UPDATE August 29 8:55 p.m. 

Two Anne Arundel County men were charged on Aug. 19 with multiple violations in connection with a fist fight that occurred last month aboard a boat on the Choptank River, the Maryland Natural Resources Police reported.

Asia Cooper Jr., 21, and Joel Thomas Cooper, 19, both of Crownsville, were charged with second-degree assault, malicious destruction of property in excess of $1,000, disorderly conduct and affray – fighting in public in a manner that disturbs the peace. In addition, Asia Cooper Jr. was charged with reckless operation and negligent operation.

On July 23, department officers, the U.S. Coast Guard and Cambridge Police responded to a call for help from members of the Cambridge Yacht Club, who reported that a powerboat with five passengers aboard was interfering with a sailboat race and that two men were fighting. The incident was video recorded by members of the race safety committee.

The rented powerboat sustained about $3,000 in damages. The subsequent police investigation identified both suspects.

A date has not been set in Dorchester County District Court. If found guilty of all charges, Asia Cooper Jr. could be fined as much as $6,500 and sentenced to jail. Joel Cooper could be fined as much as $5,500.

Cambridge, MD – It was a spectacular day to be on the water. The party had rented a nice boat, they were doing some fishing, tossing down a few brews—what could possibly go wrong?

Well, something did go awry. First a beer was tossed and suddenly two of the males on board are grabbing and punching each other. Meanwhile, an official with the Cambridge Yacht Club caught the whole melee on camera.

The incident occurred Saturday, July 23 on the Choptank River during a regatta.
Officials from the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) have reported that one of the men, a 21-year-old from Anne Arundel County, is facing negligent boating charges. The incident remains under investigation and additional charges could be filed.
The party reportedly damaged the rented vessel to the tune of $3,000.

“This fight on the Choptank Saturday could have had deadly consequences,” NRP posted.

To view the video, click here