CALIFORNIA, Md. — On Sept. 20, 2025, Taara Aneesa Savage-El, 36, of Washington, D.C., was arrested in California, Maryland, and charged with two counts of second-degree assault, one involving a minor victim.
Maryland State Police were dispatched that night to a reported assault in progress at the Holiday Inn & Suites. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the hotel manager, who directed them to the room. According to court documents, officers did not hear any signs of an assault in progress when they approached the room. Officers knocked on the door, and Savage-El answered. Two other individuals were present.
Court documents state that a male victim told officers he had just returned to the room and was informed by a juvenile victim that Savage-El had allegedly pulled the juvenile’s hair, knocking them to the ground and causing their head to strike the wooden bed frame. When the male victim confronted Savage-El about the alleged assault, she allegedly became agitated and struck him. The male victim reportedly had abrasions on the right side of his face, which was actively bleeding, and a minor contusion on his right arm.
According to court documents, upon contact with Savage-El, officers noted an odor of alcohol on her breath and observed that her speech was slurred. Savage-El reportedly told officers the male victim had allegedly strangled her but did not provide additional details. Court records indicate that, during further questioning, she later admitted to pulling the juvenile’s hair and knocking the individual down.
According to court documents, the male victim did not want to press charges against Savage-El, despite displaying physical injuries from the alleged assault.
Savage-El was arrested and transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center. Under Maryland law, second-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Savage-El’s trial is scheduled for Oct. 23, 2025, at 9 a.m.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!