A report of adults allegedly having sex in the parking lot of Applebee’s in California, Maryland, prompted arrests after multiple witnesses came forward to make reports.
On Jan. 12, 2026, at 4 p.m., the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) responded to the Applebee’s parking lot after receiving complaints of alleged sexual conduct in a parked vehicle.
According to police reports, officers spoke with witnesses who claimed to see a man and a woman naked in the backseat of a car. One witness reported that the woman had her legs raised during the alleged sexual activity between the couple. Two witnesses made testimonies corroborating the reported public sexual conduct.
According to court documents, officers spotted the suspects, Kaneesha Latasha Gross, 35, of Lexington Park, and James Matthew Washington, 58, of Capital Heights. Both were arrested and charged.
According to charging paperwork, Kaneesha Gross was released on a $2,000 bond on January 12, 2026, with a trial date of February 23, 2026. James M. Washington was released on his recognizance on January 13, 2026, and his trial is slated for February 23, 2026.
Both are facing allegations of indecent exposure and unruly conduct.
In Maryland, indecent exposure is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in prison and a $1,000 fine. Disorderly conduct is also a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of 90 days in jail and a $500 fine.
