A former legislative aide to state Sen. Will Smith (D-Dist. 20), who represents Silver Spring in the Maryland General Assembly, has been charged with stealing $20,000 allocated for legislative scholarships. Esther Dikongue-Bayighomog worked for Smith between 2020 and 2023 and faces one count of operating a theft scheme worth between $1,500 and $25,000, one count of felony theft and three counts of illegal access to a computer. [The Baltimore Sun]
More stores in county able to sell liquor
Private retailers that sell beer and wine will now be able to sell liquor after a Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) decision on Tuesday. About 400 stores — up from 27 — will be eligible for a permit. [WUSA9]
Driver in critical condition after hitting parked car
A driver was hospitalized and in critical condition Wednesday after crashing into a parked vehicle earlier in the day on the 9800 block of Cedar Lane, according to preliminary police investigations. Cedar Lane was closed between I-495 and Saul Road Wednesday morning, officials said. [WJLA]
Today’s weather: Sunny with a high of 31 degrees
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MCPS reverses two-hour delay decision, schools to open on time Thursday
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