PRINCESS ANNE, MD - Princess Anne Commission President Lionel Frederick has been indicted by a Somerset County Grand Jury according to court documents obtained by WBOC.
The charges stem from an alleged incident on October 17 in which prosecutors allege Frederick was in possession of a shotgun after having been convicted of a crime of violence and prohibited from possessing a gun. A second charge in the indictment claims Frederick was also in possession of ammunition on the same date.
The first count of possessing a rifle or shotgun with a felony conviction carries up to 15 years behind bars if convicted, according to the indictment.
Commissioner Lionel Frederick.
Online court records show Frederick was indicted on April 25, 2025 and was served on May 12.
Frederick has had previous legal troubles. In 2021, he was suspended from the Town Commission following an extortion conviction. In 2023, Frederick was censured by his fellow commissioners amid ongoing tensions.
WBOC reached out to both Frederick and Princess Anne Town Manager James Prouse. Prouse provided the following statement Wednesday:
The Town of Princess Anne has been made aware that on May 12, 2025, Lionel Frederick, who serves as President of the Town Commissioners, was served with a criminal indictment.
As this matter involves pending legal proceedings, the Town will not speculate or offer comment regarding the allegations or circumstances surrounding the indictment.
We emphasize that the principle of presumed innocence applies to all individuals facing criminal charges. The Town remains fully operational and dedicated to providing consistent and effective service to the community.
No additional statements will be issued at this time