Charles County Sheriff’s Office officers arrested James Calvin Smith, 51, of Waldorf, on December 20, 2025, following an incident where he allegedly struck a male pedestrian with an SUV. The event occurred at approximately 2:59 a.m. on December 18 in the 2600 block of Rooks Head Place, a residential area in Waldorf. Officers found the victim lying in a parking lot with multiple injuries and arranged for his transport by helicopter to a hospital, where he remained in serious condition.
A preliminary investigation determined that the victim had been arguing with Smith before Smith entered the vehicle, drove toward him, and intentionally hit him. Smith left the scene before law enforcement arrived. Investigators later identified Smith and secured an arrest warrant, leading to his apprehension two days later. Smith faces charges of aggravated assault and traffic violations. A judge ordered him held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center in La Plata.
Under Maryland law, aggravated assault falls under first-degree assault, a felony outlined in Criminal Law Article 3-202. This statute prohibits intentionally causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury to another, or committing assault with a firearm. Serious physical injury includes conditions that create a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, or loss of bodily function. When a vehicle is used as a weapon, it can qualify as a deadly weapon, elevating the charge.
Penalties for first-degree assault can reach up to 25 years in prison. Traffic violations likely include charges such as reckless driving or leaving the scene of an accident involving injury, under Transportation Article 20-102, which mandates stopping and providing aid. Failure to do so can result in up to five years imprisonment and fines up to $5,000 if serious injury occurs.
The victim’s identity and current condition remain undisclosed in official releases, respecting privacy under Health-General Article 4-301.