Charged with First- and Second-Degree Assault
FREDERICK, Md. (Nov. 18, 2023) – On Nov. 17, two Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) deputies responded to the 200 block of North Seton Avenue in Emmitsburg, Maryland, for a domestic in progress.
After further investigation, the deputies found probable cause that Joseph Anthony Ritz III, age 47, from Emmitsburg, a former town commissioner, had committed assault in the first-degree of his 13-year-old son. Visual marks were present on the child.
Emergency Medical Services personnel responded and examined the child. The mother of the child declined transportation for him.
The deputies arrested Ritz and transported him to the Frederick County Adult Detention Center for booking. Charges for Ritz include first- and second-degree assault.