Southern Maryland authorities arrested a 64-year-old Lothian man on August 29, 2025, following a search that uncovered illegal firearms, ammunition, and drugs in his home. The operation, conducted by Anne Arundel County Police’s Southern District Detectives, Quick Response Team, and K-9 unit, targeted a residence in the quiet, rural community of Lothian, located just north of Calvert County. The raid, executed at approximately 7:30 a.m., stemmed from an ongoing drug investigation and resulted in the seizure of multiple weapons, including a stolen pistol, and a small amount of crack cocaine, highlighting law enforcement’s efforts to curb illegal activity in Southern Maryland’s close-knit communities.
The suspect, identified as Daniel Lee Riggs Sr., was found in the basement of the residence as officers served the search warrant. The search yielded a Remington Sportsman 12-gauge shotgun, a .22 caliber Savage bolt-action rifle, a .380 caliber Smith and Wesson semi-automatic pistol reported stolen, a black powder pistol, .380 and .22 caliber ammunition, a small quantity of crack cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Riggs, who is legally prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition, was arrested at the scene and now faces multiple charges related to weapons violations and controlled dangerous substances (CDS). The case remains under investigation, with no injuries reported during the operation
Lothian, a small, unincorporated community in Anne Arundel County, sits at the northern edge of Southern Maryland, where rural landscapes and historic charm define the region. The presence of a stolen firearm among the seized items has heightened the case’s severity, as stolen weapons often fuel broader criminal activity, a priority for Southern Maryland law enforcement aiming to maintain the region’s low crime rates.
The operation reflects the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s proactive approach to addressing drug and weapons violations, particularly in areas like Lothian, where community policing is key. The Southern District, covering southern Anne Arundel County, works closely with units like the Quick Response Team and K-9 officers to execute high-stakes operations. The use of a search warrant in this case underscores the department’s reliance on intelligence-driven policing, a strategy that has proven effective in Southern Maryland, where agencies collaborate across St. Mary’s, Charles, and Calvert counties to tackle drug trafficking and illegal firearms.
For residents of Lothian and nearby communities like Deale and Churchton, the arrest serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by controlled dangerous substances and illegal weapons, even in rural areas. Crack cocaine, a highly addictive substance, has been a focus of law enforcement efforts in Maryland due to its impact on communities. The seizure of drug paraphernalia alongside a small amount of the drug suggests personal use or small-scale distribution, though authorities have not disclosed further details pending the ongoing investigation. The discovery of a stolen .380 caliber pistol adds a layer of concern, as stolen firearms are often linked to violent crime, a rare but serious issue in Southern Maryland’s peaceful towns.
The charges against Riggs, who was barred from possessing firearms due to prior legal restrictions, highlight the importance of enforcing Maryland’s strict gun laws. Under state law, individuals with certain criminal convictions or restraining orders are prohibited from owning firearms, and violations carry significant penalties. The inclusion of a stolen weapon could lead to additional charges, potentially involving federal authorities, as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives often investigates cases involving stolen firearms.
As the investigation continues, Southern Maryland residents await further details on the case’s implications. The seizure of illegal firearms and drugs in Lothian reinforces the region’s commitment to community safety, with law enforcement working to keep rural areas secure. For now, the arrest of Daniel Lee Riggs Sr. stands as a significant step in addressing the intersection of drugs and weapons in Southern Maryland, ensuring that communities like Lothian remain places where families can thrive.
