Special Prosecutions Unit
Overview
The Special Prosecutions Unit handles complex and specialized cases in Prince George’s County, including financial crimes, motor vehicle fatalities, environmental offenses, and arson-related matters.
The Office prosecutes financial crimes in the District and Circuit Courts, including:
- Theft
- Mortgage fraud
- Financial exploitation of vulnerable adults
- Credit card misuse
- Identity theft
These cases are investigated by the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit, which can be reached at (301)-516-1464 or Police_FinancialUnit@co.pg.md.us.
Matters involving civil disputes—such as those between business partners, family members, or homeowners’ associations (HOAs)—must be handled by private attorneys.
The Prince George’s County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service can connect residents with qualified attorneys for a fee: (301) 952-1440.
For HOA-related concerns, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General provides assistance with:
- Records access
- Fair elections
- Open meetings
Consumer fraud complaints may be directed to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at (301) 274-4620 or consumer@oag.state.md.us.
Financial Crimes & Vulnerable Adults
Individuals who may be experiencing abuse or financial exploitation should contact Adult Protective Services at (301) 909-2450.
- Investigators respond within 24 hours
- Suspected criminal activity is referred to the State’s Attorney’s Office for potential prosecution
Additional resources:
- Federal tax matters: Internal Revenue Service — 1-800-829-1040
- State tax matters: Maryland Comptroller’s Office — (410) 767-1322
- Telemarketing complaints: Federal Trade Commission Do Not Call Registry
- Mail theft and postal crimes: U.S. Postal Inspection Service — 1-877-876-2455
Motor Vehicle Fatalities
The Unit partners with Collision Reconstruction Investigators and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases involving:
- Traffic fatalities
- Life-threatening injuries resulting from motor vehicle collisions
Cases involving aggravating factors—such as alcohol or drug impairment, excessive speed, or other reckless conduct—may result in charges including:
- Motor Vehicle Manslaughter
- Homicide by Motor Vehicle (while under the influence or impaired)
- Causing Life-Threatening Injuries While Impaired
The Unit also prosecutes hit-and-run cases involving death or serious bodily injury.
Cases involving simple negligence or non-criminal collisions are handled by the District Court Division.
Environmental Crimes
The Special Prosecutions Unit works with county and state partners to investigate and prosecute environmental violations, including:
- Illegal dumping
- Littering
Arson & Explosives
The Unit collaborates with local and federal fire and explosives investigators to prosecute:
- Arson
- Attempted arson
- Possession or use of destructive devices
Contact Us
For more information about the Special Prosecutions / Public Integrity Unit, please contact unit Chief:
ASA Joel Patterson
Chief, Special Prosecutions / Public Integrity Unit