KFC fire

Deputy fire marshals are investigating a fire that occurred at the KFC/Taco Bell fast food restaurant located at 8091 Ocean Gateway in Easton on Oct. 26. At approximately 1:48 a.m., emergency response crews responded to the fire scene subsequent to a 911 call initiated by employees at the neighboring Wawa.

Upon arrival, the Easton Volunteer Fire Department discovered a small venting from the building. Despite quick attack efforts and successful suppression, the fire resulted in a complete loss to the structure and contents estimated at approximately $1 million. 

Anyone who may have witnessed the fire or who has information in reference to the fire is asked to contact the Upper Eastern Regional Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal at 410-822-7609, or callers may remain anonymous via the Arson Hotline at 1-800-492-7529.

Sex abuse of minor

On Oct. 20, deputies from the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Somerset County man for the sexual abuse of a minor and related crimes following a grand jury indictment issued by the Somerset County Circuit Court Grand Jury. Deputies from the Criminal Investigation Section presented evidence that alleged that the accused engaged in several acts of child abuse, child sex abuse and perverted practices between 1977-1985.

James Paul Stephens, 76, of Deal Island, was charged with child abuse (four counts), second degree sex offense, third degree sex offense and perverted practice.

Stephens was incarcerated in the Somerset County Detention Center on no bond.

The investigation remains ongoing. Information developed during the investigation suggests the possibility of additional incidents and victims.

Anyone with information regarding similar crimes or any other criminal matter is urged to contact Corporal J. Fontaine of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, Criminal Investigation Unit, at 410-651-9225.

Assault

On Oct. 25, at approximately 11 a.m., Cambridge Police Department officers arrested a 42-year-old Cambridge man at the Dorchester County Detention Center who had an active Dorchester County District Court Bench Warrant for violation of probation on an original charge of assault 2nd degree.

Robert Henry Johnson Jr. had his initial appearance before a court commissioner and was turned back over to DCDC on no bond.