Judge rebukes Maryland oyster farmer in tampering case

A Maryland judge rebuked an Eastern Shore oyster farmer for tampering with evidence tied to a state probe into alleged dumping of illegal oyster-bed material in the Chesapeake Bay. On Monday, Daniel R. Webster Sr., 75, of Deal Island was found guilty of tampering and obstructing an investigation, both misdemeanors. He faces up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine, and Somerset County District Court Judge Paula A. Price set sentencing for Sept. 14. Price allowed Webster to remain free pending sentencing, but criticized him for “contaminating” the Bay. The case escalated after investigators received a late-April tip about boats dumping concrete mixed with plastic onto privately leased oyster grounds. Authorities say Webster removed buoys marking leased corners on May 4 and made dredge passes that may have disturbed evidence, while investigators continue to examine dumping linked to his boss, Phillip “Jamie” Harrington. Officials expect the probe to finish by August or September.