WALDORF, Md. — Charles County Sheriff’s Office patrol officers arrested Kent Leroy Smith Jr., 34, on July 4, 2025, following a domestic-related incident in the 9400 block of Super Street. Smith, who had three active warrants, including one for first-degree assault, faces charges of aggravated assault, assault, firearm violations, burglary, theft, and other related offenses after a pursuit and confrontation with police.
At 7:19 a.m., officers responded to a residence after a female caller reported hiding from Smith, who had threatened her. Dispatchers identified Smith and relayed his outstanding warrants. Upon officers’ arrival, Smith fled in a vehicle, ignoring attempts to initiate a traffic stop. He accelerated toward a dead-end street, crashing into a creek. Smith then abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot through a neighborhood. Officers recovered a loaded handgun from the car, which Smith, a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing.
A witness later reported seeing Smith in a backyard, leading officers to his location. During the arrest attempt, Smith resisted and struck two officers, causing all three to fall to the ground. Officers subdued Smith, who sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital before being taken to the Charles County Detention Center. The officers also received treatment for minor injuries.
Further investigation revealed that while evading police, Smith attempted to break into two nearby homes and stole an electric bicycle, which was recovered. In addition to new charges, Smith was served with four outstanding warrants related to a prior felony assault case and probation violations for felony assault, firearm use during a crime of violence, and burglary. He is currently held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
First-degree assault in Maryland, one of Smith’s prior charges, involves causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury and carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison. Burglary charges, depending on the degree, can result in up to seven years for first-degree offenses involving a dwelling. Firearm violations, particularly for felons, add significant penalties, with mandatory minimums under Maryland law. Smith’s probation violations may further complicate his legal situation, potentially leading to additional time for prior convictions.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report suspicious activity promptly, as demonstrated by the witness tip that aided Smith’s apprehension. The sheriff’s office operates a non-emergency line and partners with Charles County Crime Solvers, offering up to $1,000 for information leading to arrests or indictments. Tips can be submitted anonymously via 1-866-411-TIPS or online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com.
The ongoing investigation will explore the full scope of Smith’s actions, including the domestic incident and attempted burglaries. Authorities have not released additional details about the female caller or the specific nature of the threats, citing the active case
