Talbot County Sheriff's Office

05/28/2026

Mid and Upper Shore Sheriffs Join Lawsuit Challenging Community Trust Act

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Seventeen Maryland Sheriffs, joined by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), announced today the filing of a federal lawsuit challenging Maryland’s newly enacted “Community Trust Act,” arguing the law undermines public safety and restricts cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

The lawsuit, filed against Governor Wes Moore, Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, and the State of Maryland, contends the law interferes with the ability of sheriffs and local detention centers to coordinate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding individuals in custody who may pose threats to public safety.

The sheriffs involved represent jurisdictions across Maryland, including Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

The lawsuit argues that under the Community Trust Act, local correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies are prohibited or severely limited from detaining individuals for ICE beyond their scheduled release except in narrowly defined circumstances involving certain felony convictions or prison sentences. According to the complaint, these restrictions may result in individuals who pose legitimate public safety concerns being released back into Maryland communities because they do not meet the law’s limited criteria for continued detention.

The sheriffs further contend the law places local law enforcement officers in an untenable position by restricting cooperation with federal authorities while still expecting sheriffs to uphold both state and federal law. The complaint also argues that immigration enforcement falls under federal jurisdiction and that state laws obstructing that authority violate the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution, potentially exposing local law enforcement agencies to federal legal liability.

During a conference call last Friday, Sheriff Gamble asked Governor Moore whether he was aware of the unintended public safety consequences this legislation could have on our communities. Governor Moore acknowledged that he and his staff were aware of those potential consequences and expressed a willingness to work with the legislature to address provisions of the bill that he did not support. However, rather than vetoing the bill and collaborating with lawmakers and law enforcement during the next legislative session to resolve those concerns, he allowed legislation to become law immediately.

The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief to prevent enforcement of provisions within the Community Trust Act that the sheriffs believe unlawfully interfere with law enforcement operations and compromise community safety throughout Maryland. The sheriffs argue the law creates significant barriers to communication and coordination between local, state, and federal agencies, undermining long-standing public safety partnerships that help identify and remove dangerous offenders from local communities.

Through this legal action, the sheriffs are asking the court to ensure law enforcement agencies can continue working collaboratively with federal partners to protect Maryland residents and maintain public safety statewide.

05/27/2026

Mid and Upper Shore Sheriffs Join Lawsuit Challenging Community Trust Act
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Seventeen Maryland Sheriffs, joined by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), announced today the filing of a federal lawsuit challenging Maryland’s newly enacted “Community Trust Act,” arguing the law undermines public safety and restricts cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
The lawsuit, filed against Governor Wes Moore, Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, and the State of Maryland, contends the law interferes with the ability of sheriffs and local detention centers to coordinate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding individuals in custody who may pose threats to public safety.
The sheriffs involved represent jurisdictions across Maryland, including Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.
The lawsuit argues that under the Community Trust Act, local correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies are prohibited or severely limited from detaining individuals for ICE beyond their scheduled release except in narrowly defined circumstances involving certain felony convictions or prison sentences. According to the complaint, these restrictions may result in individuals who pose legitimate public safety concerns being released back into Maryland communities because they do not meet the law’s limited criteria for continued detention.
The sheriffs further contend the law places local law enforcement officers in an untenable position by restricting cooperation with federal authorities while still expecting sheriffs to uphold both state and federal law. The complaint also argues that immigration enforcement falls under federal jurisdiction and that state laws obstructing that authority violate the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution, potentially exposing local law enforcement agencies to federal legal liability.
During a conference call last Friday, Sheriff Gamble asked Governor Moore whether he was aware of the unintended public safety consequences this legislation could have on our communities. Governor Moore acknowledged that he and his staff were aware of those potential consequences and expressed a willingness to work with the legislature to address provisions of the bill that he did not support. However, rather than vetoing the bill and collaborating with lawmakers and law enforcement during the next legislative session to resolve those concerns, he allowed the legislation to become law immediately.
The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief to prevent enforcement of provisions within the Community Trust Act that the sheriffs believe unlawfully interfere with law enforcement operations and compromise community safety throughout Maryland. The sheriffs argue the law creates significant barriers to communication and coordination between local, state, and federal agencies, undermining long-standing public safety partnerships that help identify and remove dangerous offenders from local communities.
Through this legal action, the sheriffs are asking the court to ensure law enforcement agencies can continue working collaboratively with federal partners to protect Maryland residents and maintain public safety statewide.

05/26/2026

Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents About Vehicle Break-Ins

The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents to remain vigilant following several recent vehicle break-ins reported throughout the area.

Many of these incidents involve unlocked vehicles or valuables left in plain sight. Deputies are encouraging everyone to take simple precautions to help reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Residents are reminded to:

-Always lock vehicle doors, even when parked at home
-Remove valuables such as wallets, purses, fi****ms, electronics, keys, and cash from vehicles
-Do not leave packages or bags visible inside vehicles
-Park in well-lit areas whenever possible
-Report suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement

Criminals often target vehicles looking for easy opportunities. Taking a few extra moments to secure your vehicle and remove valuables can greatly reduce the likelihood of theft.

The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office asks residents to remain alert and work together to help keep our communities safe. Anyone with information regarding suspicious activity or recent vehicle break-ins is encouraged to contact the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office.

“Lock It, Hide It, Keep It Safe.”

The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office thanks the community for its continued cooperation and support.

05/19/2026

** ALL SUSPECTS ARE INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW**

Warrant Arrest: On May 8, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office arrested Joseph Henry Bridge, 45 of Easton, MD. On April 29, 2026, the District Court for Talbot County issued an arrest warrant charging Bridge with possession of a controlled substance, paraphernalia, illegal possession of ammunition and common nuisance. Bridge was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Bridge was held pending further action by the courts.

Warrant Arrest: On May 9, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office arrested Steven John Burrell, 60 of St. Michaels, MD. On May 8, 2026, the District Court for Talbot County issued an arrest warrant charging Burrell with threat of arson and intoxicated endanger. Burrell was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Burrell was released on his personal recognizance.

Vehicle Theft: On May 9, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office observed a motor vehicle parked on Mary’s Court that was reported stolen from Montgomery, Texas. Deputies observed Sir Branson Miller-Reed, 29 of Cambridge, MD enter the vehicle and attempt to drive away. Miller-Reed was arrested and charged with motor vehicle theft and theft. Miller-Reed was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Miller-Reed was held pending further action by the courts.

Theft Arrest: On May 12, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office stopped a motor vehicle on the Easton Bypass near Ocean Gateway for a registration violation. Deputies completed a records check and verified the registration plates were stolen out of Queen Anne's County. Deputies identified the driver as Jordan Philip Shoaf, 34 of Preston, MD. Shoaf was charged with theft, driving vehicle on highway w/o current registration and display registration plates to another vehicle. Shoaf was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Shoaf was ordered held pending further action by the courts.

Warrant Arrest: On May 13, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office arrested La'Taisha Omira Jackson, 20 of Cambridge, MD. An arrest warrant was issued by the District Court for Anne Arundel County charging Jackson with failing to appear for a scheduled court hearing on the original charge of driving while suspended. Jackson was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Jackson was held pending further action by the courts.

Warrant Arrest: On May 13, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office arrested Hansi James Ruiz-Tovar, 19 of Easton, MD. On May 6, 2026, the District Court for Talbot County issued an arrest warrant charging Ruiz-Tovar with failing to appear for a scheduled court hearing on the original charge of traffic offenses. Ruiz-Tovar was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Ruiz-Tovar was held pending further action by the courts.

05/19/2026

(Easton, MD) – The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division has arrested a Talbot County man on charges stemming from an August 2025 investigation involving physical abuse of his fourteen-month-old child.

Joseph H. Bridge Jr., 25 of Easton, Maryland, has been charged with First Degree Child Abuse, Second Degree Child Abuse, First Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, Reckless Endangerment, Child Neglect, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance-Not Cannabis, and Theft Under $100.

On August 5, 2025, the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division initiated an investigation involving the physical abuse of a fourteen-month-old child. Investigators learned Bridge Jr., who is the child’s biological father, had custody of the child from the morning of August 3, 2026 to the morning of August 5, 2026. Bridge Jr. met the child’s mother at a pediatrician’s office in Centreville, Maryland on the morning of August 5, 2025 for a pre-scheduled appointment. The child’s mother immediately observed concerning injuries on the child that were not present during the August 3rd custody exchange.

Upon entering the pediatrician’s office, the doctor noted the child’s injuries were suspicious and referred the mother to the University of Maryland Shore Emergency Center at Queenstown for further evaluation. Based on the serious nature of the child’s injuries, the child was transported to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Doctors at Johns Hopkins Hospital determined the child’s injuries were “suspected non-accidental trauma”.

In the ensuing months, investigators conducted dozens of interviews, reviewed electronic data and developed a timeline ultimately identifying Bridge Jr. as the person responsible for the child’s injuries.

In April 2026, investigators provided testimony to a Talbot County Grand Jury who returned an indictment for Bridge charging him with the above listed criminal violations. A Talbot County Circuit Court arrest warrant was issued for Bridge Jr. and he was arrested in Delaware by the United States Marshal’s Service warrant apprehension team on May 8, 2026. Bridge waived extradition and was brought to Maryland on May15, 2026 by members of the Criminal Investigations Division. He was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking Facility where he was held without bond. Bridge Jr. will have an initial appearance before a Talbot County Circuit Court judge in the near future.

The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division was assisted in this investigation by Talbot County Department of Social Services, Talbot County State’s Attorney’s Office, United States Marshal’s Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Sgt. S. Faggert at (410) 822‐1020 or email: [email protected].

The Sheriff’s Office can be contacted at 410-822-1020, by email at [email protected], on Facebook at Talbot County Sheriff’s Office or on our website at talbotsheriff.org.

05/12/2026

During National Police Week, we honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. On the walls of my office hang photographs of friends who gave their lives defending law and order — a daily reminder of their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to others.

I am deeply grateful for every deputy, police officer, and trooper who puts on the badge each day and stands watch to keep our communities safe.

As Jimmy Carter once said, “Courage is the quiet decision to stand between danger and the people you serve.”

Please keep all who serve — and the families who stand beside them — in your prayers.

National Police Week is May 10th-16th, 2026. In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week as National Police Week.

Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

We honor the officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

05/11/2026

Warrant Arrest: On May 1, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office arrested Donald Richard Allen Jr, 49 of Severn, MD. The Circuit Court for Talbot County issued an arrest warrant charging Allen with failure to comply with conditions of his release on the original charge of first-degree assault. Allen was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and was held pending an appearance before a Circuit Court Judge.

Warrant Arrest: On May 1, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office arrested Geovanni James Greaves, 20 of Easton, MD. On May 1, 2026, the District Court for Talbot County issued an arrest warrant charging Greaves with r**e, assault, false imprisonment, malicious destruction of property and reckless endangerment. Greaves was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and was ordered held without bond pending further action by the courts.

CDS Arrest: On May 4, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office stopped a motor vehicle on Tilghman Island Road near Macks Lane for an equipment violation. Deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle with the assistance of a Talbot County K-9 Unit. A passenger in the vehicle identified as James Andrew Dotson Jr, 33 of Tilghman, MD, was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. Dotson was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance and paraphernalia. Dotson was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Dotson was released on his personal recognizance.

CDS Arrest: On May 6, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office observed a motor vehicle on Dutchman’s Lane partially in the roadway with the emergency flashers activated. Deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle and located a controlled substance. The driver, Frelin Andony Ramerez-Cortez, 21, and front seat passenger, Herlin Misael Majia-Chacon 21 both of Easton, Maryland were placed under arrest. Ramerez-Cortez and Majia-Chacon were transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Both were held pending further action by the courts.

Warrant Arrest: On May 7, 2026, Deputies from the Talbot County Sheriff's Office arrested Francis William Lively, 66 of Easton, Maryland. On May 28, 2025 the District Court for Talbot County issued an arrest warrant charging Lively with failing to appear for a scheduled court hearing on the original charge of driving without a license. Lively was transported to the Talbot County Central Booking facility for processing and an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner. Lively was released on his personal recognizance.

05/09/2026

Attention families and youth anglers! NRP is excited to announce the date for our annual law enforcement and youth fishing rodeo at Shipshead Pond in Easton on Saturday, June 20. 🎣

Register for this free event with great fishing and law enforcement displays/demonstrations by contacting [email protected] or calling 410-822-6516.

05/06/2026

Happy Correctional Officers Week! The men and women of the Talbot County Sheriff's Office thank you for the tough work that you do everyday to help keep our community safe!

Happy Correctional Officers Week!

This isn’t about recognition. Not really.

Because the truth is, you do a job most people don’t understand… and honestly, don’t want to.

You walk into an environment every day where tension is normal, manipulation is constant, and one bad moment can change everything. You see things, hear things, and deal with people at their worst, then you go home and try to be your best for your family.

That’s the part nobody claps for.

You miss holidays. You work nights. You learn to read a room before you ever read a report. You stay calm when everything around you is anything but.

And somewhere along the way, you start carrying things. Quietly.

This week isn’t just about saying “thank you.”

It’s about acknowledging the weight.

It’s about reminding you that what you do matters—even on the days it feels like nothing changes.

It’s about recognizing that strength isn’t just control, command, or presence…

Sometimes it’s asking for help.
Sometimes it’s talking.
Sometimes it’s just not quitting.

To every correctional officer:

You are not just a uniform.
You are not just a post.
You are not just part of the system.

You are the system.

And whether anyone says it or not, you make a difference every single day.

We see you! We love you!

So enjoy the recognition, awards, free food, raffles, and handshakes!

05/05/2026

(Easton, MD) – The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of three individuals involved in an undercover operation targeting child predators. The operation was led by the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, in collaboration with the FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Maryland Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force; Easton Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division; and the Talbot County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Starting the week of April 12, 2026, an undercover operation targeted predators who were s*xually exploiting children online. Each of the individuals arrested engaged in s*xually explicit and harmful communications with undercover officers despite being informed they were communicating with minor children. Each individual continued to make plans to meet for s*xual activity, and all three were arrested upon arriving at the agreed-upon meeting spot in the Easton area.

The operation resulted in three arrests, and the individuals were charged with one count of Sexual Solicitation of a Minor. The following individuals were arrested:

· Jason M. Towers, 44, of Denton, Maryland

· Selvin R. Miranda-Miranda, 27, of Chester, Maryland

· Andrew C. Jenkins, 26, of Berlin, Maryland

All three individuals were transported to the Talbot County Detention Center for an initial appearance before the District Court Commissioner and were held without bond. All three individuals had bond reviews before a District Court judge, where Towers and Miranda-Miranda were ordered held without bond, and Jenkins was released on a $25,000 unsecured bond.

Law enforcement would like to remind parents to discuss with their children the dangers of engaging with strangers online. Parents are encouraged to routinely monitor their children’s activity on social media and other online applications to prevent them from becoming victims of a child s*x predator. This operation was conducted as part of the ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime and protect children in our community.

The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division was assisted in this operation by members of the Easton Police Department’s Critical Response Unit, as well as members of the Talbot County Drug Task Force.

This project was funded by the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy under subaward number ICAC-2026-0002. All points of view in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of any State or Federal agency.

The Sheriff’s Office can be contacted at 410-822-1020, by email at [email protected]; on Facebook at Talbot County Sheriff’s Office; or on our website at talbotsheriff.org.

Send a message to learn more