Pittsville Man Convicted of Child Sexual Abuse After Years of Abuse Inside His Own Home

Wicomico County, MD - A Wicomico County jury has found a Pittsville man guilty of sexually abusing a child who lived in his household. The verdict came on April 28, 2026, following a two-day trial in the Circuit Court for Wicomico County.

Oliver Kennedy, 51, was convicted on four counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and one count of Assault in the Second Degree. The case was presided over by the Honorable Karen M. Dean, Associate Judge of the Circuit Court for Wicomico County.

According to the Office of the State's Attorney for Wicomico County, the abuse took place between 2018 and 2023. The victim was a child living in Kennedy's home and was under the age of 12 during that time.

Kennedy was taken into custody following the verdict and will remain there until his sentencing date. Before he is sentenced, a mandatory pre-sentence investigation and mental health assessment must be completed. He faces up to 35 years in prison.

Wicomico County State's Attorney Jamie L. Dykes spoke about the case and the impact it carries, especially given the timing.

"As we near the close of April and Child Abuse Prevention Month, this case is a sobering reminder that child sexual abuse exacts an indescribable toll on survivors," Dykes said. "The survivor exhibited strength and bravery in disclosing the abuse and when testifying in court. I would also like to recognize the members of the jury who approached their duty to deliberate seriously, and delivered a strong verdict that hopefully has afforded the survivor some semblance of the peace they deserve."

The case involved several agencies working together to bring it to trial. State's Attorney Dykes recognized Sergeant J. Seichepine of the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, who led the investigation. Dykes also acknowledged the work of Child Protective Services and the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center for their roles in supporting the investigation.

Senior Assistant State's Attorney Michael Calabrese prosecuted the case. Dykes commended him for his work in fighting for justice on behalf of the survivor.

Cases like this one are a reminder of how important it is for children to feel safe enough to speak up. It is also a reminder of the critical work done behind the scenes by law enforcement, child welfare workers, and prosecutors every day in our community.