Landlord Arrested for Brandishing Firearm During Dispute in Cumberland
CUMBERLAND, MD – An unsettling dispute between a tenant and his landlord led to the arrest of the landlord after he brandished a firearm. The incident occurred on August 14 at approximately 11:15 a.m. in the 100 block of Virginia Ave.
Cumberland Police Department (CPD) officers responded to the scene after receiving a report of a subject displaying a gun. Upon arrival, they met the victim who described that he had spotted his landlord, Bruce Wendell Owens, 56, of Cambridge, MD, on the front porch of the residence as he was preparing to leave.
The victim began to record Owens as he returned to his vehicle, prompting Owens to exit the vehicle and approach him, revealing a handgun. A verbal altercation ensued between the two parties.
Owens, the landlord for the property, told officers that he was there to have the tenant removed. He further explained that he observed the tenant coming towards him, cursing, and that he brandished the gun in an attempt to scare the tenant away. Owens confirmed that he holds a MD Concealed Carry Permit.
Despite his permit, Owens was placed under arrest and transported to CPD for processing. He made an initial appearance before a Court Commissioner.
This alarming incident highlights the importance of resolving disputes through proper legal channels and underscores the risks and responsibilities associated with gun ownership and concealed carry permits. The CPD’s prompt response ensured that the situation was controlled, and legal procedures were followed.