MORGANZA, MD – On December 20, 2024, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office officially welcomed four new deputies following their successful completion of the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy (SMCJA) Police Entrance Level Training Program. The ceremony for Session 54 was held at Chopticon High School, where 17 candidates from Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties were honored for their achievements.
Graduation Ceremony Highlights
The event began with Class Coordinator Cpl. Matthew Nauman of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office announcing the entry of the graduating class. Bobby Jones, SMCJA Director from Calvert County, welcomed graduates, their families, and guests. The ceremony also featured a presentation of colors by Honor Guard teams from all three counties and a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Ms. Danielle Baker of Chopticon High School. Chaplain Gwendoline Bankins of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office delivered the invocation and benediction.
Recognizing Excellence
During the ceremony, SMCJA instructors presented awards to graduates who excelled in various aspects of the program:
- Scholastic/Academic Award: Officer Andrea Prichard, Charles County (99.52% GPA)
- Physical Training Award: Officer Andrea Prichard, Charles County (1,311 points out of 1,600)
- EVOC (Emergency Vehicle Operations Course) Award: Deputy Thomas Dewey, St. Mary’s County
- Firearms Award: Officer Jeremy Steeber, Charles County (99.25% accuracy and 100% on the written test)
- Steve Allen Award: Deputy Nicholas Morgal, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office
Welcoming Calvert County Deputies
Sheriff Ricky Cox expressed his pride in welcoming the four new deputies who will serve Calvert County:
- Jake Angell
- Christopher Blackistone
- Nicholas Morgal
- Nathan Robey
The new deputies join a total of 17 graduates from Session 54, including six candidates from Charles County and seven from St. Mary’s County.
List of Graduates
- Calvert County: Jake Angell, Christopher Blackistone, Nicholas Morgal, and Nathan Robey
- Charles County: Bryce Duehring, Jackson Ferguson, Chloe Hart, Arthur Masoero, Nicholas Oliver, and Andrea Prichard
- St. Mary’s County: Matthew Camp, Thomas Dewey, Ian Flaherty, Jason Ogas, Alex Sams, Cody Stamp, and Jeremy Steeber
A Commitment to Serve
Sheriff Cox commended the dedication of the graduates and emphasized their role in ensuring safety and justice within their communities. The training program at SMCJA is rigorous, preparing law enforcement professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to serve effectively.
Honoring the Achievements
The evening was a celebration of hard work, discipline, and commitment to public service. Sheriff Cox and the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office look forward to the contributions these new deputies will bring to their community.
