Darrin Michael Atlas, 48, of Leonardtown
UPDATE 4/13/2026: Darrin Michael Atlas, 48, of Leonardtown, is facing charges of first-degree assault, second-degree assault, use of a firearm in a violent crime, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, having a loaded handgun in a vehicle, and illegal possession of ammunition following an alleged incident on April 10, 2026, according to court documents.
The charges stem from an encounter at a residence on Bell Farm Way in Leonardtown involving an adult male victim, who is identified in court records as a longtime business partner of the defendant.
According to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began with an argument over a group text message that escalated into a phone call. The victim reported that during the call, the defendant spoke in a “threatening tone” and asked if the victim believed he was “f##king dumb.”
The victim told deputies he went to the residence to resolve the dispute in person. He stated that upon arrival, the defendant was waiting near the garage and began walking toward him while holding “something in his hand.” As the defendant approached, the victim reported that the defendant raised his arm and pointed a firearm at him, describing it as a “9 millimeter silverish metallic” handgun.
As he attempted to leave, the victim stated he said, “what the f##k do you think you’re doing,” and moved back toward his vehicle. According to the report, the defendant then positioned himself in the driver’s doorway and put the “gun in my face,” asking if the victim came there to fight.
The victim further reported that during the confrontation, the defendant threatened to kill him and told him not to “f##k” with him. The victim stated the defendant repeatedly pressed the firearm against him, including placing it against his temple and at one point against his left cheek, describing that the defendant was “putting it in my face” as he leaned away.
According to court documents, the victim attempted to push the firearm away but was unsuccessful. The victim later observed a change in the defendant’s behavior and believed he would be allowed to leave. The defendant then shut the vehicle door, allowing the victim to drive away.
As the victim left the scene, he reported that the defendant struck the driver’s side window of the vehicle with the firearm. Deputies later observed damage to the window consistent with that account.
Investigators also noted red discoloration on the left side of the victim’s head between the eyebrow and hairline. The victim initially reported no injuries but, after seeing the discoloration, stated it was not normal and was consistent with where the firearm had been pressed against his head.
During the investigation, deputies determined that Atlas was prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm due to a prior conviction. On April 11, 2026, deputies located the defendant driving a black GMC Sierra in Leonardtown and conducted a traffic stop. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a loaded Sig Sauer P365 handgun in the center console.
Following his arrest, the defendant provided a statement to investigators after being advised of his rights. According to court records, Atlas acknowledged that an incident occurred at his residence the previous night involving an individual who arrived in an “aggressive manner.” He then requested an attorney, ending further questioning.
Following a bail review hearing on April 13, 2026, Judge Robert B. Riddle ordered that Darrin Michael Atlas be held without bond, and will remain in custody pending further court proceedings.
UPDATE 4/13/2026 – St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Press Release: Detectives from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division arrested Darrin Michael Atlas, 48, of Leonardtown following an investigation for an assault which occurred on April 10, 2026, in the 22100 block of Bell Farm Way.
The preliminary investigation indicates the victim met the suspect to have a discussion when Atlas allegedly pointed a firearm at the victim and held the firearm to the victim’s head. The victim was ultimately able to flee the residence.
Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division assumed the investigation. Atlas was later apprehended during a vehicle stop and a handgun was located in the vehicle. A search warrant was executed at his residence where additional evidence was recovered.
Atlas was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown and charged with the following:
- Assault first-degree
- Assault second-degree
- Firearm use during the commission of a felony/crime of violence
- Illegal possession of a regulated firearm
Atlas remains incarcerated pending a bond hearing.
4/11/2026: Darrin Michael Atlas, 48, of Leonardtown, is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including first-degree assault and firearm-related offenses, following an on-view arrest on April 10, 2026, according to court documents.
Atlas, whose address is listed on Bell Farm Way in Leonardtown, was charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime, illegal possession of a firearm, transporting a loaded handgun in a vehicle, and illegal possession of ammunition.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on April 10, 2026. Authorities indicated probable cause was established for most of the charges filed.
The arrest was made by Deputy R. Stillwell of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Court records show the case was filed in the District Court for St. Mary’s County on April 12, 2026.
Atlas appeared for an initial appearance the same day, during which he waived his right to an attorney. Following the hearing, the court ordered that he be held without bond pending further proceedings.
A bail review hearing is scheduled for April 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in Courtroom 1 at the St. Mary’s District Court.
The case remains open, and details will be provided when they become available.
