Monday night at approximately 7:30pm, Turlock Police dispatch received an anonymous call from a subject reporting that he was holding people at knife-point.
According to Turlock Police Officer Mayra Lewis, an open dialog ensued between the caller and dispatch which led to his identity and location, in the 4500 block of Fosberg Road. When officers responded to the scene, the subject threatened law enforcement with potential improvised explosive devices, booby traps, and firearms. He warned that Police “would not make it far" and that he had "surprises" waiting for Police inside if officers chose to enter the residence. The subject also said he intended on forcing officers to shoot him.
During the course of the investigation, officers were able to speak to the subject’s family who confirmed he had a mental disorder and had failed to take his medication for some time.
Officers on scene engaged in a face-to-face negotiation with the subject. Over time, he demonstrated an increase in trust and cooperation; however, he remained armed with a large butcher’s knife for the majority of the time.
At approximately 9:20pm, an opportunity presented itself for Police to take action. The subject disarmed himself and moved into close proximity to officers. One of the officers deployed an electronic control device (Taser), making them able to successfully detain the subject. The subject was transported to Doctor’s Behavioral Center.
The subject has only been identified as a 31 year old male from Turlock, and according to Lewis, Police will not release the subject’s name due to HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996).
Due to the nature of his threats, Stanislaus County Bomb Squad was notified and assisted in clearing the residence with their robots. There were no explosive devices located inside the residence.
“I am very pleased with our response from our dispatcher and officers," said Turlock Police Chief Rob Jackson. "They were able to diffuse a volatile situation without anyone getting hurt.”
The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.