LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office arrested Donell Davonne Rothwell, 54, with no fixed address, on April 5, 2025, in connection with a series of vehicle break-ins reported in the California and Lexington Park areas. The arrest followed an investigation into multiple thefts from unattended vehicles, which had prompted concerns among local residents.
The Sheriff’s Office launched its investigation after receiving reports of stolen credit cards and valuables from vehicles in the two communities. Deputies canvassed local businesses and residential neighborhoods, gathering evidence that linked Rothwell to the crimes. Authorities say the stolen credit cards were used to make purchases at nearby stores, providing a trail that led to the suspect.
Rothwell was apprehended Saturday afternoon and now faces a slew of charges. These include four counts of rogue and vagabond, four counts of theft under $100, three counts of theft between $100 and $1,500, four counts of credit card theft involving another’s card, four counts of credit card theft for charges under $100, four counts of credit card theft for charges between $100 and $1,500, and one count of malicious destruction of property valued under $1,000. Additionally, Rothwell had an outstanding warrant from the Maryland State Police for failing to appear in District Court on unrelated traffic charges.
Following his arrest, Rothwell was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown, where he remains in custody. The investigation is ongoing, and officials indicate that additional charges may be filed as more evidence is reviewed.
The Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about these incidents to come forward. Deputy First Class Alexander Wynnyk is leading the case and can be reached at 301-475-4200, ext. 8020, or via email at Alexander.Wynnyk@stmaryscountymd.gov. For those preferring anonymity, tips can be submitted to Crime Solvers 24/7 at 301-475-3333 or by texting “Tip239” to 274637. Tipsters must follow up after receiving a response to continue the conversation and may qualify for a cash reward if their information leads to further arrests.
