WALDORF, Md. — A Waldorf man is facing misdemeanor charges after authorities allege he assaulted a tow truck driver and damaged a vehicle during a dispute over a parking enforcement tow in Charles County.
Jerry Lewis Branch, 61, of Waldorf, was charged Feb. 16, 2026, with second-degree assault and malicious destruction of property valued under $1,000, according to court documents.
Deputies responded at approximately 11:39 p.m. to the St. Charles Town Plaza after receiving a report of an assault. The incident occurred near Westlake Liquors, located at 1182 Smallwood Drive West.
According to charging documents, the victim, who operates a towing company, had hooked and lifted Branch’s vehicle for parking on a curb in front of the liquor store. The area reportedly has posted signs stating unauthorized vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.
As the tow was in progress, Branch exited the store and confronted the driver. Authorities allege Branch grabbed the driver by the upper body and shoved him against a pillar and the door of the business. The driver was able to break free and lock himself inside the tow truck.
Investigators allege Branch then removed the magnetic remote brake light from the rear of the tow truck and struck the driver’s side window multiple times, shattering the glass while the driver remained inside. The driver reported soreness to his left leg following the altercation.
Court documents state the window damage was estimated at approximately $350, and the remote brake light sustained about $300 in damage, for a total of roughly $650.
Branch was later identified through his Maryland driver’s license. He was released on his own recognizance following a bail determination on Feb. 17.
A hearing is set for April 3, 2026, in Charles County District Court.
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