LEONARDTOWN, Md. – Delonte Derrick Hamilton, a 31-year-old Hyattsville resident, faces legal consequences for two incidents in St. Mary’s County earlier this year, involving trespassing and public indecency.
Trespassing at ABC Liquor
On March 17, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office were called to ABC Liquor on Three Notch Road in California, Maryland, after reports of a trespassing violation. According to store manager Guy Combs, Hamilton entered the property despite being barred by a no-trespass order issued in November 2022.
Combs, who had encountered Hamilton during a similar incident in 2023, provided photographic evidence that helped deputies confirm Hamilton’s identity. Authorities charged Hamilton with trespassing, a misdemeanor under Maryland law. If found guilty, he could face up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both.
Indecent Exposure at Papa John’s
On February 29, 2024, another incident involving Hamilton occurred at a Papa John’s restaurant on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. Witnesses reported that Hamilton, appearing intoxicated, urinated on the side of the building in full view of others.
Brandon Newman, an employee of the restaurant, told police that Hamilton’s actions were visible to bystanders, although other witnesses had left before officers arrived. Hamilton admitted to the act and was charged with indecent exposure. Maryland law allows for penalties of up to three years in prison, a fine of $1,000, or both for such an offense.
Legal Proceedings
Court records reveal a pattern of noncompliance from Hamilton, who failed to appear at multiple hearings throughout 2024. As a result, bench warrants were issued for his arrest. In December, Hamilton was apprehended and remains in custody without bond. His trials for both cases are scheduled for early 2025 in St. Mary’s District Court.
Next Steps
With trials ahead, the court will determine the outcomes of Hamilton’s charges, which carry significant penalties aimed at addressing these offenses and their impact on the affected businesses and community.
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