CALIFORNIA, Md. – Authorities in St. Mary’s County have charged James Delonte Butler with arson threats, second-degree assault, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance following a November 16, 2024, incident at a residence on Cornwall Drive in California, Maryland. The charges stem from allegations that Butler, 41, threatened to burn down the home of a resident and committed other violent acts during the confrontation.
According to law enforcement, Butler arrived at the residence and began banging on windows, demanding entry. When the resident refused to allow him inside, Butler allegedly began sending threatening text messages and making phone calls. The resident reported that Butler texted, “I’m going to kill you,” and stated during a phone call, “I can’t wait until you all go to sleep. You all are going to burn.” The statements left the victim fearing for her safety and prompted her to contact law enforcement.
Search and Arrest
Officers responded to the scene and, after speaking to the victim and an independent witness who corroborated the phone threats, located Butler nearby. Deputies confirmed that Butler had an outstanding warrant through the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and took him into custody.
During a search incident to arrest, deputies found a small folded paper in Butler’s left sock containing a white rock-like substance later identified as cocaine. Law enforcement confirmed the substance as a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance under Maryland law.
Previous Indictment for Assault
The November 16 incident follows an earlier confrontation involving Butler at the same residence. On October 22, 2024, Butler reportedly assaulted the same victim, leading to a grand jury indictment on second-degree assault charges. That charge carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine if convicted.
Potential Penalties
If convicted, Butler faces significant penalties. The arson threat charge alone carries a maximum sentence of 10 years and a $10,000 fine. Possession of cocaine could result in an additional one-year sentence and a $5,000 fine. Combined with the second-degree assault charge, Butler could face decades of potential incarceration.
Community Concerns
These incidents have raised safety concerns among residents in the area. Authorities have emphasized the importance of reporting violent behavior and threats immediately, urging community members to assist law enforcement in addressing potentially dangerous situations.
Butler remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
Very happy the courts are keeping people accused of violent crimes locked up.