Leonardtown Man Held Without Bond After Alleged Assault At St. Mary’s County Detention Center

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — A late-night incident inside the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center has led to criminal charges against a Leonardtown man, following an alleged assault that sent the man to the hospital. Authorities say the incident, which occurred just days before Christmas, is now the subject of a pending court case scheduled for early 2026, drawing attention to safety concerns within local correctional facilities.

According to charging documents, Charles Henry Thompson Jr., 31, of Leonardtown, has been charged with second-degree assault on a Department of Corrections employee, according to court records. Thompson is currently being held without bond, and a trial has been scheduled for Jan. 29, 2026.

According to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the alleged assault occurred at approximately 9 p.m. on Dec. 23, 2025, inside the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center. Officials reported that the incident resulted in Thompson being transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Police records show deputies responded to the hospital, where they made contact with Thompson. Investigators report that Thompson was advised of his Miranda rights and agreed to speak with law enforcement. During the interview, Thompson allegedly stated that his cellmate initiated the physical confrontation and that the cellmate acted in self-defense. Thompson reportedly told deputies that he “got the short end of the stick” during the encounter.

According to police documents, following the hospital interview, deputies returned to the detention facility and spoke with the other individual involved in the incident. That individual was also advised of his Miranda rights and, according to investigators, allegedly stated that they would “go with what Thompson said.”

Authorities reviewed video footage from inside the cell, which reportedly shows the cellmate obstructing the camera with a piece of paper prior to the alleged assault.

Court documents show Thompson remains incarcerated as the case moves through the judicial system. Under Maryland law, second-degree assault is a felony offense when committed against certain protected individuals, including correctional employees, and carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine upon conviction.

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