The victim was flown to Prince George's Hospital Center where his injuries were
said to be non-life threatening. Howard was charged with Attempted First Degree Murder and First Degree Assault and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner. Det. D. Stahl investigated.
Man Charged with Rape of Own Daughter
WALDORF --- Detectives with the Charles County Sheriff's Office recently
arrested a 39-year-old Waldorf man for sexually abusing his 11-year-old daughter. The investigation began on November 26 when the victim disclosed incidents of abuse to a friend. The accused was located at Civista Medical Center on November 30 at 12:37 p.m. and was charged with two counts of Child Abuse. He was transported to the Charles County
Detention Center, where he was held until posting $75,000 bond on December 1.  Det. S. Salvas investigated.
Vandals Strike in Movie Parking Lot
PRINCE FREDERICK --- On 11-23, between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM, an unknown culprit scratched a vehicle, causing $200.00  in damage.  The
vehicle was parked at the Apex Theaters, Prince Frederick.  TPR Bowling
is handling the investigation.
Tire Slasher Hits 7 Vehicles
ST. LEONARD --- Between 11-26 at 8:00 PM and 11-27 at 1:30 AM, an unknown culprit slashed 7 tires on two vehicles parked on Overlook Dr.,
St. Leonard, MD.  Damage is estimated at $725.00.  TPR Schmidt is
handling the investigation.
Knives and Drugs for Pair of Potheads
PRINCE FREDERICK --- On 11-29, 7:59 PM, Rt. 2/4, Prince Frederick, TPR Carter stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation.  A search of the vehicle produced suspected marijuana and CDS paraphernalia under the driver's seat.  Two knives were located under the front passenger's seat.  Arrested at that time was Jason Douglas Pardoe, 18, from Lusby, for possession of marijuana and CDS paraphernalia.
A 17-year-old male, from St. Leonard, was placed under arrest for
possession of concealed deadly weapons.  After processing, Mr. Pardoe
was incarcerated in the CCDC to await a commissioner's hearing.  The
juvenile was released to a relative.
Burglar Strikes in Ranch Club
LUSBY --- Between 11-29 at 10:00 PM and 11-30 at 9:00 AM, an unknown culprit entered a vehicle on Rawhide Rd., Lusby, and removed a wallet, a Sanyo cellphone headset, a decorative tin filled with popcorn, and approximately $5.00 in coins.  TPR Ferreira is handling the investigation.
FLEEING & ELUDING:
WALDORF --- 10/06/02 0005 hours.   A Maryland State Trooper attempted to stop a motorcycle on U.S. Rt. 301 at Sub-Station Road for speeding.  The operator, Gregory Dewitt Freeman, 38 years, of Waldorf,
failed to stop.  Mr. Freeman went through the a red traffic signal and pulled in front of a vehicle, causing the vehicle to strike him.  Mr. Freeman was ejected from the motorcycle but refused medical treatment.
He was arrested, and charged with fleeing and eluding.  Once at the barrack, it was determined that he needed to be re-evaluated and EMS personnel was called.  Mr. Freeman was transported to Civista Medical Center by ambulance and later flown to MEDSTAR.  Tfc. R. Schoenberger conducted this investigation.

Woman Arrested with Heroin Spit On Trooper
LA PLATA --- 10/08/02 0152 hours.   Troopers responded to a residence in the 100 block of Kalmia Court, in La Plata, in an attempt to serve a warrant.  The suspect, Erin Marie Lightner, 24 years, of La Plata, was driving home when she was arrested on the outstanding warrant through Howard County.  A search incident to arrest revealed suspected heroin and drug paraphernalia.  Ms. Lightner spit on one of the Troopers, and was subsequently charged with assault, possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia, She was also cited with several traffic citations, and incarcerated in the Charles County Detention Center pending a bond review.  Tpr. J. Zimmerman conducted this investigation.
Shooting Spree Shatters Lives, Makes Familiar Streets
Like 'A War Zone'
By CAPITAL NEWS SERVICE
WHEATON - Five ordinary people, doing ordinary things on a soft, sunny fall morning died terrible, lurid deaths in Montgomery County Wednesday and Thursday.
The shooting spree left neighbors, shoppers and other just-as-ordinary people confused and fearful.
"I could just as easily been the victim," said John O'Connell, 69, of Leisure World. "Sometimes I just think God is a part of your life and He knows  how to take care of you."
In just under 17 hours, a skilled marksman shot up an arts and crafts store before killing a man at a grocery store, another man riding a lawnmower, another filling his car with gas, a woman sitting on a bench near a post office and, the final victim, a woman vacuuming her car at a gas station. The shootings were just a few miles apart along Connecticut Avenue and Rockville Pike.
The suspect or suspects were at large Thursday night.
For some reason, O'Connell, 69, took his daily half-mile trek from his retirement home at Leisure World to a Starbucks coffee shop an hour early Thursday. If he had arrived at his usual time, he would have been sipping his coffee at the exact moment that the man was killed at the Mobil gas station, 8:12 a.m., just 100 feet from the slaying.
Jimmy Akca, 52, and Johannes Ghebray, 33, were even closer to death --but not theirs.
Around 10 a.m. Thursday, Akca was working on a car in the Kensington Shell station garage when he heard a "big bang sound." He and his fellow
mechanics thought it was a wreck at busy Connecticut and Knowles avenues and stepped out to investigate. Ghebray, a cashier, thought a tire had popped on a car -- until he heard the screaming.
Near the car vacuum and pay phone they could see a burgundy Dodge Caravan and a woman, who Akca said appeared to be in her 30s, toppled over on
her back,  her legs underneath the vehicle.
People were rushing to her, some already calling for paramedics on their cell phones.
Akca and other mechanics moved the victim's car away from her and other  bystanders performing CPR. It was only when the victim began to bleed
from her  nose and mouth that they stopped CPR, Akca said. When paramedics arrived, the cause of death was revealed: a gunshot wound to the back.
"I saw her," said a solemn Ghebray, who came out of the store shortly after the mechanics were on the scene. "She was bleeding. I can still see it in my mind."
Akca said there was a child seat in the woman's car, which led him to believe she had just dropped her child off at school.
The woman was the final fatality in a seemingly random series of gun deaths.
The first victim, a 55-year-old man, was killed outside a Wheaton grocery store around 6 p.m. Wednesday. Another man was shot at 8:15 a.m., while
pumping gas at a Mobil station in Aspen Hill. A half-hour later, a woman was shot at a post office in Leisure World Retirement Community in Silver Spring.
Around 10:10 a.m., the woman died at the Shell station.
Near White Flint Mall, Jay Kuzminski, 47, said he heard a single shot ring out around 7:41 a.m.
"My day was ruined before it started," said Kuzminski, a Gaithersburg resident who works at Fitzgerald Auto Mall.
He said the slain man, a private contractor who was mowing the lawn outside the dealership, staggered into the parking lot on the 11400 block on Rockville Pike and collapsed by a navy blue Dodge Caravan. He died shortly thereafter.
The familiar street, said Kuzminski, felt like a "war zone."
"I've been around natural death before, but never this," he said. "This just wrenched my guts."
At nearby White Flint Mall, which usually begins to pick up around 3 p.m., there were only a few shoppers walking the halls Thursday afternoon.
Rosemarie Rhyne, 66, of Chevy Chase, said she felt very uneasy about being in the area.
"My daughter lives near Kensington and I use that Shell station all the time," Rhyne said. "Things have changed. They'll have to heighten security."
At Shoppers Food Warehouse, where the first victim died, customers took a fatalistic attitude.
"This is the craziest thing I've seen," said Kevin Coleman, a 37-year resident of Aspen Hill. "I just keep looking over my shoulder. If you're gonna die, you're gonna die."
Residents of Leisure World and employees of the nearby shopping center said the shooting rampage left their community shaken and worried. The victim
there, a woman in her 30s or 40s, was shot at 8:37 as she sat on a bench
at one end of the Leisure World Shopping Center.
Frank Poku, 22, of Gaithersburg, an employee of the Bedford Court
Marriott community living facility for seniors, said he saw the victim when he
came to work around 8:30 a.m.
She had long, dark hair and got off a bus on Connecticut Avenue at the Leisure World shopping center and sat down on a bench in front of theCrisp & Juicy restaurant.
"I don't know if she was waiting for anybody in particular, but I seen her go into her purse and grab her book . . .  to start reading it," Poku said.
When he was told of the shooting shortly after, he rushed to the scene
and recognized the woman slumped over and bleeding on the bench as the same
one he had seen earlier that morning.
"I never expected this," Poku said. "It's a lot of elderly people that come here with their walkers and walk around here. It's a nicesurrounding. This shopping center was basically made for them. To see something like that
-- it's just terrible."
Suzy Cooper, a stylist at the nearby Image Hair Design salon, said she thought the victim normally waited on the same bench to be picked up by a woman who employed her as a housekeeper.
Cooper was in her shop when the shot was fired. She ran outside and saw the victim slumped on the bench at the end of the sidewalk. Cooper said
others were already there, but none soon enough to provide information as to
how the shooting occurred.
"Everyone saw it almost to the minute, but it was too late," she said.
The violence has left many of the retirement community's residentsshaken and worried. Said one resident of Bedford Court, just steps from the
place where the shooting occurred: "Well, I wasn't scared before, but I never felt this was the safest area. After this morning, it's worse."
Leisure World resident Eugene Kirkland, a retired schoolteacher whostill teaches driver's education part-time, said theproximity of the violence has left some of the community's seniors feeling especially vulnerable.
"Every location I know," Kirkland said. "The Mobile station -- that's where I get my gasoline. It makes you feel a little shaky."
Police have still not confirmed the shooter or shooters' identities, the exact type of vehicle used in the shootings, the type of weapon used or
the nationalities of the suspects.
Traffic Thursday afternoon still flowed steadily past the Shellstation.
Akca returned to repairing vehicles as he tried to get the image of the dying woman out of his mind.
"I'm not a panicky man. I think when your time is up, it just happens to you," Akca said. "But a lady, at a young age, for no apparent reason, lost her life, and it feels sad."

-- CNS reporters Christopher Anderson, Liz Babiarz, Liz Boch, Hattie
Brown, Phillip Caston, Heather Coppley, Tamara El-Khoury, Catherine Matacic and
David M. Pittman contributed to this article.


Top Stories:
Stolen Tag On Car Leads to Slammer
WALDORF -- 09/01/02 2215 hours. A vehicle traveling southbound on U.S. Rt. 301 at Glen Albin Road was stopped for a traffic violation. A computer check revealed the temporary Maryland registration plate displayed on
the vehicle was reported stolen through the Montgomery County Police Department. The operator, Denise Marie Pinkard, 35 years, of Clinton, was arrested, charged with theft, and incarcerated in the Charles County
Detention Center pending a bond review. Tfc. F. Bouknight conducted this
investigation.
Booze and Pot Go
Together Like A Horse & Carriage
BRYANS ROAD --- 09/03/02 2156 hours. A vehicle traveling southbound on MD Rt. 210, north of MD Rt. 227, was stopped for speeding. The operator, George Alexander Yates, 22 years, of Bryans Road, was arrested
for driving under the influence of alcohol. A search incident to arrest revealed suspected marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He was
subsequently charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, and incarcerated in the Charles County Detention Center pending a bond review. Tfc. M. Schoenberger conducted this investigation.
There Will Be No
Snow Before It's Time
OWINGS --- On 8-16, an employee of Northern Middle School, Owings, reported that an unknown culprit had forcibly entered a shed on the schoolgrounds and removed a MTD snowblower. SGT Titus is handling the
investigation.
Crack Toss Leads to Jail
PRINCE FREDERICK --- On 8-20, 12:05 AM, TFC Carr responded to the rear of the Central Square Shopping Center, Prince Frederick, for a suspicious person complaint. Upon his arrival, TFC Carr observed a suspect throw something to the ground. TFC Carr retrieved the article, a soda can, and found it to be fashioned into a CDS smoking device that
contained suspected crack-cocaine residue. Arrested at that time was William Justin Gray, 43, of Prince Frederick, for possession of
crack-cocaine and CDS paraphernalia. Incident to arrest, suspected
crack-cocaine was located on Mr. Gray's person. After processing, he
was detained in the CCDC to await a commissioner's hearing.

POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA: On 8-30, 2:45 PM, TPR Brooks responded to the
intersection of Rts. 2 & 260, Owings, for a reported assist motorist
complaint. After contact with the operator, Roland Lawrence White, 54,
of Sunderland, TPR Brooks placed him under arrest for DUI. Incident to
arrest, a baggie of suspected marijuana was located in the vehicle. He
was then additionally charged with possession of marijuana. After
processing at the Prince Frederick Barrack, he was detained in the CCDC
to await a commissioner's hearing.

ATTEMPTED BURGLARY: Between 9-1 @ 10:00 PM and 9-2 at 5:45 AM, an unknown
culprit attempted to enter the Bridge Carry-Out, Prince Frederick, by
breaking out the glass to a door. TPR Payne is handling the
investigation.

POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA: On 9-1, 12:00 PM, during a traffic stop on Rt.
4, Dunkirk, David Christopher Powell, 23, of Windsor, VA , was placed
under arrest by TFC Bevard for driving on a suspended license. Incident
to arrest, a consent search of the vehicle produced suspected marijuana
and CDS paraphernalia. He was then additionally charged with possession
of marijuana and CDS paraphernalia. After processing, he was detained
in the CCDC to await a commissioner's hearing.

Woman Killed by Drunk Driver
HUGHESVILLE  --- A boozing Brandywine man ran the red light at Rt. 231 and Rt. 5 in Hughesville on Sunday evening and struck a southbound car before careening into a small pickup operated by a Indian Head woman and killing her.
State Police say that at about 10:20 pm a
1990 Nissan pick-up truck being operated by Lisa Marie Brandstetter, 31 years, of Indian Head, was stopped at the red traffic signal on eastbound MD Rt. 231 at MD Rt. 5.   A 1994 Honda
Accord being operated by Trever William Ashley, 26 years, of Lexington Park, was traveling northbound on MD Rt. 5 at MD Rt. 231.  A 1985 F150
truck being operated by Richard Wayne Pitonyak, 21 years, of Brandywine, was traveling westbound on MD Rt. 231 at MD Rt. 5 when it traveled
through the red traffic signal and was struck by the Ashley vehicle.
The Pitonyak vehicle went into a spin and struck the Brandstetter vehicle on the passenger door. Ms. Brandstetter received incapacitating
injuries and was transported to Civista Medical Center by ambulance, but then flown to Washington Hospital Center by Maryland State Police Trooper 2 helicopter where she died.   Ms. Brandstetter was wearing her
seatbelt at the time of the accident.  Mr. Ashley and Mr. Pitonyak was not injured.   Alcohol was a contributing factor in this accident.  Tfc.
F. Bouknight is conducting this investigation.

Trip to Wawa A Gas
for Bozo with Stolen Vehicle
WALDORF --- On September 14 at 1 a.m., PFC S. Burrows responded to the WaWa on the 4200 block of Crain Highway in White Plains for the report of an intoxicated driver. PFC Burrows located the vehicle and the driver at a gas pump. Investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen through Fairfax County, Virginia. The driver fled on foot but was apprehended shortly thereafter behind the WaWa. Further investigation revealed the driver, Guy Stewert Smith, 29, of no fixed address, was wanted in Charles County and Fairfax County, Virginia. Smith was charged with Stolen Vehicle, Theft Over $500 and Unauthorized Use of Vehicle and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
Danny Kaye, of Hollywood Arrested for Spinning Wheels, Theft
...and you thought he had been dead for ten years
WALDORF --- On September 13 at 2:50 p.m., PFC D. Savoy observed a vehicle spinning wheels at the intersection of Hamilton Road and Berry Road in Waldorf. PFC Savoy conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and investigation revealed the tags were stolen and the vehicle was not registered. The driver, Danny Kaye, 23, of Hollywood, was charged with
Theft Less Than $500, Operating Unregistered Vehicle, Spinning Wheels and Tag Issued to
Another and is being held at the Charles County Detention Center pending an appearance before
the District Court Commissioner.
Bleach Burglar Trashed Home
WALDORF --- Sometime between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on September 11, unknown suspect(s) entered a residence on the 2000 block of Wakefield Circle in Waldorf and stole more than $500 in property, poured bleach on the victim's rug, a living room chair and a pile of clothes and the fled the scene in an unknown direction. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301-932-2222. POI K. Wood is investigating.

$22,000 worth of goods looted by Burglars
LEONARDTOWN --- Between 9/10/02 at 0630 hours and 9/11/02, at 1030 hours, unknown suspect(s) entered a residence in Leonardtown and removed property
valued at $22,460.  Entry was gained by forcing a door open.  Money, a Rolex watch, a camcorder, clothing and jewelry were taken from the residence.  TFC S. B. Koch is investigating this incident.
Punk Drove Thru Yard
GOLDEN BEACH ---On 9/11/02, at 1309 hours, Tpr. M. L. Davis responded to a residence in Indian River Estates in Golden Beach for a reported destruction of property.  Investigation revealed  a witness observed a known suspect drive through a neighbor's yard causing damage.  The 14 year old male
from Golden Beach was located at his residence.  He was arrested, charged with destruction of property under $500 and released to a relative pending action by juvenile authorities.  Damage to the yard is
estimated at $400.
Pellet Gun Shot
LEXINGTON PARK --- On 9/11/02, at 1937 hours, TFC J. D. Vanhoy responded to Glen Forest Park in Lexington Park, reference a shooting complaint.   Investigation revealed a 31 year old man from California was struck in the chest with a pellet from a pellet gun as he was standing in a field where individuals were having football practice.  Three male juveniles were located a short distance away.   As a result, a 12 year old male from Lexington Park, was arrested and charged with 2nd degree assault.  The juvenile and the pellet gun were released to a relative pending action by juvenile authorities.  The victim received minor injuries from the assault.
Carl Hanbury Charged
with Smacking 2 Women
MECHANICSVILLE --- On 9/14/02, at 0030 hours, an arrest warrant was served on Carl M. Hanbury, 42 years, of Mechanicsville, for 2nd degree assault.  Mr.
Hanbury is accused of assaulting two females at a residence in Mechanicsville on 8/29/02.   He was incarcerated in the Detention Center
pending a bond hearing.  TFC A. J. Malaspina conducted this investigation.

No Seat Belt, No License,
But Had PCP, Say Police
MECHANICSVILLE --- On 9/15/02, at 1840 hours, Tpr. J. L. Linger stopped a vehicle in Mechanicsville, for a seat belt violation.  A computer check on the driver, Charles D. Wilcher, 31 years, of Lexington Park revealed his license was suspended.  A search incident to arrest revealed a glass vile containing suspected phencyclidine (PCP) in the vehicle.  Mr. Wilcher was charged additionally with possession of CDS and CDS paraphernalia.  He was incarcerated in the Detention Center pending a bond hearing.

Energizer Pothead
MECHANICSVILLE --- On 9/16/02, at 0010 hours, TFC J. S. Jones stopped a vehicle in Mechanicsville, for a traffic violation.  Upon contacting the occupants of the vehicle, TFC Jones observed the rear passenger making furtive movements and saw suspected marijuana flakes fall from his pants leg.  A search revealed a flashlight containing suspected marijuana inside the battery compartment, a baggie containing a trace of suspected marijuana and a CDS smoking device containing suspected marijuana residue in his
pants pocket.  Bass K. Hensley, 25 years, of Mechanicsville, was arrested and charged with possession of CDS and CDS paraphernalia. Mr.
Hensley was incarcerated in the Detention Center pending a bond hearing.



Hell's Angels in North Beach
...will bloodshed soon follow?
Mexican Standoff --- These three Hell's Angels members stood in front of Thursdays Grill on Saturday, eyeing a police SWAT Team across the street.  The punks included a national vice-president of the criminal clan of bikers from Connecticut.   Local outlaw bikers from the Pagans and Iron Horsemen, which are primarily from La Plata and Waldorf, showed up to fly their colors on Sunday.

ST. MARY'S TODAY photos
Calvert and St. Mary's deputies in full SWAT uniforms dogged the bad boy bikers on Saturday and Calvert Sheriff Rodney Bartlett reports there were no incidents.  Recent confrontations have included a drive-by shooting between bikers at the Happy Harbor in Deale.
Hell's Angels Crash Bay Fest
NORTH BEACH ---  This time the event wasn't an ill-advised biker festival such as the spring event actually organized by the dimwitted Mayor of North Beach, Mark Frazer, but this weekend the annual Bayfest was put on with grandmothers pushing strollers and kids and their parents enjoying a real Indian rain dance.  In the midst of the funnel cakes and snow cones in marched a bunch of over the hill punks, over-tattooed, over weight and not a complete brain cell between the two dozen bozos who took a stroll down the boardwalk to Thursdays bar and grill where a police SWAT Team eyed them.  See the print edition Tuesday for more and photos of these mindless morons, murderers and pathetic losers known as the Hells Angels. A series of speeches by political candidates included a racy appearance by County Commissioner Candiate Maggie Thomas showing a lot of leg in a short skirt and promising voters she was going to "give it to them", in an awkward ending to what had been a family day on the boardwalk.

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Man Who Killed Local Woman
Given Life Term as DNA
Linked Him To Murder
Man have been responsible for Frying Pan Murder at Piney Point
OLYMPIA, Wash. ---   A former St. Mary's County resident, William E. Cosden Jr., who is from St. Mary's County and who's father was once a local game warden, was sentenced to life in prison last week after a jury found him guilty of the first degree murder of a teenage girl in 1973 in Seattle, Washington.  Cosden was also the chief suspect in the brutal slaying of a bartender in a Piney Point tavern in the late 1960's and was found not guilty by reason of insanity of the murder of Helen Patricia Pilkerton from Hollywood, who was raped and murdered and her body dumped along the edge of Flat Iron Road in Great Mills in 1967.   Cosden was never charged with the Frying Pan murder and was sent to a state mental hospital where he was released only to go out west and continue killing. Cosden's family lived in St. Mary's while his father worked at Steuart's Oil Tank facility and later as a game warden. 
Where is the Loot, Sheriff Voorhaar?
Judge holds off on decision on holding St. Mary's Sheriff Richard Voorhaar in contemp of court until State Prosecutor Steven Montanarelli completes his investigation into the $80,000 worth of missing evidence from the custody of the Sheriff.  Capt. Steven Doolan, who swears that he won't go down alone, is still suspended and sittting at home where he is reported to have lost 20 pounds in recent weeks.   Who has the loot?  What two St. Mary's Deputies are busy trying to figure out how to get the stolen loot, stolen by them, out of their homes and back into the custody of the Sheriff without getting caught and charged criminally.  Stay tuned and look for next week's print edition for more...
Bank Held Up
WALDORF --- On August 28 at approximately 9:37 a.m., Charles County Sheriff's officers responded to the Bank of Southern Maryland on the 2500 block of Crain Highway for the report of a hold-up alarm. Investigation revealed an unknown suspect entered the bank, brandished a weapon and demanded money. The tellers complied and the suspect fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 35-years-old, wearing black jean shorts, a jacket and a mask over his face. Anyone with
information about this incident is asked to contact the Charles County Sheriff's Office at 301- 932-2222, 301-609-6496 or 301-609-6489. Det. P. Gregory is investigating.
Lothian Crack Head Leads Cops On 2-County High Speed Chase
HUGHESVILLE ---  A Maryland State Fire Marshal who is a former State Trooper was a hero on Tuesday when he acted to put a stop to a high speed chase coming from Calvert County as a man driving a stolen pickup truck at speeds over 100 mph.   Deputy Fire Marshal Chuck Dammann pulled his fire marshal's vehicle into the path of the fleeing truck on Rt. 231 near Rt. 381 in an attempt to slow the madman behind the wheel of the pickup before he reached the busy Rt. 5 / Rt. 231 intersection in Hughesville.  The driver of the truck rammed DFM Dammann's car and forced it off road.  As the truck approached Hughesville, with State Troopers Oresik and Schmidt, other troopers and Calvert Deputies in hot pursuit, Charles County Sheriff's Patrol Officer Padgett threw out three stop sticks and three tires on the pickup were flattened.  As the pickup truck came to a stop, DFM Dammann was able to get his vehicle in front of the pickup and block it.  The officers then nabbed Craig Steven Best, 36, of Lothian, the driver and found a crack cocaine smoking device inside the truck, along with stolen tools and a cell phone.  The titems had been taken from a construction site in Calvert County.  Multiple charges were placed against Best. 

After 4 days, St. Mary's Sheriff's Dept. Finally Admits Truth About Drunk Driving Deputy!
Boozing St. Mary's Deputy
Injured in Police Vehicle Crash
MECHANICSVILLE ---   Charges of DWI are pending against St. Mary's Deputy Vivian Humphries while results of a blood alcohol test are recieved following a crash on Baptist Church Road after midnight Friday.   According to a press release issued Monday, an earlier report on the ST. MARY'S TODAY Online Edition was confirmed by Lt. John Horne that the deputy was operating a police vehicle and that alcohol may have been a contributing factor.  The deputy is a rookie who has been assigned to narcotics and her injuries were described as being a broken nose and lacerations to her face.    The 12:10 am crash brought a full response after the first report was for a possible crash on the isolated country road.  Once police and rescue units arrived at the scene they found the rented police vehicle off the road and into the woods.   The driver was immediately identified as a deputy sheriff, reports Lt. Horne.  She was flown to the P. G. Shock Trauma Center in Cheverly and was released the next day.   Lt. Horne reports that the crash is still under investigation and that the internal affairs unit is also conducting a  probe into the deputy's conduct.
This latest incident of embarrassment to the agency comes on the heels of a new probe of the agency by the Maryland State Prosecutor of allegations that deputies stole $80,000 in goods and building supplies from the evidence lockup.  See the print edition now on newsstands for the latest information on this current scandal.   
Last Christmas another alcohol incident took place when a deputy found his wife in an intimate sexual embrace with another deputy in a stairwell at the Seafarers School where the department was conducting a Christmas Party.

State Trooper Charged with Videotaping Child Porn, Sex Acts With Child
EASTON ---  A Maryland   State Trooper has been arrested for child molesting after investigators say they determined that the trooper was having sex with the child, who is the daughter of his live-in girlfriend.  The trooper, a 28-year veteran of the agency, was suspended without pay and taken to a Easton jail where he was held on $100,000 bond.  The probe began when the mother of the girl brought the matter to the attention of State Police on July 26th.
State Police Charge Man In Road Rage
ESSEX --- Maryland State Police say that Aunrico A. Carpentieri, 19, of Woodlawn, was charged with two counts of attempted murder in road rage incident which took place on May 24th on I-795 near Owings Mills.  Carpentieri allegedly shot a handgun at another motorist and struck a passenger in the car after becoming involved in a traffic altercation.  Josie M. Steger was treated for her injury at Sinai Hospital and released.  Witnesses provided a tag number to police and after several attempts to locate Carpentieri, the man turned himself in to police.

Search warrant served on home of former Calvert Sheriff Vonzell Ward
NORTH BEACH --- A search warrant signed by Calvert Circuit Court Judge Warren Krug was served by Calvert deputies in search of personnel records from the agency formerly headed by Vonzell Ward, who quit the post of Sheriff last year.   Two weeks ago, personnel records from the department were leaked to the Prince Frederick Recorder, allegedly by Ward.  The raid today discovered more documents in what Calvert Sheriff Rodney Bartlett calls a criminal investigation.   Ward is a candidate for the GOP nomination in the primary election on Sept. 10th.  Bartlett is also a candidate.   Ward quit his job after the State Prosecutor began a probe into a series of allegedly improper and illegal acts concerning a deputy who was harrassing his ex-girlfriend.

Police Refuse to Disclose Name of Gay Woman Who Molested Teen Girl
WHITE PLAINS ---  Charles County Sheriff's detectives arrested an unidentified 35-year-old woman who lives in White Plains on charges that she allegedly molested a 16-year-old girl at her home in Charles County and also in Prince George's County. On August 12, 2002, information was received from the Department of Social Services that a sixteen year old female victim had disclosed incidents of sexual abuse by the accused - a 35-year old female of White Plains - who will not be identified to protect the victim. A detective with the Charles County Sheriff's Office and a DSS worker responded to Prince George's County to interview the victim, who verified the allegations. The victim stated the incidents occurred at a residence in Prince George's County and at the accused's current residence in Charles County.  On August 13, 2002, a CCSO detective interviewed the accused at her residence. The accused admitted to the incidents of sexual abuse in both Prince George's and Charles County.  On August 15, 2002, the accused turned herself into the Charles County Sheriff's Office, at which time she was charged with one count of Child Abuse. The accused was transported to the Charles County Detention Center and charge via a District Court Warrant and was released on a $5,000 bond. Det. S. Salvas investigated.
See photos of crash and hard work of local heroes of fire and rescue in this week's print edition


Police Seek Fat Bald
Black Bank Robber
LA PLATA:  Have you seen this man?   If so, call the Charles County Sheriff's Department at 301-932-2222 as he robbed the Old Line Bank in Waldorf and got away with the loot.
Man Charged with Threatening Woman Picketing Appliance Store
WALDORF ---  Charles County Sheriff's officers charged a man who allegedly violated a peace order by threatening a woman who was in front of the Annapolis Appliance Store for the purpose of picketing the establishment. 
On August 19 at approximately 11:30 a.m., PFC K. Syvertsen responded to Annapolis Appliances on the 3100 block of Crain Highway in Waldorf. Investigation revealed Braddock Ryan Wolfson, 39, of Brandywine, an employee of Annapolis Appliances, violated a peace order when he threatened a 49-year-old woman of Accokeek who was picketing in front of the store. Wolfson was charged with Violation of Peace Order and was released on Personal Recognizance.

CDS POSSESSION: On August 19 at 3:30 a.m., POI R. Kimble stopped a vehicle on the 3200