Category: 911

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.

Dundalk Man Charged in Mother’s Death


Baltimore County police officers from the Dundalk Precinct responded to the 7300 block of Kirtley Road in Dundalk in reference to a call for an unknown trouble on Thursday, March 17, at approximately 4 a.m.

Once on scene, officers encountered an individual who was walking in the roadway. This individual was stopped and identified as Raymond G. Swartz (23). Officers were then directed to the residence of Mr. Swartz, where they located Stacy Franz (54). Ms. Franz had sustained multiple puncture wounds, and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Mr. Swartz was arrested and charged in connection with this homicide.

He is currently being held without bail at the Baltimore County Detention Center.

House Fire Reported on Transom Road in Perry Hall


– photo courtesy of Kingsville Volunteer Fire Company-

A house fire has been reported in Perry Hall. The fire took place on in the 9000 block of Transom Road near the intersection of Ballygar Road off Ebenezer Road.

The fire was called in before 3 p.m. on Monday, March 14. The Kingsville Volunteer Fire Company reported the structure is a two-story house and all four sides caught on fire. No further details at this time.

Black smoke can be seen in the Perry Hall region. Motorists are advised to use caution around the Ebenezer Road.

Two Pedestrians Hit; One Killed in Rosedale


Two pedestrians were struck on Sunday night as they attempted to cross Pulaski Highway in Rosedale. One of them was killed at the scene on March 6 around 8:20 p.m.

Members of the Baltimore County Crash Team determined the driver of the 2006 BMW 750i, that struck the pedestrians, was traveling west on Pulaski Highway, in the westbound lane, approaching Batavia Farm Road when the crash occurred.

36-year-old Darious T. Eason, was pronounced deceased on the scene. The second pedestrian, who suffered minor injuries, was transported to an area hospital. A preliminary investigation indicates the pedestrians involved in this crash were crossing against the pedestrian signal and were outside the crosswalk when they were struck.

Investigators continue to review all factors involved in this crash