Man Arrested Following Threat of Mass Violence at Camp in Emmitsburg

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dewees

Emmitsburg, Md. (July 30, 2025)– On July 29, 2025, at approximately 10:11 a.m., deputies from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) responded to a report of a threat of mass violence at a children’s camp held at Emmitsburg Elementary School. Witnesses told deputies an adult male approached the school’s playground, where children and staff were present, and made threats of violence.

The children and staff were immediately brought inside the school building, which was placed on lockdown for safety. Deputies quickly located the suspect, identified as Benjamin Dewees,28, of Emmitsburg, MD, nearby on West Main Street in Emmitsburg.

When deputies attempted to take Dewees into custody regarding the threats of mass violence, he assaulted two deputies. One deputy was transported to an area hospital, treated, and later released. The other deputy was uninjured.

Dewees was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Frederick County Adult Detention Center.

During an interview with investigators, Dewees admitted to making threatening statements consistent with those reported by witnesses.

Charges against Dewees include:

• Threat of Mass Violence

• Assault – Second Degree (2 counts)

• Disturbing the Peace/Disorderly Conduct

• Disturbing the Peace – Loud Noise

• Attempt – School: Disturb Operation

• Disorderly Conduct

Dewees is currently being held at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center without bond. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office at 301-600-1046.

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The Frederick County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) is a full-service law enforcement agency, an arm of the court, and a keeper of offenders. In this regard, it exists to serve the more than 290,000 citizens of Frederick County with respect, fairness, and compassion. FCSO is committed to the prevention of crime; the protection of life and property; the preservation of peace and order; the enforcement of laws and ordinances; the safeguarding of constitutional guarantees; and safekeeping of prisoners. The men, women, and officers of this office nurture public trust by holding themselves to the highest standards of performance and ethics. The FCSO is located at 110 Airport Drive East, Frederick, MD, 21701. Visit www.frederickcosheriff.com for more information.