East Salisbury Elementary Teacher Arrested for Sexual Assault of Teen at Princess Anne Barbershop

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. – Maryland State Police have arrested an East Salisbury Elementary teacher following a sexual assault investigation stemming from an incident in Somerset County.

Troopers arrested 61-year-old Maurice Cotton, Sr. of Westover on Tuesday afternoon, on charges of sexual abuse of a minor, second degree assault, and fourth degree sexual assault. He is being held without bond at the Somerset County Detention Center.

On Oct. 3, investigators received a report of a 16-year-old victim being subjected to an unwanted sexual assault at a barbershop in Princess Anne. The Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division – Eastern Region initiated an investigation, and following consultation with the Office of the State’s Attorney in Somerset County, charges were subsequently filed.

Police believe the victim and Cotton were acquaintances, and stated that the alleged assault occurred at a barbershop.

Cotton works as a teacher at East Salisbury Elementary School and as a barber in Princess Anne. WMDT has reached out to Wicomico County Public Schools for a statement on Cotton’s arrest and current employment status.

This case remains under investigation. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Cotton, or who has information relevant to this investigation is urged to contact Sgt. Jonathan Pruitt at jonathan.pruitt@maryland.gov or 443-260-3700. Calls will remain confidential.