LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – A series of troubling events over the Christmas holiday culminated in the arrest of Terry Jeffrey Harris Jr., 35, of Lexington Park, on multiple charges, including second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. Harris now faces court proceedings following two separate incidents involving domestic violence and public disturbances.
Incident at Gloucester Court – December 23, 2024
On December 23, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to an apartment at 22026 Gloucester Court for reports of a domestic disturbance. According to the statement of probable cause, Harris and the victim, who is in an intimate relationship with him, were involved in a physical altercation earlier that day. The victim reported that Harris grabbed her by both arms during an argument, leaving visible bruises.
Officers arriving on the scene found Harris sitting outside the apartment requesting medical assistance. The victim detailed how the altercation escalated during an argument at approximately 11:45 a.m., and deputies observed injuries consistent with her account. Harris was arrested on-site and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center, where he was charged with second-degree assault.
Christmas Day Disturbance – December 25, 2024
Two days later, officers were dispatched to a Shell gas station on Three Notch Road in Lexington Park, following reports of a public disturbance. Upon arrival, deputies encountered Harris, who was visibly agitated and yelling. According to the victim, Harris followed her to the gas station, where he began threatening her and her children. The victim also reported that Harris made multiple attempts to provoke a physical confrontation with her son, who was seated inside their vehicle.
The disturbance escalated as Harris ignored commands from officers to leave the scene. Witnesses described him pacing angrily around the gas station parking lot, attempting to approach the victim’s vehicle and shouting threats. Despite repeated warnings to vacate the area, Harris persisted, disrupting the scene for approximately 10 minutes and drawing the attention of bystanders.
Officers ultimately restrained Harris, charging him with disorderly conduct. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center and held pending a bail review hearing.
Court Proceedings and Legal Ramifications
Harris now faces two separate sets of charges stemming from the incidents. For the December 23 incident, he is charged with second-degree assault, a misdemeanor carrying a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and/or a $2,500 fine under Maryland law. For the Christmas Day disturbance, Harris is charged with disorderly conduct, which carries penalties of up to 60 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.
Court records indicate Harris was released on his own recognizance after a bail review hearing on December 27. He is scheduled to appear in St. Mary’s District Court for the disorderly conduct charge on January 27, 2025, before Judge James Tanavage. His assault charge is set for trial on January 28, 2025, in Courtroom 2.
Domestic Violence and Community Impact
The repeated nature of the incidents and the proximity of the events have raised concerns about public safety and the impact of domestic violence within the community. Court documents reveal that the victim sought a protective order against Harris, citing prior incidents of harassment and threats. She also alleges that Harris has a history of violent behavior, exacerbated by substance use, and stated that she has contacted law enforcement multiple times over similar incidents.
St. Mary’s County authorities stress the importance of reporting domestic violence and disturbances to ensure the safety of all involved. Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to seek assistance through local support organizations and law enforcement.
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PR!! Come on court commissioner. The accused needs to be in DOC.