The St. Mary’s County Bureau of Criminal Investigation Vice Narcotics conducted “Operation May Flower” May 6 to May 8 2010. The three-day sting resulted in forty-three arrests and “more arrests are soon to be expected,” according to Vice Narcotics Commander, Capt. Daniel D. Alioto.

Sheriff Tim Cameron called the operation, “a huge success,” explaining many of these investigations had been in the works for quite some time. He added that additional indictments yet to be served and new information obtained from “May Flower” have led to new targets.

Vice Narcotics detectives executed multiple warrants and searches of suspected drug distribution points. Alioto said, “These arrests should send a clear message to the community: that the Sheriff’s Department is committed to keeping drugs off the streets.”

Among the forty-three arrested, Francis Michael Barnes, 52, of Hollywood was busted for PCP distribution and Brian Edward Simpson, 37, and Craig Stephen Bretscher, 44, were arrested for marijuana distribution at a California residence. Repeat offender Kese Eman Lyles, 29, of Lexington Park was arrested for marijuana distribution, as was Lindsay Catherine Decker, 20, of Hollywood, who was identified as part of Lyles’ distribution network.

An investigation in the area of Independence Drive in Mechanicsville, where several supspects attempted to elude officers, led to the recovery of nearly $10,000 worth of cocaine and the arrests of four men; Eric Maurice Chase, 19, of Callaway, Geral Anthony Holt Jr., 19, Kalvin Jermaine Young, 32, and Gregory Tryman Shingles, a.k.a. “69”, 24, all of Mechanicsville.

Joseph Kenneth Abell Jr., 43, of Hollywood was arrested fo posession of marijuana and cociane when found to be in possession of both substances during the drug investigation..

Investigating a marijuana distribution point in Leonardtown, detectives arrested Benjamin John Lilly, 21, after discovering large quantities of marijuana, cash and electronics on his person and in his home. At Lilly’s residence, Jeffrey Brandon Junge, 21, and upon arriving in possession of marijuana, Richard Lee Mattingly, 22, were also arrested.

Junge and Mattingly were arrested at Lilly’s home, a confirmed marijuana distribution point in Leonardtown during Operation May Flower.

Handguns, prescription pills, cocaine, heroin and a bevy of various other drugs, paraphernalia and cash were seized during the operation. Additional charges are pending a review with State’s Attorney Richard D. Fritz in several cases. Both Cameron and Alioto said these busts are sure to interrupt the use and distribution of narcotics in St. Mary’s County, but assured there is more work to be done.

Sheriff Cameron commented that tips from citizens are always helpful in these investigations and can be made anonymously. For Crime Solvers, call (301) 475-3333 or visit the Sheriff’s website for details about giving crime tips.

Additional arrests resulting from “Operation May Flower”:

Jamie Marie Stroud (Age 26 of Mechanicsville) Two counts of “Distribution of Morphine”.

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