Western District (Updated 1/13/2026)
Suspicious Activity - Crofton Elementary
25-701162
On January 12, 2026, at approximately 10:30 a.m., officers responded for a report of suspicious activity at Crofton Elementary School, located at 1405 Duke of Kent Drive in Crofton. The investigation revealed that between 8:00 a.m. and 8:20 a.m., three magnet program students at two Annapolis-area middle schools were waiting for their bus at Crofton Elementary School when a male in a gray four-door sedan pulled up and asked them to get into his car. The students refused, and the male exited his vehicle and asked them again to get into the car, stating he was taking them to school. Unaware of the person's identity, the students ran away. The male driver left, and the students were safely transported to their schools, where they informed school officials of the incident.
We encourage you to take time today to use this incident as a reminder of the precautions we can take for personal safety, especially when walking to school or waiting for a bus. Please consider the following:
- Have your children walk in a group or with another person.
- Stress to your children to be aware of their surroundings.
- Urge your children not to take items of any kind from anyone they do not know.
- Develop a plan to help your children take appropriate action if a stranger approaches.
- Have your children report anything unusual or upsetting to them to a responsible adult (parent, guardian, school staff member, police officer, etc.) immediately.
Please also know that any safety concerns can also be reported anonymously to the Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line at 833-MD-B-SAFE. That line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Out of an abundance of caution, patrol officers will be present at Crofton Elementary School during drop-off and pick-up periods. Western District detectives are investigating and ask anyone with information regarding this incident to contact 410-222-8760 or the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700.
Update (January 13, 2026)
Officers and detectives followed up on this incident and successfully located the individual involved, determining there was no threat to the children. Through their investigation, it was determined that the incident was a misunderstanding. The male subject is the grandparent of an Anne Arundel County Public Schools student, and he was in the area looking for his grandchild. The Anne Arundel County Police Department is thankful for the vigilance of the students and school staff, and the prompt reporting that allowed for a quick resolution.
Western District
Robbery (Citizen) - Severn
26-701028
On January 10, 2026, at approximately 6:10 p.m., officers responded to the area of New Disney Road and Carriage Drive in Severn for a report of a robbery. The investigation revealed three suspects confronted the 20-year-old victim and implied they had weapons. The suspects assaulted the victim and stole his personal property before fleeing. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspects. No weapons were displayed during this incident. Western District detectives are investigating and ask anyone with information to contact 410-222-8760. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700.