FMD

Pictures of unknown male suspects released in connection with an armed incident on January 15th.

(photos courtesy Frederick Police)

Frederick, MD – The Frederick Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals involved in an incident that occurred on January 15, 2025, at approximately 10:09 p.m. in the 1700 block of Carriage Way.

Officers responded to a report of a weapons complaint, during which the victim reported that two unknown males entered their residence armed with firearms and ordered them onto the floor. The suspects fled the residence on foot.

Howard County Police offering $5,000 for information leading to arrest and conviction of suspect.

Columbia, MD – Howard County police are offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information in the shooting death of 17-year-old Lance Carrington, a Columbia resident, who was found deceased in his vehicle on January 14.

Police responded to the 6000 block of Helen Dorsey Way around 8:30 p.m., where Carrington was discovered in the driver’s seat of a parked vehicle. Authorities confirmed he had been shot at least once. Investigators are still working to determine when the shooting occurred.

Detectives believe the incident was not random and may have been drug-related. However, no suspect information has been released at this time.

Howard County police urge anyone with information to come forward. Tipsters can contact investigators at 410-313-STOP or email [email protected]. Anonymous tips are accepted, and the reward is available for information leading to an arrest or charges in the case.

Adamstown, MD — The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a second suspect in connection with a violent home invasion robbery that occurred on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Darrell Foster, a 30-year-old resident of Washington, D.C., was taken into custody on January 20, 2025. Foster’s arrest followed his treatment for gunshot wounds sustained during the incident at a residence in the 5600 block of Doubs Road in Adamstown, Maryland. Authorities confirmed he is now being held at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center.

Foster faces multiple charges, including armed robbery, use of a firearm in a violent crime, illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and illegal possession of ammunition.

The investigation into the home invasion and how Foster was injured during the incident continue.

Both were discussed at their last meeting,

Md. State House

Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Legislative Delegation is expected to vote this week on whether to move two liquor bills forward in the General Assembly.

One would require liquor stores which offer tastings to customers to limit the amount of wine, beer or other alcoholic beverages to no more than six ounces. “The problem is the configuration of those tastings when you provide a beer, a wine and a liquor, it gets convoluted,:” says Delegation Chair Jesse Pippy. . “This legislation is supposed to just clarify that they can offer any amount of those three things as long it doesn’t exceed a full drink.”

“We wanted to keep it very standard across the board that you drink six ounces of any beer or wine in a combination, but you can never exceed the six ounces. That’s a true tasting. Not a full beer,” says Dawn Shugars, the Director of the Frederick County  Liquor Board.

She also says many of the liquor stores that participate had no objections. “We did put it back out: website; e-mail blast; lots of communications back out to get feedback, and even asked them as we were talking with them in site inspection. And no one was opposed to keeping it very limited to a tasting,” says Shugars.

A bill sponsored by Frederick County Senator Karen Lewis Young would benefit the Met, a community theater located across the street from the Weinberg Center. “They serve beer and wine, but they wanted to do theme-related cocktails for the different shows,” says Senator Lewis Young. “So if they were doing something in the autumn, it would be pumpkin cocktail; or a mystery murder, it would be a mystery cocktail.”

No objections were raised to the bill during the Delegation’s last meeting. But some said it should not be just the president of the theater which would sign the application for the license. “Here’s a recommended change,” Lewis Young said. “If you go to the second page of the legislation, line 16: ‘the manager of theater or any other official designated by the theater may sign the application for the license.'”

The Delegation is expected to hold its next meeting on Friday, January 24th.

By Kevin McManus

31-year-old Darius Jones of Washington D.C. was arrested

Frederick, Md. (DG) – A home invasion early Sunday morning leads to the arrest of a Washington D.C. man.

At around 12:15 AM deputies with the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office responded to a robbery in progress at a home in the 5600 block of Doubs Road. when they arrived they heard gunshots from inside the residence.

The victims, found in their vehicle in the driveway, reported that two armed suspects had forcibly entered their home, holding them at gunpoint while demanding drugs and money.

Authorities quickly established a perimeter, deploying a K-9 unit to track the suspects. Two individuals matching the victims’ descriptions were located on Doubs Court and arrested. One suspect, found with gunshot wounds, was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Further investigation led deputies to a nearby gas station, where two more suspects were identified. While one was apprehended without incident, the other fled in a vehicle, sparking a pursuit that extended into Montgomery County and Washington, D.C. The fleeing suspect’s vehicle was later found abandoned, and the driver remains at large.

The victims declined medical treatment.

31-year-old Darius Jones of Washington D.C. was arrested is charged with armed robbery, firearm use in a violent crime, and illegal possession of a firearm by a felon. Jones is being held at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center.

Agency to offer webinars highlighting Direct File program and other tax resources in 2025

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (January 13, 2025) — Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman is encouraging Marylanders to check their eligibility to use the new IRS Direct File platform. Direct File is a free and convenient tool that will allow an estimated 30 million Americans in 25 states, including Maryland, to file their federal and state taxes online at no cost when the Internal Revenue Service begins to process tax returns January 27.

An estimated 870,000 Marylanders are eligible to participate in Direct File. Direct File is optimized for mobile devices and available in both English and Spanish. Direct File users will be able to import information directly from their IRS account into their federal return. Users can receive support from the IRS during the filing process via live chat. When the federal filing is complete, information from that return will transfer that information to the Maryland filing tool, which is built and maintained by our partners at Code for America.

“The IRS estimates that the average American spends $270 and 13 hours filing their taxes. Direct File is a free and secure filing option that empowers low and middleincome Americans by eliminating the need to pay for tax preparation and reducing the time it takes to complete their returns. Direct File will make the filing process more convenient and less intimidating,” Comptroller Lierman said. “I am proud to partner with the IRS to further modernize Maryland’s tax filing system, and my agency is committed to doing all we can to make government work better for our fellow Marylanders.”

The IRS recently launched its Eligibility Checker, which allows tax filers to review a list of criteria to determine whether they would qualify to use Direct File when the 2025 tax filing season begins. A chat bot will be able to assist users in determining their eligibility to use Direct File.

To promote the use of Direct File and connect more Marylanders with resources for the 2025 filing season, the Comptroller’s Public Engagement team will host five webinars in January and February. The webinars will cover a range of tax filing resources, and discuss tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, which help Marylanders reduce what they owe the state and even increase their refund.

Webinar Schedule

Date/Time:         Title:       January 22, 2025, 12 p.m.  Tax Season Resources with the Maryland Comptroller’s Office Registration:       https://marylandtaxes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_v60UqzF4T9uNoI S5EeiB6A

Date/Time:      Title:                   Registration:        H0opjh79SQ Date/Time:         Title:                    Registration:        bD_kKeB4hCw Date/Time:         Title:                    January 27, 2025, 3 p.m.   Tax Season Resources, Benefits, and Credits for Veterans https://marylandtaxes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PEuDNUKtQZ6e January 29, 2025, 1 p.m. Tax Season Resources, Benefits, and Credits for New Americans https://marylandtaxes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Pm11AgGRQpm February 12, 2025, 12:30 p.m. Tax Season Resources, Benefits, and Credits for Students Enrolled in College or University in Maryland Registration:       7DdRjjMpw Date/Time:        

Title:                   https://marylandtaxes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_C1vsAokcRVyKL February 25, 2025, 1 p.m. Tax Season Resources, Benefits, and Credits for Older Marylanders Registration:      https://marylandtaxes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xMXF4vRNSbSEsHjXo-Xk_g #

Frederick’s Taxpayer Assistance Center:  201 Thomas Johnson Dr, Frederick, MD 21702.  Phone: (844) 545-5640

New jobs listed

Home Care Aide/Caregiver (2150070)
The Home Care Aide performs services for the client as necessary to maintain the personal care and
comfort of the client. Responsibilities include:
• Assist the client with personal care activities: bathing, skin care, back rub, hair care, nail care,
dressing and undressing, feeding, oral hygiene, shaving, grooming and bedtime preparation.
• Assist the client to the bathroom or in use of urinal or bedpan. Keep incontinent clients clean
and dry.
• Assist the client with self-administration of their medications.
• Assist the client with personal communication skills, as needed.
• Assist with transportation needs in accordance with the plan of care.
• Assist with meal planning, purchase of food and meal preparation.
• Assist with client’s laundry and bed linens.
• And much more!

Resident Advisor Trainee (2150569)
The Resident Advisor Trainee is responsible for providing supervision and guidance to the youth residing
in a facility operated by the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. The Resident Advisor Trainee
ensures supervision and guidance of the youth by observing, interacting and assisting them with
everyday life skills and advising them of appropriate alternative behaviors. The position is assigned a
regular shift but may be required to work other shifts, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays as
required by staffing needs. $5000 bonus.

Bilingual Community-Based Services Case Manager (2147739)
The Bilingual Community-Base Services Case Manager will provide community-based direct client
services including, but not limited to: crisis intervention, intake, information and referral, supportive
listening, and safety planning. Will also conduct client screening and assessment for Heartly House
services; facilitate legal advocacy and clinical support as appropriate; aid in coordinating community
resources; provide education about intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and
child abuse to communities as appropriate; aid in the scheduling and coordination of mindfulness-based
practices, holistic therapies, and other activities as appropriate; maintain updated reference information
on domestic violence, rape/sexual assault, human trafficking, and child abuse issues; and much more.

Intern – Aging & Independence (2147721)
The student intern (Spring 2025) will assist with the implementation of Dementia Friendly Frederick
initiatives across Frederick County for the Division of Aging and Independence. The intern will receive
direction from the Caregiver Support Program staff. Supervision is received from Director of Resource
and Service Navigation.
Responsibilities/Duties:
• Collaborate with community groups to develop resources and materials to raise awareness
about the Dementia Friendly Frederick initiative and other Aging and Independence programs

• Educate the public, community leaders, and other interested parties about Dementia Friendly
Frederick initiatives
• Prepare articles, flyers, and other marketing materials for publication online, in newsletters, and
newspapers
• Perform administrative duties for the Caregiver Support Program to include data entry,
processing applications and calculating costs
• Perform other duties as assigned
To Apply: Job Opportunities (General Public) | Welcome to Frederick County Government

Driver (2147876)
The driver will transport and handle medical waste in compliance with all safety and regulatory
standards. The driver will be responsible for safely driving a designated vehicle to pick up, transport, and
deliver medical waste from healthcare facilities to authorized sites for decontamination.
• Transport medical waste from healthcare facilities to disposal sites in a safely.
• Ensure proper packaging, labeling, and documentation of medical waste.
• Comply with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding medical waste transport.
• Perform routine vehicle inspections and maintain cleanliness.
To apply: Please submit letter of interest and resume to Richard with CLYM Environmental @
[email protected]

Lab Technician (2147873)
Lab Technician will work on-site either in a major pharmaceutical or life science facility. This role
involves conducting laboratory analyses, testing, and monitoring of regulated waste. Would be
responsible for collecting and organizing data and being part of our environmentally friendly ozone
technology team. Work with scientists and life science professionals to ensure proper handling,
analysis, and disposal of waste materials, while adhering to safety and regulatory standards.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and environmental regulations.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail when interpreting test results.
• Ability to operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
To apply: Please submit letter of interest and resume to Richard with CLYM Environmental @
[email protected]

Executive Assistant/Office Manager (Part-time) (2149723)
Local wealth management firm seeking a highly organized, efficient, and detail-oriented individual to
join our small, dynamic team as an Executive Assistant / Office Manager. This hybrid role combines the
functions of administrative support, executive assistance, and office management, playing a key part in
supporting the smooth daily operations of our wealth management firm. The ideal candidate will be
proactive, have exceptional time management and organization skills, and possess excellent
communication abilities to coordinate with clients, vendors, and team members
effectively.
Please submit to [email protected] your resume and a cover letter outlining your
experience and why you would be a great fit for this role. (Subject line – EA/OM)

Pool Technician (2148574)
Dog Days of Summer Pool Service, a residential pool service company is expanding. We are looking for
additional service professionals to provide residential pool service in the Frederick, Montgomery,
Howard & Carroll County areas. Applicant must be well versed in all types of pool pumps, filters,
heaters, and controls, and be familiar with water testing and water balancing.
• Testing pool pumps, filters, heaters, and controls
• Test the water levels and balance
• Install and repair equipment
• Clean driving record
• Interactive and communicative
To apply, email [email protected].

Production Specialist (2150146)
Trail Grid Pro, a fast-growing local business specializing in high-quality automotive and motorcycle parts,
is seeking a full-time Production Specialist to join their team. The role involves product assembly, order
fulfillment, packing and shipping, warehouse operations, and equipment maintenance, with a focus on
accuracy, safety, and teamwork. The ideal candidate will have technical skills, physical stamina, strong
time management, and attention to detail, contributing to a positive and collaborative work
environment. Benefits include paid time off, health coverage, on-the-job training, and additional perks
like Free Lunch Fridays and complimentary swag. The starting hourly rate is $18.00, with opportunities
for growth in a dynamic company.
Send resume to [email protected] (Subject line – Production Specialist)

Machine Operator (2150455)
Duties and Responsibilities:
As the Machine Operator your primary responsibility is the operation and monitoring of industrial
machinery, ensuring efficient functionality, quality control, necessary machine adjustments and
monitoring settings, conducting routine inspections, maintaining and troubleshooting industrial
manufacturing machines, while adhering to safety guidelines and quality standards. Providing support
for the operations of a fast-paced plant.
To apply, follow link: www.glengery.com/careers

Lab Equipment SME (2150456)
Here’s a taste of what you’ll be doing:
• Will assist the Facilities & Engineering management teams by serving as work package lead for
all process and lab equipment within the Rockville facility.
• Provide equipment engineering services; development of asset Lifecyle plans, maintenance
plans for preventative maintenance and calibrations, and design for equipment and/or facilities
systems.
• The SME will focus on service contracts, inductions of direct impact equipment into SAP, etc.
• Author and support F&E procedures for process and lab equipment.
• Work with startup teams during the commissioning and validation phases of the project,
ensuring clear communication and hand-off of information.

• Build and maintain successful cross-functional relationships with internal customers such as
Manufacturing, Analytical, Quality, Facilities and Engineering.
• Assure cGMP operations are executed in compliance with applicable guidelines and
regulations….and more!
To apply, follow link: https://www.taiengineering.com/careers/positions-available/

Assembler I – 2

nd Shift (2149923)

Summary: Assembles metal products partially or completely, working at bench or on shop floor by
performing the following duties in reasonable & productive time frames
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Must be able to read a tape measure to 1/8th inch.
• Must be able to follow verbal instructions.
• Must be able to use hand tools.
• Other duties as assigned.
To apply, follow link: https://ars2.equest.com/?response_id=ace2c844daf0f2dc0b2d15cb0fd7bd64

Electrician/Wireperson I (2149919)
Integrates electrical components, subassemblies, products, or systems into various configurations by
performing the following duties in reasonable & productive time frames:
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Must be able to read a tape measure to 1/8th inch.
• Must be able to follow verbal, written, and pictorial instructions.
• Must be able to interpret electrical schematics.
• Must be able to use hand tools.
• Mounts and assembles electrical components such as transformers, contactors, relays,
controllers, etc. displaying knowledge of good practices in workmanship and wire routing.
• Assembles and attaches hardware, such as caps, clamps, knobs, and switches.
• Other duties as assigned.

To apply, follow link: https://careers-us.stulz.com/job/Frederick-ElectricianWireperson-I-MD-
21704/1236810500/

Calibration Technician (2144405)
Key Responsibilities:
The Field Calibration Technician will primarily be responsible for the calibration of electronic and
mechanical test equipment, either at our customers’ sites or in ETI’s laboratory. This job requires travel.
Responsibilities include:
• Plan the sequence of testing and calibration procedures;
• Calibrate, adjust, and troubleshoot problems with customers’ equipment, including electrical,
mechanical, pressure, torque, environmental, and dimensional instrumentation;
• Create, update, and maintain data sheets for test equipment;
• Maintain customer, vendor, and equipment databases; and more!
To apply, follow link: https://etiprecision.com/careers/

Lab Technician (2145805)
General Summary/Position Purpose: the Lab Technician is part of the R&D team, safely operating in both
the lab and production area with limited supervision.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
• Participates in research and development activities with the Scientists and Engineers, including
samples, specimen, prototypes, products, data, and reports from customer specifications or
business team requests.
• Produces materials (including but not limited to samples, specimen, prototypes, products, data,
and reports) and manages sample (including specimen, prototypes, products, etc.) inventories
to meet required quantity, property, and performance within the given time frame.
• Supports and conducts quality control of IW products, including determining causes of
product/materials failure and develops solutions with the Engineers and Scientists.
• Operates lab and operation equipment, including executing designed SOPs, experiment new
processes as instructed, record and report experiment results and observations. Equipment
includes pressure vessel, hydraulic press, wood working tools such as saw, and CNC….
To apply, forward resume to: [email protected] (subject line: Lab technician)

Additional Opportunities
• Paint Protection Film Technician (PPF) (2146759)
• CNC Tech (2145365)
• Data Processing (2143070)
• Quality Control Manager (2145135)
• Staff Engineer (2146950)
• Sales and Support (2150149)
• Swimming Pool Service Apprentice (2148577)

Upcoming Recruitment Events
MD Dept of Juvenile Services Hiring Event
• When: Friday, January 24th (10 am to 3 pm)
• Where: American Job Center (200 Monroe Ave in Frederick, MD)
• Hiring for: Resident Advisor Trainee
• Click HERE to register
• Learn more about MD Dept of Juvenile Services at https://djs.maryland.gov/
Performance Foodservice Recruitment Event
• When: Thursday, January 30th (11 am to 1 pm)
• Where: American Job Center (200 Monroe Ave in Frederick, MD)
• Hiring for: Forklift Operator (Day & Night Shifts), CDL-A Delivery Driver, Warehouse Selector
(Night Shift)
• No registration required
• Learn more about Performance Foodservice at https://www.pfgc.com/careers

TechFrederick/FCWS Information Technology Job Fair
• When: Wednesday, February 5th (10 am to 2 pm)
• Where: American Job Center (200 Monroe Ave in Frederick, MD)
• Hiring for: Various IT roles
• Click HERE to register

This follows a vote to transfer Frederick City property to the County.

Frederick, Md (KM) Citizens will get a chance to offer feedback on a new westside regional library in Frederick. The Library System will hold a public meeting on the proposed new facility on Thursday, February 13th, at Butterfly Ridge Elementary School at 601 Contender Drive beginning at 7:00 PM..

In addition to library system officials, architects from Dewberry Architects and the County’s  Division of Public Works, Department of Engineering and Construction Management, will be on hand to explain the features of modern libraries. The public will be invited to offer feedback through hands-on exercises.

The land for the 15,000 square-foot facility is located at 501 McCain Drive. It’s currently a park. .It was turned over to the County on January 4th through a vote by the Frederick City Council.

The Public Library System says work will begin on the design phase, and that’s expected to continue over the next year.

“FCPL is thrilled to be able to work with this engaged and passionate community to bring library services to West Frederick with a new branch,”: says Library Director James Kelly, in a statement. “We look forward to hearing from the public at the community input meeting next month.”

By Kevin McManus

He is currently being held without bond.

Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Grand Jury on Friday indicted David Phillip Turner, 34, of Miami Beach in a double homicide. . He is charged with two counts each of 1st-degree murder and use of a firearm in a felony violent crime as well as one count of home invasion.

Turner was arrested for the slayings of Crimea Malita Baker and Sean Antonio Lange who were both  found shot to death inside of their home in the 7000 block Mandalong Court in New Market early Sunday morning, August 25th, 2024. The Sheriff’s Office says both victims were shot multiple times in an upstairs bedroom. .

Four children who in the home at the time were not harmed.

Turner was taken into custody in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on September 28th, 2024. . He was returned to Frederick County in December. A District Court Judge ordered Turner to be held without bond.

Th Grand Jury also indicted Adan Ojeda Bustos, 24, of Frederick, Maryland. He is charged with two counts of 1st- degree assault, and one count each of 2nd-degree assault and false imprisonment. This is for an offense which occurred on October 27th, 2024.

These indictments move these cases to the Circuit Court where trial dates will be scheduled.

The Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office says indictments are charging documents alleging criminal conduct, and all defendants are innocent until proven guilty.

By Kevin McManus

Merchandise purchased with stolen credit card resold on platform.

It was phased out in late 2023.

Frederick, Md (KM) The US Route 15 project in Frederick has a new lease on life. Funding to widen the highway between I-70 and Route 26 was restored in the Maryland Consolidated Transportation Program. It had been phased out by late 2023.

Frederick County Council President Brad Young says improvements to Route 15 are sorely needed. “We know that Route 15 is a bottleneck that needs to be addressed. But also that traffic pushes down 26 down to 194 so that’s another needed project,” he says.

The County Council on Tuesday approved its Maryland Department of Transportation Priority letter. Full design and construction funding to widen Route 15 by one lane in each direction from Interstate 70 to Route 26 is the top priority. Also on the list was planning and design funding for Route 194 to Devilbiss Bridge Road. The goal is widen Route 194 from two lanes to four lanes.

Young says Route 15 in Frederick is congested during morning and evening rush hours. “It’s busy almost 24/7,” he says “If you drive out in the middle of the day, Route 15 through Frederick is still very congested. It’s only going to continue to get worse and so this is an issue that needs to be solved sooner rather than later. So we’re very appreciative that the governor put it back in the budget. Hopefully, it goes  through that process so we can get the project moving forward.”

Governor Wes Moore put $7.4 million in his budget for this project.

Young says efforts will be made by Frederick County’s Legislative Delegation to keep this project in the Consolidated Transportation Program. “Obviously, we have expressed that that is our number one priority. We will certainly be communicating with our delegation which is down in Annapolis, our delegates and senators. And we encourage the public to do so as well,” he says.

I-81  Improvements     

I-81 Improvements Funds were also restored in the Consolidated Transportation Program for Phase Two of the Interstate 81 project. That involves the widening the 3.5-mile section from Routes 63 and 68 to the CSX bridges north of Halfway Boulevard from four to six lanes. Also included are interchange updates, traffic control improvements and enhancements to the stormwater system.

“We are thrilled to see Governor Wes Moore’s proposed budget includes the necessary funding to fully advance Phase 2 of the I-81 Corridor Improvement Project,” says John Barr, President of the Washington County Commissioners, in a statement.. “The project is crucial for enhancing safety, accommodating growing truck volumes and ensuring the continued economic growth of our region. We extend our gratitude to our delegation, county staff, and community partners who worked diligently to make this a reality.”

The amount set aside in the CTP for the I-81 project is $87.5 million.

The Consolidated Transportation Program totals $21.2 billion.

By Kevin McManus

He’s currently being held without bond.

Gaithersburg, Md (KM) A Kensington man is being held without bond for a fatal shooting earlier this week.  Benjamin Jack Dresbach, 21, is charged with 2nd-degree murder.

Montgomery County Police say on Monday afternoon, January 13th, at around 5:40,  officers were called to the 3900 block of Franklin Drive in Kensington for a shooting. The found Trevor Dean Van Devander, 29, of Sykesville suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities say the two men were inside Dresbach’s home when an altercation led to Van Devander’s shooting.

The victim’s body was taken to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.

By Kevin McManus

Prosecutors say he hid cocaine inside of desserts & other food items.

Alexandria, Va. (KM) A Rockville, Maryland man was convicted this week on charges of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.  Gildo Ricci, 69, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 25th, 2025.

The US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia says Ricci arrived at Dulles International Airport on April 25th, 2024 on a flight from Bogotá, Colombia. Customs and Border Protection conducted a secondary inspection of his luggage, and found some deserts and other food items. Agents applied pressure to one of the items which emitted a white, powdery substance which tested for cocaine hydrochloride.

CPB also inspected an unusually heavy cake.  They probed it with a knife ,but it failed to penetrate the confection. Personnel then removed the top layer of the cake and found a brick which also contained  cocaine hydrochloride. Some mixed soup packages that Ricci’s had in his luggage also contained that cocaine substance.

Altogether 207 kilograms of cocaine were found, the US Attorney’s Office says.

Federal officials say inside one of Ricci’s suitcases was a child’s backpack containing $7,750 which later turned out to be counterfeit.

Persecutors say when Ricci is sentenced, he could receive up to 20 years in prison. But actual sentences for federal crimes are usually less than the maximum penalties. Before passing sentence, a district court judge will consider US Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Federal officials say Ricci is a citizen of Peru, and a lawful Permanent Resident of the United States.

By Kevin McManus

Aerial observation made possible through the “Drone as First Responder” program.

Gaithersburg, MD – With the assistance of Raven 3, one of MCPD’s Drone as First Responder units, a 15-year-old male has been arrested and charged with an armed robbery and assault in Gaithersburg.

On Friday, January 10, 2025, 6th District officers responded to the 800 block of West Side Drive for the report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the juvenile victim, who stated that the suspect approached him with a knife, assaulted him, and stole his shoes.

Raven 3, which was in the area, located the suspect and provided officers with real-time information on the suspect’s movements. This assistance led to the suspect’s arrest and the recovery of all stolen property.

The juvenile suspect has been charged with armed robbery, robbery, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment. The suspect was released to their guardian.

It also says some of them were ‘medical alerts.’

Frederick, Md (KM) There are some new details about that data breach that affected school systems across the country, .including Frederick County Public Schools. A report in the News Post says the medical information of some Frederick County Public School students was affected by the breach, .including “medical alerts.”

Officials with Frederick County Public Schools remind parents it stopped collecting Social Security numbers from students more than ten years ago..

This data breach involved a student information system administered by PowerSchool, which provide similar services to other school districts around the country.   The data software company says the data breach occurred between December 19th and December 28th, 2024.. PowerSchool says it learned about the breach on January 7th; the next day, it found out that the breach affected Frederick County.

The School System says the breached data is no longer accessible.

PowerSchool says it has asked the FBI and the cybersecurity company called CrowdStrike to investigate.

By Kevin McManus

A vote by the Council is expected on Feb. 4th

Councilman Steve McKay

Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Council is considering a resolution opposing the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project.  MPRP is a 70-mile long, 500-kilovolt electric transmission line extending from northern Baltimore County through central Carroll County and southern Frederick County, ending at the Doubs substation in Adamstown. The electricity is expected to go to data centers in northern Virginia.

The resolution is sponsored by Councilman Steve McKay. “A resolution as an authoritative statement by this body with enumerated reasons and requests for action I think is something that now’s the time,” he said during Tuesday’s County Council meeting.

In his measure, McKay says this power line will travel over farms, a number of which are in agricultural preservation. “Still is yet unclear situation that we’ll be in when you have this third party come in and either by negotiation or by declaration for  eminent domain take easement over a preserved piece of farmland,” he says.

Under agricultural preservation programs, the state or local governments  buys the easements or development rights from the farmer who continues to farm the property. Many landowners in the area the line could travel over are concerned the company which won the contract to build the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project could use eminent domain, or condemnation, to take their properties   for the transmission line.

McKay said another concern raised in this resolution are farmers who are in the path of the MPRP would be unable to use their property as a farm, because they may have difficulty getting insurance for their lands.. “And that’s their ability to get the commercial insurance they need to operate as that kind of an enterprise in the context of those power lines being introduced over their property,” he said. “They are very, very concerned about that.”

But there’s also an impact on residential areas, says McKay. He listed the Landsdale community in the Monrovia area as an example. “People worry they’re going to a 30 to 40 percent haircut on their property evaluations because they’re going to have a new power line in their backyards,” he says. “They’re worried about the safety of their children, particularly in the northern part where the line comes really close to the homes.”

He also says residents in the Landsdale area may have difficulty selling their homes due to the proposed power line. . “And this line is going to go up the western boundary and then across the top. And you have people who have sale contracts for their homes. The buyer walked away as soon as the possibility of this happening,” McKay says.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Councilman Mason Carter expressed support for the resolution. “I’m very glad to see Frederick County coming out in strong opposition to MPRP. because of the concerns of our residents, farmers and business that we’ve heard at all of these town halls and forums  are very real, and often demonstrated by the people who represent them. So I’d be happy to support this resolution,” he said.

While stating her support for the resolution, Councilwoman Renee Knapp said she wanted some mention be made about having a “robust and resilient” grid system which meets the future electricity needs of residents and businesses in Frederick County. “I’m not proposing to do away with the resolution or all of the obvious negative impacts. But recognizing that we do need a robust and resilient grid would be responsible to communicate that our residents”  she said.
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Knapp said many supporters of MPRP say Maryland is suffering a deficiency in its electricity generation.

The Council is expected to vote on this resolution on Tuesday, February 4th.

By Kevin McManus

The trees will be processed into mulch and Reserve Compost.

Frederick, Md (KM) Here’s a reminder for those who still haven’t disposed of their Christmas trees. The Frederick County Division of Solid Waste and Recycling says Monday, January 20th is the last day the six drop off centers will be open for Christmas tree recycling.

They are the Reichs Ford Road Yard Waste Recycling Site at 9031 Reichs Ford Rd., Frederick; Ballenger Creek Park (second parking lot to the left) at 5420 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick; Eyler Road Park (fenced off area to the right), 30 Eyler Rd., Thurmont; Kemptown Park (lower left parking lot), 3456B Kemptown Church Rd., Monrovia; the Point of Rocks Ruritan Club (left side of the parking lot), 1637 Ballenger Creek Pike, Point of Rocks; and Remsburg Park (first parking lot on the left), 7408 Holter Rd., Middletown.. .

The county says they must be live trees, and all lights, ornaments and tinsel should be removed.

The old trees will be processed into mulch and Reserve Compost which can be used for agricultural, commercial and residential uses. The county says Reserve Compost meets EPA standards for direct food application. It’s sold year round at the Reichs Ford Road site for $15 a ton.

By Kevin McManus

It will allow utilities to perform necessary work.

Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Animal Control Center will be closed on Friday, January 17th between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon. . Officials say this will allow local utilities to perform needed work in the area.

This closure includes the Pet and Adoption Center. There will be a scheduled four-hour power outage on Friday. During that time, essential staff will be on duty to care for the strays and unwanted pets. A plan is in place to provide lighting and heat to the building to ensure the heatlh and well-being of the animals.

The Animal Control Center will resume normal operations following the utility work.

By Kevin McManus

County Executive Fitzwater says the county will use all legal tools at its dispose to oppose this project.

Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater

Frederick, Md (IKM) County Executive Jessica Fitzwater has announced that Frederick County will petition to intervene in the Public Service Commission’s consideration of the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project. That a 500-kilovolt, 70-mile long electric transmission line extending through northern Baltimore County, central Carroll County, and southern Frederick County. The line will provide power to data centers in northern Virginia.

“Frederick County totally opposes MPRP, and our decision to intervene should send a message that we will use the legal tools at our disposal to protect our community,” Fitzwater says in a statement. “While the law is clear that Frederick County does hot have the authority to stop MPRP ourselves, we will continue to work with our partners on the County Council to amplify our residents’ voices and advocate against this project.”

In intervening in this case, the county can file briefs and present evidence at hearings.

The project has generated strong opposition from affected property owners and other citizens. They’re concerned any transmission line crossing their properties will decrease their value. Many of these properties are farms that have been put into agricultural preservation.

The Maryland Public Service Commission will decide on whether the line will move forward.

The Public Service Enterprise Group has been awarded the contact by PJM, which manages the regional grid, to build the project, and it has recently filed its application with the PSC  to construct the power line. .

The PSC is expected to hold a public hearing on the project in Frederick County.

By Kevin McManus

The incident happened last August

Frederick, Md. (DG) – The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) has released video footage of a deputy-involved shooting that occurred at the Super 8 Hotel on Monocacy Boulevard in Frederick City on August 1, 2024. The incident involved CPL Alex Mendez of the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office and OFC Connor Walsleben of the Frederick City Police Department.

Authorities were attempting to locate 45-year-old Jack Edgar Primmer, a Pennsylvania man wanted on felony charges of child sexual assault and abuse. Deputies tracked Primmer to the hotel, where he was registered as a guest.

When law enforcement made contact, Primmer refused to exit his room and claimed he was armed, resulting in a tense barricade situation. Around 12:50 a.m. on August 2, the standoff escalated, and shots were fired by police. Primmer was injured and immediately given medical aid by deputies on the scene.

Following treatment, Primmer was extradited to Pennsylvania to face charges. The release of the footage comes as part of the FCSO’s commitment to transparency in the investigation.

The video of the incident can be found here.