CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. — A Calvert County traffic stop quickly spiraled into a chaotic scene, leading to the arrest of a Chesapeake Beach woman on multiple charges, including drug possession, resisting arrest, and public intoxication.
The incident unfolded on the night of March 8, 2025, when a patrol deputy with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a blue 2004 Honda Accord for a traffic violation near the Fastop in Chesapeake Beach. The vehicle, which had only one functioning brake light, continued for another 500 feet before finally coming to a stop at the intersection of 26th St. and D St.
According to an official statement, the driver was identified, and the passenger was revealed to be 30-year-old Margaret Hale of Chesapeake Beach. While speaking with both occupants, the deputy observed visible nervousness, with slight shaking. During a routine record check, discrepancies arose between Hale’s provided identity and photos on law enforcement databases, raising suspicions that she might be hiding something.
The situation escalated when Hale was observed repeatedly looking back at the deputy while reaching toward the vehicle’s floorboard. Concerned that she might be trying to conceal contraband or access a weapon, the deputy quickly approached the passenger side and requested Hale exit the vehicle. Initially complying, Hale suddenly attempted to flee on foot but was subdued after a brief struggle. As the deputy tried to handcuff her, Hale resisted, yelling and twisting her body in the street while onlookers from nearby homes watched. The deputy warned Hale that a Taser would be deployed if she did not comply. Only then did she lower her resistance, allowing for her arrest.
Following Hale’s detainment, the deputy noticed a strong odor of alcohol on her breath, which became more pronounced as she continued to speak. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a clear plastic baggie with white powder residue on the floorboard between Hale’s purse and the center console. Additional drug paraphernalia, including a metal spoon with white powder residue, a glass pipe with burnt copper, a brown paper fold containing suspected cocaine residue, and a small metal container holding suspected cocaine, were also discovered in her purse. The deputy, based on training and experience, confirmed that these items were consistent with narcotics use.
Hale was transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital for medical evaluation after complaining of shoulder and stomach pain. Medical staff conducted X-rays and additional tests, finding no serious injuries. Hale later claimed to be having a seizure, but hospital staff determined she was not in medical distress. After her release from the hospital, she was transported to the Calvert County Detention Center and formally charged.
Hale faces multiple misdemeanor charges, including possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, failure to obey a lawful order, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. Under Maryland law, these charges carry potential penalties ranging from 60 days to three years in jail, with fines up to $5,000.
Hale was released on her own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court on June 5. The case remains open.
