Police Officer Pleads Guilty To Assaulting Girlfriend

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- A police officer in Frederick has pleaded guilty to assaulting his girlfriend near Deep Creek Lake.

Benjamin Whitmore entered the plea Wednesday in Garrett County District Court. A sentencing date has not been set.

The News-Post of Frederick reports that Whitmore was arrested in February by the Garrett County Sheriff's Office. According to a statement of facts read in court, Whitmore and his girlfriend got into an argument in a bar and the woman left.

Assistant State's Attorney Tracey Henline said Whitmore pushed the woman to the ground, pushed her down again when she got up, and kicked her.

Whitmore has been on administrative duty since his arrest.