On Oct. 17, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported burglary in progress in the Great Mills area. Upon arrival, deputies found the suspect had fled the scene. The residence was occupied at the time and the witnesses observed the suspect inside the home. The description of the suspect and his vehicle was recognized by deputies as that of a burglary suspect that is currently out on bail.

Bureau of Criminal Investigation detectives took control of investigation and located Charles Rodger Wathen, 27 of Hollywood. After collecting of evidence and conducting witness interviews, Wathen was arrested and charged with burglary in the first degree. Anyone with additional information related to Wathen is asked to contact the BCI Office at 301-475-4200 Ext 1950 or remain anonymous and call Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333 for a possible reward.

In an unrelated burglary, patrol deputies responded to a burglar alarm at Great Mills High School. Once on the scene, it was confirmed that someone had forcibly entered the school. Deputies began to search the area for evidence and possible suspects. One juvenile was observed running from the scene. Deputies located three juveniles  hiding in a dumpster in a nearby neighborhood. One twelve year old and two fifteen year old juveniles were apprehended, processed and released to their guardians pending a hearing in the Juvenile Court.