LEONARDTOWN, Md. – At approximately 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, officials in the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center (SMCDRC) were alerted that Jordan Poetzman, 29, of Leonardtown, removed his GPS monitoring device while attending court authorized inpatient treatment at a facility in California, MD.
Captain Richard Russell, Special Operations Commander for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, was off duty and returning from jury duty service when he heard the notification broadcast. He spotted the suspect while en route back to the office and, after a brief foot chase, successfully apprehended Poetzman at approximately 11:51 a.m.
“As law enforcement officers, we are committed to our civic duties both on and off duty,” said Sheriff Steve Hall. “Captain Russell’s actions exemplify our dedication to keeping our community safe, whether serving in court or responding to a call. His quick thinking and response highlight the importance of being vigilant and ready to act at all times.”
Poetzman is incarcerated at the SMCDRC while facing neglect of a minor, controlled dangerous substance possession charges, and traffic violation charges following a June 2024 arrest.
Deputies from the Patrol Division responded to the scene, and Poetzman was transported back to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center to face escape charges.
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