On May 21, 2010, Chief David Crawford was notified of a possible criminal case involving one of his Police Officers. Upon investigation, the Laurel Police Department had determined that the alleged incident had occurred at a Howard County, Maryland location. As a result, the Howard County Police Department was notified by the Laurel Police Department. All details of the alleged incident were provided to the Howard County Police in order for them to conduct a thorough investigation.

      The Officer has been identified as Corporal Edward Schmitt of the Laurel Police Department. Upon initiation of the Howard County Police Department investigation, Corporal Schmitt was immediately placed on suspension with all police powers being revoked.

      The criminal investigation is ongoing and was presented before the Grand Jury of Howard County on Wednesday, August 4, 2010, for their review for possible further action.

      Chief Crawford and the Laurel Police Department are cooperating fully with the Howard County investigators. The Laurel Police Department will be conducting an internal investigation for further disciplinary actions.

      For any further information, please contact Wayne Kirwan at the State’s Attorney’s Office at 410-313-3002.

For Immediate Release
July 26, 2010
Contact:   James Collins, Public Information Officer
               301-725-5300, ext. 244
                E-Mail: [email protected]