Community Corner

Man Guilty of Illegally Removing Trees to Improve Homeowner View of Severn River

Dennis Russell Paddy Sr. of Edgewater was convicted on three counts of critical area violations.

The owner of an Edgewater tree service was convicted Tuesday on three counts of violating environmental regulations for cutting down trees in Severna Park so homeowners could have a better view of the Severn River.

According to a statement from the Maryland Attorney General, the owner of Paddy Stump Grinding, Dennis Russell Paddy Sr., 44, of Edgewater, removed and improperly cut down dozens of trees in the expanded buffer area of homes along Bellehahn Court in Severn Park.

Anne Arundel County Circuit Judge Michele D. Jaklitsch sentenced Paddy to perform 80 hours of community service along with 12 months probation.

Find out what's happening in Severna Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Court testimony revealed that more than 70 tress in diameters of up to 25 inches were completely cut or "topped" by Paddy, according to the charge. Paddy was hired by co-defendants Nilos and Kelly Sakellariou, who sought to open a clear view to the Severn River from their house in order to increase their property value.

The Attorney General said the Sakellariou’s property is not waterfront and sits behind two affected residential properties in a heavily wooded area. All of the properties, including the home of the co-defendants, are within critical area expanded buffer zones.

Find out what's happening in Severna Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Sakellariou’s also face criminal charges, but a trial date has not been set, according to a release.

Let Patch save you time. Get great local stories delivered right to your inbox or smartphone everyday with our free newsletter. Simple, fast  sign-up here.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here