Somerset County, Maryland - Detectives from the Somerset County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigation Division have formally charged 31-year-old Chad Andrew Savage of Deal Island with two counts of Child Abuse (Felony) and two counts of second-degree assault (misdemeanor). Savage stands accused of causing severe injuries to his 21-month-old child and 7-year-old child during scheduled visitation.

The incidents came to light when the mother of Savage's 21-month-old child noticed severe injuries on the child after a scheduled visitation from September 5 to September 8, 2024. She took the child to the Tidal Health Emergency Room, where the child was treated and subsequently released.

During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Savage, who is also the biological father of an additional 7-year-old and a 5-year-old, and allegedly caused severe injuries to the 7-year-old in February 2022.

Following the investigation, detectives completed a Statement of Charges to the Somerset County District Court Commissioner on September 13, 2024. The District Court Commissioner issued a Criminal Summons for these charges.

In response to the summons, Chad Savage was formally charged on Friday, September 13, 2024, with two counts of Child Abuse, Second Degree - Custodian, and two Counts - Second Degree Assault.

Savage acknowledged receipt of his charges by way of a citation, which is now pending trial. Until proven guilty in a court of law, Savage is presumed innocent of these charges.

Due to the fact that Savage was charged via criminal citation, there is no photo available.

Update from the Princess Anne Police Department: "The Princess Anne Police Department is announcing the suspension of PFC Chad Savage pending an investigation into the filing of criminal charges by the Somerset County Sheriff's Department.

The Princess Anne Police Department was made aware of the investigation involving PFC Chad Savage by the Somerset County Sheriffs Department and Worcester County Child Protective Services and has cooperated and assisted with the investigating agencies. The case is pending adjudication in the court system and the internal investigation precipitated by these charges is still active and ongoing.

As this is a personnel matter no further comment can be made at this time.

The Princess Anne Police Department remains unwavering in our dedication to upholding the highest standards in professionalism, accountability and integrity and will continue to ensure that our officers uphold the values that reflect the best interests of the residents of Princess Anne".