Calvert County Sheriff reports lowest crime rates during quarterly community update

On February 26, 2025, the Calvert County Police Accountability Board convened for its quarterly meeting, where key discussions centered on community safety, law enforcement initiatives, and ongoing efforts to enhance police accountability. The meeting highlighted the Sheriff's Office's commitment to maintaining low crime rates and fostering positive community relations.

Sheriff's Office representatives provided a comprehensive update on their fourth-quarter activities, emphasizing community engagement initiatives such as the annual Toys for Tots campaign and "Shop with a Cop" events. These programs aim to strengthen ties between law enforcement and local residents, particularly children, during the holiday season. The Sheriff expressed gratitude for the board's support and the community's involvement in these efforts.

A significant focus of the meeting was the Sheriff's Office's proactive measures to address large neighborhood gatherings, which have been a growing concern. The Sheriff noted that recent legislation aims to curb disruptive parties, particularly in rental properties, which have previously led to chaos in residential areas. The board discussed the importance of community vigilance and encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing review of detention center policies in collaboration with the American Correctional Association. This initiative aims to align local practices with national standards, ensuring that the detention facility operates effectively and safely. The Sheriff highlighted the importance of these reviews in maintaining high operational standards and improving overall community safety.

Traffic safety was another critical topic, with the Sheriff acknowledging the high volume of calls for service—over 26,000 in the last quarter alone. He urged the public to remain cautious on the roads, particularly regarding speeding and driving under the influence, especially during holiday seasons when DUI incidents tend to spike.

In a positive development, the Sheriff reported a decrease in drug overdoses, attributing this trend to increased awareness and the availability of Narcan, a life-saving medication for opioid overdoses. The board discussed the need to continue efforts to keep drugs out of schools and reduce substance abuse in the community.

The meeting concluded with a commendation of the Sheriff's Office for achieving the lowest crime rate in the state, a feat attributed to the dedication of law enforcement personnel and the active participation of community members. The board emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and residents to maintain safety and address emerging challenges.

Looking ahead, the next Police Accountability Board meeting is scheduled for May 28, 2025, where further discussions on community safety and law enforcement practices are anticipated.