Man arrested for allegedly making threats towards Frederick County children’s camp

FREDERICK COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) — A man was arrested Tuesday for allegedly making threats of “mass violence” towards a children’s camp, according to the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded shortly after 10 a.m. to reports of a threat made against a children’s camp at Emmitsburg Elementary School. There, the caller stated a man approached the playground, while children and staff were present, and started making threats.

According to deputies, the building was placed under lockdown, and the suspect, identified as Benjamin Dewees, 28, was located on West Main Street.

Deputies attempted to arrest Dewees, to which he responded by assaulting one of the deputies, who had to seek medical treatment for their injuries.

Dewees was charged with threat of mass violence, two counts of second-degree assault, disturbing the peace/disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace/loud noise, attempt to disturb school operation, and disorderly conduct.

He is 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.