ATF, local partners secure indictment of New Jersey man on arson charges linked to retail store fire

Baltimore, Maryland - A New Jersey man is faced indictment, Oct. 16, after using fire and explosive materials in a Maryland retail store.

Anthony John Rhodes, 37, of Short Pump, is charged with malicious destruction of property by fire. The charges stem from an incident in which Rhodes set a fire in an Elkton retail store during business hours while customers shopped.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Chief Caroll H. Spriggs, II, Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal.

According to the indictment, on April 29, Rhodes maliciously damaged and destroyed the store building, along with its merchandise and inventory.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

If convicted, Rhodes faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.

Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal for their work in the investigation, along with Office of the State's Attorney for Cecil County, for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Victoria Liu who is prosecuting the federal case.

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ATF protects American communities from violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson. Through crime gun intelligence, forensic analysis, and relentless investigation, we identify and arrest violent offenders and gang members, dismantle trafficking networks, and sever the supply chains arming cartels, prohibited persons, and terrorist organizations. We defend the rights of law-abiding citizens by safeguarding lawful commerce and upholding the Constitution of the United States. Learn more about what ATF is doing to reduce violent crime in your community by following us on X @ATFHQ, Instagram @ATFHQ, LinkedIn @ATF, and Facebook @HQATF, or on the web at www.atf.gov .