LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – A local man is facing multiple felony charges following a disturbing series of incidents involving allegations of assault and the possession of an unregistered firearm.
On January 1, 2025, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on Oxford Court in Lexington Park after receiving a report of a firearm-related assault. Upon arrival, law enforcement spoke with a woman who reported that her partner, Timothy Ignatius Gatton, had assaulted her 8-year-old child during an altercation.
According to the woman, the altercation began when Gatton was accidentally kicked in the face by the child while they were playing. Gatton allegedly responded by grabbing the child by her legs and kicking her in the ribs. The woman further reported that Gatton kept a 9mm handgun, which lacked a serial number and was unregistered, next to their bed. She confirmed she was aware of his possession of the firearm.
During the investigation, a relative informed deputies of a separate incident that occurred on December 31, 2024. The relative alleged that during a verbal altercation, Gatton removed the same firearm from his waistband, pointed it at the relative, and pulled the trigger. Although the firearm did not discharge, the relative stated that they feared for their life during the incident. Another child was present during this confrontation.
Court records reveal that Gatton has been charged with first-degree assault, second-degree child abuse, and possession of a firearm without a serial number. The charges include a felony assault charge, second-degree child abuse, and a misdemeanor firearm violation. All offenses are alleged to have occurred on January 1, 2025.
Legal proceedings began with a bail review hearing on January 2, 2025, presided over by Judge Karen Christy Holt Chesser at the St. Mary’s District Court. Gatton is currently held without bond pending further hearings. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 28, 2025, with trial proceedings set to follow.
If convicted, Gatton faces significant prison time, including up to 25 years for the first-degree assault charge and additional penalties for the child abuse and firearm offenses.
All events occurred at the Oxford Court residence in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as the case moves through the judicial system.
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Abusing an 8 year child cause he accidentally got kicked? I really hope his cell block members read his papers. I’m sure he will be welcomed onto the cellblock with open arms.