Residents urge Carroll County leaders to press for independent probe after allegations about sheriff

During the public‑comment period of the Nov. 13 Carroll County Commissioners meeting, several residents urged county leaders to take a public stance on recent allegations concerning Sheriff James DeWeese and to support independent review.

Natalie Sanchez summarized press reporting and alleged claims in a withdrawn divorce filing and argued the allegations, if true, could have compromised investigations or created workplace misconduct. "Dewey's alleged unethical behavior opens up all kinds of concerns related to his fitness to hold his position," she said, and asked commissioners to "pressure the department to put DeWeese on leave while that investigation occurs."

Josh Wilhite, another public commenter, said the board has previously spoken on issues outside its strict jurisdiction when those issues affect local residents and asked the commissioners to "reaffirm your values to stand for integrity, transparency, and the trust of the people that you represent." He said he expects the board to publicly support the independent investigation requested by Major Justin Baker.

Commissioners noted legal limits — the sheriff is an independently elected, state constitutional official — and staff referenced an item in the record that a memo had been sent to the Maryland state prosecutor's office requesting an independent inquiry. The board did not place the sheriff on leave and took no formal personnel action; some commissioners called for transparency and for the state prosecutor to review the withdrawn filing. No formal board investigation or suspension occurred during the meeting.

The county attorney and staff said they would track developments and provide any required legal support if requested by state authorities. The issue drew strong public attention at the meeting and callers asked the board to monitor the situation closely.