TAMPA, Fla. – (September 10, 2024) – In a tense situation lasting several hours, Tampa Police successfully apprehended a barricaded subject, 64-year-old Robert Kelley, on the 3300 block of W. Arch St. The incident began when Kelley, a veteran claiming to have PTSD, threatened a utility worker with a firearm.
Officers responded quickly, attempting to negotiate Kelley’s peaceful surrender. However, Kelley refused to cooperate, retreating into his residence. As a precaution, surrounding homes were evacuated.
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The Tampa Police SWAT Team, including hostage negotiators, was brought in to assist. Officers persisted in their efforts to de-escalate the situation and convince Kelley to leave the house.
After obtaining a court-ordered warrant, officers deployed CS gas into the residence. Shortly after, Kelley exited the house and was apprehended with the use of a taser.
“I want to commend the exceptional work of our officers in resolving this tense situation,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Their patience, dedication, training, and unwavering commitment to ensuring public safety were evident throughout this event. We are grateful for the cooperation of the residents in the area for their support and understanding as every officer worked to de-escalate the situation and bring it to a peaceful conclusion.”
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Kelley is being charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, with the possibility of additional charges pending the investigation. The investigation remains active as detectives conduct a search warrant of the residence. Kelley will be transported to Orient Road Jail.
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