A 28-year-old man was arrested Monday on suspicion of resisting arrest, assaulting police and threatening deputies with a knife.
La Plata County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Wes Doughty said police were called to the Falls Creek subdivision, northwest of Durango, after a man was seen walking around the entrance of the neighborhood, displaying suspicious behavior.
The man, 28-year-old Jake Williams, was yelling that he was God and looking for his father, among other random statements. Doughty said Williams eventually walked into the middle of County Road 205 and stripped his clothing.
As soon as officers with the Sheriff’s Office contacted Williams, he became combative and attacked the officers.
Man arrested on suspicion of assaulting, threatening police
Deputies shot Williams three or four times with a Taser, Doughty said, but the shots didn’t work to subdue him.
Williams then pulled a knife and threatened the officers. Then, he put the knife to his own throat and started walking away.
While being pursued by the officers, Williams traveled to a nearby residence in the Falls Creek subdivision and tried to enter the home. The officers warned the homeowner not to let Williams in, Doughty said.
A standoff ensued, and Williams was eventually shot with a “less-than-lethal” bean bag round. The officers had to wrestle Williams to the ground and put him in handcuffs.
Williams was taken to Mercy Regional Medical Center for medical attention before being booked in the La Plata County Jail.
Doughty said Williams was charged on suspicion of assault on a police officer, criminal mischief and resisting arrest. Williams also had an active warrant with Durango Police Department.
Authorities suspect Williams was on drugs at the time of the incident.
Doughty said Williams struck officers in the head, but no deputies required medical attention.
Officers were not immediately sure why Williams was in the Falls Creek area. Doughty said Williams has ties to Durango and Florida, but officers are unsure where he currently lives.
“He was dangerous to deal with,” Doughty said. “But we feel like it came to a good, successful outcome.”
jromeo@durangoherald.com
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