CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. — A Calvert County traffic stop quickly spiraled into a chaotic scene, leading to the arrest of a Chesapeake Beach woman on multiple charges, including drug possession, resisting arrest, and public intoxication.
The incident unfolded on the night of March 8, 2025 when a patrol deputy with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a blue 2004 Honda Accord for a traffic violation near the Fastop in Chesapeake Beach. The vehicle, which had only one functioning brake light, continued for another 500 feet before finally coming to a stop at the intersection of 26th St. and D St.
According to an official statement, the driver was identified and the passenger provided the name Margaret Hale. While speaking with both occupants, the deputy observed that they appeared visibly nervous, exhibiting slight shaking. During a routine record check, discrepancies arose between Hale’s provided identity and photos on law enforcement databases, increasing suspicions that she was attempting to conceal something.
The situation escalated when the deputy noticed Hale, 30, of Chesapeake Beach, repeatedly looking back at him while reaching toward the vehicle’s floorboard. Concerned that she might be attempting to hide contraband or access a weapon, the deputy quickly approached the passenger side and requested that Hale exit the vehicle. Initially compliant, she suddenly attempted to flee on foot but was subdued after a brief struggle. As the deputy attempted to handcuff her, Hale resisted, yelling and twisting her body in the street while onlookers from nearby homes watched. The deputy warned Hale that if she did not comply, a Taser would be deployed. Only at that point did she lower her level of resistance, allowing for her arrest.
Following her detainment, the deputy detected a strong odor of alcohol on Hale’s breath, which became more pronounced as she continued speaking. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a clear plastic baggie with white powder residue on the floorboard between Hale’s purse and the center console. Upon further inspection, deputies found additional drug paraphernalia inside her purse, including a metal spoon with white powder residue, a glass pipe with burnt copper, a brown paper fold containing suspected cocaine residue, and a small metal container holding suspected cocaine. The deputy, citing training and experience with controlled dangerous substances, determined the items were consistent with narcotics use.
Hale was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital for medical evaluation after complaining of shoulder and stomach pain. Medical staff conducted X-rays and additional tests, but no serious injuries were found. At one point, Hale claimed to be experiencing a seizure, but hospital staff determined she was not in medical distress. After her release from the hospital, she was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and formally charged.
Hale faces multiple misdemeanor charges, including possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, failure to obey a lawful order, disorderly conduct and public intoxication. Under Maryland law, these charges carry potential penalties ranging from 60 days to three years in jail and fines up to $5,000.
Hale was released on her own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court on June 5. The case remains open.
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