Severn Man Licked Trick-or-Treater's Ear, Followed Child Home with Loaded Gun in Still Meadows

A homeowner in Severn is facing criminal charges after allegedly licking a trick or treater's ear before reportedly following the child home while in possesion of a loaded gun.  

On October 31, 2023, at approximately 6:20 p.m., officers responded for an assault with a handgun in the 8200 block of Dunfield Court in Still Meadows, according to the county police department.   In a press release, department officials said that the victim reported an adult male neighbor licked her daughter’s ear while she was trick-or-treating at the suspect’s residence. 

"The child ran home, and the suspect followed her and attempted to enter the victim’s residence.  The mother pushed the suspect back to prevent him from entering her house," the press release state.  "The suspect pointed a handgun at the mother and pulled the trigger. The gun did not fire. The suspect went back to his house, where he was located by responding officers and placed under arrest."

The suspect was identified as 66-year-old Cedrick Steven Paines (shown below).  

 Police said a search warrant of the residence was executed and resulted in the seizure of two handguns, one shotgun, a .22 caliber rifle, and ammunition. 

Although an arrest has been made in this case, detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this incident or suspect to call 410-222-6155.  Individuals wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call the Anne Arundel County Police tip line at 410-222-4700.

***Any suspects/arrested/charged individuals and persons of interest named in the articles are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.***