A Virginia man was arrested after police said he refused to pay for a restaurant meal, assaulted an employee, and caused a disturbance in Cumberland.
Cumberland, MD – A 35-year-old Fredericksburg, Virginia, man was arrested Sunday after officers responded to a reported theft and disturbance at a restaurant on North Centre Street, according to the Cumberland Police Department.
Police said officers were dispatched to the restaurant after receiving a report that a customer had refused to pay for his meal and had become argumentative with staff. During the investigation, the suspect, identified as Rodrigo Valentino Silva-Zarabia, claimed he had already paid but was unable to provide proof of payment.
Employee allegedly assaulted during incident
According to police, Silva-Zarabia eventually agreed to pay the bill. As an employee assisted him, officers said he allegedly assaulted the worker.
Officers at the scene witnessed the alleged assault and immediately placed Silva-Zarabia under arrest, authorities said.
Suspect released following bond hearing
Silva-Zarabia was transported to the Allegany County Detention Center. He later appeared before a District Court Commissioner for a bond hearing and was released on his own recognizance.
He has been charged with second-degree assault, theft of property valued at less than $100, and disorderly conduct. The charges are allegations, and Silva-Zarabia is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Key Points
- Police responded to a restaurant on North Centre Street for a reported theft and disturbance Sunday.
- Officers said Rodrigo Valentino Silva-Zarabia allegedly refused to pay for a meal and assaulted a restaurant employee.
- Silva-Zarabia was charged with second-degree assault, theft under $100, and disorderly conduct before being released on his own recognizance.
Related: Cumberland Police Department • Cumberland • Maryland • Allegany County • Rodrigo Valentino Silva-Zarabia