Man Arrested After Allegedly Threatening Children’s Camp in Emmitsburg, Assaulting Deputies

A man is being held without bond after reportedly threatening mass violence at a children’s camp in Emmitsburg and injuring a deputy during his arrest. According to a release from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the camp held at Emmitsburg Elementary School on the morning of July 29 after witnesses reported a man making violent threats near the school playground while children and staff were present.

Authorities say staff quickly moved the children indoors and placed the building on lockdown. Deputies soon located the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Benjamin Dewees of Emmitsburg, on West Main Street. During the attempted arrest, Dewees allegedly assaulted two deputies. One of the deputies was hospitalized, treated, and later released, while the second was unharmed.

Dewees was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Frederick County Adult Detention Center. Investigators say he admitted to making the threats during questioning. He is facing multiple charges, including threat of mass violence, two counts of second-degree assault, disturbing the peace, and attempting to disrupt school operations.

The incident prompted an immediate lockdown and emergency response, raising concerns for safety among Emmitsburg residents. The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with additional information to call 301-600-1046. No children or school staff were physically harmed during the incident. Residents can expect an increased law enforcement presence around school areas in the coming days as a precaution.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office press release

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