CALIFORNIA, Md. — A Lexington Park man is facing numerous felony drug and firearm charges after a traffic stop escalated into a foot chase and led to the discovery of fentanyl, cocaine, and a loaded handgun, according to court records.
Ronnell Tyrone Shields, 35, of Lexington Park, was arrested April 16, 2026, following a late-night traffic stop on Three Notch Road near the Royal Farms in California.
According to the statement of probable cause, a Maryland State Police trooper observed a gray Nissan Altima with equipment violations, including a broken light and inoperable brake light, before initiating a stop.
During the stop, authorities said Shields provided a false name and showed signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol. Investigators also observed a black zippered bag at his feet.
As deputies attempted to continue the investigation, Shields fled the scene in the vehicle, leading officers into an industrial park before abandoning the car and fleeing on foot. He was taken into custody shortly after.
A search incident to arrest revealed multiple individually packaged bags of suspected crack cocaine, consistent with distribution, along with large amounts of cash.
Authorities also reported locating a digital scale, additional suspected narcotics, and multiple unopened alcoholic beverages inside the vehicle.
Further investigation led to the discovery of additional bags of suspected cocaine and a loaded 9mm handgun with eight rounds of ammunition.
Investigators said Shields is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Charging documents indicate the substances later tested positive for fentanyl and cocaine, and additional pills were recovered for further analysis.
Shields is charged with multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, possession of controlled dangerous substances, possession and distribution of drug paraphernalia, firearm use in connection with a felony, firearm possession during drug trafficking, and multiple handgun violations.
He also faces numerous traffic-related charges, including driving under the influence, driving on a suspended license, providing false identification to police, and multiple counts of attempting to elude law enforcement.
Court records show Shields was initially held without bond. A bail review hearing was held April 20, 2026, before Judge Karen Christy Holt Chesser in St. Mary’s District Court.
Under Maryland law, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. Firearm use in connection with a felony or drug trafficking offense carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years, while handgun violations can carry additional penalties of up to five years.
A preliminary hearing is set for May 14, 2026, in St. Mary’s District Court.
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