Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, working in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, executed search warrants in Great Mills on Wednesday, February 26. The operation targeted a residence and multiple vehicles, resulting in the seizure of illegal drugs, cash, and a firearm.
Authorities conducted a search at a home located in the 22000 block of Baja Lane. During the search, law enforcement officers recovered $1,638 in cash along with drug paraphernalia. A further investigation led deputies to search several vehicles associated with the case, where they uncovered several tied-off bags containing suspected narcotics. Initial testing identified the substances as approximately 45 grams of suspected cocaine and 82 grams of suspected fentanyl. Officers also recovered a loaded Polymer 80 9mm handgun, which was unserialized, making it an untraceable firearm commonly referred to as a “ghost gun.”
Following the execution of the search warrants, deputies arrested 28-year-old Daiquan Malik Barnett of Great Mills. Investigators charged him with multiple drug and firearm offenses, including possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, possession of a firearm in the commission of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of an unserialized firearm. He also faces charges for possession of a firearm after a prior felony conviction, possession of a regulated firearm after being convicted of a disqualifying crime, and possession of a firearm in relation to a felony drug offense.
In addition to the drug-related charges, Barnett was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance in an amount of 28 grams, a felony offense under Maryland law. Law enforcement officials confirmed that he also faces multiple ammunition-related charges related to the firearm discovered during the search.
Barnett remains in custody at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown while awaiting a bond hearing. The outcome of that hearing will determine whether he will be eligible for pretrial release or if he will remain incarcerated as the case proceeds through the legal system.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full extent of the alleged drug distribution operation. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests or charges as they continue to gather evidence. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with further information regarding this case to come forward. Individuals with knowledge of the situation can contact Lieutenant Brian Fennessey at 301-475-4200, extension 8063, or by email at Brian.Fennessey@stmaryscountymd.gov.
Authorities have emphasized the growing concern over fentanyl distribution in St. Mary’s County and surrounding areas. Law enforcement agencies continue to prioritize efforts to combat the spread of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid responsible for a significant number of fatal overdoses nationwide. Officials warn that even small amounts of fentanyl can be deadly, particularly when mixed with other drugs such as cocaine.
This case marks the latest in an ongoing effort to disrupt illegal drug trafficking in St. Mary’s County. Local and federal law enforcement agencies have intensified their operations to address rising concerns over narcotics distribution and illegal firearm possession. Officials are reminding residents to report any suspicious activity that may be related to drug activity or firearms offenses.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with federal and state partners to target drug trafficking networks and reduce violent crime in the community. Officials have stated that removing illegal firearms and dangerous narcotics from circulation remains a top priority. Community members are encouraged to stay informed about law enforcement efforts and to take advantage of local resources aimed at preventing drug abuse and addiction.
