CECIL COUNTY, MD — The deputy fire chief of the Hacks Point Volunteer Fire Company was arrested Tuesday morning for allegedly setting a brushfire in Earleville earlier this month, according to the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal.
Robert “Bobby” Bennett, 39, was taken into custody without incident at his home and faces charges including second-degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property, and reckless endangerment. The charges stem from a fire reported on November 4 at the Recovery Centers of America property on Grove Neck Road.
Authorities say surveillance footage from the addiction treatment center shows Bennett setting the fire, which scorched two acres of land before being extinguished by firefighters, including Bennett, who responded to the scene in a brush truck.
Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray called the incident “deeply troubling” and emphasized that the alleged actions do not reflect on the thousands of career and volunteer firefighters who serve Maryland. “I’m disappointed, but the alleged actions of one should not disparage the work and sacrifices of those who serve,” Mowbray said in a statement.
Hacks Point Volunteer Fire Company Chief Frank Redford reassured the community of the department’s continued dedication to protecting the public and responding to emergencies despite the arrest.
Bennett is being held without bond at the Cecil County Detention Center as the investigation continues. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
The arrest of a fire chief accused of arson has stunned the community and raised questions about accountability in public service.