EARLEVILLE, Md. — The deputy fire chief of the Hacks Point Volunteer Fire Company, Robert “Bobby” Bennett, 39, was arrested Tuesday morning on allegations of setting a brushfire in Earleville earlier this month. Bennett now faces multiple charges, including second-degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property, and reckless endangerment.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal began investigating after a brushfire broke out on the property of Recovery Centers of America on Grove Neck Road on November 4. Firefighters from Hacks Point, including Bennett, responded to the scene, where they extinguished a fire that had scorched two acres of land.
Surveillance footage from the addiction treatment facility reportedly captured Bennett setting the fire, prompting the center to alert authorities. Bennett was arrested without incident at his home and is currently being held at the Cecil County Detention Center without bond.
“This situation is deeply troubling,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. “I want to make clear that this one person’s alleged actions in no way reflect upon the thousands of dedicated career and volunteer firefighters who serve our communities—especially our volunteers who give of themselves and their time to serve Maryland. I’m disappointed, but the alleged actions of one should not disparage the work and sacrifices of those who serve.”
The Hacks Point Volunteer Fire Company assured the public of its commitment to the community in the wake of the arrest. “The dedicated volunteers of our Hacks Point community will continue to respond, and the department reassures the public that we will remain vigilant in protecting the community and responding to emergencies,” said Fire Chief Frank Redford.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal at 410-386-3050.
