Worcester County Sheriff's Office

A suspended Worcester County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Deputy Sheriff was arrested and charged Monday evening with 2nd Degree Assault (Domestic Related). The Maryland State Police arrested 36-year-old Corporal Stephen J. Gulyas III, of Pocomoke Maryland.

The arrest came after a criminal investigation was initiated by the Maryland State Police. The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office opened an internal investigation that began concurrently with the criminal investigation initiated by the Maryland State Police. Sheriff Matthew Crisafulli said today, “I take this charge very seriously and I applaud the diligence and care taken by the Maryland State Police. It’s important that everyone knows that the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office values transparency and sharing critical information with the public. While I cannot comment further, as it could jeopardize the investigation, I fully believe that the community deserves to know when a member of this agency has been charged with a crime.”

Gulyas, who was hired in January of 2010, was serving as a K9 handler assigned to the Field Services Division at the time this investigation began. He had his police powers suspended on October 19, 2020 and he remains suspended pending the outcome of an internal investigation and the outcome of the criminal charges.

Members of the public are reminded that defendants are presumed innocent of charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

Any questions regarding the criminal investigation should be directed to the

Maryland State Police Media Communications at 410-653-4236 or email at msp.media@maryland.gov