Juvenile charged as an adult in OC assault investigation

OCEAN CITY, Md. – A juvenile has been charged as an adult following a reported assault at an Ocean City motel Thursday night.

Shortly before 9:30 p.m., officers were called to a motel near 20th Street for a reported weapons violation after a caller reported that a man pointed a handgun at him in a motel room. On arrival at the hotel, officers met with two victims, who reported that they knew the suspect. The male victim told police that a verbal argument broke out in the motel room between the female victim and the suspect. The suspect reportedly left the motel room briefly before returning a few minutes later with the permission of the female victim, at which time it was reported that the suspect pulled out a revolver-style handgun and threatened both victims. Once the suspect left the room, the victims locked themselves inside and called 911 while the suspect continued threatening the suspects and banging on the door.

An officer found the suspect vehicle driving southbound without headlights on near Dolphin Street and Philadelphia Avenue, conducting a high-risk traffic stop. The 17-year-old driver was identified as the suspect from the motel assault. A subsequent search of the vehicle led police to find a pellet gun and a fixed-blade knife. The pellet gun matched the description of the weapon in the assault, and officers say the pellet gun resembled a real revolver handgun. Officers also noted that the suspect appeared to be intoxicated.

Police say the juvenile was waived to adult status, as is allowed in the State of Maryland if they are being accused of specific crimes while meeting age requirements. As a result, the 17-year-old was charged with first degree assault, two counts of second degree assault, concealed deadly weapon, gun replica – wear, carry, conceal, and multiple traffic citations including DU.

The juvenile was transferred to the Worcester County Jail without bond.