Charged with Reckless Endangerment In the Ocean City, MD? Here's What to Know

What it is: Under Maryland Criminal Law §3-204, reckless endangerment means (1) recklessly creating a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person, or (2) discharging a firearm from a vehicle in a way that creates that risk.

In most cases, it’s treated as a misdemeanor. But if a deadly weapon is involved, it may be elevated to felony level. 

Upon conviction, penalties may include up to 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. 

How Reckless Endangerment May Arise in Ocean City

Here are some real-world examples of how such a charge might come up in Ocean City:

• A driver weaving carelessly through crowded boardwalk or streets, nearly hitting pedestrians or other vehicles.

• Someone firing a gun (or even a BB/pellet gun) from a vehicle in or around town in a way that threatens bystanders.

• Reckless behavior at parties, involving fights or other actions that put people at risk (e.g. dangerously throwing objects).

• Incidents involving intoxicated individuals who act unpredictably around crowds or vehicles.

Because Ocean City, MD sees a high volume of people—locals and tourists alike—there are many opportunities for one person’s poor judgment to put others in danger.

Why the Charge Matters — and What’s at Stake

Reckless endangerment is serious for multiple reasons:

• Criminal record: A conviction leaves a permanent mark unless you pursue expungement or mitigation.

• Collateral consequences: It can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and gun rights.

• Potential for higher charges: If a dangerous weapon or worse outcomes (injury/death) are involved, prosecutors may add assault or other felony charges.

• In fact, in one historical Ocean City, MD case, defendants originally faced manslaughter, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment before some charges were dropped. 

How I Approach Defending Reckless Endangerment Cases

At Frank Benvenuto, P.A., my defense strategy often includes:

1. Thorough fact investigation

   
   

   • Reviewing police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and video footage

   • Challenging the prosecution’s version of events

   
   

2. Questioning whether the risk was “substantial”

   
   

   • The law requires more than a momentary lapse—it must be behavior a reasonable person would avoid

   • Arguing if the risk was speculative or exaggerated

   
   

3. Highlighting lack of intent or control

   
   

   • Demonstrating the defendant did not act with conscious disregard

   • Show circumstances (distraction, confusion, mistake) rather than recklessness

   
   

4. Negotiation and lesser pleas

   
   

   • In some cases, reducing charges or seeking probation rather than jail

   • Working with local prosecutors familiar with Ocean City & Worcester County

   
   

5. Protecting constitutional rights

   
   

   • Ensuring any search or seizure was lawful

   • Challenging any improper police conduct or overreach

   
   

I emphasize that every individual deserves a vigorous defense, regardless of how serious the charge may appear.

What You Should Do If You’re Facing a Reckless Endangerment Charge

• Engage legal counsel immediately—don’t speak freely to police without representation.

• Gather all relevant evidence: photos, video, witness contact info, any communications relevant to the incident.

• Be cautious with statements: Even a well-meaning apology can be used against you.

• Explore alternatives: Sometimes diversion programs or plea bargains can reduce exposure.

• Ask about expungement: In certain situations, records can be cleaned or sealed. 

Final Thoughts

Ocean City, MD should be a place of enjoyment, not legal trouble. But reckless actions—especially in crowded, high-traffic settings—can quickly escalate into serious charges. With the right legal representation and strategy, someone facing a reckless endangerment charge still has options.

If you or someone you know is dealing with such a charge (in Ocean City or anywhere in Maryland), reach out for help. I’ve defended criminal cases on the Eastern Shore for decades and would be glad to discuss your situation.

Arrested or charged? Do not make statements before counsel. Save any videos, photos, and witness info. Then call me, Frank Benvenuto 443-783-2451 for a free consultation.