Maryland Health - General Section 10-1001

      (a)      A person may not operate a private, inpatient facility unless licensed by the Department.

      (b)      A person who operates a private, inpatient facility in violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $10,000.

      (c)      An employee, officer, operator, or director of a private, inpatient facility or any other person, who knowingly participates in a violation of this section, is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both.

      (d)      In addition to any other penalties specified in this section, an individual who is admitted or held against the individual's will by a person who is operating a private, inpatient facility without a license may recover civil damages from that person and from any other person who knowingly participates in the admission or detention.