Preliminary Hearing Set For Veteran Baltimore Co. Police Officer In Burglary, Assault Case

A veteran Baltimore County police officer has been released on his own recognizance and a preliminary hearing is set after being charged in connection with an off-duty burglary, police said.

Frank Wilcox, of the 900 block of Martin Road in Essex, is charged with third-degree burglary and second-degree assault. The 35-year-old, a 17-year veteran of the department, was released on his own recognizance after a Tuesday bail review hearing.

Wilcox was most recently assigned to the White Marsh Precinct.

Just before 1 a.m. Monday, police responded to the 7400 block of Blevins Avenue for a reported assault. Officers learned Wilcox got in an argument with the homeowners over a domestic issue, forced his way in and pushed the victim, who fell to the floor, police said. Witnesses were able to get Wilcox out of the area before officers arrived, police said. Wilcox later turned himself in.

"The officers of the Baltimore County Police Department are obligated to not only enforce the law but to uphold the law in both their professional and personal lives," police spokesman Cpl. Shawn Vinson said in a statement. "The allegations that have been made in this case are serious and very concerning, they are not representative of the values and ethics of the many officers and professional staff of the Baltimore County Police Department who dedicate their lives to ensuring the safety of others."

Wilcox is suspended without pay, Vinson said.

A preliminary hearing is set for Jan. 31.