Leonardtown Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Leonardtown, Maryland government websites.

  About Leonardtown City Government
Annual Budget $1.7 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

Leonardtown, Maryland, operates under a Mayor-Council form of government, officially known as the Leonardtown Town Council. The governing body consists of five elected council members, including the Mayor, who is elected at-large. Each council member serves a term of four years, with elections held in even-numbered years. The current Mayor is Dan Burris, who has been in office since 2016.

For the fiscal year 2023, Leonardtown's approximate annual operating budget is $1.7 million. This budget supports various town services, infrastructure, and community programs, reflecting the town's commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents.

Regular meetings of the Leonardtown Town Council are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 4:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Leonardtown Town Hall, located at 41660 Courthouse Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650. The public is encouraged to attend, as these sessions provide an opportunity for community engagement and input on local governance.

  About Leonardtown, Maryland

Nestled in the heart of St. Mary’s County, Leonardtown, Maryland, boasts a rich history and a close-knit community vibe that reflects its status as the county seat. With a population of approximately 3,900 residents, this charming town is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and a vibrant downtown area featuring unique shops and eateries. Founded in 1708, Leonardtown is recognized for its commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering modern growth. Major neighborhoods include the serene residential areas surrounding the historic town center, where residents enjoy a blend of suburban tranquility and small-town charm. The local economy is supported by a mix of small businesses, government services, and healthcare institutions, with significant employment contributed by the nearby Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Leonardtown's distinctive character is further highlighted by its annual events, such as the Leonardtown Memorial Day Parade and the Summer Music Festival, which bring the community together and celebrate local culture.

The law enforcement needs of Leonardtown are primarily served by the Leonardtown Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining peace and order within the town. Additionally, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office plays a crucial role in broader county law enforcement, assisting with various public safety initiatives. For those seeking criminal records, including arrest records, mugshots, and booking information, the process begins at the local police records unit, where individuals can request specific documents or information. In cases where records are not available locally, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office can assist with inquiries. For a more thorough search, residents can access the Maryland State Police Bureau of Investigation, which maintains a statewide criminal repository. Online platforms may also be available for certain records; however, individuals are encouraged to check directly with the local departments for the most current access methods and any associated fees.

Leonardtown is served by the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court, which handles a variety of legal matters including civil, criminal, and family law cases. Residents seeking court records, such as case filings and judgments, can utilize the Maryland Judiciary Case Search online portal for convenient access or visit the court clerk’s office in person for assistance. For vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, individuals must contact the St. Mary’s County Clerk-Recorder's office or the Maryland Vital Records division, which provides both original and certified copies of essential documents. Property records, including deeds and assessments, can be obtained from the county assessor and recorder’s office, with many records available online for easy access. Furthermore, under the Maryland Public Information Act, residents may request general public records from local government offices, with response timelines usually falling within 5 to 10 business days. This framework ensures that the citizens of Leonardtown have robust mechanisms for accessing the public records that underpin the functioning of their community.

  Leonardtown, Maryland Public Records & Government Resources

About Leonardtown

Nestled in the heart of St. Mary's County, Leonardtown, Maryland, boasts a rich history and a close-knit community vibe that reflects its status as the county seat. With a population of approximately 4,586, the town offers a range of public records and government resources for residents and visitors alike.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Saint Marys County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is also provided by municipal police departments. The Leonardtown Police Department and the Lexington Park Police Department serve their respective communities, focusing on local law enforcement and community policing. These agencies coordinate with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and investigations, ensuring comprehensive coverage and response across the county.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Saint Marys County Detention and Rehabilitation Center is the main jail facility in the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate lookup services are available through the county's official website, allowing residents to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, with set hours and regulations that visitors must follow.

Court Records

The St. Mary's County Circuit Court (https://mdcourts.gov/circuitcourt/stmarys) serves as the primary judicial authority for Leonardtown and the surrounding region. The court's website provides access to case records, court schedules, and other relevant information for individuals involved in legal proceedings.

Criminal Records

The criminal records ecosystem in Saint Marys County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Saint Marys County Sheriff's Office and the Maryland State Police maintain these records. Residents can run background checks through the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, which provides comprehensive criminal history information. The Maryland Bureau of Investigation supports local law enforcement with resources and expertise in handling complex criminal cases.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Saint Marys County are maintained by the Saint Marys County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. The Maryland Public Information Act governs the access to these records, ensuring transparency while protecting sensitive information. Arrest records typically include the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and bond information.

Public Records Access

The Town of Leonardtown website (http://leonardtown.somd.com/) provides a comprehensive hub for public records and government information. Residents can access municipal codes, council meeting minutes, and other local government documents. The site also features a directory of town departments and contact information.

Economy & Demographics

Leonardtown's economy is diverse, with a mix of government, healthcare, and commercial sectors. The town's location near the Patuxent River and the Chesapeake Bay also contributes to a thriving tourism industry. The Leonardtown Public Library (http://www.stmalib.org/) serves as a valuable resource for residents seeking information on the local economy and community development.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

Law enforcement services in Leonardtown are provided by the Maryland State Police (http://mdsp.org/), which maintains a regional barracks in the area. The Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department (http://www.lvfd1.org/) also plays a crucial role in public safety, offering emergency response and fire suppression services to the community.

Vital Records

For vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, individuals can visit the St. Mary's County Health Department (http://www.smchd.org/) or the Maryland Department of Health (https://health.maryland.gov/). These agencies maintain the official records for Leonardtown and the surrounding area.

Business & Licensing Records

The Leonardtown Business Directory (http://leonardtown.somd.com/business/index.htm) offers a valuable resource for information on local businesses, organizations, and community resources. Residents and visitors can explore a wide range of commercial and service providers, as well as find contact details and other relevant information.

Elections & Voter Records

Leonardtown voters are served by the St. Mary's County Board of Elections, located at 23110 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650, phone (301) 475-4200 extension 1645, website www.stmaryscountymd.gov/elections. Maryland residents can register to vote online at voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration, by mail using a printed application, or in person at the Board of Elections or MVA offices; the deadline is 21 days before an election. Maryland requires voters to provide name, address, date of birth, and last four digits of Social Security number or MVA ID number. The Town of Leonardtown holds municipal elections for the five-member Town Council and mayoral elections; council members serve four-year staggered terms. The next Leonardtown municipal election will be held in 2025, with voter registration handled through the county elections office and voting taking place at designated Leonardtown polling locations. Leonardtown residents can find their assigned polling place by entering their address at https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/PollingPlaceSearch. For the November 2024 general election, St. Mary's County reported approximately 73% voter turnout among its roughly 76,000 registered voters, reflecting strong civic engagement in this historically conservative-leaning county that supported Republican candidates in most statewide races. On November 3, 2026, Maryland voters including Leonardtown residents will decide several key races: the entire Maryland House of Delegates (all 141 seats for two-year terms), half of the Maryland State Senate (district 29 represents Leonardtown), and potentially a U.S. Senate seat if one is up for election in Maryland's six-year cycle. St. Mary's County voters will also elect local offices including Sheriff, State's Attorney, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Register of Wills, Judges of the Orphans' Court, and County Commissioners (St. Mary's has five commissioners elected countywide). Maryland permits early voting beginning the second Thursday before Election Day through the Thursday before Election Day at designated early voting centers; St. Mary's County typically operates an early voting site in Leonardtown at the Governmental Center. Absentee voting by mail is available to any registered Maryland voter who requests a ballot through the state's online portal or by contacting the Board of Elections; applications must be received by the Tuesday before Election Day, and completed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received within 10 days. Public election records in Maryland include voter registration lists (available for purchase for political purposes), campaign finance reports filed with the Maryland State Board of Elections at www.elections.maryland.gov, candidate filings and petitions, and precinct-level election results published after each election. The St. Mary's County Board of Elections posts unofficial results on election night and certifies results within two weeks.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — St. Mary's County and Maryland provide excellent online access to court records, property data, business filings, and election information, with robust statewide portals supplementing local county systems, though vital records require state-level processing rather than immediate online ordering for all document types.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Leonardtown, St. Mary's County, Maryland to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the Town of Leonardtown, Maryland, you will be transported to the Saint Marys County Jail for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Saint Marys County Court. Under Maryland law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the Maryland State Police. The Saint Marys County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/inmate/ where you can look up current detainees.
The Leonardtown School District is located in St. Mary's County, Maryland. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, the district's performance data for the 2018-2019 school year is as follows:

- Graduation Rate: 93.2%
- Attendance Rate: 95.2%
- English Language Arts Proficiency: 83.2%
- Mathematics Proficiency: 79.2%
According to the Maryland State Police, the total number of reported crimes in Leonardtown, St. Mary's County, Maryland in 2019 was 1,845. Of those, 1,717 were property crimes and 128 were violent crimes.
The Leonardtown Public Library in Saint Marys County, Maryland provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Maryland government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), which governs access to government documents in Maryland. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Leonardtown Maryland Archives and Genealogy at https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/geneal.html. Contact the Leonardtown Public Library reference desk at (240) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Leonardtown, Maryland Library is located at 23250 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650.
Fingerprinting services for Leonardtown, Maryland residents are provided at the Leonardtown Police Department, which serves Saint Marys County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Leonardtown Police Department at (240) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Maryland State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Maryland State Police at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml.
To obtain vital records from Leonardtown, Maryland, you must contact the Leonardtown Town Hall. To order a vital record, you must provide documented proof of your identity, relationship to the person named on the record, and completed and signed forms for the specific vital record being requested. The records include birth certificates, marriage licenses, death records, and divorce decrees.
Police reports from Leonardtown, Maryland can be obtained from the Leonardtown Police Department, located in Saint Marys County. To request a police report, visit the Records Division in person or submit a written request by mail. You will typically need the report number, date of incident, and your valid photo ID. A fee may be charged per page for copies. Under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), most police reports are public records in Maryland, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Leonardtown Police Department Records Division at (240) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml.
A background check in Leonardtown, Saint Marys County, Maryland typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in Maryland. Criminal background checks are processed through the Maryland State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Maryland residents. The Maryland State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml. Under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.
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