From The Pocomoke City Police Department

ARREST REPORT

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE

March 4, 2012 to March 8, 2012

3-04-2012    Pocomoke City Police were called to the scene of a disturbance at the Bonneville Apartment complex. Upon arrival Officers observed David Martin Brickwood, Jr., 23, of Pocomoke City, MD was intoxicated and creating a disturbance to residents and assaulted a victim who lives within the complex. Brickwood was arrested and charged with Assault 2nd Degree, Disturb the Peace, Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest. Brickwood was taken before the Commissioners and released pending trial.

03-07-2012    Pocomoke Police Officers while on routine patrol observed a vehicle being operated by a driver not being restrained by a seatbelt. Upon contact with the driver, the Officer conducted a wanted check which indicated an open Warrant through Salisbury Police Department for several traffic charges. Matthew Ryan Windsor, age 21 of Snow Hill, MD was arrested and taken before the Commissioner pending trial.

Chief Kelvin Sewell

Pocomoke City Police Department

Longtime Crisfield Drug Dealer Is Sentenced

Pocomoke City Police Partner With Crisfield Police Department:

"Working together makes a difference".

*On May 26, 2011 Chief Kelvin Sewell, then Lt Kelvin Sewell along with Pocomoke City Police Officer Savage traveled to Crisfield MD to assist the Crisfield Police Department with an ongoing drug problem they were experiencing in the area of the Somers Cove housing area.

Chief Sewell and Officer Savage were able to purchase crack cocaine from a known drug dealer who was identified as Andre Fisher of Crisfield, MD. The purchase was made at the residence of Mr. Fisher who resided at the Somers Cove housing in Crisfield, MD.

On March 6, 2012 (today)Chief Sewell, Officer Savage, Lieutenant of Crisfield Police Department, and other Crisfield Officers appeared in Circuit Court in Princess Anne MD for trial. After the testimony of each Officer was given, the Defendant Andre Fisher was found guilty and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Mr. Fisher then became highly upset and began using profanity towards the Officers and then spit in the direction of the Judge. Mr. Fisher was wrestled to the floor by the Somerset County Sheriff’s Deputies and then carried out of the courtroom.

(Fisher will serve 10 years of 20 years in prison. Ten years of the 20 were suspended.)

*Pocomoke City Police Department
Chief Kelvin D. Sewell

Reminder: Pocomoke City Crime Report Available

A reminder to our readers that the Pocomoke City Crime Report is always being updated by your police department.  To view the areas of crime and  brief info click onto the Pocomoke City Police badge image on the right of this page. 

Thank you to Chief Kelvin Sewell of  the Pocomoke City Police Department for bringing this feature and the Press Releases  to the citizens of Pocomoke City.  It's the most information they have received in a very long time.  (jmmb)

Pocomoke City Police Department Press Release

PRESS RELEASE

Pocomoke Police Department

300 Second Street

Pocomoke, Maryland 21851

410-957-1600

Pocomoke City Police Arrest Report

February 13 - February 24, 2012

　



2/17/2012 Pocomoke City Police Officers responded to Wal-Mart Super-Center in Pocomoke City for a Theft that just occurred. The suspect entered the store with Wal-Mart brand plastic bags. He then walked through the apparel section of the store and placed a pair of boots inside the bag. The suspect then proceeded to exit the store passing all points of sale without paying for the merchandise. Pocomoke Police arrested Maurice Bishop of Pocomoke City, age 53. Bishop was charged with Theft.
　
2/18/2012 Pocomoke City Police responded to Pocomoke Plaza parking lot for a reported Wanted person in the area that was driving recklessly. Upon arrival the Officers observed the vehicle that was described in the complaint. Pocomoke City Police initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. Once the suspect vehicle stopped the operator fled out of the vehicle on foot and into the Hardees restaurant. Pocomoke Police learned the suspect had discarded money and Marijuana inside of the restaurant. Pocomoke Police arrested Chad L. Collins age 29, of Pocomoke City. Collins was charged with Driving on a Suspended License, Possession of Marijuana, and the Outstanding Warrant was served.
　
　
2/19/2012 Pocomoke City Police Officers responded to a Domestic Assault complaint. Upon arrival Pocomoke Police met with the victim who explained she was Assaulted by her boyfriend and has an abrasion to her arm from the Assault. Pocomoke Police arrested James C. Reese Jr, age 21 for Assault 2^{nd degree.} .



2/22/2012 Pocomoke City Police responded to a call for a Theft of a purse with cash inside. Upon arrival Pocomoke Police learned the victims purse was taken by a person who she allowed into her apartment for a brief moment. Pocomoke City Police canvassed the area searching for the suspect matching the description the victim provided, police then located the suspect. Pocomoke Police arrested Maranuita Holland, age 47 of Snow Hill, MD. Holland was charged with Theft Scheme.


2/23/2012 Pocomoke City Police served two Warrants on Shawn M. Thomas, age 26 of Pocomoke and Martha J. Thomas, age 27 of Pocomoke. Pocomoke Police arrested and charged both suspects with 2nd degree Assault.


2/24/2012 Pocomoke City Police received a call for Theft with the suspect leaving the store on foot. Police located an individual matching the description given by the complainant. Upon contact with the suspect the Officers conducted a search. Upon searching the suspect Police located approximately (1) one ounce of suspected Marijuana and (6) six individual bags with approximate street value of $25 each on the suspect. Pocomoke City Police arrested Christopher D. Carrion age 21, of Pocomoke City. Carrion was charged with CDS Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and CDS Possession of Marijuana.
　
　
　Kelvin D. Sewell
Chief of Police

Authors Kelvin Sewell & Stephen Janis Present Book at Book Signing Yesterday

All seats were taken and there was standing room only at the White Marsh Barnes & Noble on Saturday. Kelvin Sewell, a retired Baltimore homicide detective of 22 years and Stephen Janis, a crime writer, spoke to the crowd about the book "Why Do We Kill?"

The assembled crowd was given a briefing on the book. Mentioned were the gangs/ gang mentality and how disassociated they are from what they do. How most do go to jail for about 10 years except for one gang member discussed in the book, who may never step foot again into society.




Authors Kelvin Sewell and Stephen Janis/
White Marsh Barnes & Noble on Saturday

 

Mr. Sewell was empathetic when speaking to the crowd about what it is like to visit someone's home and tell them their son will never walk through the door again. He envisioned, to the crowd and in the book, what it is like to look through the eyes of the parents.
This book is FACT even though the stories seem so hard to believe that human beings can act the way they sometimes do. What about the grandmother, raising her grandchild? What about the people with no money to move from the crime ridden streets even if they want to? And HOW, just exatly how, do you present yourself, collect your words to tell your own Mother bad news. Case File 8 stopped me dead in my reading tracks! It would be two days before I could finish the book.

This all happened during my personal reading time just  a couple of days before I was to meet Kelvin Sewell (who is now the Chief of Police in Pocomoke City) for the first time.  I had received a signed copy of his book from my husband for Christmas. Most times for Christmas I request several books but this year I bumped all the others for this one. 

When Chief Sewell asked me how I liked the book I stammered and have no idea what I said becasue I was thinking about his Mother. I was thinking about all those Mothers. And I was also thinking about the dead burned body, a body burned alive with leaves found in his lungs during an autopsy.

Not to be forgotten are the grandmothers raising grandchildren and I can still invision those grandmothers rocking and rocking on city porches waiting for their loved ones to come home, knowing there is no way to get out of a city of what seems to be full of nightmarish crimes. Grandmothers....raising grandchildren....because their own grown children can't. Those grown children are caught in the vicious cycle of crimes and drugs too.....and the grandmothers keep rocking.

And this is just but a small portion of the truth this book holds. No crime prevention group for teens can heal this.  The book is proof and if nothing else it raises so many questions.  It did for me.  Do we, because of some mindsets forgive the horrendous crimes committed?  Are these kinds of people to be pitied?  Am I glad that I tried so hard to be a 24/7 parent in the small town of Pocomoke?  YES!  Could THIS type of situation happen in small towns like Pocomoke City?  I don't know.  But it's something to think hard about.

Everyone should read "Why Do We Kill"  to get a clear and honest picture of what crime is in this beautiful city.

There is so much to this book.   Authors Kelvin Sewell and Stephen Janis have done an excellent job  writing about so much more than what has been discussed here and I'm anxiously waiting for a second book.

Thank you Kathy Schoolfield Ben for the photo.

Crime Report Is Being Kept Updated.......

For some weeks now the Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin D. Sewell has been determined to keep the Pocomoke citizens in the know through a Press Release from his office each week. What you may or may not know is that since that time the Pocomoke City Police Crime Report is also being kept updated.

For some time now Tom and I have felt that the Crime Report was being missed or overlooked on the Pocomoke Public Eye by our readers. So that it can't be missed any longer Tom has placed the same icon used in the Press Release. (Thanks, Tom)

This icon can be found on the right side of the page. To see the current crimes in various areas of Pocomoke City click there and it will take you to the current crime reports.

Thank you again, Chief Sewell, Angel and Gayle for keeping the citizens informed. Also thank you to the Pocomoke City Police Officers for being out there at all times to protect the people of Pocomoke City.  Your presence is noticed.

One of Worcester County's Most Wanted Is Arrested

In December 2011 Worcester County State's Attorney Beau Oglesby brought to the publics attention, in a five part series titled "HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS",   10 of Worcester County's Most Wanted.   Joined with Emily Rampa, Reporter from WMDT, Channel 47 News  photos and information were presented  in an attempt to achieve  assistance from  the public.

Brenden Leigh Sandifer- Listed among the top ten of Worcester County's Most Wanted

Brenden (Branden)  Leigh Sandifer, 31, of Baltimore was taken into custody on Sunday by Maryland State Police of the Berlin Barracks.  Ms. Sandifer was arrested from her Upshur Street home in Berlin.

 Sandifer was convicted of 3 Counts CDS Dist of Narcotic - Oxycodone & Cocaine and wanted for Failure To Appear.  Drugs were sold to an undercover narcotics officer. Sandifer was arrested in January 2011.

After having court hearings rescheduled not appearing in court on the last scheduled date of November 21, 2011, Judge Richard Bloxom issued a bench warrant for her arrest.

Sandifer was arrested and was being held on $25,000 bond at the Worcester County Jail.  Her trial has been scheduled for April 2, 2012 in Worcester County Circuit Court.

Pocomoke City Police Department ~ PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

Pocomoke Police Department

300 Second Street

Pocomoke, Maryland 21851

410-957-1600

Arrests – January 20, to January 27, 2012

1/20/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers arrested and charged James R. Motkya, 46, of Pocomoke City for "Theft" and "Trespass" from Wal-Mart. Motkya was issued several State Criminal Citations and was released pending trial.


1/20/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle failing to stop at a posted stop sign. Upon making contact with the driver, a Pocomoke City Juvenile was found to be "Driving without a Required License or Permit", "Driving without Required Supervision" and other traffic citations. The juvenile was released pending trial and the vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver.


1/20/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers served an arrest warrant on Nicholas Lennord Lodowski, 24, of Salisbury, MD. This warrant stemmed from a Theft investigation from Wal-Mart on December 24, 2011. Lodowski was located at his residence and was placed under arrest; he was transported to the Pocomoke City Police Headquarters for processing. Lodowski was taken before the Commissioners and held on $10,000 Bond. Lodowski was then turned over to the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office for service of two (2) VOP Warrants.


1/20/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers arrested and charged James Donald Keithley, 50, of Ocean City, MD with "Theft" from Wal-Mart and "Making a False Statement" while under investigation. Keithley was processed and taken before the Commissioners and released on his own recognizance pending trial.


1/22/2012 Deonta Lamont Smith, Sr. 31, of Pocomoke was charged with traffic violations after Pocomoke Police Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for expired tags. Smith was issued several State Traffic Citations and released pending trial. The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver.


1/23/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers conducted a traffic stop for a traffic violation and upon contact with the driver; Eric Aaron Cropper, 44, of Pocomoke City was arrested and issued several State Traffic Citations to include "Driving on a Suspended License". Cropper was released pending trial. A licensed driver removed the vehicle from the scene.


1/25/2012 While investigating a theft call from the Duck-In Pocomoke Police Officers stopped an individual fitting the description, upon initial contact the suspect fled on foot while attempting to discard objects from his clothing along the way. After a brief foot chase Dana Lamar Collick, 22, of Pocomoke City was apprehended. The discarded items were collected and Collick was charged with "CDS – Possession of Marijuana" and "CDS – Possession of Crack Cocaine". Collick was taken before the Worcester County Commissioners and released on his own recognizance pending trial.


1/26/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers were called to the Pocomoke High School in reference to an assault. Further investigation revealed that two students were involved in a physical argument in the school cafeteria during normal school hours; a 15-year-old Juvenile from Pocomoke City was charged with "Assault 2nd Degree" and referred to Juvenile Justice for further action. The juvenile was released to her parents pending further.


1/26/2012 Pocomoke Police Officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle without operable taillights. The driver, Michael Allen Isdale, 19, of Chincoteague, VA was arrested and issued several traffic citations to include "Driving on a Suspended License". Isdale was released pending trial. The vehicle was removed from the scene by Smitty’s Towing.

Submitted by
Kelvin D. Sewell
Chief of Police

Skylor Harmon Convicted of First Degree Murder

WMDT

By Ryan Hughes, Reporter

SNOW HILL, Md. - After three days, a Worcester County murder trial is over and a jury found Skylor Harmon guilty of first degree murder. "We've been waiting for this for a year and a couple months now," said Evangela Handy, Reginald's mother.

The Handy family says justice is finally being served and now they can start to get their lives back on track. There was hugs and clapping moments after the verdict was read Thursday convicting their son's killer - Skylor Harmon of first-degree murder. It only took two days of testimony and three hours of deliberation."I think they found the right shooter and I believe he did it - he stood up there like he don't have no worries like he didn't care no remorse or anything," said Renasha Handy, Reginald's sister.

The guilty verdict comes 17 months after Reginald Handy Junior was shot in the back in Pocomoke City. A fight broke out on Laurel street ending in gunfire. Harmon's uncle -- Alexander Crippen was the original suspect. But autopsy results proved he did not pull the trigger. Then, in June the judge declared a mistrial after a jury could not determine Harmon was the killer. This time around prosecutors brought forth new evidence and additional eyewitnesses that proved Harmon killed Handy. "We knew we had a strong case and credible witnesses who were going to tell a very compelling story," said Worcester County State's Attorney Beau Oglesby.

A story that now has Harmon looking at spending the rest of his life behind bars. "I'm glad that he's looking down at us.  I know he's happy they found justice today - I'm just happy," said Renasha.

Skylor Harmon's family declined an on-camera interview but they told me, "This is not over."     Meanwhile, the judge has ordered a pre-sentence investigation before he determines his sentencing.

Source;  http://www.wmdt.com/story/15744456/skylor-harmon-convicted-of-first-degree-murder

1st Neighborhood Crime Watch Meeting

GIRDLETREE RESIDENTS AND CONCERNED CITIZENS

1st CRIME WATCH MEETING

TONIGHT

Monday   August 22, 2011 @  7:00 PM

Girdletree Firehouse

Worcester County Sheriff's Office is trying to establish a crime watch in Girdletree.

Please take advantage of this opportunity to listen to Deputy First Class Dale Trotter as he gives a brief overview of crime watch and and the necessary precautions to take against crime in your area.


NOW is your  opportunity to speak to him about your concerns in your neighborhood.


For more information call 410-632-1112


The Worcester Counth Sheriff's Department is reaching out to the citizens of Worcester County to show  that they care about its citizens.


Show them that you appreciate their time and care about taking care of crime in your area by being there  tonight!

Arrests Made In Shooting ~ Police Still Search For One

According to Major Todd Godwin, on April 1, 2011, the Accomack County Sheriff's Office was notified of multiple gunshots being fired on A. S. West Road near Painter, Virginia, and that one subject had been injured as a result of the gunfire. The victim in that incident was transported to a medical facility where he was treated, and has since been released.

An extensive investigation into that incident has resulted in warrants being obtained against several subjects on a variety of charges.

49 year old Richmond Southey Johnson, of Parksley, was arrested on April 15, 2011 and has been charged with Malicious Wounding, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Johnson is incarcerated in the Accomack County Jail with bond denied.


46 year old Samuel Randolph Custis, of Painter, was arrested on April 18, 2011 and has been charged with Malicious Wounding, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Custis is incarcerated in the Accomack County Jail with bond denied.

24 year old Jarod Scott Lee, of Painter, was arrested on April 18, 2011 and has been charged with three counts of Attempted Malicious Wounding and one count of Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony. Lee is incarcerated in the Accomack County Jail with bond denied.

36 year old Phillip Maurice Robinson, of Painter, is wanted on one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Phillip Robinson is asked to contact the Accomack County Sheriff's Office at 757-787-1131 or 757-824-5666.

Source; shoredailynews.com

Arrests In Keller Post Office Burglary

According to Major Todd Godwin, on Wednesday, April 6 at approximately 7:30 a.m., the Accomack County Sheriffs Office received a report regarding a breaking & entering at the Keller Post Office. Taken from the post office was an undisclosed amount of property and damage was also reported as a result of the burglary.


Major Godwin stated that Accomack County Investigators processed the scene of the crime and further investigation led to the identification and arrest of several suspects involved.


Barry T. Dewaal, age 50 of Melfa, was arrested April 7 on a charge of receiving stolen property. He was released on a $2500 bond.


Brandon Durrua, age 23 of Onley, was arrested April 11 on charges of breaking & entering and grand larceny. He is incarcerated in the Accomack County Jail with bond denied.


Alex Dewaal, age 21 of Melfa, was arrested April 13 on charges of breaking and  entering and grand larceny. He was released on a $1500 bond.


Assisting in the investigation were the United States Postal Inspectors and the Onley Police Department.

Source; shoredailynews.com

Ballard Found Guilty of Second Degree Murder

Jennifer Shutt

Staff Writer

Daily Times

SNOW HILL -- James Edward Ballard has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Russell Matthew Bailey III, an 18-year-old who was stabbed last fall in Pocomoke City.

Worcester State's Attorney Beau Oglesby said he will ask for the maximum sentence of 30 years at an upcoming sentencing hearing.

"If I could ask for more, I would," said Oglesby after the jury returned its verdict.

Ballard was originally charged with first-degree murder and first-degree assault after the Sept. 29 stabbing death of Bailey near Pocomoke Middle School. Oglesby said he respects the jury's verdict of second-degree murder.

"Considering the facts of the case and the evidence of the case, we can understand it," said Oglesby.

Jurors began deliberating just after 11 a.m., with an outburst from the defendant fresh in their minds. During Oglesby's closing statement, Ballard began arguing from the defense table, saying he was "irritated." While being removed by deputies Ballard threw several pieces of paper into the air.

"I called the police every time," Ballard said in court. In interviews before the trial, his family members said Ballard had arguments with Bailey and a few of Bailey's friends in the weeks leading up to the incident.

During just over an hour of deliberation, jurors weighed lengthy witness testimony including that of three men who said they saw a gun present during the fight between Ballard, Bailey and Martel Blake.

Several witnesses said at least three men threw rocks and spit on Ballard minutes before the stabbing.

After Ballard called the police, witnesses testified, the men throwing rocks ran away. After the police did not arrive for several minutes, according to witness testimony, Bailey returned to the 700 block of Ninth Street, where he met Ballard and a fight began.

Deangelo Townsend was the only witness on the street during the fight, according to public defender Burton Anderson. Townsend said he saw Bailey with a gun tucked into his hip area during the fight. He did not testify that he saw Bailey remove it or threaten Ballard with the gun.

"Just the mere presence of a gun is enough for a reasonable person to fear getting shot," said Anderson during his closing statement.

Ballard will remain in jail until he is sentenced in about 60 days.

Source;  http://www.blogger.com/goog_1994866205

topnews
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JUDGEMENTS - Accomack Circuit Court

Nancy Drury Duncan
Staff Writer

ACCOMAC -- Colestino Cruz Aguilar, 39, of Exmore entered a guilty plea in Accomack Circuit Court to leaving the scene of an accident and causing property damage in an amount greater than $1,000.

According to evidence offered by Common- wealth's Attorney Gary Agar, Aguilar was driving in the parking lot of Four Corner Plaza when he struck another car. He continued driving around the area and was quickly apprehended by police. A witness identified the driver and told police.

Aguilar had "obviously been drinking," Agar said.

He was sentenced to three years with all time suspended on condition of good behavior. Aguilar will continue to be held in jail at the commonwealth's request, to await deportation as a result of his felony conviction.

Probation violation

Tyron Grant Sr., 23, of Belle Haven, convicted of burglary and grand larceny and sentenced to three years of probation last October, was back in court for violating the terms of that probation, which included community service and payment of restitution to his victims.

Commonwealth's Attorney Gary Agar detailed what he said were Grant's egregious failures to comply. "His probation officer drove him to the Virginia Employment Commision office because he said he had no transportation," Agar said. "When the probation officer later found out he had not applied for a job while there, he asked why. Grant told him the line was too long and he didn't want to wait."

"This is not New York here," Agar told the court. "There were only two people in line ahead of Grant."

On another occasion, Agar said, Grant was to attend an Employment Commission clinic. He was telephoned and reminded each day for several days leading up to the date of the clinic that he must be there.

He was asked of he needed transportation, said Agar. Grant assured his probation officer he would be there and that he had a ride to get there. When he did not attend, Grant told his probation officer he had no way to get there. Agar told the court that the man had been given bus passes to use to get there if he could not find a ride.

Agar detailed also Grant's lack of fulfillment of his community service requirement.

"He was supposed to do 100 hours of community service," said Agar. "He was supposed to pick up trash on the road. He said he was doing it, but when the bags were checked, they were found to contain only Grant's household trash."

"Mr. Grant has some limited abilities," said defense attorney Theresa Bliss. "He just can't follow through. He needs additional monitoring,"

"I believe we need to wake you up," said Circuit Judge Edward W. Hanson Jr. He ordered Grant to serve 30 days in jail and re-suspended the remainder of the sentence.

Welfare fraud

Cathy Jones, 45, of Onancock was sentenced to 15 years for four counts of welfare fraud and a bad check charge. The time was suspended on condition of her successful completion of Virginia's Detention and Diversion programs. She will be required to pay restitution.

She was originally eligible for food stamps, but failed to inform authorities when her two daughters went to work, which made her ineligible, said defense attorney Patrick Robbins.

"We generally consider these pretty serious cases," said Common- wealth's Attorney Gary Agar. "The system is set up to help people in need. This is not the first time she committed welfare fraud."

Agar told the court that Jones had been incarcerated seven separate times. "There are nine noteworthy crimes in the presentence report," he said. "She needs to stay off drugs."

He said she owed more than $3,500 for these crimes in addition to more than $5,500 already owed to the general district court.
Robbins was able to convince the court delay her incarceration for several days so Jones "could make arrangements for her six-year-old son and put her furniture in storage."

Armed robbery

Sidney Cottman, 34, of Eden, Md., will serve 21 years in a penitentiary for armed robbery and armed burglary in connection with the robberies of three local convenience stores.

Commonwealth's Attorney Gary Agar asked for a long sentence in light of Cottman's past violent history. "He was expelled from school in the 11th grade because he assaulted the superintendent of schools," he said. "He was fired from his last job for threatening the line boss at Tyson Foods."

"There are a lot of armed robberies around here. If you run out of gas on Route 13, my recommendation would be that you leave your car and walk home. Don't go to a convenience store around here."

"What are we going to do with this guy when we are so threatened here in our convenience stores?" asked Agar.

Agar told the court that Cottman was $8,000 in arrears in child support payments and that he had had past probations revoked for drug use.

Defense attorney Garrett Dunham told the court that his client was, "a polite individual" and said Cottman had been cooperative and truthful throughout the investigation.

"I've never seen someone so polite with these charges," Dunham said. He told the court that Cottman took steps to make sure he didn't hurt anyone by taking the pin out of the firearm.

Evidence was presented by the Commonwealth that Cottman held a shotgun on the store clerks as they were robbed.

Malicious maiming

Shakeva Matthews, 23, of Keller, charged with malicious maiming, pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of unlawful wounding.

Commonwealth's Attorney Gary Agar described the circumstance to the court. "Everyone was drinking and the defendant was assaulting her twin sister with a serrated butcher knife, according to a witness."

The incident occurred in a residence near Wachapreague, he said.
The stabbing victim, who he said was presently incarcerated as a result of another issue, received one stab wound in the back while trying to pull the twins apart.

Defense attorney Sharri Mapp asked the court to sentence her client on the spot but the judge asked that a presentence report be prepared as Agar described Matthews as having "a positive criminal history."

Indecent liberties

A presentence report was ordered for a 75-year-old man who pleaded guilty to carnal knowledge and indecent liberties with a child who is now a young adult. John Robbins of Onancock was allowed to remain free on bond. The illegal activity occurred during a period of several years and ended in 2009.

Defense attorney Tom Northam made that request, saying that his client worked in a seafood business in Washington, D.C., and that he had a heart condition and breathing issues.

Source; delmarvanow.com http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20110406/ESN01/104060341/Accomack-Circuit-Court-hands-down-judgments?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Eastern Shore News|s

Pocomoke City Police and WCBI Investigate Incident

NEWS RELEASE:  DATE & TIME:    Friday, February 25, 2011 @ 11:25PM  
CBI Case #  11-0054  
LOCATION:  900blk Laurel Street, Pocomoke City, Worcester County, Maryland
CRIME:   Assault and CDS Distribution
VICTIM:   Edward Schmidt – Snow Hill, Maryland 
ACCUSED:  Darryl Kyshek WISE, Jr. – 900blk Laurel Street, Pocomoke City, Maryland   Black / Male / 19 years of age
CHARGES:   First & Second Degree Assault
                      Reckless Endangering
                      Possession with Intent
                      Possession of Marijuana
                      Possession of Cocaine
                      Wearing  & Carrying a Weapon
                      Distribution within 1000’ of a school

NARRATIVE:  On the evening of Friday, February 25, 2011 members of the Pocomoke City Police Department began an investigation into a First Degree Assault and requested the assistance of the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation.

It was learned that as a result of a drug deal gone bad, the victim was struck multiple times with a hammer and then stabbed in the back.  The victim was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center where he was admitted and is being treated for multiple injuries.

In the early morning hours following the assault WISE was taken into custody without incident at his home.  The significant amount of CDS which was recovered on his person also supports the Charge of Possession with Intent to Distribute.

WISE appeared before a District Court Commissioner and is being held at the Worcester County Detention Center on a $250,000.00 bond.

Accomack County Grand Jury ~ Indictments

Indictments handed down Accomack Grand Jury:

Two women incarcerated in the Accomack County Jail were indicted for possession of a cellular phone by a prisoner. They are Shakeva Matthews, 23, of Tasley and Yolanda Osha Stines, 35, of Painter.


Denzel Maurice Timmons, 20, of Pocomoke, Md., for robbery and use of a firearm.
Tracie Lynne Bailey, 36, of Chincoteague, stolen checks.


Fred Nathaniel Turlington, 39, of Melfa, assault and battery of a police officer.


Kelsey Elizabeth Bottone, 24, of Belle Haven, credit card larceny.


Rykese Ja'Quan Brown, 19, of Savage Dr., Parksley, driving under the influence, third offense.

Clyde Edward Dean Jr., 34, of West Point, grand larceny.


Myron Hezzell Edwards, 46, of Onancock, receiving stolen property.


Shanikqua Menique Giddens, 19, of Exmore, grand larceny.


William Harmon, 34, of Melfa, possession of cocaine, possession of a firearm while in possession of a controlled substance.


Robbie O'Brian Harris Jr., 20, of Temperanceville, robbery.


Devan Lamar Hinmon, 21, of Temperanceville, felony eluding a law enforcement officer.


Ivan Ibarra, 22, of Accomac, felony property destruction.


Wykia Shanell James, 18, of Nassawadox, forgery.


Carl Ray Murray III, 19, of Pungoteague, assault and battery of a police officer.


Issac Sample Jr., 42, of Accomac, abduction.


Rachel Ann Sheppard, 30, of Onancock, assault and battery of a firefighter.


Dijon Ryheem Smith, 18, of New Church, robbery, use of a firearm

Preston Lee Strand Jr., 17, of New Church, felony eluding a law enforcement officer.


Amy Gladden Sturgis, 30, of Onancock, defrauding an innkeeper.


Bonne Lou Thompson, 50, of Chincoteague, possession of cocaine.

Police Departments Working Together

What Corporal Katie Edgar did Tuesday night, February 15, 2011 was something that most of us only see on television. Her agility and quick thinking helped nab a burglar who may have otherwise gotten away with the chances of stealing again in the near future.

It is so wonderful to know that Worcester County Sheriff Reggie Mason and Worcester County Deputies, Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, State's Attorney Beau Oglesby and the Maryland Police Homicide Unit are there for the citizens ready to do the job quickly and efficiently.

The hard dangerous work they all do is something most of us take for granted and only witness on television. While Corporal Katie Edgar was fearing for her life and trying to get grips on a criminal and while so many of the police agencies joined their forces to work on the crime scene the majority of citizens were snug at home totally unaware of what was happening.

Great job and thank you Corporal Edgar and to your K-9 also. And a big hoorah to the forces that aided her.

This just goes to show you the amount of true professionalism citizens get when they elect the right leaders to do the job.

Arrest Made In Onancock

According to Major Todd Godwin of the Accomack County Sheriff's Office, a joint investigation between the Accomack County Sheriff's Office and the Onancock Police Department has resulted in the arrest of an individual for two commercial burglaries and the theft of jewelry from a third incident.

On January 23, 2011, an extensive amount of jewelry was reported stolen from a residence on Bowditch Road near Onancock and on February 9, 2011 breaking and entering reports were received from the Corner Bakery and the General Store, both in the town of Onancock.

An investigation into these incidents was initiated and a suspect was developed resulting in the arrest of 22 year old Brandon Gregory Durrua of Onancock, Virginia on February 11, 2011.

Durrua was charged with (2) counts of breaking and entering and (2) counts of grand larceny and is incarcerated in the Accomack County Jail with bond denied.
www.shoredailynews.com

Metal Thieves Are Working Hard

Citizens of Accomack County please keep your eyes and ears open.

There seems to be alot of recent activity in the surrounding local areas concerning the theft of metal.

According to Major Todd Godwin on the evening of February 7th and 8th metal was stolen from three Accomack County tower sites. The thefts occured at the Oak Hall Cell tower, the Mappsville County Tower and the Melfa Cell tower.

According to Godwin, metal theft is increasing due to the rise in value.

Not only has been taken from the three tower sites but thieves don't seem to mind coming onto your property for into your home and helping themselves. They have also been known recently to remove metals, including copper, from abandoned properties, businessess and roadside locations.

If you see anything suspicious or have any information please contact the Accmoack County Sheriff's Department at 757-787-1131.

Isn't it amazing how these thugs will go to great lengths to steal to get money? I would imagine that planning to take something that does not belong to you requires a great amount of time. The actual taking of the property, I would imagine, it would require a great deal of energy. It probably takes these thugs more time to plan, steal, then cash in than it would to work a 40 hour week.

Please call the Sheriff's Office if you know or see anything.

Let's get these thugs out of our area.

Jury Deliberates For Over An Hour Before Verdict Is Given

SNOW HILL -- A jury of Sherrick Martel Handy's peers deliberated for slightly more than an hour Thursday before rendering a not guilty verdict on all charges.

Handy had been charged with first- and second-degree rape, first- and third-degree burglary, second-degree assault and false imprisonment in the alleged attack of his former fiancee during June of last year.

Testimony in the two-day trial concluded Wednesday, with closing statements being delivered to the jury Thursday morning.

Assistant State's Attorney Diane Cuilhe urged jurors to look at the consistency of the victim's statement and the fact the defendant denied he had been at her apartment at the time of the attack to police when first questioned. DNA evidence, she said, later forced him to admit his presence.

Cuilhe also pointed to inaccuracies in Handy's testimony and reason for being at the victim's house at an odd hour.

"Why did he find it appropriate to call her up and have a chat at 4 in the morning?" Cuilhe said. "The mere fact he was crouching next to the door and hiding shows he was there for nefarious purposes."

Handy's defense lawyer, David Resnick, picked apart the state's case during his closing statement to the jury of four women and eight men.

"I don't think in this case you saw the best of the criminal justice system," Resnick said.

He then began to question why police had not fingerprinted the victim's door, the pepper spray she tried to use on Handy or the kitchen knife she says she used to try to get Handy to leave her alone.

Resnick said he didn't believe the photographs of the victim's apartment showed enough of a struggle took place.

"We are claiming she staged the scene," he said.

Resnick also cast doubt on the testimony of police officers and a sexual assault forensic examination nurse. He claimed there were "glaring inaccuracies" in the timeline of when police officers were called and arrived, and when the victim was examined at the hospital.

www.delmarvanow.com