Senator Charged, Giant Planet, Crossing Guard Love: News Nearby

Patch has community sites across Maryland. Here are some of the top posts from the past 24 hours.

DC Police Officer Robbed Teen Prostitute In Glen Burnie: Police
A 27-year-old DC policeman is charged after an alleged sexual encounter involving a 15-year-old girl. The act happened in his vehicle and once it was complete, he produced a handgun and demanded his money back, police said. The girl returned the cash and left his vehicle. The Metropolitan Police Department revoked the officer's police powers and he is currently on a "non-contact status," the department said.

Maryland Politician Charged For Accepting Money From 'Developer': U.S. Attorney
A Maryland lawmaker is charged with wire fraud after an undercover FBI operation revealed that he allegedly accepted thousands of dollars for using his position to influence business decisions around development, according to federal officials. He was previously convicted in 1988 for theft and misconduct in office after stealing money from his reelection fund.

Annapolis Community Helps Beloved Crossing Guard With Funeral Expenses
An online fundraiser has been set up to help a beloved Annapolis crossing guard pay his wife's funeral expenses. The Annapolis Police Department shared the request to help on its Facebook page, and is also collecting donations at the police station.

Jupiter Brightest Of The Year Over Maryland Friday Night
The planet will shine in the night sky brightly this weekend. Jupiter makes its closest approach to Earth on Friday night when it rises in the eastern sky just as the sun sets. Sunset in Maryland will be 7:37 p.m. No special equipment is needed to see Jupiter as it is one of the five planets visible to the naked eye, although a telescope or binoculars would enhance the view.

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More Maryland news:

• Montgomery Village Homicide: Fourth Suspect Arrested
• Bel Air Kite Festival 2017 Guide
• Capitol Heights Woman Shot to Death Thursday Night: Police
• Metro Seeks Public Comments on Apartment Project at College Park Station
• 5 Indicted In Harford County Pawn Shop Scheme; Sheriff Says Addiction Is Factor
• Drug Raid Seizes Heroin, Crack Cocaine With 2 Glen Burnie Men Arrested
• Lothian Man Charged In Thefts Across Two States: Police

Massage Parlor Bill Passes In Howard County
A bill became law Friday allowing Howard County police to investigate suspicious businesses operating as massage parlors. "We know there are businesses in our communities that claim to be legitimate, but are actually victimizing women," Howard County Police Chief Gary L. Gardner said in a statement. "Today, we are warning those businesses that this will not be tolerated in Howard County. Expect a visit from police, and know that if you are conducting illegal activities, we will shut you down.”

• Tornado Safety Tips Ahead Of Maryland's Storm Season
• McDonald's Fire Reported In White Marsh
• 17-Year-Old Is Missing From Abingdon: Harford Sheriff
• Multiple Fraud And Auto Cases Solved With 1 Arrest In Carderock Park
• Baltimore County WOW House: $1.175M For Horse Country Estate
• Beer Day, Family Fun Festival: What To Do In Takoma Park This Weekend

Photo credit: NASA, ESA, and A. Simon (NASA Goddard)