LEONARDTOWN, MD (June 10, 2024) – A routine traffic stop late Sunday night led to the arrest of a Bowie man with outstanding felony warrants and the discovery of a loaded handgun and suspected Ecstasy/MDMA tablets.
Deputy Bradley Kirscht of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office conducted the stop at approximately 11:18 p.m. on June 9 on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, MD. The vehicle had been observed traveling above the posted speed limit. During the stop, Deputy Kirscht verified the identities of the vehicle’s operator and the front-seat passenger.
The passenger, identified as 23-year-old Vincent Lavey Harrington of Bowie, MD, was found to have felony warrants from both St. Mary’s County and Charles County. Upon further investigation, a search of Harrington revealed a bag containing suspected Ecstasy/MDMA tablets and a loaded handgun.
Harrington was promptly arrested and faced multiple charges. These include Illegal Possession of a Firearm after being convicted of a crime of violence, Illegal Possession of Ammunition, Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm, and CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis. Additional related charges were also filed.
Following his arrest, Harrington was served with the active arrest warrant from St. Mary’s County. He was then transported to the Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, MD, where he remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
The arrest underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address and curb illegal activities in the region. The presence of a loaded firearm and controlled substances during a routine traffic stop highlights the unpredictable nature of law enforcement work and the necessity for vigilance and thoroughness.
Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement to enhance public safety. Tips and information can often lead to significant arrests and the prevention of crimes.
As the investigation continues, authorities will review the circumstances surrounding Harrington’s possession of the firearm and controlled substances. They will also coordinate with judicial authorities in both St. Mary’s and Charles Counties regarding the pending felony warrants.
