SEVERN, MD – A man from Maryland was taken into custody by police after he was accused of assaulting a child and her mother who were participating in Halloween trick-or-treating activities. The suspect, identified as 66-year-old Cedrick Paines, reportedly bit the young girl’s ear and pursued her to her residence when she fled the scene.
Local reports suggest that Paines attempted to force his way into the child’s home. The girl’s mother intervened and pushed Paines away. In response, Paines allegedly aimed a handgun at the mother and attempted to fire it, but the weapon did not discharge.
Anne Arundel County police have charged Paines with multiple offenses, including first-degree assault and weapons violations.
According to local station WBAL, police officers questioned and subsequently arrested Paines at his home.
Charging documents indicate that Paines denied biting the girl’s ear, but admitted to getting close to it. He explained to the officers that he often teases his grandchildren by pretending to bite their fingers.
The incident occurred on the 8200 block of Dunfield Court in Severn, Maryland. When questioned about firearm ownership, Paines led officers to his home and showed them his weapons. According to the Maryland Gun Center, Paines is legally allowed to possess firearms and ammunition.
During a search of Paines’ residence, officers seized two handguns, a shotgun, and a .22 caliber rifle.
In an interview with local TV station WJZ, Paines refuted the allegations, stating that he was merely trying to whisper a secret to the girl.
The incident has left the local community in shock, with one resident, Tionna Dennis, expressing her disbelief and concern for the safety of children participating in traditional Halloween activities.