Ronell Tyrone Shields, 35, of Lexington Park
Ronell Tyrone Shields, 35, of Lexington Park, is facing numerous felony and misdemeanor charges including firearm use in a violent crime, possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances, and fleeing from police, according to court documents.
Charging documents state the incident occurred on April 16, 2026, in the area of Oak Crest Road and Oak View Drive in California. According to a statement of probable cause filed by a Maryland State Police trooper, the encounter began when a vehicle was observed with a broken light and was stopped in a parking lot along Three Notch Road. During the stop, the driver allegedly told officers he did not have a license and provided the name of another individual.
While speaking with the driver, the trooper reported “detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the interior of the vehicle” and observed the driver holding a black zipper bag at his feet. Additional deputies arrived on scene, and when asked to exit the vehicle, the driver allegedly fled, first by vehicle and then on foot after stopping in a nearby industrial park. Authorities reported the driver ignored “multiple commands to stop” before being taken into custody without further incident.
According to court filings, a search following the arrest revealed multiple bags containing suspected crack cocaine packaged individually, which officers stated was “indicative of possession with intent to distribute.” Additional items recovered included suspected cocaine, oxycodone, a digital scale, plastic bags, and Maryland lottery tickets containing suspected narcotics residue.
Investigators also reported locating a black zippered bag nearby that contained a 9mm handgun with a loaded magazine and additional suspected controlled substances. Documents state the firearm did not have a round in the chamber. Officers further indicated that some prescription pill bottles found did not bear the suspect’s name.
Authorities allege the driver initially provided a false identity, but a Maryland identification card recovered at the scene identified him as Shields. A records check showed he did not have a valid driver’s license at the time.
In addition to drug and firearm charges, Shields is also charged with driving under the influence, attempting to elude police, providing false information to a law enforcement officer, and multiple traffic violations.
Court records show Shields waived his right to an attorney for his initial appearance and requested a preliminary hearing. A judicial officer ordered him held without bond, citing a “reasonable likelihood” that he would not appear in court as required.
A bail review hearing is scheduled for April 20, 2026, and a preliminary hearing is set for May 14, 2026, at the District Court in Leonardtown.
