Toll Stop Trouble: Traffic Stop Leads To Handgun Charges In Newburg

NEWBURG, Md. — A Clinton man is facing handgun-related charges after a traffic stop in Charles County led to the discovery of a loaded firearm, according to court documents.

Earl Henry Saunders, 59, of Clinton, was arrested Feb. 1, 2026, following a traffic stop conducted by the Maryland Transportation Authority Police on Crain Highway.

According to the statement of probable cause, an officer observed a gray Lexus sedan traveling on U.S. Route 301 when a registration check revealed the vehicle’s registration was suspended for failure to pay electronic tolls. The officer initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, later identified as Saunders.

During the stop, Saunders told the officer there was a firearm inside the vehicle and pointed toward the driver-side door pocket. When asked whether he had a Maryland permit to carry a firearm, police say Saunders stated that he did not.

Saunders was detained while officers recovered the weapon from the vehicle. Court records indicate the firearm was a .40-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun. Officers reported the handgun was loaded, with a magazine inserted and additional rounds present.

A check through the Maryland Gun Center confirmed the firearm was registered to Saunders. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Charles County Detention Center for processing.

Saunders was charged with wearing, carrying, or transporting a loaded handgun on his person and transporting a handgun in a vehicle, both misdemeanor offenses under Maryland law.

Court records show Saunders was initially held without bond on Feb. 1. Following a bail review hearing on Feb. 2, District Court Judge Robert C. Wilcox ordered his release on his own recognizance.

A bail review hearing was held Feb. 2 in Charles District Court. A trial is scheduled for March 18 in Charles District Court.

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