CALVERT COUNTY MAN CHARGED
FOR ILLEGAL WELL DRILLING

Attorney General J. Joseph Curran, Jr. announced today John E. Branham, 69, of Port Republic, Maryland was arrested and charged with illegal well drilling in Anne Arundel County. Branham was also similarly charged in Charles County.

The charging documents allege that during 2002 Branham practiced well drilling without a license at two residential locations in Anne Arundel County and at one residence in Charles County. In addition, Branham faces two counts of misrepresenting to the public that he is authorized to practice well drilling in Maryland. If convicted, the defendant could face up to three months in prison and/or a fine of $500 for each count.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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