James Donald Dickerson Jr., 32, of Mechanicsville
James Donald Dickerson Jr., 32, of Mechanicsville, is facing drug-related charges after a late-night traffic stop on April 24, 2026, in St. Mary’s County, according to court documents.
Dickerson is charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance not cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia. The charges stem from an incident that occurred around 11:17 p.m. along Old Village Road and later at a stop on Three Notch Road in Mechanicsville.
According to a statement of probable cause filed by a deputy with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began when the deputy observed a gray Honda Odyssey “illegally pass another vehicle by crossing over double yellow line on the roadway” and continue “at a high rate of speed.” A traffic stop was then conducted in the parking lot of a business on Three Notch Road.
The deputy reported that upon approaching the vehicle, they “observed an abundance of white powdery substance on the center console, in plain view,” adding, “I know this white powdery substance to be cocaine, a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance.” The deputy also stated, “I also observed a large amount of loose copper brillo scattered throughout the interior of the van,” noting that “copper brillo” is commonly associated with crack cocaine use.
All occupants of the vehicle were removed, and a search was conducted. According to the report, a bag located on the floorboard between the rear seats—where Dickerson had been seated—contained “(3) three improvised glass smoking devices containing a white powdery substance.” The deputy further stated, “I know this white powdery substance to be cocaine, Schedule II.”
The search also revealed “a green rubber container which contained approximately .5 grams of white, rocklike substance,” with the deputy stating, “I know this white rocklike substance to be crack cocaine, Schedule II.” The report noted that no other substances were found in the rear area of the vehicle.
The deputy indicated that the identification of the substances was based on “training and experience received while at the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy,” where instruction included recognizing controlled dangerous substances and related paraphernalia.
Following his arrest, Dickerson appeared before a District Court commissioner later that night. Court records show he waived his right to an attorney for the initial appearance. The commissioner determined that he could be released on personal recognizance, finding that it would “reasonably assure the Defendant’s appearance.”
As part of his release, Dickerson was ordered to “not engage in any criminal conduct during the period of pretrial release” and to “appear in court when notified to do so.” Additional notice provided to Dickerson stated that failure to comply with conditions could result in a warrant for his arrest and additional penalties.
