Vehicle Pursuit in Chestertown Leads to Arrest and Animal Cruelty Charges

Kent County, MD - Kent County Sheriff's Office Deputies arrested a suspect following a vehicle pursuit and foot chase in Chestertown, Maryland, on July 1, 2025.

The incident began when Sgt. J. Watson attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling along Chestertown Road for a traffic violation. The driver failed to comply, leading deputies on an extended pursuit that ended on Flatland Road.

The driver, identified as Malachi Tallington Sr., 35, of Chestertown, Maryland, exited the vehicle on Flatland Road and fled on foot. Deputies chased after and apprehended Tallington shortly thereafter. Upon abandoning the vehicle, Tallington left a dog inside, which was later found in distress due to heat.

Following his arrest, Tallington was charged with multiple traffic offenses as well as animal cruelty for neglecting the dog in these conditions. He was brought before a District Court Commissioner and subsequently held without bond at the Kent County Detention Center.

Authorities confirmed that Tallington was on GPS-monitored pre-trial release at the time of the incident. 

The dog received prompt medical treatment, and the case remains under investigation.

Disclaimer: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.