Anne Arundel Sheriff Ronald Bateman arrested; faces assault charge

Anne Arundel County Police say that one of their own was arrested over the weekend. Sheriff Ronald Bateman was arrested Sunday for an alleged domestic incident.

Police say they responded to his address on Pasadena Yacht Yard Road just before 7:30 p.m. where his wife told officers that he assaulted her. 54-year-old Bateman was arrested and charged with second degree assault. His service weapons and personal weapons were removed from his home.

In a statement released on Monday, Bateman says "I categorically deny ever assaulting my wife. We had an emotional family dispute which led the police to come to our home."

Following his arrest, Bateman was released on his personal recognizance.

"I have known Sheriff Bateman for over 30 years. I have never known the Sheriff to be a violent person. Sheriff Bateman adamantly denies any wrongdoing in this matter." said Colonel Paul R. Tabor of the Anne Arundel County Police Department.

Tabor said Bateman will be on leave while the case is being investigated. He has been sheriff for ten years.