DATE: April 18, 2013
TIME: 1006 hours
TYPE OF CRIME: Criminal / Bomb Threats
LOCATION: 8200 block of Kern Avenue, Gilroy
ARRESTED: Daniel Wheatley Age: 32 years old (Photo Attached)
BOOKING CHARGES: 422 PC – Criminal Threats
CASE #: 13-1767
Details:
On April 18, 2013 at approximately 1006 hours, Gilroy Police Communications received a report of a disturbance in the 8200 block of Kern Avenue, Gilroy. Gilroy Police Officers arrived at the scene and contacted multiple witnesses. The witnesses reported a subject, later identified as Wheatley, made threats that he had a bomb and firearms.
Officers quickly contained and isolated Wheatley in his apartment. As a safety precaution, the apartment complex was evacuated and a nearby elementary school was placed on lockdown.
The Gilroy/Morgan Hill Regional SWAT Team, Hostage Negotiation Team and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad were summoned to the scene. Police negotiators continuously urged Wheatley to cooperate with law enforcement and surrender. Wheatley refused to comply with police direction.
Wheatley presented a credible safety threat. He stated he had a bomb and was in possession of the detonator. His statements and actions lead officers to believe he was in possession of a bomb or other explosive device. SWAT officers prepared to introduce chemical agents into his apartment, in an attempt to force Wheatley away from any potential explosive device and safely resolve the incident and. Wheatley surrendered to SWAT officers as they approached his residence. He surrendered to police at approximately 1621 hours.
The bomb squad searched Wheatley’s apartment and the surrounding area. No potential explosive devices were located.
The incident was resolved without any injuries or causalities.
Wheatley was arrested for criminal threats and later booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail.
Anyone with information regarding Daniel Wheatley’s criminal threats is asked to contact the Investigations Bureau at (408) 846-0335. Parties wishing to remain anonymous may call the We-Tip Line at (800)782-7463.
For media inquiries please call (408) 846-0347.
####
Prepared by:
Sergeant Gallacinao 04/18/2013
Approved by:
Captain Svardal 04/18/2013
