Local Teacher and Barber Arrested in Princess Anne Teen Assault

Somerset County, MD - On October 3, 2026, Maryland State Police received a report of a sexual assault at a barbershop in Princess Anne, Maryland. Police say the victim is a 16-year-old.

A 61-year-old Westover man is now facing charges in the case. Police identified him as Maurice Cotton Sr.

Cotton works as a teacher at East Salisbury Elementary School in Wicomico County, Maryland. He also works as a barber in Princess Anne, Maryland.

Detectives with the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division, Eastern Region, took over the case after the report came in. They worked with the Somerset County State's Attorney's Office before any charges were filed.

Police arrested Cotton on October 20, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m. He is charged with sexual abuse of a minor, second-degree assault, and fourth-degree sexual offense.

Cotton is being held without bond at the Somerset County Detention Center.

Police believe Cotton and the victim knew each other before the incident. In line with police policy, the victim's name is not being released.

Investigators are asking anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of Cotton to come forward. They also want to hear from anyone who has information that could help with this case.

You can reach Sgt. Jonathan Pruitt by phone at 443-260-3700 or by email at jonathan.pruitt@maryland.gov. Police say all calls will be kept confidential.

Disclosure: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Eastern Shore Undercover® does not express or imply any opinion regarding the incident reported.