At around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, an inmate from the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center (SMCDRC) managed to remove his GPS monitoring device and attempt an escape while attending a court-authorized inpatient treatment session in California, Maryland. The inmate, identified as 29-year-old Jordan Poetzman of Leonardtown, was quickly apprehended after a short pursuit.
The incident unfolded when Captain Richard Russell, the Special Operations Commander for the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, who was off-duty and returning from jury duty, received the alert of Poetzman’s escape. Russell spotted Poetzman en route to his office and engaged in a brief foot chase, capturing the suspect by 11:51 a.m., merely 21 minutes after the escape was reported.
Sheriff Steve Hall praised Captain Russell’s quick actions, stating, “As law enforcement officers, we are committed to our civic duties both on and off duty. 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.”
Jordan Poetzman, who is currently facing charges of neglect of a minor, possession of controlled dangerous substances, and traffic violations stemming from an arrest in June 2024, was taken into custody without further incident. Following this event, he is also facing charges related to his escape attempt.
Responding deputies from the Patrol Division assisted in securing the scene and safely transporting Poetzman back to the detention facility. The prompt and effective response by law enforcement officials prevented any further complications or threats to public safety.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape attempt and will review procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
