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UPDATE: All Charges Dropped

LEXINGTON PARK - 4/8/2009

UPDATE: TBN has spoken with Celia Runnels who indicated that all charges have been dropped against both parties as of 4 p.m. on April 8. Runnels will be interviewing with TBN on Friday and wish to explain in detail what actually transpired on April 4.

On April 4, St. Mary’s County Sheriff Office Deputies responded to a noise complaint on Sunburst Drive in Lexington Park. When deputies arrived they observed approximately 100 people outside and around a residence on Sunburst Drive.

With deputies watching, a large fight broke out in the rear of the residence. A woman was in her vehicle parked in the street when Rodney O’Neal Runnels, Jr. 20 of Lexington Park, smashed her driver’s window out of the vehicle. The victim exited the vehicle where she was then assaulted by Rodney Runnels, Jr.

Dfc. Moritz witnessed the assault and began to place Runnels, Jr. under arrest. Runnels, Jr. refused to place his hands behind his back or comply with the arrest. He was subsequently handcuff with the assistance of two more deputies. The arrest combined with Runnels, Jr. unruly behavior and profane language drew a large crowd which hindered deputies’ efforts to restore order.

As Rodney Runnels, Jr. was being placed under arrest, Celia Runnels, 38 of Lexington Park approached the deputies. Celia Runnels was told by Deputy M. Green to step back, not to come any closer to the deputies and to return to her residence. Celia Runnels refused.

Deputy Green extended her arm out in front of her body to prevent her from approaching any further. Celia Runnels pushed Deputy Green’s arm and then walked back to her residence. As she walked toward her residence she began to yell profanities. Celia Runnels disorderly conduct attracted the attention of other neighbors.

Once Rodney Runnels, Jr. was secured, Deputy Green arrested Celia Runnels for second degree assault and disorderly conduct. Rodney O’Neal Runnels, Jr. was charged with second degree assault, destruction of property, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Celia Runnels was charged with second degree assault and disorderly conduct.