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Underage Firearm Possession Leads To Arrest In St. Mary’s County


Underage Firearm Possession Leads To Arrest In St. Mary's County

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – On July 9, 2024, Zemar D. Batts, a 19-year-old resident of Lexington Park, Maryland, was arrested by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office for illegal possession of a firearm. The arrest followed a search and seizure warrant executed at his residence at 21380 Dayflower Place.

During the search, detectives discovered a 9mm Kel-Tec PF9 handgun in a bedroom identified by the homeowner as belonging to Zemar Batts. Batts waived his Miranda rights and confirmed during the interview that the handgun was his. Given his birthdate of June 2, 2005, Batts is under the legal age of 21, making it illegal for him to possess regulated firearms in Maryland. The Kel-Tec PF9 is classified as a regulated firearm in the state.

As a result, Zemar D. Batts was charged with possession of a firearm by a person under 21. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of $10,000. The statement of probable cause was filed by the investigating officer. Batts was arrested and processed, with his identity confirmed through official records. The case will proceed through the Saint Mary’s County District Court.

In a related case, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office filed a separate complaint for the forfeiture of a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander LT. This vehicle was linked to another individual involved in an ongoing investigation related to drug distribution activities. This complaint follows a traffic stop on May 16, 2024, where drugs and paraphernalia were found in the vehicle, leading to the current forfeiture proceedings.

Zemar D. Batts’ arrest underscores the enforcement of firearm regulations for individuals under 21. The investigation and subsequent legal proceedings highlight ongoing efforts by St. Mary’s County law enforcement to address illegal firearm possession. Further court actions will determine the outcomes for Batts.

Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com 



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