In a tense and dramatic scene, 32-year-old James Edward Wells was arrested after barricading himself inside an apartment building in Danville, Virginia. The shocking standoff unfolded on Tuesday, January 4, when Danville Police spotted Wells—who was wanted on seven serious charges—around 3 p.m. in the 100 block of White Street.
Rather than surrendering, Wells fled into an apartment building, setting off a nerve-wracking five-hour standoff with law enforcement. According to police reports, he engaged officers from a distance, at times attempting to move between apartments and even accessing the building’s roof system in an effort to evade capture.
Despite his attempts to escape, officers remained patient, utilizing de-escalation tactics to bring the situation under control. After hours of negotiation, Wells ultimately surrendered from an attic area without the use of force.
He was immediately taken into custody and is now facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including:
- Felony burglary
- Felony larceny of a firearm
- Felony possession of a firearm by a felon
- Misdemeanor assault and battery on family members
- Misdemeanor trespass
- Two counts of misdemeanor destruction of property
Wells is currently being held at Danville City Jail. The intense operation involved not only Danville Police but also SWAT teams and the Danville Fire Department, ensuring the safety of residents and officers during the standoff.
This dramatic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement faces daily while keeping communities safe. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing case.
