Traffic Stop Surprise: Loaded AR-Style Pistol Recovered In Dunkirk

DUNKIRK, Md. — A Dunkirk man is facing multiple handgun-related charges after a late-night traffic stop in Calvert County led to the recovery of a loaded AR-style pistol.

Jesse James Herberson, 34, of Dunkirk, was charged with four misdemeanor firearm offenses stemming from a Feb. 27, 2026 traffic stop in the area of Brickhouse Road and Chaney Road in Dunkirk.

At approximately 9:43 p.m., a Calvert County deputy stopped a silver Toyota Corolla after observing the vehicle fail to use a turn signal while turning right and displaying expired 2025 registration plates. When the deputy made contact with the driver, identified as Herberson, he was asked whether there were any weapons or firearms inside the vehicle. Charging documents state Herberson gave inconsistent responses and appeared unsure in his answers regarding the presence of firearms.

The deputy then asked Herberson to exit the vehicle and conducted a pat-down for weapons. During the frisk, Herberson disclosed that he had two large knives in his pockets.

As the front seat passenger exited the vehicle, another deputy observed what appeared to be the barrel and handguard of a rifle in plain view behind the driver’s seat. The barrel was pointed outward toward the driver’s side window.

Deputies recovered a Mossberg International 715T .22 caliber AR-style pistol. The firearm was loaded with one round in the chamber and 11 rounds in the magazine. Authorities noted the stock and buffer tube had been removed, configuring the weapon as an AR-style pistol.

A check through the Maryland Automated Firearms Services System showed no regulated firearms listed to Herberson and no registration on file for the recovered weapon. The firearm was seized and entered into evidence.

He was released on his own recognizance following a bail review on Feb. 28, 2026.

A hearing is set for April 8, 2026 in Calvert District Court.

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