Convicted Politician Seeking Re-Election in St. Mary's County

Former St. Mary's County Commissioner District 3 John O'Connor

Campaign Forging Ahead

Former St. Mary’s County Commissioner John O’Connor is forging ahead with his election campaign while awaiting sentencing for tax evasion. O’Connor pleaded guilty last week to willfully filing false tax returns in 2023 and 2024 with the intent to evade taxes.

An unnamed source who fears retaliation told DBlastMedia the charges stem from a broader investigation into alleged bribery and fraud involving O’Connor and former District Heights Police Chief Ronald Tarpley. According to the source, O’Connor has agreed to testify against Tarpley, a longtime friend, in exchange for leniency.

Tarpley has not yet been charged, which may explain why O’Connor’s sentencing is scheduled for August 2027, far later than usual. Court records indicate that defendants in similar cases are typically sentenced within 90 days. O'Connor faces a maximum fine of $10,000 and up to five years incarceration for each of the two charges.

Investigative correspondent Shabazz Washington recently asked state tax officials about honest mistakes on tax filings. Those officials say unintentional errors are not a crime, though they can lead to late fees.

O’Connor, a former police officer, previously served on the St. Mary’s County Commission before unsuccessfully campaigning for sheriff in 2022. He hopes to reclaim his commission seat in this year’s general election.