LEONARDTOWN, Md. – Authorities have apprehended 29-year-old Joseph Franklin Sullivan after he evaded law enforcement for several weeks following a vehicle theft incident in October 2024. Sullivan was arrested on January 28, 2025, by St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office deputies after an arrest warrant was issued for his involvement in the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, multiple counts of theft, and other related offenses.
Court records show that in the early hours of October 13, 2024, Sullivan was sitting in the vehicle of his then-girlfriend, allegedly making a phone call. Moments later, he allegedly started the vehicle, a Buick Encore valued at several thousand dollars, and drove off without permission. The victim soon discovered that Sullivan had also used her credit cards at a local gas station, making unauthorized purchases totaling over $100. Surveillance footage captured a man matching Sullivan’s description, including distinct tattoos, making the fraudulent transactions.
The victim attempted to contact Sullivan, asking him to return both the vehicle and the stolen funds, but he allegedly refused to communicate further. After the theft, authorities later found the stolen vehicle parked at a residence. Inside, they discovered various tobacco products believed to have been purchased with the stolen credit cards, along with Sullivan’s identification and Social Security card. However, Sullivan was not located at that time.
Sullivan continued to evade capture for over three months until he was finally located and arrested on January 28, 2025. He now faces charges of motor vehicle theft, theft over $1,500, and theft under $1,500. Following his initial court appearance, Sullivan was ordered to be held without bond, and during a bail review hearing on January 29, 2025, the court upheld the decision to deny his release.
Sullivan is scheduled to appear in court later this month to face the charges.
