LEONARDTOWN, Md. — A 50-year-old man from Lexington Park, Jerome Damon Estep, was sentenced to 40 years in prison, with all but 10 years suspended, for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced February 9, 2026.
The sentence stems from a traffic stop on February 22, 2025, when Corporal Travis Wimberly of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a vehicle and discovered several baggies containing suspected crack cocaine. Laboratory testing later confirmed the substance as approximately 23 grams of cocaine.
Estep’s case highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to target drug distribution in the community. Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Ridge, who leads the Narcotics Unit, prosecuted the matter on behalf of St. Mary’s County residents. Circuit Court Judge Joseph Stanalonis presided over the proceedings.
State’s Attorney Sterling emphasized the broader mission behind the prosecution. “My office remains steadfast in our commitment to removing drugs from our streets and holding distributors accountable,” she stated.
The investigation centered on Corporal Wimberly as the lead officer from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest occurred during a routine traffic enforcement action that escalated upon the discovery of the narcotics packaged in a manner consistent with intent to distribute rather than personal use.
This sentencing reflects St. Mary’s County’s continued focus on combating cocaine and other illegal drugs amid regional concerns over substance abuse and related crime. The 10 years of active incarceration, combined with the suspended portion, underscores the severity of the offense under Maryland law for possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance. Authorities have not released additional details on potential supervised release conditions or fines following the active term.
The case draws attention to the role of traffic stops in uncovering larger drug activities and the collaborative work between law enforcement and prosecutors in building cases that result in significant penalties. No appeals or further court dates were mentioned in the announcement.
This development comes as St. Mary’s County officials maintain aggressive enforcement against drug traffickers to protect public safety in areas including Lexington Park, a community that has seen repeated drug-related arrests and prosecutions in recent years. The emphasis on accountability aims to deter similar offenses and reduce the flow of narcotics into local neighborhoods.