LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – Law enforcement efforts in St. Mary’s County culminated in significant firearms-related arrests on November 21, 2024. Two separate investigations targeting illegal possession and distribution of firearms led to the apprehension of Bruce Bernard Franks Jr. of Dameron and Keith O’Bryan Holland of Park Hall. Authorities have connected these individuals to a broader crackdown on disqualified individuals unlawfully possessing weapons.
Bruce Bernard Franks Jr.: Firearms and Ammunition Cache
The investigation into Bruce Bernard Franks Jr., 32, began in January 2024 when the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division received intelligence linking him to the illegal distribution, transfer, and sale of firearms. Using this information, officers, with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), executed a federal search warrant at Franks’ residence on Three Notch Road in Dameron.
Inside the home, officers discovered a loaded AK-47 semi-automatic rifle in plain view in Franks’ bedroom, along with an unloaded revolver, a 12-gauge shotgun, and an array of ammunition. A search of Franks’ truck parked in the driveway revealed an unloaded, short-barreled AR-15-style rifle. Investigators also found spent ammunition scattered on the property, indicating recent firearm use.
During questioning, Franks admitted to possessing and altering the AR-15 to have an illegal barrel length of less than 16 inches. He also acknowledged firing the weapon on the property. Criminal records show Franks was previously convicted of regulated firearm possession in July 2021 and robbery in July 2023, barring him from legally owning any firearms or ammunition. He now faces multiple charges, including possession of an unregistered rifle and illegal ammunition possession.
Keith O’Bryan Holland: Juvenile Offender with Deadly Weapons
On the same day, detectives and ATF agents executed another federal search warrant at the Park Hall residence of Keith O’Bryan Holland, 20. Inside, officers recovered a Kel-Tec Sub 2000 pistol-caliber carbine and a Norinco 1911 .45 caliber handgun.
Holland, adjudicated delinquent as a juvenile for armed robbery—a disqualifying felony—was prohibited from possessing firearms under Maryland law. Officers noted that both firearms were readily accessible in the residence. Holland now faces charges for possession of a firearm by a minor, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, and illegal ammunition possession.
Legal Consequences and Case Status
Both Bruce Bernard Franks Jr. and Keith O’Bryan Holland face significant legal consequences stemming from the firearms violations.
Franks, a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. His charges include Illegal Possession of Ammunition (up to 1 year in prison and/or a $1,000 fine), Unregistered Rifle/Shotgun Possession (up to 5 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine), Firearm Possession by a Felon (up to 15 years in prison), Rifle/Shotgun Possession by Disqualified Person (up to 3 years in prison and/or a $1,000 fine), and Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm (up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine).
Holland, at just 20 years old, is similarly prohibited from owning firearms due to a prior juvenile conviction for armed robbery. He faces charges of Possession of Firearm by a Minor (up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine), Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm (up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine), and Illegal Possession of Ammunition (up to 1 year in prison and/or a $1,000 fine).
Both suspects remain in custody at the time of reporting, and initial hearings are scheduled within the coming weeks. The charges against them underscore Maryland’s strict regulations surrounding firearm ownership and the consequences for violating those laws.
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Great job SMCSO & ATF.