Congressional assault case put on back burner

The charges stem from the fight that erupted outside a political debate at Prince George’s Community College Aug. 16, a month before the September primary where Edwards narrowly lost to Wynn.

Friday’s ruling, by Judge Thurman Rhodes, is similar to a yearlong probation.

‘‘As long as [the defendants] don’t get into any trouble or anything like that, the case is essentially over with,” said Howard County Deputy State’s Attorney Dario Broccolino, who prosecuted the case.

But Edwards reacted with disgust to the ruling.

‘‘It is unconscionable that a felonious assault has somehow been swept under the rug,” Edwards said in a statement. ‘‘This was a vicious attack that has absolutely no place in our community or our politics ... this is just another example that those in power do not have to play by the same rules as the rest of us.”

Edwards’ campaign worker Larry Batie came out of the fight bloodied and bruised last August. Officers at the scene handcuffed White and Boston, but they were later released.

Broccolino said White and Boston apologized to Batie in February, during a private meeting in Upper Marlboro.

‘‘I think that justice was served,” Broccolino said.

The Howard County prosecutor’s office handled the case after Prince George’s County State’s Attorney recused himself.

Edwards has been talked about as a potential candidate in the 2008 congressional primary, but has not yet confirmed that she is running.

The congressional district includes parts of Prince George's and Montgomery counties.