Hyatt Won’t Remain County Police Chief


It was announced by Baltimore County that Melissa Hyatt will not return as Baltimore County Police Chief. She released the following statement on Wednesday.

“It is with heartfelt and mixed emotions that I announce my last day as Chief of the Baltimore County Police Department is December 4th. Police chiefs are appointed for finite terms in order to accomplish specific goals and objectives of County leadership. With the end of my term quickly approaching, I am both saddened to be leaving my Baltimore County family and excited to see what the future holds.

During my tenure as Chief, we worked through challenging times. I am so very proud of our many accomplishments, including initiatives that sharpened our focus on community trust, public safety, and officer wellness.

I want to personally thank every police officer, professional staff member, and community member who supported this important work. As a result, this agency is better equipped to face the future and serve our much-deserving county. I wish nothing but the best for the Baltimore County Police Department and our entire community.”

Baltimore County Executive John Olszewski released a statement about Hyatt’s departure.

“Chief Hyatt is a world-class public safety professional who has led efforts to modernize the Baltimore County Police Department, helping us to enact critical reforms to strengthen the agency,” said Olszewski. “We are grateful for her tireless commitment to the people of Baltimore County and remain thankful for her service as we begin the process of identifying a successor who will help ensure Baltimore County remains a safe place to live, work and raise a family.”

Man Fatally Shot on Ticker Circle in Lansdowne


Baltimore County homicide detectives continue investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday, Nov. 10, in the 4300 block of Tucker Circle.

At approximately 9 p.m., officers responded to the location following a reported gunshot wound.

When officers arrived, they located a teenage male suffering from a gunshot wound inside the home. Medics transported the teenager to an area hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Arrest Made in Carnaby Drive Shooting


Detectives from Baltimore County Police Violent Crimes unit have arrested a 60-year-old male in connection to the shooting that occurred in Windsor Mill Thursday evening.

At approximately 9:30 p.m., officers responded to the 2500 Block of Carnaby Drive, 21244, for a report of a disturbance.

When officers arrived, they located female victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. The victim was transported to an area hospital where she is listed in stable condition.

The suspect remained on scene of the shooting, and was eventually taken into custody without incident.

Police Report Two Lansdowne Incidents Affecting Students


The Baltimore County Police Department is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding two incidents that occurred in the Lansdowne area this week. Detectives are looking into whether the cases are connected.

On Wednesday a Lansdowne High School student reported that while she was walking to school over the footbridge, near Twin Circle Way she was assaulted by an unknown person. She was able to get to school and report what happened.

On November 1, a middle school student reported a male subject exposing himself. Since the initial report, the Baltimore County Police Department has assigned additional officers to the Lansdowne area to ensure the safety of students.

The department is also working closely with the Baltimore County Public School System to address community concerns and provide resources.

Families are being asked to speak with students about safety practices as they travel to and from school. The following are important tips to reiterate with your child(ren):

Always tell a responsible adult where you are going.

Try not to walk anywhere alone. Walk with a friend or a group.

Don’t take shortcuts through the woods, a back street or empty lot.

Do not share personal information with strangers – in person, over the phone, through text messages, on gaming platforms, or on any other electronic communications.

Pay attention to your surroundings when walking home. Avoid distractions and make sure you can hear what is happening around you.

If approached by someone you don’t know, run to safety.

Know safe places you can go – a police or fire station, the library, a store, or a friend’s house.

If a stranger follows you or grabs for you, yell loud! Shout, “I don’t know you!” Fight back and make as much noise as you can.

Tell your parents about places you don’t feel safe.

Please remember to contact the police (call 911) if you see any suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Police Investigating Catonsville Shooting


Detectives with the Baltimore County Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit are investigating a shooting that left one male injured Tuesday morning in Catonsville.

Officers responded to the scene at approximately 2:50 a.m.

When officers arrived at the intersection of Fredrick Road and Poplar Avenue, they located an adult male victim suffering from a single gunshot wound.

Medics transported the male to an area hospital for treatment.

Dont be Vehicle Theft Victim in Winter


With colder weather approaching, Baltimore County residents may be tempted to leave their cars unattended while they warm up. The term “Warm-Up Theft” describes the stealing of a car that has been left running and unattended.

These thefts typically occur outside a home, apartment building or convenience store. They are crimes of opportunity and crimes that are preventable.

To help drivers protect themselves against “Warm-Up Theft,” the Baltimore County Police Department wants to remind residents of the potential threat and provide some safe alternatives.

Turn your car off, never leave your car running unattended.

In cold weather, warm up with your car: grab a hot cup of coffee, gloves, and a blanket. It shouldn’t take long – most cars warm up in a matter of minutes.

Always take your keys/FOB.

Park in an enclosed garage whenever possible.

Lock your doors every single time.
Look up auto thefts in your zip code through the Baltimore County Dashboard.

Review the top stolen vehicles in Maryland.

Police are asking anyone who sees suspicious activity in their neighborhood to call 911.

Anyone with information about a stolen vehicle is asked to call 410-307-2020. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may call Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP

Former Pastor Arrested on Child Abuse Charges


Detectives have arrested 59-year-old Thomas J Brackett, after allegations surfaced that Brackett abused at least two children while working as a teacher and youth pastor in Baltimore County from 1984 -1985.

Baltimore County Crimes Against Children detectives began investigating this case earlier this year after they were notified of the abuse.

Brackett faces multiple charges of Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Offenses.

He is currently being held at the Georgetown County Detention Center in South Carolina pending extradition.

Police are searching for any additional victims that may have been in contact with Brackett. If you or someone you know was victimized by Thomas Brackett, please contact Baltimore County’s Crimes Against Children Unit, at 410-887-7720.

Police Need Help in Gwynn Oak Shooting


Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit of the Baltimore County Police Department are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding a shooting that occurred around 6:10 a.m. Saturday in the 6900 block of Brightway Place in Gwynn Oak.

A 20-year-old male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound was located by officers on scene. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he is currently in stable condition.

Man Dies in Rossville Motorcycle Crash


Baltimore County Police reported a fatal motorcycle crash in Rossville on Friday.

A 2010 Harley Davidson Road King was traveling westbound on Rossville Boulevard when it collided with a 2007 Cadillac DTS turning eastbound onto Rossville Boulevard from Belridge Road on Friday, March 18 around 1:30 p.m.

The driver of the Harley Davidson, 42-year-old Preston Wyatt Coddington, was transported to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

This incident remains under investigation by the Baltimore County Police Crash Team.