SWAT STANDOFF ON THANKSGIVING NIGHT ENDS WITH ARREST IN EL CAJON

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November 25, 2011 (El Cajon) – Stephen Anthony Harris, 20, has been arrested following an all-night stand-off at 118 West Chase Avenue in El Cajon. Residents called 911 at 10:20 p.m. to report that Harris showed up in violation of a court order and began vandalizing property inside the home. Residents fled the home in fear of their safety.

“When police arrived, Harris had barricaded himself inside the second story town-home and was smashing all of the exterior windows,” Lt. J.D. Arvan said. “Harris was also throwing household items out of the windows onto the front yard and street area. Officers could hear Harris screaming incoherently and extensively vandalizing the home.” Officers attempted to get Harris to exit the residence but were unsuccessful.

Officers established a secure perimeter around the residence as they continued attempts to negotiate Harris to surrender. During the course of negotiations, Harris threatened to set fire to the home and to harm police officers if they attempted entry into the residence.

After four hours of unsuccessful negotiations and repeated threats of violence towards officers, El Cajon Police S.W.A.T. and Crisis Negotiations Team were activated.

Negotiation attempts by the Crisis Negotiations Team were unsuccessful and the S.W.A.T team made entry into the residence at approximately 4:30 a.m. Harris was located hiding in one of the four bedrooms. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Harris was charged with Felony Vandalism, Burglary, Felony Criminal Threats towards Peace Officers, and Violation of a Restraining Order. It is estimated that Harris caused thousands of dollars of damage to the residence and contents.

 


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