Patrol deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) responded to a motor vehicle theft report on the 21000 block of South Essex Drive in Lexington Park, Maryland, at approximately 10:44 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
The incident began when the victim, who had briefly left her vehicle running and locked while entering a business, returned to find two individuals attempting to break into her car. Upon providing descriptions of the suspects to law enforcement, the SMCSO launched an extensive search with the help of deputies from various divisions.
One of the suspects, later identified as Jaden Xzavier Mason, 19, with no fixed address, was located in a nearby residential area. After a brief foot chase, Mason was apprehended by officers. A search of Mason revealed the possession of suspected crack cocaine and a fixed-blade weapon.
Mason now faces several charges, including attempted theft of property valued between $1,500 and $25,000, possession of burglar’s tools with intent to commit a crime, possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) not classified as cannabis, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Following his arrest, Mason was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, where he awaits a bond hearing.
The SMCSO is continuing its investigation as they work to locate a second suspect. The second individual, described as a young Black male wearing a white T-shirt and jeans, remains at large. A photo of the second suspect has been circulated to the public as part of the search effort.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or the whereabouts of the second suspect to come forward. Deputy Joseph Senatore is the lead contact for the case and can be reached at 301-475-4200, ext. 8163, or via email at Joseph.Senatore@stmarycountymd.gov.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues to emphasize the importance of locking vehicles and ensuring they are not left running, even for short periods, to reduce the risk of theft in the area.
