On September 29, 2012 at approximately 1:56 a.m. deputies were called to the 2300 block of Sugar Maple Court in California, Maryland for a report of a disturbance. The complainant reported hearing yelling coming from the parking lot area of the condominiums.
Corporal Michael George, a nine year veteran of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and Corporal William Rishel, an eight year veteran of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the complaint. Both Corporals are assigned to the Special Operations Division. They were operating marked police vehicles, were dressed in uniform and were the only two deputies on the scene. Upon arrival the Corporals were confronted by Stephen Robert Wycoff, age 39, California, Maryland. A violent struggle ensued between the deputies and the suspect. Corporal George discharged his firearm fatally wounding Wycoff.
Corporal George and Corporal Rishel were transported to St. Mary’s Hospital where they were treated for the non-incapacitating injuries received during the confrontation. Both deputies were treated and released from the hospital. Corporal George and Corporal Rishel have been placed on routine administrative leave.
Detectives from the St. Mary’s Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Office of Professional Responsibilities responded to the scene and are continuing the investigations. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
