Jaia Sorrell Hardaway, 20, of Waldorf
Jaia Sorrell Hardaway, 20, of Waldorf, has been charged with first-degree assault after an argument that began with a driving dispute escalated outside a Chick-fil-A on Crain Highway in Waldorf on June 5, 2026.
According to allegations filed in the case, a Charles County Sheriff’s Office officer responded at about 10:46 a.m. to the restaurant for a report of property destruction in the parking lot. The adult male victim told police he had been driving on Smallwood Drive toward Chick-fil-A when a gray Kia, later identified by officers as being driven by Hardaway, abruptly pulled in front of him and nearly caused a crash.
Both vehicles later arrived at the restaurant. The victim told police he and Hardaway began arguing in the parking lot. He said he yelled at Hardaway, “that was some reckless ass driving,” and that Hardaway replied, “yes,yes the f##k it was.” The two then went inside the restaurant, where the victim said they were the only customers in line.
The victim told police he kept his distance while Hardaway ordered food. After she ordered, he placed his own order and waited near the register. He said Hardaway gave him a stern look as he walked past her. After Hardaway received her food, the victim said he mumbled under his breath, “I will should smack the s##t out of you,” and Hardaway responded, “go ahead, go ahead and do it.”
The victim said he followed Hardaway outside as the argument continued. Police said Hardaway went to her vehicle, which was parked in front of the restaurant, and the two continued shouting at each other. According to the allegations, Hardaway put the vehicle in reverse, began backing out of the parking space, then put the vehicle in drive and attempted to leave. Police allege she struck the adult male victim with the vehicle, causing him to jump onto the hood.
While on the hood, the victim allegedly struck the windshield with his fist, damaging it. Emergency medical technicians treated the victim at the scene, and he was released. Hardaway was taken into custody and transported to the Charles County Detention Center for processing.
Hardaway was later released on personal recognizance. The release conditions require her to avoid criminal conduct and appear in court when notified. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 1, 2026, in Charles District Court.
