Updated with the latest information from the Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office
On August 11, 2025, at approximately 6:00 p.m., deputies of the Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff, assigned to the 4H Fair in Centreville, MD, were alerted to an attempted kidnapping. The Sheriff’s Office and QAC Fair Board emergency response plan was immediately activated, and deputies quickly saturated the area.
During the alleged incident, a family member and bystanders intervened without hesitation, preventing the suspect from leaving the scene before law enforcement arrived moments later. Attendees, a family member of the child, other bystanders, and 4H Fair employees all played a role in stopping the suspect’s movement and ensuring the child’s safety.
Witnesses identified one primary suspect and three other individuals who had been with her during the event. All four were detained as persons of interest and identified while investigators from the Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Unit conducted interviews, reviewed tips, and consulted with the Queen Anne’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.
The investigation determined that Alexandra Kay Dawson, age 28, of Church Hill, MD, was the sole individual involved in the alleged offense. Detectives confirmed that the other three individuals, although present with Dawson throughout the evening, had no involvement in the crime. They were later released without charges.
Detectives continue to review and investigate any unverified claims or reports of unwanted contact with children at the fair. While there is no confirmation of additional incidents, an abundance of caution is being exercised during the investigation. The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information to come forward, as the investigation remains active.
Sheriff Gary Hofmann added, “The quick thinking and immediate actions of child’s family, community members, and fair staff, combined with the pre-coordinated safeguards and emergency response protocols established by the Sheriff’s Office and the 4H Board, allowed our deputies to respond within moments.
Thanks to the strong community partnership and preparedness, we were able to bring the situation to a safe and timely resolution, ensuring the safety and security of everyone involved. We want to thank our community for all your support and assistance in providing timely information to assist us in our investigations.”
Charges:
• Kidnapping (child under 16)
• 2nd Degree Assault
• Disorderly Conduct
As with all legal proceedings, it is important to remember that all subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
