Seven charged with theft of LGBTQ items

CHESTERTOWN — Three out-of-state men were charged by the Chestertown Police Department for the theft of Pride flags and other rainbow-themed items taken from the Emmanuel Church on Cross Street during the weekend of the Juneteenth celebration, June 15-16.

In all, nine victims of theft were identified. The crimes occurred on Cross Street, Cannon Street, Greenwood Avenue, Water Street and High Street in Chestertown. The loss to the victims is estimated by police at approximately $1,400.

According to police, through investigation, a suspect vehicle was identified and using that information, seven suspects were identified. After additional evidence and information was collected, each suspect was charged for their involvement in these crimes, three adults and four juveniles.

Hearings are scheduled for Aug. 16 in the District Court of Kent County.

The three adult males were charged with 40 counts, all misdemeanors: multiple counts of theft; malicious destruction of property; contributing to the condition of a child; burglary, fourth-degree theft; and a hate crime.

Chief Ron Dixon said they referred the four male youths, aged 16 and 17, to the Department of Juvenile Services.

Adults charged were Mahlon Luke Fisher, 20, of Newburg; Jason Duane Smucker, 19, of Lykens; and John Caleb Stoltzfus, 18, of Gratz. Their summons was issued July 17.

The investigation was headed up by Pfc. Meera Srinivasan.

Dixon said there isn’t need for the community to be on high alert, just to be aware of their surroundings, and assist police when necessary.

“This appears to be a crime of opportunity, but it was certainly directed at the LGTBQ community, which generated the hate crime charges,” he said. “With the suspects all being from out of the area, there should be no cause for alarm with this group, but we ask that everyone stay vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Extra eyes and ears are a huge asset to the police.”