LEONARDTOWN, MD — In a recent incident on April 11, 2024, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a vehicle obstructing traffic in the 24000 block of Point Lookout Road in Leonardtown, Maryland. Deputies discovered the driver asleep in the running vehicle, leading to an arrest for impaired driving and drug possession.
Upon arrival, deputies encountered Jeffrey Neil Shade, a 39-year-old resident of Hollywood, MD, who was the sole occupant and operator of the vehicle. Shade exhibited clear signs of impairment, prompting the deputies to administer standardized field sobriety tests. The tests were not completed to satisfactory standards, and Shade was subsequently arrested for driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance.
Further investigation at the scene led to the discovery of crack cocaine concealed on Shade’s person. He was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance, specifically crack cocaine, and the charge does not relate to cannabis possession.
Following the arrest, Shade was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, where he awaited a bond hearing to determine further legal proceedings.
This incident highlights ongoing issues related to drug-impaired driving and the efforts of local law enforcement to address such challenges in the community. It serves as a reminder of the legal and safety implications of operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs.
