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2022 Annual Report
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.
2022 Fast Facts
County Population: 168,698*
Sworn Officers: 301
Corrections Officers: 115
Court Security Officers: 10 Full-Time, 3 Part-Time Security Aides
Automated Enforcement Unit (AEU) Deputy: 1
Civilian Employees: 205**
Calls for Service: 295,768
Arrests: 4,006
Traffic Stops: 29,122
Motor Vehicle Citations / Warnings / Safety Equipment Repair Orders (SERO): 11,021 / 31,183 / 2,816
DUI Citations: 218
Automobile Fatal Crashes / Deaths: 7 / 7***
Alcohol or Drug-Related Automobile Crashes / Deaths: 2 / 2***
*Number based on the 2021 U.S. Census Bureau estimate.
**Full Time and Part Time, includes Court Security Officers and AEU Deputy
***Statistics do not include Maryland State Police traffic fatality investigations. Several crashes are still under investigation and pending results.
Crime statistics for Charles County, to include crimes investigated by the Maryland State Police, theLa Plata Police Department, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, are available in the Maryland Uniform Crime Report. Citizens can also search for crimes investigated by the Charles County Sheriff’s Office using CrimeReports.com, which provides citizens with near instant access to calls for service data.
A Message from Sheriff Troy Berry
As the Sheriff of Charles County, it is my honor to present our 2022 Annual Report.
In 2022, society returned to many of the pre-COVID norms while we also navigated some of our “new normal.” Neighbors and community members began to gather again, and we added new community outreach programs to cultivate these positive relationships. We hosted block parties and events, attended neighborhood association meetings, and held important roundtable discussions with community leaders and youth advocates to encourage conversations. By working together, we can truly be the change we wish to see in our communities.
As our county’s population continues to rise during a time in which there is a nationwide shortage of police officers, we find innovative ways to effectively prevent and fight crime through the use of the latest technology, strategic partnerships with our allied agencies, and strengthened community relationships. The creativity and tenacity of our employees and our partners lends to our success as an Agency.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is blessed to maintain the support of our citizens. This support is critical to our ability to fulfill our mission to ensure the community’s right to a safe environment. I am so proud of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office and this wonderful community that we serve. I am looking forward to the progress we will continue to make in the years to come to keep Charles County a great place to live, work, and visit. God bless.
Sincerely,
Troy D. Berry
Our History
As the primary law enforcement agency in Charles County, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States, is a full-service operation. The CCSO provides all the services commonly associated with police departments and sheriffs’ offices and operates the Charles County Detention Center.
The CCSO has a hallowed obligation to maintain law and order and to protect life and property. Centuries of growth and innovation have transformed how the CCSO fulfills its mission, but its rich history is an indelible element behind its modern achievements.
When the CCSO was established in 1658, it was staffed by only one law enforcement officer, Sheriff Nicholas Gwyther, who served dually as sheriff in St. Mary’s County. Sheriff Gwyther’s responsibilities were collecting taxes, serving warrants, apprehending criminals, and occasionally investigating witchcraft. He conducted business wherever he could, usually at his home.
Nearly 100 sheriffs have served as Charles County’s chief law enforcement officer since Sheriff Gwyther, and throughout the years these sheriffs have addressed the perpetually growing demand for law enforcement services, most of which are a result of commercial and residential growth. As the responsibilities of Charles County Sheriffs grow, so too grows their contingent of personnel. Today, the CCSO employs more than 650 police, corrections, and civilian personnel.
As the CCSO transformed from a one-man operation into one of its community’s largest employers, it expanded its physical presence in Charles County. In the 20th century, the Sheriff’s Headquarters moved from the County Courthouse to an abandoned military site and then to a renovated truck stop, which now serves as the La Plata District Station. The current Headquarters, which sits adjacent to the La Plata Station, opened in 2000 and was the first building erected specifically as the CCSO’s flagship. Additional district stations are operated in Waldorf and Bryans Road. A Community Services and Property Management annex opened in 2005 beside the Charles County Emergency Operations Center, a state-of-the-art facility for police communications officers and the county’s Emergency Services Department personnel.
The first county jail was built next to the county’s original courthouse in Port Tobacco, the former county seat. The second jail was built in 1897 behind the current courthouse in La Plata and a third, which the CCSO still uses for Court Holding, was built beside it in 1926. A detention center behind the La Plata Station operated from 1981 to 1995 and reopened in 2007 as an annex of the current detention center.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office earned initial accreditation from the Commission on the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) in 2001 and has maintained accreditation ever since, with no lapses nor conditions. In addition, the CCSO has received some of the highest honors from CALEA by being named a Flagship Agency and by being awarded Reaccreditation with Excellence. Maintaining accreditation is an ongoing effort. The CCSO must demonstrate continued compliance with more than 400 CALEA standards by submitting annual reports and by taking part in annual web-based assessments. Every four years, the CCSO must undergo extensive site-based assessments and go before the Commission’s Review Committee to seek reaccreditation.
Mission and Values
Mission Statement
The men and women of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office are dedicated to service through superior performance. We believe mutual respect, trust and pride in our organization, combined with traditional values and innovative techniques, will ensure the community’s right to a safe environment.
Value Statements
The men and women of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office are bound by a higher standard of conduct as exemplified in the following values (P.R.I.D.E.):
Professionalism – We believe in delivering a level of service which will reflect the pride we have in our community and organization.
Respect – We believe in individual human dignity and the preservation of human rights under the rule and spirit of law, always treating others as we would like to be treated.
Integrity – We believe in maintaining the public trust by holding ourselves accountable to the highest moral and ethical standards.
Duty – We believe the protection of life is our highest priority.
Excellence – We are dedicated to service through superior performance.
The Year in Review
In 2022, operations began to look more as they did prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. We gathered with community members and organizations, celebrated the successes of our employees, and further developed ourselves professionally as individuals and as an Agency. Here are a few of our accomplishments from 2022:
Strengthened Community and Youth Engagement: In 2022, while keeping with our tradition of strong ties to the Charles County community, the CCSO doubled down on that commitment by establishing a new Division to enhance the services we provide: the Community Services Division. This division was established with a focus on youth outreach and community engagement in a continued effort to make a positive impact with an emphasis on our young people.
d to keep that promise year after year, despite the pandemic. Whether we meet in person or via a virtual
conference call, I want students to understand that they have a voice with us and we want to hear them.”
The second facet of the Community Services Division is the Community Relations Section, which oversees the Community
Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Unit, Fingerprint Unit, the Community Organizer, the Community Engagement Unit, and the Crisis Negotiations Team. The Community Relations Section is responsible for many of the crime prevention programs and special events sponsored by the CCSO. The units in this section take a very hands-on approach to policing by attending community meetings and conducting foot, ATV and bicycle patrols, increasing our presence in neighborhoods across the county.
“The added emphasis on community services has reinforced our ties to Charles County’s communities and schools,” said Sheriff Berry. “Building strong relationships with the people who call Charles County ‘home’ is at the very heart of community policing.”
Honored for Excellent Service and Bravery: Throughout the course of the year, many officers and employees were honored by the Agency and outside organizations for their service.
In November, the agency honored 16 retirees and 29 award recipients at a banquet at the Greater Waldorf Jaycees. The following retirees were honored, with a combined 304 years of service:
- Correctional Officer First Class Julie Young (10/2003 – 3/2020)
- Corporal Michael DePaulo (11/2006 – 5/2021)
- James “Jimmy” Stone (09/1998 – 12/2021)
- Dolores Garner (03/2001 – 12/2021)
- Charles Deehan (05/2013 – 01/2022)
- Sergeant Raymond Boelke (08/2000 – 01/2022)
- Lisa Estes (01/2004 – 02/2022)
- Master Corporal Tristan Taylor (06/1997 – 04/2022)
- Correctional Officer First Class Michael Keeler (02/2003 – 04/2022)
- Deputy Director Judy Torney (04/1986 – 07/2022)
- Captain Amy Stine (05/1997 – 07/2022)
- Jose Marti (08/2017 – 08/2022)
- Master Corporal Richard Gilroy (09/2002 – 08/2022)
- Sergeant Donald Belfield (08/1992 – 08/2022)
- Lieutenant Stan Gregan (10/1992 – 09/2022)
- Maria Musgrove (01/2000 – 10/2022)
The following awards were presented:
- Meritorious Service Award:
- Detective Corporal Cheyann Harris #529
- Detective Charles Gregory #385
- Sergeant Eric Baker #414
- Detective Corporal Ryan Johnson #481
- Police Officer First Class Thomas Rickard #660
- Officer Keegan Dunn #759
- Lifesaving Award:
- Police Officer First Class Luke Smith #650
- Police Officer First Class Richard Welch #654
- Officer Brian Padgett #728
- Master Corporal Clint Walter #373
- Officer Christopher Cooley #710
- Police Officer First Class Cody Garner #632
- Police Officer First Class David Walker #361
- Sheriff’s Award:
- Lieutenant William Welch #303
- Lieutenant Richard Hulvey #2302
- Captain Charles Baker #259
- Captain Chris Bean #310
- Captain Louis Schmidt #322
- Captain Jason Carlson #271
- Lieutenant Erica Budd #347
- Kimberly Duley #11517
- Jennifer Hackney #11856
- Director David Hanna #11591
- Corporal Joseph Sapienza #588
- Luis Rodriguez #11661
- Sergeant Brion Buchanan #353
- Sergeant George Higgs #330
- Susie Thompson #11302
- Tanya Tayman #11356
The following individuals received Certificates of Commendation during private presentations held at CCSO Headquarters:
- The Narcotics Enforcement Section
- Corporal Mark Bourgeois #488
- Corporal James Plunkett #469
- Officer Brian Padgett #728
- Sergeant Phillip Norris #2610
- Sergeant Christopher Rumsey #2600
- Patricia Markley #11858
- Officer Richard Kerlin #701
In May, Charles County Detention Center (CCDC) Director Brandon Foster, along with Sheriff Berry and members of the CCSO and CCDC Command Staff, were proud to announce that Correctional Officer First Class Allison Middleton was named the 2021 Correctional Officer of the Year.
CFC Middleton was nominated for this recognition by her supervisor, Sergeant Phillip Norris. He said, “CFC Middleton adapted quickly to the changes the pandemic brought and made a positive impact on team morale. She comes to work each day with a positive attitude, and she often lifts fellow officers’ spirits.”
Also in May, Police Officer First Class Jonathan Kelly was named the Sons of the American Legion First Responder of the Year for 2021. PFC Kelly began his career at the CCSO in 2005. In his 16-year career, he has served in the Patrol Division, Special Services Division and the Special Operations Division. PFC Kelly was selected by the Sons of the American Legion for this prestigious award as a result of his actions in the following incident:
ries and facilitated his transfer to medical personnel as quickly as possible. For these life-saving efforts, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office presented PFC Kelly with the Silver Medal of Valor in 2021.
uickly get the officer to a safe location to receive medical care, PFC Kelly placed the officer on the hood of another officer’s vehicle and laid on top of him to secure him while they were driven away from the scene.
PFC Kelly’s actions and decisions made during this dangerous and stressful incident stabilized the officer’s inju
In September, PFC Kelly was awarded the Maryland Sheriff’s Association’s Medal of Honor for this incident. The award was presented by the President of the Maryland Sheriff’s Association, Sheriff Mike Lewis (Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office), Maryland’s Lieutenant Governor, Boyd Rutherford, Sheriff Troy Berry, and President of the Maryland Chief’s of Police Association, Chief Melissa Hyatt (Baltimore County Police Department). This highest award is presented to an officer who, in a life-threatening situation, displayed exceptional courage, intelligence, alertness and presence of mind.
In June of 2022, CCDC Director Brandon Foster was awarded the DeWitt Award by the Maryland Correctional Administrators Association (MCAA). The most prestigious award given by the MCAA, the DeWitt Award recognizes outstanding corrections professionals and their associates. Director Foster is a 25-year veteran of the CCDC. He began his career in 1997 as a line staff
Prior to joining the CCDC, Director Foster served in the United States Marine Corps as a Staff Sergeant; he was active duty from 1990 to 1995 and in the Reserves from 2003 until 2007.
“We are extremely proud and thankful for the service that Director Foster has given our community and our country,” said Sheriff Berry. “He has worked in every level of Corrections, and has been proven an outstanding leader in his time as Director of the CCDC. He is very deserving of this recognition.”
In October, the Maryland Police & Correctional Training Commissions (MPCTC) held its 22nd Annual Instructor’s Conference. Officers from throughout Maryland were recognized for their contributions to the law enforcement profession as academy and non-academy instructors, including two officers from Charles County. Sergeant Clay Collins serves as a Training Instructor at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy and has been with the Agency for 16 years. He was awarded an Academy Instructor of the Year award. Corporal Jonathan Martin has been a Correctional Officer at the Charles County Detention Center for nearly 15 years. He currently serves as the Adjustment Hearing Officer. The MPCTC awarded him with a Non-Academy Instructor of the Year award.
“Top-tier training is critical for the law enforcement profession,” said Captain Robert Kiesel, Commander of the Training Division for the CCSO. “Sgt. Collins and Cpl. Martin are very deserving of this recognition for all that they put into training better Police and Correctional Officers. Their dedication is commendable.”
In November, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) held their annual Law Enforcement Awards Ceremony. Seven Charles County Sheriff’s Officers were among those recognized from across the state for their outstanding efforts in traffic safety through enforcement of DUI laws: Corporal Ray Brooks, Police Officer First Class Kevin Makle, Corporal Derrick Spence, Sergeant Juan Morales, and Corporal William Saunders. Not pictured were Police Officer First Class David Walker and Police Officer First Class Andrew Fenlon.
Professional Development: Throughout the year, several Police and Correctional Officers devoted time and commitment to pursuing degrees and certifications that would allow them to maximize their potential and serve the community better.
In August, Corrections Captain Brian Gardiner graduated from the National Jail Leadership Command Academy (NJLCA) at the George J. Beto Criminal Justice Center at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. The NJLCA provides students with training for succession preparation and develops leadership skills for successful transitioning into senior leadership positions within jails. “We are always looking for opportunities for
In October, Police Officer First Class Adam Miedzinski and Officer Charles Quigley completed DARE training. DARE, an acronym for Drug Abuse Resistance Education, is a program our School Resource Officers use to teach students about the dangers of drug use and abuse. PFC Miedzinski is a School Resource Officer assigned to cover Davis Middle School and William A. Diggs Elementary School, and Officer Quigley is a School Resource Officer assigned to cover Matthew Henson Middle School and JC Parks Elementary School. The CCSO has 18 DARE Instructors.
On October 7, Police Officer First Class Vincent Pancotti and Police Officer First Class Wyatt Adams graduated from the Prince George’s County Police Department Basic SWAT School Session 36. This multi-week school is one of the most physically taxing and mentally challenging schools in the region that prepares officers for high-risk operations. These officers’ service on the CCSO’s Emergency Services Team (EST) is invaluable to our Agency and community.
New Officers Complete Police, Corrections Academy: The Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, located in Charles County, hosted several academy classes in 2022.
The following officers graduated from the Police Entrance Level Training Program in 2022:
- September:
- Officer Jonah Gordon
- Officer Hayden Gould
- Officer Kaitlyn Guntow
- Officer Nathaniel Hopp
- Officer Sally Knutsen
- Officer Jonathan Logan
- Officer Alana Snyder
- Officer Zachary Snyder
- Officer Andrew Torreyson
- Officer Jordan Wheeler
The following officers graduated from the Corrections Entrance Level Training Program in 2022:
- May:
- Correctional Officer Faith Robey
- Correctional Officer Eric Taylor
- Correctional Officer Isaiah Woody
- December:
- Correctional Officer Josef Groves
- Correctional Officer Aaron Harrod
- Correctional Officer Ethan Kerth
- Correctional Officer Travis Mullins
- Correctional Officer Jarrett Tutz
Recognition of Agency Excellence: The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to service through superior performance. We continually earn local and national recognition for our exceptional work.
In May of 2022, the CCSO successfully achieved certification to implement the FBI’s new National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Our Agency was one of the first 36 law enforcement agencies out of 142 in Maryland to achieve this new standard in crime reporting, which all law enforcement agencies across the country must transition to.
As a certified NIBRS participant, the Sheriff’s Office, and the data it reports, are helping shape the future of crime statistics. “I am proud of the effort, work, and attention to detail it took to transition to a new, more detailed way of reporting crime data as mandated by the FBI,” said Sheriff Troy Berry.
In June, the CCSO announced that the Charles County Detention Center (CCDC) achieved a 100 percent compliance rating, marked with excellence, during an audit conducted by the Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards (MCCS) in January. The MCCS created standards to ensure correctional facilities in Maryland operate as safely, efficiently and professionally as possible. Representatives from MCCS conduct audits of each correctional facility in Maryland every three years to determine whether the facility meets the more than 100 standards of professional excellence. In 2001, the Charles County Detention Center became the first agency in the state to achieve a perfect score during an audit and has since continued to strive for that standard of excellence.
During the 2022 audit, the CCDC was found to be 100% in compliance with State standards and was presented with a Recognition of Achievement Award. The commission noted in its report that this was the 6th time the CCDC achieved a 100% on its compliance audit. This achievement was notable given the many challenges over the past two years in managing risks of the pandemic.
“The Corrections Division has one of the toughest jobs in the agency,” said Sheriff Berry. “To achieve a perfect score while managing the custody and security of inmates as well as offering a variety of programs to help inmates is an outstanding accomplishment and testament to their passion for their work.”
Additionally, year after year the CCSO maintains its internationally recognized accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). The Agency continues to maintain the highest standards, and in December 2022, the Commission conducted a web-based assessment of 120 of the standards the CCSO is required to comply with to maintain accreditation. The Agency was found to be in full compliance with all 120 standards.
About Our Agency
Office of the Sheriff
The OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF is comprised of the Sheriff, Chief of Staff, two Assistant Sheriffs, the Office of Professional Responsibility, and the Office of the General Counsel.
Sheriff Troy D. Berry is a 30-year veteran of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office and was first elected as Sheriff in 2014. He was re-elected in 2018 and again in 2022. He leads an Agency of over 650 employees and is the final authority on all matters of policy, operations, and discipline.
Mr. Brian Eley serves as Sheriff Berry’s Chief of Staff. He is the highest responsible senior administrative and supervisory authority of all employees of the Agency. He is directly responsible for the Office of the General Counsel and the Executive Services Division. Chief of Staff Eley is a retired CCSO Captain and previously served as the Assistant Sheriff of Administration.
Two Assistant Sheriffs are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Agency. Major Michael Almassy serves as the Assistant Sheriff of Operations and is responsible for Patrol Operations, the Criminal Investigations Division, and the Special Operations Division. Major Ronald Farrell serves as the Assistant Sheriff of Administration and is responsible for the Corrections Division, the Special Services Division, the Information Technology Division, the Training Division, and the Administrative Services Division.
The Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is an independent component of the CCSO and maintains the integrity of the Agency by ensuring the professional conduct of Agency personnel. OPR’s two functions include Internal Affairs and Standards and Audits, and it operates under the command of Captain William Edge.
Internal Affairs handled 59 internal investigations in 2022. Of the 59 investigations, 47 were received from the public, 11 were initiated internally and one was investigated for another agency. The complaints involved 50 police officers, 8 correctional officers and 3 civilian employees.
In 2022, the 59 Internal investigations resulted in the following dispositions:
- 12 investigations had at least one sustained allegation
- 14 investigations had at least one exonerated allegation
- 11 investigations had at least one unfounded allegation
- 7 investigations had at least one not sustained allegation
- There are currently 3 cases in the chain of command review process.
- There are currently 12 cases still being reviewed by the Administrative Charging Committee.
- There are still 11 open investigations.
The Office of the General Counsel is assigned to provide legal advice and represent the Office of the Sheriff, and serves as the Agency’s liaison with the Maryland Attorney General’s Office. Mr. Jerome Spencer, a former prosecutor and Circuit Court Judge, serves as the Agency’s General Counsel, and Ms. Misty Good serves as Deputy General Counsel. The Office of General Counsel provides ongoing legal education for the Sheriff’s Office, including annual in-service instruction for sworn officers and introduction to criminal law and procedure at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy. The Office of General Counsel actively participates in the Maryland Chiefs’ and Sheriffs’ Associations legislative committee, the Maryland police legal advisors group, the Maryland State Bar Association State and Local Government Section, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police legal and impact projectile sections.
Patrol Division
When life or property is in peril, citizens rely on the protection of the CCSO’s first responders — the officers of the PATROL DIVISION — whose chief responsibilities are maintaining law and order and restoring peace when public safety is threatened. The Patrol Division prevents and investigates crime, responds to calls for service including crimes in progress, non-emergency calls, and medical emergencies, and enforces traffic laws. The Patrol Division also provides assistance at large community events such as the Charles County Fair and Fourth of July events. It is the CCSO’s most visible component.
Charles County covers 643 square miles. For the purposes of law enforcement the county is divided into two divisions, North and South, which comprise four districts. Captain Ashley Burroughs serves as the Commander of the Northern District and Captain Jason Carlson serves as the Commander of the Southern District.
Five shifts of 22 patrol officers (ranked corporal and below) and four sergeants each provide police services day and night throughout Charles County. An additional shift consisting of nine officers and one sergeant serves as the permanent midnight shift, allowing the other five shifts to rotate between days, evenings, and midnights. Each officer is assigned to either the Northern District or the Southern District of the county. Additionally, 11 lieutenants serve as shift commanders in the Patrol Division, ensuring a commander is always on duty in both the Northern District and Southern District. Shift commanders coordinate the Patrol Division’s response to major incidents and make critical operational decisions.
Patrol officers responded to 80,234 calls for service in 2022, which included a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations.
Patrol officers made 1,555 arrests in 2022. These include not only arrests made on-scene after responding to calls but also those made after interrupting crimes in progress during proactive patrols, during traffic stops where more serious crimes like drug or weapon possession are uncovered, and as a result of extensive investigations.
Special Operations Division
The SPECIAL OPERATIONS DIVISION performs tactical assignments and provides services to keep the community safe. Captain Chris Bean is the division’s commander. The division includes the Field Operations Section.
The Field Operations Section is supervised by Lieutenant William Donley and includes the Traffic Operations Unit, Security Response Vessel, K9 Unit, Unmanned Aerial System (UAE), Emergency Services Team, Automated Enforcement Unit, Intoximeter Operator Function, Motorcycle Function, and the Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Function.
The Traffic Operations Unit investigates traffic fatalities, school bus crashes, school bus complaints, and abandoned vehicles; conducts radar operations and commercial vehicle inspections; manages crossing guard assignments; provides funeral escorts; and manages all traffic-related grants awarded to the CCSO.
The Security Response Vessel is a specially-trained team of officers and civilians who provide law enforcement services on the waterways of Charles County. The vessels are specially designed for law enforcement use and are equipped to handle a variety of possible situations.
The K-9 Unit consists of a Sergeant, civilian trainer and 7 dogs which include 3 Patrol/Narcotics detection canines, 2 Patrol/Explosive/Weapons detection canines, and 2 Bloodhound/Trailing canines.
Each K-9 team is certified by our agency, International Police Working Dog Association (IPWDA) and Old Dominion SAR/K-Star standards. In 2022, the unit was deployed 240 times.
The teams conducted:
- 49 building searches
- 45 criminal tracks
- 10 non-criminal tracks (these are humanitarian tracks, i.e. missing persons tracks without Bloodhounds) and located 5 individuals
- 42 evidence searches with 15 incidents of evidence recovered
- 33 narcotic scans with 15 incidents of recovered narcotics
- 13 gun scans with 7 incidents of recovered guns
- 5 Bloodhound tracks with 1 recovered
- 2 Explosive scans with 0 recovered
- 46 incidents where K-9 was utilized as perimeter security or visual deterrent
- 22 incidents where K-9 assisted with patrol or specialized units which resulted in criminal apprehensions/arrests
- 2 demonstrations
Community Services Division
The COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION provides community and school-based services that engage citizens and businesses in public safety activities. As a testament to the success of our Agency’s Community Services programs and its commitment to working closely with citizens and businesses to prevent crime, the CCSO has received the Maryland Governor’s Crime Prevention Award each year since 1988. Captain Caroline Baker is the division’s commander. The division includes two sections: Community Relations and School Resource. The functions of the Community Relations Section and School Resource Section were formerly within the Special Operations Division; however, with a continually growing student population and added responsibilities for the School Resource Section as well as added Units under Community Relations, these sections were made into a new Division in December 2022.
The CCSO’s Community Relations Section, under the command of Lieutenant William Welch, combines a unified effort from the Community Engagement Unit and the Community Policing Unit to plan, schedule, and coordinate many events throughout the year. In 2022 these included 52 meetings, 20 presentations, 63 general events, 24 neighborhood events (including block parties and seasonal events), 131 business file updates, and 20 residential/commercial surveys. In addition, the Section provided services in the areas of: crime prevention talks, community policing enforcement efforts in the neighborhoods, Project Lifesaver, National Night Out, the County Fair, graduations, and Project Graduation.
The Section’s focus on the community also extends to local businesses. The Community Organizer attends the Charles County Chamber of Commerce monthly meetings. This fosters and strengthens communication with local businesses where they exchange ideas, trends, program successes and failures, to improve the partnership. The combined efforts demonstrate the importance the agency puts on community relations. For the calendar year 2023, the Agency will continue growing the grassroots efforts to build positive community/law enforcement relationships through varied outreach and engagement programs.
The Fingerprint Unit, which is also part of the Community Relations section, includes a Civilian Coordinator and Civilian Specialist. Fingerprinting services are offered by appointment only in our office in the St. Charles Towne Center.
The Crisis Negotiations Team is specially trained to bring situations involving barricaded individuals and hostages to peaceful conclusions. Negotiators volunteer for the team in addition to their regular duty assignments.
The School Resource Section, under the command of Lieutenant Ken Klezia, facilitates the strong alliance between police and Charles County school students. As part of an agreement with Charles County Public Schools, officers are assigned to each elementary, middle, and high school to provide programs such as Safe Schools, Truth and Consequences, and Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE). The officers host an annual Ladies Leadership Soccer Camp, Badges for Baseball Camp, Cops for Kids Football Camp, Just Say No Camp, a Summer Youth Achievement Program, and We Care, a program designed to reduce teen traffic fatalities by using innovative methods to encourage young motorists to drive safely. This Section also operates a Student Crime Solvers program, which provides an opportunity for reward money when students anonymously submit information about crimes in schools. The program is offered in conjunction with Charles County Crime Solvers.
High school students considering a career in law enforcement have an opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system as part of their academic curriculum in the Criminal Justice Program offered through an alliance between the CCSO and Charles County Public Schools. The program is held at North Point High School.
Teen Court provides first-time youth offenders with an opportunity to accept responsibility for traffic offenses, misdemeanor crimes, and tobacco and alcohol offenses without the stigma of a formal criminal record. Youth offenders are represented by youth defense attorneys, prosecuted by youth prosecutors, and sentenced by youth juries. An adult volunteer serves as a judge. The program teaches students about the criminal justice process, helps them better resolve problems, and reduces recidivism. In 2022, Teen Court heard 69 cases and sentenced youth offenders collectively to 2,857 hours of community service.
The School Resource Section Lieutenant also commands the Public Safety Cadets Post, School Crossing Guards, and the Search Management Function for the Agency.
Criminal Investigations Division
The CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION (CID) investigates complex crimes and crime trends. Under the command of Captain Joseph Pratta, the division operates five sections — Persons Crimes, Property Crimes, Forensic Science, Homeland Security, and Narcotics Enforcement.
The Persons Crimes Section, commanded by Lieutenant Andrew Schwab, includes the Major Crimes, Special Victims, Robbery, and Digital Forensics Units.
The Major Crimes Unit investigates homicides, deaths, shootings, stabbings, life-threatening assaults, cold cases, missing persons, and the rare occurrences of police-involved shootings. Detectives investigated eleven homicides in 2022, in seven separate cases. By year’s end, six of the cases were closed; five arrests were made. One of the closed cases involved a quadruple murder/suicide and that case was closed without an arrest due to the suspect taking his own life. One homicide case remained open at the end of the year.
The Special Victims Unit (SVU) investigates rapes, sexual assaults, physical and sexual child abuse, and the exploitation of the elderly. The circumstances of these investigations can be difficult and very emotional for detectives. Of the total cases assigned to SVU, at the year’s end:
- 35 were closed;
- 77 were closed with arrests;
- 4 were closed exceptional;
- 9 were closed unfounded;
- 59 were open/suspended;
- 4 cases open warrant service;
- 13 were active;
- 104 intakes were accepted;
- 556 intakes were screened out for various reasons;
- 238 cyber tips were received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children;
- Liberty, the Unit’s Comfort K-9, had 20 victim contacts/community events attended.
The Robbery Unit investigates citizen and commercial armed robberies. In 2022, the unit was assigned 28 Robbery investigations. Of those cases, at the end of the year:
- 9 were closed with arrests;
- 13 were open/suspended;
- 1 was unfounded;
- 3 remained active investigations;
- 2 were pending warrant service.
The Robbery Unit also conducted 31 miscellaneous investigations. These investigations included shoplifting/strong armed robbery, felony assaults, assisting other law enforcement agencies, missing persons, rape, burglary, death investigations, pornography/obscene material and accidental injuries. Of these miscellaneous investigations 13 of them were closed with arrest being made when applicable. During the course of the combined 59 investigations conducted by the three man unit, detectives secured and executed 72 search and seizure warrants.
The Property Crimes Section, commanded by Lieutenant Anthony Celia, investigates property and financial crimes; analyzes crime trends; and provides services to crime victims.
In 2022, the Property Crimes Unit investigated 118 cases, 75 of those were closed along with 34 arrests being made. The four detectives assigned to the unit executed 89 search and seizure warrants.
In 2022, the Financial Crimes Unit was assigned 137 cases. Of those cases, 83 were open suspended. It should be noted, 65 of those cases were the postal thefts which are still being investigated. In all, Financial Crimes made 22 arrests.
Auto Theft was assigned 53 cases. Of those cases, 16 arrests were made and 18 cases were open/suspended. A total of 236 vehicles were stolen from Charles County in 2022. Of those vehicles, 115 were recovered. An additional 77 vehicles reported stolen from other jurisdictions were recovered in Charles County.
The Victim Services Unit works with local, state and regional agencies including the Center for Abused Persons, the Center for Children, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board, and Victims Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) to ensure victims understand their rights and have access to counseling and compensation. In certain circumstances, the Victim Services Unit also provides support to victims and witnesses on the scene of serious and tragic incidents.
The Forensic Science Section (FSS), managed by Deputy Director Noelle Gehrman, is comprised of a Forensic Science Supervisor, a Quality Assurance Manager, a Forensic Chemist, Forensic Science Technicians, and Latent Print Specialists who provide critical support to patrol officers and detectives by processing crime scenes and analyzing evidence.
In 2022, the FSS was assigned more than 574 cases. Technicians processed more than 106 scenes, including crime scenes, vehicles, and attending autopsies. They investigated approximately 449 cases involving DNA—totaling approximately 2,202 DNA items, and at least 196 cases involving firearms—totaling approximately 383 firearms. During 2022, the Latent Print Specialists worked on 196 latent fingerprint cases resulting in 62 identifications made. In addition to working active cases, the Latent Specialists also worked additional cases in the Maryland Automated Fingerprint Identification System “Unsolved Latent” queue and on Charles County Cold Cases with latent prints.
In September 2019, the Section began utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) – a program managed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The NIBIN program automates ballistics evaluations and provides actionable investigative leads in a timely manner by allowing forensic examiners to compare ballistic evidence to crimes throughout the region. In 2022, the FSS had 240 cases with NIBIN entries resulting in 410 acquisitions, 99 leads, and 9 leads warranting microscopic comparison.
The Homeland Security & Intelligence Section, commanded by Lieutenant John Dodge, investigates street gangs, outlaw motorcycle gangs, extremist activities, threats against public officials, terrorism, and organized crime. The Section receives and disseminates intelligence information and publishes law enforcement bulletins for the CCSO and allied agencies nationwide. An investigator from the Homeland Security & Intelligence Section is also part of the Southern Maryland Information Center (SMIC), a regional operation that facilitates information sharing between the CCSO, the Calvert and St. Mary’s County Sheriffs’ Offices, the Maryland State Police and the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center. Representatives from each agency analyze reports and identify cross-jurisdictional crime trends.
The Crime Analysis Unit collects, analyzes, and disseminates crime data for the CCSO’s CompStat program. CompStat is an analysis-driven method of proactively addressing crime problems. District Commanders use the crime analysis data as part of weekly CompStat meetings to address crime in their districts.
The Firearms Investigations Unit (FIU) is a team of experienced detectives who investigate cases involving the illegal manufacture, sale, and/or possession of firearms, gun trafficking, and other crimes involving firearms. The FIU coordinates their efforts with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is responsible for following-up on leads developed from NIBIN (National Integrated Ballistic Information Network). The FIU investigated 30 cases in 2022 resulting in the seizure of 83 firearms and 11 arrests. FIU routinely assisted officers from the Patrol Division to further their investigations by assisting with the preparation and execution of search and seizure warrants. Officers assigned to FIU handled several investigations regarding threats of mass violence, one of which resulted in an arrest.
The CCSO employs a full-time Heroin Coordinator as part of the Opioid Addiction Program. In 2022, Charles County received calls for 143 total overdoses related to opiates (compared to 131 in 2021) which resulted in 39 fatalities, compared to 26 in 2021. Officers with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office administered Narcan 74 times in 2022.
The Narcotics Enforcement Section (NES), commanded by Lieutenant Harry Ivers, works covertly and aggressively to disrupt drug trafficking in Charles County. The effective disruption of drug trafficking is vital to the reduction of crime overall. The section includes the Major Narcotics Unit and the Narcotics Street Enforcement Unit. In 2022, NES investigations led to executing 58 search warrants and the seizure of:
- · Narcotics:
- Amphetamine: 656 dosage units
- Carisoprodol: 600 dosage units
- Cocaine (g): 3865 grams
- Crack (g): 335 grams
- Diazepam: 600 dosage units
- Fentanyl: 4,641 dosage units and 409 grams
- Marijuana: 76 pounds
- Marijuana plants: 108 plants
- Morphine: 631 dosage units
- Psilocybin (g): 209 grams
- PCP (ml): 82 ml
- THC WAX (g): 111 grams
- THC Vapes (g): 1,757 grams
- Eutylone (g): 250 grams
- Firearms: 84
- Currency: $101,495.00
- Vehicles: 8 vehicles worth $79,500.00
- CDS Street Value: $3,469,223.00
Corrections Division
The responsibility of keeping inmates at the Charles County Detention Center (CCDC) secure rests with the CORRECTIONS DIVISION under the command of Director Brandon Foster and Deputy Director Ryan Ross. The CCDC is a secure facility that opened in 1995 and stretches 135,000 square feet with 203 cells. In 2021, Corrections processed 5,121 arrests through intake and booked 1,349 incarcerated individuals into the facility. The CCDC maintained an average daily population of 150 inmates.
The Custody and Security Section, commanded by Captain Matthew Dixon, is responsible for internal and external security of the facilities. This section is comprised of four security teams which are the main operational element of the Corrections Division.
Four Lieutenants serve as Shift Commanders to ensure there is always a commander on duty. The Shift Commanders manage the daily security operations of the detention center. The four Shift Commanders are Lieutenant Richard Hulvey, Lieutenant Matthew Becker, Lieutenant Michael Smith, and Lieutenant Kevin Conley.
The Special Services Section, commanded by Captain Gerald Duffield, is responsible for standards and accreditation, training, security maintenance, inmate commissary, and supplies.
The Standards and Accreditation Commander is Lieutenant Matthew Irby. He conducts audits and inspections to ensure the CCDC operates according to the hundreds of standards set by the Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards (MCCS). In 2001, the CCDC became the first detention facility in Maryland to score 100 percent on an MCCS audit and achieved 100 percent scores after audits in 2004, 2006, 2009, 2012, 2016, 2019, and 2022.
Lieutenant Ryan Taylor serves as the Corrections Division’s Training Commander. He ensures all correctional officers fulfill training obligations mandated by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions (MPCTC).
Lieutenant James Kelly serves as the Corrections Division’s Facilities Management Commander. He ensures the facilities are well maintained and properly supplied. He also works closely with contractors who maintain various systems and equipment within the detention center.
The Support Services Section, commanded by Captain Brian Gardiner, is responsible for central processing and inmate programs and services. This section also oversees the inmate library and the law library.
Lieutenant Jonathan Palmer serves as the Central Processing Commander. He ensures the completeness, accuracy, and security of inmate records and maintains communication with court systems, police agencies, and other correctional facilities. The unit is comprised of Records, Intake, Finance, Transportation, and Court Holding.
Lieutenant Stacy Kelly serves as the Inmate Services Commander. She strives to reduce recidivism by offering programs that help inmates re-enter society as productive citizens. One program, Successful Transitioning and Reentry Skills (STARS), provides inmates with skills and knowledge to help them succeed in life. Inmates who apply for the program write a resume and appear before an interview panel. Other inmate programs include the Diamonds Program, a faith-based life-skills and transitioning program that addresses specific issues for female inmates, a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) program, and an annual Re-Entry Fair.
Lieutenant Tony Oliver serves as an Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) investigator to ensure the integrity of Corrections Division personnel.
The Corrections Division operates the Detention Center Annex adjacent to the primary Detention Center. The Annex houses inmates assigned work-release and school release. The building served as the county jail from 1981 to 1995 and reopened as the Annex of the current detention center in 2007 to better utilize bed space and alleviate overcrowding in the primary detention center.
Support Services Division
The employees of the SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION, commanded by Captain Louis Schmidt, are the critical link between citizens and the police and between officers and the information they need to do their jobs safely and efficiently.
The Records Management Section, commanded by Deputy Director Amber DiToto, is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the centralized records unit and the public-facing lobby at Sheriff’s Office Headquarters. As the Custodian of Police Records, Deputy Director DiToto holds the obligation to ensure that each record is complete, readable, and accessible for its full retention period, and that the proper disposition is carried out after its retention period is fulfilled. This section maintains and monitors police records systems, oversees the security, storage, retention, retrieval, and disposition activities of all police records.
In 2022, the employees in this section:
- Handled all initial questions from visitors to the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters;
- Processed and cataloged 18,717 police reports and supplemental reports (including incidents, accidents, missing persons, and alcohol influence reports);
- Completed 1,015 expungements;
- Processed 44,827 citations including ETIX, parking citations, warnings, traffic stop data sheets, and safety equipment repair orders;
- Recorded 4,807 false alarm notifications;
- Validated 1,439 METERS entries;
- Processed 3,145 in-car camera video requests, State’s Attorney’s discovery requests, and 2,919 other report requests;
- Processed 12,435 pieces of postal mail; and
- Processed 728 record checks.
The Communications Section, commanded by Lieutenant Charles Gass, provides police radio communications to officers and clerical coverage of the district stations in La Plata, Bryans Road, and Waldorf. Each district station is staffed by Station Clerks responsible for answering the CCSO’s non-emergency telephone lines and for helping citizens who visit the district stations. The station clerks’ training prepares them to handle a variety of citizen reports and inquiries, from life-threatening emergencies to the occasional non-police matter. Their primary mission is to obtain clear and concise information and relay that information to Police Communications Officers (PCOs), who dispatch the information to officers conducting patrol or other assignments. In 2022, our Communications Section answered 253,799 calls for service, of which 238,620 were dispatched.
Information Technology Division
The INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIVISION (ITD), led by Director David Hanna, is vital in ensuring the CCSO functions efficiently in our digital world. ITD develops and implements a strategic plan to maintain and evolve systems, infrastructure, physical and virtual servers, enterprise applications, security, cloud, mobile initiatives, training and future growth to support the objectives and success of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office. The highly knowledgeable staff assigned to the Technical Support, Applications Support, and Systems Operations Support Sections maintains hundreds of PCs, printers, networks, complex servers, and software applications. Every function of the CCSO relies on the daily use of computers and digital police databases, and the ITD personnel are always available to ensure law enforcement services are uninterrupted.
In 2022, ITD researched and applied new cybersecurity strategies that will shape the digital future of the Agency. ITD was able to implement new hardware security equipment at all of our satellite offices that creates a physical and cyber barrier that will detect, deter, and prevent security breaches and promote secure data transfer.
Special Services Division
The SPECIAL SERVICES DIVISION, commanded by Captain Charles Baker, handles judicial matters, ensures the security of the Charles County Courthouse, and maintains the Agency’s fleet, supply stock, and property inventory.
The Judicial Services Section, commanded by Lieutenant Christopher Cusmano, serves arrest warrants, civil papers, and other legal documents; and addresses child support and domestic violence problems. In 2022, the Judicial Services Section served:
- 1,485 criminal summonses
- 1,335 warrants
- 9,626 criminal summons and warrant service attempts
- 4,431 civil summonses
- 1,161 evictions
- 1,285 protective orders
- 1,348 peace orders
- 204 extraditions
- 3,532 rent notices
The Property Management Section, commanded by Lieutenant Ben Voorhaar, manages the CCSO’s Quartermaster, Fleet Management, Property Held Unit, and Firearms Tracking Operations.
The Courthouse Section, commanded by Lieutenant Scott Grove, contains Volunteers in the Community (VICS) and the Court & Judicial Security Unit. The Court & Judicial Security Unit is responsible for physical security, maintenance of courtroom order and general law enforcement duties within the Charles County Circuit Court.
Executive Services Division
The EXECUTIVE SERVICES DIVISION, commanded by Captain David Kelly, manages Planning and Accreditation, Media Relations, the Chaplain program and acts as the liaison to the Sheriff.
Planning and Accreditation, managed by Deputy Director Laurie Coyle, writes and maintains the policy contained in the CCSO’s Administrative and Operational Manual and ensures the CCSO maintains its internationally recognized accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). The Agency continues to maintain the highest standards. In December 2022, the Commission conducted a web-based assessment of 120 of the standards the CCSO is required to comply with to maintain accreditation. The Agency was found to be in full compliance with all 120 standards.
The Agency’s Grant Coordinator researches, applies for and maintains grants the agency uses to fund vital projects necessary to complete our mission. In 2022, the agency was awarded $2,551,668 in grants.
The Media Relations Office coordinates the distribution of information about police investigations, crime prevention, and CCSO events to the news media and public. The office issues regular press releases; manages the content of the CCSO’s website; produces the Annual Report, advertisements, brochures, posters, and fliers; and develops content for and manages the CCSO’s social media accounts. At the end of 2022, the CCSO had more than 101,000 followers combined on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Nextdoor, and TikTok, a 14.8% increase from 2021 when there were 88,000 users.
Local clergymen offer guidance and inspiration to CCSO personnel, their families and the public through Chaplain Services. Chaplains minister to CCSO personnel in times of personal need or strife and provide comfort to those who are injured or afflicted. They accompany officers who must notify families of the death of a loved one and would assist in notifying the family of an officer who was seriously injured or slain. In addition they play a critical role in acting as a liaison between the Agency and the faith-based community. Chaplains also provide invocations and benedictions at CCSO ceremonies.
Administrative Services Division
The CCSO is committed to maintaining a highly qualified workforce, to utilizing financial resources efficiently, and to maintaining thorough and accurate record keeping. The ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION, commanded by Captain Kevin Leahy, is responsible for helping the CCSO meet its strict personnel, budgetary, and records management standards.
The Budgeting Section, managed by Deputy Director Erin Shoemaker, provides leadership on all accounts and projects which affect the budget for the Office of the Sheriff. This section is responsible for preparing the annual budgets and financial analyses of the Sheriff’s Office operations for upper level management and County agencies. A well trained team of budget professionals promotes the sound budgetary management practices, oversees the budget preparation process, and assists in meeting the CCSO’s personnel and operational needs.
The FY2022 approved budget (7/1/21 through 6/30/22) was $100,865,700. This included the sworn officers continuing with year three (3) of the pay parity as it relates to the Maryland State Police pay scale. Through mutual cooperation and good faith negotiations, sworn officers received a four (4) percent cost of living increase (COLA) effective July 1, 2021. The Correctional Officers and the Civilian staff was provided a merit increase on the employee’s anniversary date, as well as a 1.4% cost of living (COLA) increase effective January 1, 2022. The authorized strength of the Sheriff’s Office is increasing by two (2) new sworn officer positions with a hire date of December 2021, a Systems Administrator with a January 2022 hire date, and a Mental Health Liaison with a January 2023 hire date.
The FY2022 Capital Improvement Program, coordinated with the Department of Public Works, includes funding to begin the Detention Center Pump Station Rehabilitation $619,000, as well as completing the Detention Center Annex Office Space Renovations Project.
The FY 2022 budget included $2,355,100 for Sheriff’s Office vehicles and other capital equipment and $1,173,500 for various non-capital equipment.
The Accounting Section, managed by Deputy Director Amy Mayor, promotes sound financial management practices, accounts for Agency owned property, and assists in meeting the operating needs of the Sheriff’s Office. The section is composed of four major areas, which include Accounts Payable, General Accounting, Payroll, and Inmate Accounting.
The Human Resources Section, managed by Deputy Director Brian Daniels, handles administrative personnel tasks for potential and current employees. Once the Human Resources Section determines an applicant meets position requirements, the Pre-Employment Unit performs an extensive background investigation of the applicant. The unit’s mission is to ensure only the applicants with the highest levels of integrity are awarded positions with the CCSO. Background investigations involve polygraphs, psychological examinations, physical examinations, and drug screenings.
The Pre-Employment/Recruitment Unit seeks the best potential police and correctional officer candidates for employment with the CCSO. The unit attends job fairs and other events to engage those who are interested and to guide those who have decided to pursue careers in law enforcement, and also promotes and advertises positions within the Agency in various ways. In 2022, the Pre-Employment/Recruitment Unit:
- Rolled out a program offering a sign on bonus of $10,000 and relocation bonus of $5,000 for new Correctional Officer hires;
- Visited high schools in Charles, St. Mary’s, Calvert, and King George Counties for information sessions;
- Started a job shadowing program for high school students;
- Attended 27 recruiting and hiring events in the local area, in Pennsylvania, and in Ocean City;
- Assisted in senior mock interviews with Charles County high schools;
- Attended community service events to hand out information;
- Advertised at Regency Furniture Stadium (Blue Crabs) with commercial and playbill spotlights;
- Created billboards to advertise in the Eastern Shore area of Maryland;
- Ran advertising campaigns with Comcast Commercial Advertising;
- Ran several paid ads through social media; and
- Attended two training events.
In 2022, the Human Resources Section continued to follow all Agency COVID guidelines, as well as CDC guidelines regarding exposure and mask wearing as required when an exposure has taken place.
Training Division
The TRAINING DIVISION ensures the CCSO meets state-mandated requirements and provides a variety of other training needs. Commanded by Captain Bobby Kiesel, the division is comprised of the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, the Firearms Instruction Detail, and the Cadet Program.
The Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy (SMCJA) provides entry-level training to all police and correctional officers in Southern Maryland. The SMCJA is funded and governed by the sheriffs’ offices in Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties, which provide the Academy’s full-time staff of instructors and support personnel.
Once officers have completed entry-level training, they must complete a required number of hours of “in-service” training. The Training Division handles all annual in-service training classes and ensures all required documentation is submitted to the Maryland Police and Corrections Training Commission (MPCTC) to maintain each officer’s State certification.
The Firearms Instruction Detail is comprised of highly-skilled instructors who must maintain expert proficiency in firearms. The Chief Firearms Instructor and his staff provide regular firearms training to all new and veteran officers and to Correctional Officers who carry firearms in the performance of their duties. In addition to the required qualification courses officers must complete annually for the handgun and twice annually for the shotgun and rifle, officers are also trained in tactical scenarios, shooting on the move, shooting behind various types of cover, general marksmanship skills, and various other courses of fire related directly to the performance of duties as a police officer.
People ages 18-21 who want to pursue a career as a CCSO police officer gain invaluable on-the-job experience in the Cadet Program. Cadets perform a variety of duties while learning law enforcement techniques, CCSO policy and procedure, and criminal and traffic law. These duties include traffic direction and enforcement, seatbelt and child safety seat inspections, flagging abandoned vehicles, and truck and school bus safety inspections.
All Gave Some, Some Gave All
Deputy Sheriff Lawrence H. McParlin
Deputy Sheriff Lawrence McParlin is the first Charles County Sheriff’s officer known to have fallen in the line of duty. On May 21, 1918, a short time after becoming a police officer, Deputy Sheriff McParlin and Metropolitan Police Department Officer John Conrad attempted to serve a court summons in Washington, D.C. As they entered the building, the suspect, who was wanted, shot and killed both officers. Learn more about Deputy Sheriff McParlin by reading “A History Lesson.”
Patrolman First Class Dennis L. Riley, #49
On January 11, 1977, PFC Riley was killed in a crash at the intersection of Route 228 and U.S. Route 301 in Waldorf. As he waited for a traffic light to change, a tractor-trailer fuel tanker skidded to a stop and overturned on his cruiser, killing him instantly. PFC Riley was survived by a wife and four children.
Sergeant Francis “Leo” Yates, #40
On June 8, 1988, Sgt. Yates suffered a fatal heart attack as he left the Charles County Courthouse. He was survived by a wife and four children.
Sergeant Joseph E. Stine, Jr., #62
On May 12, 1990, Sgt. Stine arrested a disorderly subject and transported the resisting prisoner to the Charles County Detention Center. Sgt. Stine then collapsed and suffered a fatal heart attack. He was survived by a wife, two children and three step-children.
Sergeant Timothy C. Minor, #109
On February 12, 1996, Sgt. Minor was killed when a vehicle pulled in front of his police motorcycle on Route 257 in Newburg as he was responding to a call near Cobb Island. Sgt. Minor was survived by a wife and two children.
Station Clerk Willard C. Keesee, #1123
On January 23, 1998, Mr. Keesee was on-duty at the Indian Head District Station when he suffered a fatal heart attack. He was survived by two sons and a daughter.
Corporal Jamel L. Clagett, #447
On December 21, 2014, Cpl. Clagett was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Route 218 near Route 641 in King George, Virginia, while returning home from working a midnight shift. He was survived by his mother, two brothers, and a sister.