LAUREL, Md. — A 16-year-old suspect was arrested for more than 100 vehicle break-ins across Laurel and surrounding counties earlier this month, but it was his swift release that drew sharp criticism from Laurel Police Chief Russ Hamill.
During the first weekend in May, 121 vehicles were broken into—most in Laurel, with others in Prince George’s, Howard, and Anne Arundel counties. The teenager, linked to these crimes, faces charges including motor vehicle theft and theft from automobiles.
Police executed a search warrant at the teen’s home, recovering numerous credit cards, over 20 sets of vehicle keys, and other evidence connecting him to the incidents.
However, despite the extensive evidence, Maryland’s Department of Juvenile Services released the teen just five hours after his arrest. The agency cited his lack of prior record and deemed him not a flight risk, describing the offenses as non-violent.
Chief Hamill strongly disagreed with this characterization, emphasizing the significant impact on victims. “It may seem like a lower-level crime unless it’s your only way to work, medical care, or getting your kids to important events,” Hamill said. “Then it doesn’t seem low level at all.”
He also addressed financial hardships faced by victims, noting that insurance doesn’t fully cover costs due to deductibles and vehicle downtime. One victim shared this was her third experience with such crimes, forcing her to cut back on essentials like food.
Hamill expressed skepticism that the teen will receive meaningful rehabilitation, criticizing the juvenile system’s approach. He invited the Department of Juvenile Services to upcoming community meetings and encouraged residents to contact lawmakers about juvenile justice reforms.
“It’s not considered low level to the community,” Hamill said. “I think it’s a different idea of how justice should work—and it’s not working.”
