A Leonardtown man was convicted of second-degree assault and unlawful taking of a motor vehicle following a domestic violence incident at a car wash in California.
Shawn Michael Clarke, 43, was found guilty by a St. Mary’s County jury after a two-day trial. The conviction stems from events on October 26, 2025, when deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported domestic assault in progress inside a vehicle at the car wash.
The victim told deputies she escaped by jumping out of the moving vehicle. Her attacker then fled the scene in her car. Deputies observed multiple marks and abrasions on the victim.
State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling highlighted the severity of the crime.
“The victim was forced to jump out of a moving car to escape the defendant’s relentless attacks,” Sterling said. “No person should have to risk their life to survive an act of domestic violence. Thanks to the courage of the victim, the defendant now faces serious consequences for his actions.”
Clarke will remain held without bond pending a sentencing hearing, where he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Donna Pettersen, Chief of the Domestic Violence Unit, prosecuted the case. Deputy Nathaniel Morrison of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator. The Honorable Amy Lorenzini presided over the case.
Domestic violence remains a significant concern in St. Mary’s County, where the sheriff’s office and State’s Attorney’s Office work closely to support victims and hold offenders accountable. The county offers resources for those experiencing domestic violence, including emergency shelter, counseling and legal assistance through local partnerships.
The conviction underscores ongoing efforts to address domestic violence in Southern Maryland communities. Leonardtown, the county seat, and nearby California are home to many families who rely on strong law enforcement response and victim support services. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues to prioritize these cases as part of broader public safety initiatives across Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties.
The case highlights the importance of immediate reporting and victim cooperation in domestic violence investigations. Local authorities encourage anyone experiencing or witnessing domestic violence to call 911 or contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the sheriff’s tip line or app
