Knife, Milk And Threats: Grocery Store Disturbance Ends In Felony Charges

CHARLOTTE HALL, Md. — A routine evening at a Charlotte Hall grocery store escalated into a disturbance after a man allegedly brandished a knife, lunged at employees, and threatened store staff, according to court records and police reports. The incident prompted a response from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and resulted in multiple felony assault charges against the suspect, who is being held without bond as the case proceeds through the court system.

On Jan. 8, 2026, at approximately 5:49 p.m., deputies with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to Food Lion in Charlotte Hall following a report of a disturbance involving an individual inside the store. While deputies were en route, dispatch advised that the suspect had allegedly brandished a knife while inside the store and subsequently left the premises.

According to police documents, as deputies approached the Food Lion parking lot, they observed an individual matching the suspect’s description walking eastbound through the lot. Deputies made contact with the individual, who was reported to be compliant. He was placed in handcuffs and detained without incident.

When asked whether he possessed any weapons, the individual allegedly stated that he had a knife in his pocket. Deputies retrieved a folding stiletto-style knife with a black handle featuring an eagle and American flag emblem on one side. The individual was identified as Shedrick Green Jr., 52, of no fixed address. Deputies noted that Green allegedly appeared disheveled and was pushing a grocery cart containing two backpacks, along with a blanket and pillow that appeared soiled.

The police incident report includes statements from the store manager, who reported that Green entered the Food Lion with his shopping cart and personal belongings and began removing items from store shelves, concealing them beneath his backpacks. Although Green approached the checkout counter and placed several items on the counter, the manager reported observing him attempting to conceal two cartons of milk under his backpack.

Store management further reported that when Green was asked to place the milk on the counter for purchase, he allegedly refused to acknowledge the manager. The manager then demanded that Green pay for the concealed items. At that point, Green allegedly removed a knife from his pocket and brandished it toward the manager, lunging at employees and stating that he was going to stab them, according to police reports.

Police reports allege Green then walked through the store while continuing to lunge at individuals with the knife. The two cartons of milk, valued at approximately $9, were reportedly removed from Green’s cart by the manager, after which Green allegedly exited the store.

Court records indicate deputies later spoke with witnesses who reportedly provided cellphone video footage of the incident. According to police documents, the video evidence appeared to corroborate the manager’s account of the events.

Charging documents show Green was placed under arrest and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center. He is charged with three counts of first-degree assault, one count of second-degree assault, and theft of property valued at less than $100.

Court records indicate Green is being held without bond. His trial is set for Feb. 10, 2026.

Under Maryland law, first-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison per count. Second-degree assault carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years incarceration and a $2,500 fine, while theft of property valued under $100 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine.

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