La Plata, Maryland – A Waldorf man was arrested after an armed robbery in La Plata linked to prior case.
According to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded around 10:10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, to a tobacco shop in the 6400 block of Crain Highway for a reported commercial armed robbery that had just occurred.
Authorities said the suspect allegedly entered the store, pointed what appeared to be a black semi-automatic handgun at a clerk and demanded cash and cigarettes. The individual then fled on foot with the items.
Deputies from the sheriff’s office and the La Plata Police Department canvassed the area and located the suspect nearby. After a brief foot pursuit, officers took the man into custody.
Investigators later determined the weapon was a BB gun. Clothing discarded during the suspect’s attempted escape was also recovered, officials said.
The suspect was identified as Lloyd Michael Hawkins, 39, of Waldorf. Detectives allege Hawkins was also connected to an armed robbery reported Feb. 11 at a laundromat in Waldorf.
Hawkins has been charged with robbery, weapons violations, aggravated assault and related offenses. He is being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center, according to the sheriff’s office.
The incident temporarily heightened police presence along the busy Crain Highway corridor, an area frequented by commuters and local workers.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
