UPDATE: Charges announced in reported Choptank River brawl

Two Anne Arundel County brothers were reportedly charged with several violations in connection with a fist fight that happened in July on the Choptank River.

According to Maryland Natural Resources Police, 21-year-old Asia Cooper Jr., and 19-year-old Joel Thomas Cooper, both of Crownsville, were charged with second-degree assault, malicious destruction of property in excess of $1,000, disorderly conduct and affray – fighting in public in a manner that disturbs the peace. Furthermore, Asia Cooper Jr. was charged with reckless operation and negligent operation.

On July 23, department officers, the U.S. Coast Guard and Cambridge Police reportedly responded to a call for help from Cambridge Yacht Club members, who reported that a powerboat filled with five passengers were messing with a sailboat race and that two men were fighting.

The incident was reportedly video taped by members of the race safety committee.

The rented powerboat’s damage was reportedly estimated at $3,000. The police investigation reportedly identified both suspects.

A date has reportedly been set for the two on September 12 at 9AM in the Dorchester County District Court. If Asia Cooper Jr. is found guilty of all charges, he could be fined as much as $6,500 and sentenced to jail.  Police say if Joel Cooper is found guilty, he could be fined as much as $5,500.