Police Department

Multi Hour Standoff Concludes With Arrest of Domestic Violence Suspect

Ofc. Stephen Anderson, PIO

Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at 7:12 p.m.

Update 6/16/21:

After a multi hour standoff which caused road closures, a shelter in place notification to citizens in the area of this incident and the utilization of multiple SPD resources, Broadsword was released from jail approximately 11 hours after being taken into custody. Broadsword is a convicted felon, and was charged with a felony offense related to domestic violence.

This incident lasted approximately 5 hours and included over 40 law enforcement officers. SPD is committed to the effort of bringing all incidents to a peaceful conclusion. Due to legislative changes for law enforcement statewide with an emphasis on de-escalation, SPD is evolving its tactics and practices to ensure compliance with state law. SPD appreciates the patience of the community throughout this incident and similar incidents in the future as SPD remains committed to serving the community with integrity, professionalism, and compassion.

Original release 6/15/21:

Multi hour standoff concludes with arrest of domestic violence suspect

On June 14, 2021 at approximately 6:45pm, 911 received a phone call from a woman requesting SPD assistance serving her ex-husband with a court order barring him from a location in the area of 2100 E. Columbia Avenue.

The woman told 911 her ex-husband was currently at the residence, having last seen him in the detached garage on the property. Officers arrived and attempted to serve the suspect with the court order. As the officers announced their presence at the garage, the suspect opened the door and immediately slammed the door shut upon observing the officers.

He was notified there was a valid court order prohibiting him from being on the property or having any contact with his ex-wife, and failure to comply would subject him to arrest.

Due to a previous conviction for Second Degree Assault, a crime of violence, along with safety considerations for the suspect, victim, the community, and officers on scene, additional resources from SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics), K-9, and Hostage Negotiation Team were deployed.

Officers attempted de-escalation tactics/techniques for multiple hours, which were unsuccessful. A search warrant for the garage was obtained.

Less lethal force options were deployed and the suspect was taken into custody without further incident.

The suspect is identified as Gary Broadsword (54 y/o). Broadsword was charged with Violation of an Anti-Harassment Order (DV) and Second Degree Burglary (DV).

The Spokane Police Department encourages anyone who is involved in a Domestic Violence incident to call 911 or visit the Spokane Regional Domestic Violence Coalition Resource Page at https://endtheviolencespokane.org/images/Resources-Pages.pdf

• Newer
• Older