From The Desk Of Police Chief Kelvin Sewell ~ April Arrest Report

PRESS RELEASE

Pocomoke Police Department

1500 Market Street

Pocomoke, Maryland   21851

April 1, 2014 – April 30, 2014

4-1-14    Heather Sturgis, age 18 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS: Possession Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession – Marijuana.

4-1-14   Brooks Marshall, age 27 of Greenbackville, VA was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS: Possession Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession – Marijuana.

4-2-14  Debbie Baines, age 54 of Snow Hill, MD was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and with charged Assault – 2nd Degree and Harassment, a Course of Conduct.

4-2-14  Morelia Reyes, age 38 was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $500.00 Value.

4-2-14    Mirna Gramaja, age 35 was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $500.00 Value.

4-4-14    Elvin Northam, age 56 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant f         Trespassing and Theft thru Worcester County.

4-5-14    Gilbert Johnson, age 41 of New Church, VA was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Failure to Pay Child Support thru the Accomac County Sherriff’s Office.

                               

4-5-14    Rayshima Schoolfield, age 23 of Pocomoke was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Disorderly Conduct.

 4-5-14   Satoria Ginn, age 21 of Pocomoke was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged Disorderly Conduct.

4-7-14    Moneeka Reese, age 23 of Pocomoke was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Disorderly 

Conduct and Failure to Obey Law.

4-7-14    Kavon Rowley, age 19 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Failure to Appear thru Worcester County.

4-8-14  Manuel Garcia, age 28 of Fruitland, MD was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged for Theft less than $100.00.

4-12-14   Nolia Valaques, age 25 of Parksley, VA was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

4-14-14   Davven Miller, age 26 of Richamond, VA was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Failure to Appear thru Worcester County.

4-16-14    Marcus Bailey, age 27 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with on a Warrant for Failure to Appear thru the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office.

4-16-14   Michael Faulkner, age 31 of Salisbury, MD was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft Less than $500.00, CDS: Possession Paraphernalia, and a Warrant for Burglary – 4th Degree thru Wicomico County Sherriff’s Office.

4-16-14   Keith Gray, age 23 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Bench Warrant thru Worcester County.

4-16-14   Shawn Cropper, age 42 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged for a DUI.

4-17-14  Carol Groff, age 54 of Chincoteague, VA was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Driving on a Suspended License thru Worcester County.

4-17-14  David Phillips, age 26 of Salisbury, MD was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged for Theft Less than $100.00 and CDS: Possession Paraphernalia.

4-17-14    Steven Bloodsworth, age 26 of Pittsville, MD was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00 and CDS: Possession Paraphernalia.

4-17-14  Jennifer Carey, age 34 of  Eden, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft Scheme Plus $500.

4-17-14  Amanda Davis, age 35 of Pittsville, MD was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft Scheme Plus $500.

4-17-14    Danielle Collick, age 30 of Pocomoke was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS 

Possession: Marijuana.

4-18-14  William Bagley, age 39 of Lansdowne, PA was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS 

Possession of Marijuana.

4-18-14   Victor Dana, age 33 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for

Burglary and Grand Larceny thru the Accomac County Sherriff’s Office.

4-20-14  Lorenzo Davis, age 47 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Dangerous Weapon – Conceal, Handgun on Person, and Firearm Possession with Felony Conviction.

4-20-14   Markita Davis, age 20 of Wachapreague, VA was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession of Marijuana.

4-21-14   Franco Benoit, age 24 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault – 2nd Degree.

4-21-14   Demetrius Mills, age 26 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Malicious 

Destruction of Property.

4-22-14  Shannon Broadwater, age 19 of Oak Hall, VA was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault – 2nd Degree.

4-22-14   Jesus Ramires, age 38 of Tasley, VA was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Driving without a License thru Worcester County.

4-23-14  Tyron Miller, age 33 of Hartford, CT was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession of Marijuana.

4-23-14  Gordon Hughes, age 58 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault – 2nd Degree.

4-23-14   Kimron Dixon, age 30 of Hartford was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than

$500.00.

4-25-14   Darius Cotton, age 20 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Violating a Exparte/Protective Order.

4-26-14  Renee Savage, age 35 of Temperanceville, VA was arrested by thePocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

4-27-14  Russell Williams, age 33 of New Church, VA was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with DUI.

4-30-14   Anna Mills, age 41 of Pocomoke was arrested by the

Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault 2nd Degree and Malicious Destruction of Property.

Other News:

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 16 was arrested for Assault – 2nd Degree.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 17 was arrested for Assault – 2nd Degree.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 15 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 16 was arrested for Assault – 2nd Degree and Malicious Destruction of Property.

Twenty-Eight (28) additional arrests were made for various traffic violations during the month of April 2014.

Kelvin D. Sewell

Pocomoke  City Chief of Police

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

A G E N D A 

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING 

7:30 p.m., Monday, May 5, 2014

City Hall

1. Call to Order, Pledge of Allegiance.

2. Review and approval of minutes from meeting of April 7,2014.

3. Review and approval of bills to be paid.

4. Introduction of new Finance Director Janet Wilson.

5. Public Hearing on proposed 2014-15 CDBG application and project report on current CDBG projects.

6. Resolution No. 481 to authorize submittal of CDBG application.

7. Adopt revised Citizen Participation Plan and Anti-Displacement/Relocation Assistance Plan related to CDBG application.

8. Brad Adams, Construction Superintendent of the Fay Company, to give update on progress and schedule for Rt. 13 bridge repair project.

9. Status report regarding Pocomoke Heights water study by GMB Engineers.

10. Discuss proposal from Chesapeake Paving Company for patching various areas on City streets and at tennis courts.

Comments from the Audience
Mayor and Council items.

Adjourn to Executive Session to discuss personnel, real estate, and legal matters as permitted under the provisions of Sec. 10-508 (A), (1), (7), (8) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland and perform executive actions.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

More On Worcester County K-9 Ike ~ Photo Added

Prayers and condolences to Chris Larmore the handler of K-9 Ike.
Some say that you can't explain the bond between an officer and his K-9 partner.

K-9 Ike
Worcester County Sheriff's  Office Photo

On Saturday May 3rd at about 2200 Hrs a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Deputy, along with his Partner K-9 Ike conducted a traffic stop on Rt. 50 in the area of Rt. 589. While on the stop K-9 Ike alerted to something and jumped from the stopped patrol vehicle. A motorist traveling on Rt. 50 was not able to avoid K-9 Ike and unfortunately struck and killed K-9 Ike. The driver of the vehicle remained on the scene. The driver did everything they could to avoid striking the K-9 but to no avail.

Ike had been on duty with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for 3 years. He was responsible for numerous drug seizures, criminal apprehensions and countless searches and tracks. Ike was a valued member of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and will be sorely missed by The Sheriff Mason and all the Deputies.

Lt. Edward C. Schreier

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office

Mar-Va Theater ~ Year In Review

TIME MACHINE ... 1922, 1973, 1867, 2002, 1950, 1896

(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

March, 1922
The Washington Times

RYAN TO COACH EASTERN SHORE BASEBALL CLUB

Pocomoke City Team Gets Former Big League Catoher's Services After June 1.

Br LOUIS A. DOUGHER.

 Jack Ryan, former big league star catcher, has accepted terms to manage the Pocomoke City club in the Eastern Shore league, a Class D circuit to get underway in Maryland this season. Jack will coach the Virginia university baseball squad from March 15 to May 15 and will go to Pocomoke City June 1 to take charge of his squad there.

 "I'm going to use a lot of Washington youngsters on my ball club," says Jack. "Under the rules of the league we are alowed but three class players on each club. That means that I shall have plenty of room for youngsters. That's what I'm going to use, too. We're going to have a fast ball club under all conditions." 

The Eastern Shore League consists of Parksley, Va.; Crlsfield, Salisbury, Cambridge and Pocomoke City, Md., and Laurel, Del. 

"Are you going to play yourself?" we asked Jack. 

"Sure, a couple of times a week, anyway," was his reply. "I aim to develop some young pitchers and send them up to the majors, or at least to the higher minor leagues. To do that I must be in there behind the plate coaching them. I've been playing ball on the sandlots here and am always in good shape. I guess my Pocomoke City Club won't be too fast for me." 

In his major league days Jack caught such great pitchers as Kid Nichols and Fred Klobedans, both with the old Boston Cub. He knows  just what to do to bring out the best in young pitchers.

June, 1973
Evening Capital (Annapolis)
(Excerpt)

New span gets in a little jam 

By Tom Stuckey

Maryland officials helped dedicate the $120 million Chesapeake Bay Bridge yesterday then promptly got caught in a traffic jam trying to get to the other side. The backup developed as officials, guests and spectators left the site of the dedication ceremonies and headed for free food and drink served up under a big striped tent across the bay on the Eastern Shore. Gov Marvin Mandel was the first official bridge customer, paying his toll to Secretary of Transportation Harry R. Hughes at about 11a.m. after the formal dedication was completed. Mandel rode through the toll gates in a green 1929 Packard convertible, one of more than 80 classic antique cars which lead the first caravan across the 3.98-mile span.

June, 1867
The Daily News (Charleston, S.C.)

RELIEF FOR THE SUFFERING PEOPLE OF THE SOUTH. 

-The Baltimore Sun gives the following statement of the measures adopted by the charitable people of Maryland to aid the suffering poor in the South. Maryland has created a glorious record for herself, which, like bread cast upon the waters, will return to her after many days.

The citizens of *Newtown, Worcester county, Md., have held a meeting and adopted measures for the relief of the suffering people of the South. Rev. O. F.Flippo presided, and W. L. Clarke, Esq., of the Newtown Gazette, was appointed secretary. Addresses were delivered by Senator Broadwater and the Revs. Messrs. Polk, Rowe, and Martindale after which a handsome collection was taken up and handed over to the treasurer, Wm. S. Dickenson, Esq.  Messrs. Hall & Brother, and W. J. S. Clarke & Son, offered to convey, free of charge, to Baltimore, any produce contributed for the relief of the South, as did also Captain Veasey and C. M. Talbott, of the steamer Massachusetts. On the 4th of June the ladies of Newtown are to hold a great strawberry festival in aid of the Southern sufferers. The ladies of Broadneck and Townneck, Anne Arundel county, a few miles from Annapolis, are to hold a similar festival at St. Margaret's parsonage on the 12th and 13th of June.

*(Newtown became Pocomoke City in 1878.)

July, 2002
Annapolis Capital

OCEAN CITY - A Potomac developer who constructed a multi-million dollar yacht basin and upscale harbor housing now plans to convert Shantytown Village and Marina into a gated community.

John L. Gudelsky, the president of Percontee Inc., has agreed to buy Shantytown from Ray and Charles Nichols of Bel Air, who own the quirky waterside shopping area that houses more than 20 merchants on the mainland side of the Route 50 bridge.

The brothers also own the adjacent marina and the landmark Ocean City Boatel & Service Center.

The sale is contingent on approval of an application to rezone the property for residential use.

If the application is approved, Shantytown and the Boatel & Service Center would be torn down.

Silver Spring-based Percontee has applied to rezone more than 7 acres. Preliminary plans call for a gated community with townhouses and 14 single-family homes.

Shantytown Village was developed in the early 1970s. Tax records assess it now at $1.8 million while the adjacent marina is assessed at $4 million and the Bayside Boatel and an adjoined property are assessed at $1.8 million.

Shantytown Village is well known for its quaint, tourist-oriented shops, as well as the two fishing headboats and one tour boat.

Voyages East owner Karen Bunting, which operates the O.C. Princess and the Miss Ocean City headboats and the Bay Queen tour boat out of Shantytown, said her business will do fine, in another part of town.
_Associated Press

August, 1950 (Time Machine archive)
(Denton Journal) 

REED-SCOTT STOCK CAR FEATURE WINNERS

Pocomoke City Raceway was the scene of 3 ten lap heats and a 30-lap feature race on Sunday with Norris Reed of Denton driving car No. 38 owned by Mary and Ed Henry to victory in the 15-mile thriller.  Reed defeated such veteran drivers as Bill Scott in car No. 1, Jack Jones of car 75 and Roland Sammons driving No. 24 to turn the fast 1/2 mile track in 15 minutes and 21 seconds.  A beautiful wrist watch was Reed's prize as feature winner.

Footnote:  Pocomoke stock car races were held at the track on the old Fair Grounds.

March, 1896
Peninsula Enterprise- Accomac Court House

Harborton.
Our inhabitants had a surprise last week, in the shape of a lady bicycle rider. Being the first in the town, she was quite a curiosity.

Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about?  It can be just a line or two, or more if you wish.   Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

K-9 Ike Killed While On Traffic Stop Saturday Evening

It is with a heavy heart that Sheriff Mason announces the line of duty death of K-9 Ike. K-9 Ike was tragically killed while on a traffic stop in Berlin this evening. K-9 Ike was a tremendous asset to the Sheriff's Office and was responsible for numerous apprehensions and drug seizures. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with his handler and family. K-9 Ike was escorted with full honors to Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury. 

Worcester County Sheriff's Office Photo

The Sheriff's Office would like to thank Holloway Funeral Home, Maryland State Police Berlin and Salisbury, Berlin Police Department, Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, and the Salisbury Police Department. 

Pictured is K-9 Ike second from left. (photo above) The loss of this partner can not be explained and the hole it leaves in our agency is large. 


Again our thoughts and prayers are with K-9 Ike's family and partner.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1922.. Former major leaguer to manage new Pocomoke team; 1973.. New Chesapeake Bay bridge opens; 1867..  Newtown (predecessor to Pocomoke City) citizens aid southern sufferers; 2002.. End in site for Ocean City's Shantytown; 1950.. Busy Stock Car event at Pocomoke City Speedway; 1896.. A first for an Eastern Shore of Virginia town.  It was a lady ___________, "quite a curiosity." (Any guesses?)

Although you may not find all of these items in a history book, they are a part of our local history and you can read more about it this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!  

Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about?  It can be just a line or two, or more if you wish. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

Locals Appreciation Weekend At The Delmarva Discovery Center

THIS WEEKEND 

is 

Locals Appreciation Weekend! 

At The Delmarva Discovery Center

All residents of Sussex, Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester, and Accomack Counties receive 50% off their admission!

PLAN FOR FIESTA ON CINCO DE MAYO AND A DESIGNATED DRIVER

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – As motorists travel the roads to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, state police urge citizens to make it a time of fiesta by preventing impaired driving and plan for a designated driver.

Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus L. Brown has ordered impaired driving initiatives to be conducted throughout the state on May 5, 2014. 

Troopers from each of the 22 state police installations as well as the State Police Impaired Driving Effort (S.P.I.D.R.E.) will be out working a variety of enforcement programs. These initiatives will include DUI saturation patrols and checkpoints. Troopers will also target aggressive and distracted drivers. 

“Cinco de Mayo has become a big night out for many, particularly among young adults,” said Colonel Brown. “But it is also a very dangerous night out because of alcohol-impaired drivers. Those celebrating should be sure to designate their sober driver in advance, before the festivities begin.” 

In 2013 two people died on Maryland roads while nationally, 89 people died on the roads around Cinco de Mayo. In fact, from 2011 to 2012, the number of people killed in drunk driving crashes on Cinco de Mayo more than doubled. 

The Maryland State Police are encouraging motorists to plan before they party. Most people do not plan to drink and drive, but unfortunately they do not have a plan at all. Before you start to drink on Cinco de Mayo, designate a safe, sober driver.

• If you are planning on drinking, leave your car keys at home.

• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.

• If you can’t find a safe ride or you choose to walk home, remember that walking impaired can be just as dangerous as driving impaired. Designate a sober friend to walk you home.

• If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 9-1-1. You could save a life.

• And remember, if you know people who are about to drive or ride with someone who is impaired, help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely. If a friend is drunk and wants to drive, intervene and take the keys away if you have to.

Maryland State Police

DON'T FORGET ~ FIRST FRIDAY PIZZA !

PIZZA NIGHT

NEW CHURCH VOL. AND RESCUE COMPANY

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Large pepperoni or cheese pizza for $12

No need to call ahead or even get out of your car...

just come by and get it!!!!

 

Proceeds benefit the New Church Vol. Fire & Rescue Co.

Snow Hill Vol. Fire Co. OPENS The Mudbog Season for 2014

SNOW HILL MUD BOG

SATURDAY, MAY 3, 2014

4718 Snow Hill Road

Snow Hill, Maryland

GATES OPEN @ 10 am

RACE BEGINS @ 12 pm

ADMISSION:

* Adults  & Children 10+  - $10

*Children under 10 FREE

 (All 

    children must be accompanied

    by an adult!!)

 DON'T FORGET THE KIDS!!!!

    POWER WHEELS RACING @

    each event!!  (Must be equipped

    with manufacturer's battery. 

 (NO EXCEPTIONS!!)

Worcester County Bureau of Investigation Located "Peeping Tom"

Follow Up from previous post from 

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Investigators said they have found the man they believe was acting as Peeping Tom at the Berlin Wal-Mart earlier this month.

The Worcester County Bureau of Investigation said George Toth, 44, of Kresgeville, Pa., faces charges of being a Peeping Tom and prurient intent. Toth, a truck driver, was found in Dover and taken into custody under an out-of-state fugitive warrant.

On April 3, police said a man went into the women’s restroom at the Berlin Wal-Mart and stuck cell phone under a bathroom stall and tried to record a woman. When the suspect attempted to leave, the woman followed him out into the parking lot.

Maryland State troopers were later able to obtain video surveillance from Wal-Mart and investigation revealed that the suspect had been loitering near the eastern side of the Wal-Mart entrance doors.

On April 13, investigators pulled additional surveillance video and saw the suspect get out of a tractor-trailer that had backed into a loading spot at Home Depot. The person was matched to the suspect description.

After speaking with representatives from the Home Depot shipping/receiving area, investigators were able to positively identify the driver and suspect as Toth, police said. Investigators tracked Toth to the Dover Home Depot Store.

Toth was found to be a registered Tier 2 sex offender through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, police said.

Toth was then taken before a judge in Delaware, where he was released on a $2,000 bond. He is scheduled May 23 for an extradition hearing back to the State of Maryland.

The Worcester County Bureau of Investigations is still actively working this case and they can be contacted at the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office or the Worcester County Bureau of Investigations at 410-632-1111

Passenger Arrested During Traffic Stop

On April 29, 2014 at approximately 0713 hours, a Deputy with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy, was operating stationary radar in the area of Bishopville Road and Bishop Street, in Bishopville, Worcester County Maryland. At this time, the Deputy observed a vehicle traveling 44 miles per hour in a posted 30 mile per hour zone

The Deputy initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle, and made contact with the operator Morgan Alaina Bernstein, 30, of Ocean City. A license check was performed on Bernstein, and it was found that Bernstein’s privilege to drive was suspended. Bernstein was issued Maryland traffic citations for the traffic violations. Once the traffic stop was complete, Bernstein gave the Deputy consent to search the vehicle.

During the consent search, the Deputy located crack cocaine, a glass smoking device, and a hypodermic needle. Throughout the investigation it was determined the handbag belonged to the left rear passenger, Ashley Nicole Lewis, 25, of Berlin. Lewis was placed under arrest for 2 counts of CDS paraphernalia, 1 count of CDS possession not marijuana. Lewis was seen by the District Court Commissioner, released on her own recognizance and is awaiting trial.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Locals Appreciation Weekend At The Delmarva Discovery Center

THIS WEEKEND is 

Locals Appreciation Weekend! 

All residents of Sussex, Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester, and Accomack Counties receive 50% off their admission!



SAVE THE DATE

THIS WEEKEND At The MarVa Theater

THIS WEEKEND 

Friday, May 2nd at 7 PM

Saturday, May 3rd at 7 PM

Tickets: $5

www.marvatheater.com

OCPD ARREST SNOW HILL MAN FOR 1ST DEGREE ASSAULT AND BURGLARY

Ralph Andrew McCabe

(April 30, 2014) – On April 29, 2014, at approximately 8:15 p.m. Ocean City police responded to a 32nd Street apartment for a report of a subject in possession of a handgun making threats. Upon arrival, officers quickly located and detained the suspect, later identified as Ralph Andrew McCabe, 23, of Snow Hill.

The investigation revealed that McCabe became irate with his girlfriend and another female and began destroying his girlfriend’s belongings. McCabe later began threatening the two females while holding a handgun. During the subsequent investigation, officers located the handgun, in addition to evidence related to recent burglaries.

McCabe was arrested by Ocean City police and charged with multiple assault, burglary and malicious destruction charges. McCabe was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and is currently being held without bond for the burglary charges and on $100,000 bond for the assault charges.

Ocean City Police Department

Review of State and Federal Audits Find O’Malley-Brown Administration Failed.......

Review of state and federal audits find O’Malley-Brown Administration failed to act on $1.75 billion in cost-saving measures.

Shoddy record keeping, widespread mismanagement and lack of fraud controls sapped critical funding for child protection, environment, public safety and education.

Annapolis, MD – May 1 -- According to an investigation by the Hogan-Rutherford campaign, over the past seven years the O’Malley-Brown Administration failed to act on dozens of official audits detailing more than $1.75 billion in improper spending and even outright fraud in the Executive Branch.  Additionally, audits of the nearly $13 billion Maryland receives annually from the federal government also found widespread accounting failures. 

Hogan said, “This isn’t wishful thinking about magically increasing government efficiency; these audits comprise hundreds of pages actual instances of waste and mismanagement and the simple steps required to prevent further losses.  Clearly, Martin O’Malley and Anthony Brown decided it would be easier to hike taxes, fees and tolls, loot $100 million from retiree pension funds and millions more from environmental, highway and arts funding than to act on the simple guidelines presented in the audits.  

The audits, which do not include the estimated $300 million spent on the failed Health Exchange include:

Jan. 2009 - $38.9 million in unlawful budget transactions. These are improper payments and transactions by Executive Branch agencies that have to be cut from the next year’s budget or require tax increases to cover.

May 2010 - $936 thousand in rental payments the Maryland Stadium Authority never recovered. 

Sept 2010 – Up to $22.5 million paid to a contractor without verifying that workers showed up to do their jobs.

Dec. 2010 – $1.8 million in fraud at Kidney Disease Program due to fictitious claims.

                                 

Feb. 2011 – $2.3 million that the office of Public defender failed to collect in fees in 40,000 cases

April 2011 - $71,000 spent by one employee making fraudulent purchases on a Department of Natural Resources credit card.

Of his campaign’s analysis, Larry Hogan said, “This is just a partial accounting of the O’Malley-Brown Administration’s rampant mismanagement of our hard-earned tax dollars, these audits make clear that critical funding for the disabled, education, child protection, the environment, public safety and other priorities was wasted through sheer incompetence or outright fraud.”

In many cases, the General Assembly’s Office of Legislative Audits determined that O’Malley-Brown officials ignored previous warnings that nearly every state agency lacked basic controls to prevent personal use of petty cash, government credit cards and state-owned vehicles.  In fact, according to a review of the audits, most state agencies lacked basic controls on spending cash, use of government purchase cards and personal use of tax-payer owned vehicles.  In recent months, there have been several highly publicized cases of state workers spending tens of thousands of tax-dollars on personal items and luxury travel.      

The audits also reveal an alarming pattern of state officials ignoring rules governing safety and security.  In one case, the O’Malley-Brown Education Department officials failed to follow up on criminal background screenings for child care workers.  In a separate instance, while failing to report about $38 million in unspent funds, the Development Disabilities Administration left thousands of developmentally disabled Marylanders languishing on a wait list while advocates successfully lobbied for a 150% increase in the alcohol tax to fund such services.  The DDA’s Chief Financial Officer was fired shortly after bringing this to the attention of the O’Malley Administration.  

“Addressing the cost-savings recommendations of these audits and prosecuting any theft of tax dollars should be the top priority in the final months of the O’Malley-Brown administration.

MAKE A SOBER RIDE HOME PART OF YOUR CINCO DE MAYO PLANS

Cinco de Mayo in the United States has become synonymous not only with tacos, sombreros, and piñatas, but also with margaritas, tequila, and beer. Since alcohol is such a big part of many Cinco de Mayo festivities, it’s no surprise that drunk driving is especially high on May 5th.Ocean City police are urging citizens to designate a sober driver or plan another sober ride home before heading to the bars this Cinco de Mayo.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 233 people were killed in drunk driving crashes on Cinco de Mayo (6 p.m. May 4th to 5:59 a.m. May 6th) from 2008 to 2012.  In 2012, almost half (45 percent) of all traffic crash fatalities on Cinco de Mayo involved drunk driving.

“Some people have this misconception that they can drink a little, and drive safely,” said Chief Ross Buzzuro, “but that’s just not true. Everyone needs to remember that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving, and there’s never an excuse for it.”

Every 51 minutes in 2012, someone was killed in a drunk driving crash in the United States, and 89 of those fatalities were around Cinco de Mayo, according to the NHTSA. In fact, from 2011 to 2012, the number of people killed in drunk driving crashes on Cinco de Mayo more than doubled. In all fatal crashes in 2012, seventy-one percent of the drunk drivers involved had blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of .15 or higher—almost twice the legal limit.

Ocean City police reminds all citizens that plan to celebrate Cinco de Mayo to designate a sober driver beforehand or call a sober friend to ensure a safe ride home. Citizens are also encouraged to call one of the many local taxi companies or ride the municipal bus.

Re-Elect Reggie Mason ~ Worcester County Sheriff

As your Sheriff, it is the responsibility of my command staff and I to allocate money and resources to not only keep our citizens safe, but the men and women of our department as well. As a member of the Sheriff's office since 1979, including 23 years as Chief Deputy and 4 as Sheriff, I realize what it takes to accomplish the goal of controlled spending in a lagging economy, while making sure it is not at the expense of the safety of our citizens, kids, Teachers and the Officers on duty. We continue to service our County's citizens to the best of our ability and year end 2013 was no different. Statistics from 2013 show the following:

> Events-52,706
> Miles Patrol-1,562,465
> Arrests-799
> Protective Orders (Domestic) 671
> Court Papers-10,924
> Case Closures of the Worcester County Sheriff's Office 75% compared to the National Average of 30-40%
> Overall Crime Dropped 15%

 These results are due to the hard work these men and women put forth everyday. It is my honor to serve with them. I have the experience that is necessary to continue to build upon our solid foundation and on June 24th, I hope you continue to place your trust in me to lead.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Pocomoke City to Host Delmarva Firemen’s Convention

Pocomoke City to Host Delmarva Firemen’s Convention

 May 1, 2, 3

The Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company will host the 85th Annual Convention of the Delmarva Volunteer Firemen’s Association and the 80th Annual Convention of the Association’s Auxiliary on May 1, 2 and 3 at the Pocomoke City Community Center and firehouse. 

Firefighters and Auxiliary members and their families from Northern Delaware to Cape Charles, Virginia will be visiting Pocomoke City for this 3-day event.  Activities kick-off on Thursday night, May 1, with the “Meet Your Host Night” at the firehouse. On Friday, convention meetings will take place throughout the day followed by a social hour and formal dinner at 6 PM in the Community Center. 

Following committee meetings on Saturday morning, the highlight of the convention will be a parade starting at 2 PM featuring fire equipment from throughout Delmarva. The parade will stage at the Pocomoke Middle School on 8th Street, travel east on 8th Street and then south on Market Street where it will disband at the firehouse.  Over 40 trophies will be awarded to fire companies and equipment in a host of different categories. 

Spectators can view the parade that will include both modern as well as antique fire equipment anywhere along Market Street.  The reviewing and judges’ stand will be located in front of Hartley Hall Nursing Home.  

New to the convention this year will be the Cadet Firefighting Muster which will take place on 14th Street next to the firehouse following the parade.  The Cadet Corps of the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company will host this event and cadet organizations from several area fire companies will compete in the muster with trophies presented to the winners in several competitions. The public is invited to watch as our future firefighters take part in this fun event.  

Market Street will be closed from 8th Street south to 14th Street at the firehouse during the parade. 14th Street from Market Street to Cedar Run will be closed for the muster. 

“We’re excited about again being the host city for the Delmarva Firemen’s Convention and related Auxiliary Convention”, said Ron Taylor, convention chairman. “We are proud to showcase Pocomoke City, ‘The Friendliest Town on the Eastern Shore’,  as well as our beautiful firehouse and Community Center to hundreds of guests who will be attending this year’s event”, he added. 

The convention was last hosted by the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company in April, 2011 when several hundred delegates and guests from fire departments across Delmarva attended the 3-day event.  

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1922.. Former major leaguer to manage new Pocomoke team; 1973.. New Chesapeake Bay bridge opens; 1867..  Newtown (predecessor to Pocomoke City) citizens aid southern sufferers; 2002.. End in site for Ocean City's Shantytown; 1950.. Busy Stock Car event at Pocomoke City Speedway; 1896.. A first for an Eastern Shore of Virginia town.  It was a lady ___________, "quite a curiosity." (Any guesses?)

Although you may not find all of these items in a history book, they are a part of our local history and you can read more about it this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!  

Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about?  It can be just a line or two, or more if you wish. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

BI-WEEKLY COM STAT MEETING POCOMOKE CITY POLICE

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE

BI-WEEKLY COM STAT MEETING

April 15, 2014 to April 28, 2014

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell, Lt. Lynell Green and Lt. Brian Craven hold their bi-weekly Com Stat meeting to discuss the Officers performance and City wide crimes. 

During the past two weeks the Pocomoke City Police Officers issued 150 traffic citations, 96 warnings, completed 25 Criminal Adult Arrest, 1 Criminal Juvenile Arrest, 17 Traffic Arrest and answered 311 calls for service.

Pocomoke City Police Department

UPDATE on the RULES FOR THE 2014 MUDBOG RACING SEASON

 MUDBOG NEWS TO PASS ALONG....




UPDATE on the RULES FOR 

THE 2014 MUDBOG RACING SEASON......

*****THE FOUR WHEEL BRAKE RULE DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL THE JULY 26TH RACE IN CRISFIELD****

ALSO: 
EXCITING NEWS FOR MEMORIAL WEEKEND RACE IN GUMBORO 

FOR ALL CLASSES FROM STSS ON UP TO X-CLASS HAS A GUARANTEED PRIZE MONEY OF $500.00 FOR FIRST PLACE AS LONG AS 10 TRUCKS HAVE ENTERED FOR THAT CLASS.

For more info go 

to www.gumborocrisfieldmudbogs.net

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Respond To Disturbance

                                                                                                                                                                                                 

On April 26, 2014 Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to Girdletree for a disturbance. Deputies learned San Juanita Hernandez 38 of Georgetown, DE, had been in an argument with her boyfriend because he would not let her leave his house. Ms. Hernandez was intoxicated and her boyfriend felt it wouldn’t be a good idea for her to drive. 

While the Deputy was conducting the investigation Ms. Hernandez was disorderly and failed to follow simple instructions given by the Deputy. Ms. Hernandez was given numerous opportunities, but still continued to hinder the Deputy while he completed his investigation. 
Ms. Hernandez was charged with hindering a police officer in the performance of duties. She was released pending trial.


Lt. Edward C. Schreier
Worcester County Sheriff's Office

IRS NUMBERS SHOW INCOME TAX WINNERS AND LOSERS BY STATE

"In Maryland, media attention prompted policymakers in both parties to realize that a mass exodus of taxpayers harms the state and especially Baltimore, a case study in tax flight among major cities in the mid-Atlantic. While the most recent decline is less pronounced, the damage has already been done in high-taxed Maryland. From 2000 to 2010, the state lost $5.5 billion in taxable revenues. Gubernatorial candidate David Craig has announced a plan to reduce and eventually eliminate Maryland’s income tax “to keep families together.” A tenth-generation Marylander, he would prefer to keep his children and grandchildren in the state."

http://www.humanevents.com/2014/04/29/irs/

Arsonist Tonya Bundick Granted 62 Trials

Monday, April 28, 2014

Judge Glen Tyler granted Tonya Bundicks request for 62 separate trials in Accomack County Circuit Court Monday. 

Bundicks lawyer asked for separate trials so juries would not hear other matters involved. 

Tyler rejected the Commonwealth's request to have try all charges at once because he said each instance was separate and there was no common theme or plan.

Tyler indicated earlier he might agree to have Bundick tried again in Virginia Beach where she was tried in January for arson in the case pertaining to the incident on April 1, 2013 where she and her accomplice Charles R. Smith III were caught in the process of setting a fire at a residence in Melfa.Bundick submitted an Alford plea in her trial in January in which she did not admit to the charges but acknowledged there was sufficient evidence to convict her.

Smith pled guilty earlier this year to 67 counts of arson and one count of conspiracy. 


Neither Smith or Bundick have been sentenced for the crimes for which they have already been convicted. 


Source:

Wednesday: Mommy and Me: Daddy Too ! Delmarva Discovery Center

WEDNESDAY is 

Mommy and Me; Daddy too! 

From 10:30-11:00

Delmarva Discovery Center

 Our Painted Lady Butterflies are emerging from their chrysalis! Come see how our little caterpillars of two weeks ago are now beautiful butterflies.

 We will make a butterfly craft and if weather permits, release our Painted Ladies to live many happy days on the banks of the Pocomoke River.