FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The LBPD patrol function filed a criminal complaint against Joseph A. DIMARTINO (age 32), last known address of Lititz, alleging the crimes of Terroristic Threats and Harassment.

As the result of the filing of the criminal complaint, an arrest warrant was issued on 03/01/2020.  The charges were filed regarding an incident that is alleged to have occurred against an adult female whom is known to DIMARTINO.  The incident is to have occurred on 02/29/2020 at a residence in the 500 Block of East Front Street in Lititz Borough. 

On 03/01/2020 at around 1:22 PM, an LBPD officer performed a premise check at the address on East Front Street.  During the premise check, DIMARTINO was observed to be inside.  Upon the officers making contact with DIMARTINO, he refused to voluntarily exit the house and obtained a large knife which he placed to this throat.  LBPD patrol officers initiated negotiations with DIMARTINO to ensure a safe and peaceful resolution.  The LBPD patrol officers maintained the negotiations until the arrival of the Lancaster County Crisis Negotiators, whom upon their arrival, assumed the negotiation responsibility.

On 03/01/2020 at around 3:09 PM, after successful negotiations with LBPD patrol officers and the Crisis Negotiators, DIMARTINO voluntarily exited the house and was taken into custody without incident.  No injuries were suffered by DIMARTINO, any police officer or any other person.  At no time was the public in any danger. The immediate area was closed-off to pedestrians and vehicle traffic during the negotiations in an abundance of caution and to keep the area clear.

DIMARTINO was transported to Lancaster County Central Booking to await further legal process on the charges.

DIMARTINO is presumed innocent.

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