Norwich – Prosecutors in Norwich on Thursday opted not to prosecute a criminal case against New London firefighter Alfred Mayo, who was accused of cutting down trees straddling the border with his neighbor.

The state entered a nolle prosequi, which means they will not pursue prosecution, though the first-degree criminal mischief charge will remain open for 13 months before it is automatically dismissed. The “nolle,” was entered Thursday in Norwich Superior Court.

Mayo was placed on paid leave by the fire department while the case was pending but said he expects to return to work on Friday.

Norwich police arrested Mayo on July 15 following a complaint by his neighbor, Dorothy Pupa, who alleged Mayo had cut down a row of trees between their properties on Russell Road. She estimated the replacement cost at upwards of $20,000.

Attorney Gary Cicchiello, representing Mayo, said the “trees,” were actually overgrown privet hedges that are already growing back. There was also a question about whose property they were on. Mayo, he said, cut the hedges because they were growing into his home.

Pupa’s property is in foreclosure and the entire property was not being maintained.

“I’m relieved,” Mayo said. “I can put this behind me and get back to work.”