Gerald Antoine Cooper (left) and Damien Tubois Gentry`

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A pair from Baltimore who crossed over county lines and were caught red-handed during a burglary are behind bars, according to authorities.

Damien Tubois Gentry, 26, and Gerald Antoine Cooper, 34, were arrested by members of the Frederick County Sheriff's Office after being caught during a burglary, officials say.

Shortly before 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 9, deputies were called to investigate two suspicious people on a property in the 700 block of Ridge Road in Frederick.

Upon arrival, deputies found "two masked individuals hiding near the front door of the home. Both were dressed in dark clothing and wearing gloves and face coverings," investigators said. "As deputies approached, the individuals immediately fled on foot into a wooded area behind the residence."

During a search of the area, deputies say they came across a nearby resident who reported that Gentry and Cooper ran through his yard, causing property damage.

Backup was called in — including a drone — and the two were quickly tracked down and taken into custody "with help from nearby residents and aerial support," according to the sheriff's office.

Gentry was charged with:

  • Third-degree burglary;
  • Fourth-degree burglary (dwelling);
  • Fourth-degree burglary (tools);
  • Malicious destruction of property;
  • Failure to obey a reasonable and lawful order;
  • Disturbing the peace/disorderly conduct;
  • Obstructing and hindering.

Cooper was charged with:

  • Third-degree burglary;
  • Fourth-degree burglary (dwelling);
  • Fourth-degree burglary (tools);
  • Malicious destruction of property;
  • Failure to obey a reasonable and lawful order;
  • Disturbing the peace/disorderly conduct;
  • Obstructing and hindering;
  • Fraud - personal identity to avoid prosecution;
  • False statement to an officer.

"This was a strong response and an effective follow-up by our deputies in apprehending the individuals involved," Sheriff Chuck Jenkins said. "Our deputies quickly recognized that a potential burglary was unfolding."

"There’s also a clear message for anyone coming into Frederick County with the intent to commit a crime: it likely won’t end well—just as it didn’t for these individuals."

The incident remains under investigation.