Bloomin’ Brawl: Lothian Man Charged After Assault Shuts Down Outback In California, Maryland

CALIFORNIA, Md. — A late-night disturbance inside a California, Maryland, restaurant escalated into a physical confrontation that left patrons scrambling, furniture overturned and a business forced to close for the evening, according to court records and law enforcement reports. The incident, which occurred inside the Outback Steakhouse on Dec. 22, resulted in multiple criminal charges against a Lothian man.

According to court records, Malik Leandre Bryan, 24, of Lothian, was arrested and charged with three counts of second-degree assault, malicious destruction of property valued at less than $1,000, and disorderly conduct.

St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office records state deputies were dispatched to the Outback Steakhouse in California, Maryland, after receiving reports of a physical altercation inside the restaurant. Upon entering the establishment, deputies reported observing three bystanders restraining Bryan on the floor. Authorities stated Bryan allegedly appeared impaired and was exhibiting belligerent behavior at the time of contact.

According to police statements, the main foyer and dining area showed visible signs of a struggle, with chairs, tables and glassware displaced throughout the restaurant. Deputies took Bryan into custody and removed him from the business in order to end the disturbance and restore order for remaining patrons.

Police documents state deputies made contact with the primary victim, who reported he had been seated at a dining table with his girlfriend when Bryan allegedly approached from behind while yelling and screaming. The victim told deputies that restaurant staff attempted to have Bryan leave the premises. At that point, Bryan allegedly struck the victim with a closed fist on the left side of his head.

According to the victim’s statements to deputies, he stood up to defend himself. During the altercation, Bryan allegedly began throwing cups and plates, striking additional patrons. Several individuals who were struck reportedly left the restaurant before deputies arrived.

Multiple witness statements corroborated the victim’s account of events, police said. Some patrons also provided video footage to law enforcement, which investigators reported is consistent with the sequence of events described in witness statements. Witnesses stated Bryan had been eating alone prior to the incident.

According to court records, Outback Steakhouse management estimated the damage to the restaurant at approximately $600. Due to the extent of the damage and disruption, the business closed for the remainder of the evening.

Police documents state that while being held in custody, Bryan allegedly spit on multiple deputies. He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center without further incident.

Bryan was released on recognizance. A trial officer scheduling hearing is set for Feb. 24, 2026, in St. Mary’s District Court.

Under Maryland law, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500 per count. Malicious destruction of property valued at less than $1,000 carries a maximum penalty of up to 60 days’ incarceration and a $500 fine, while disorderly conduct is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

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