Man in standoff with Auburn police tried to take officer’s gun during transport from court, officials say

Man in standoff with Auburn police tried to take officer’s gun during transport from court, officials say

A 33-year-old Lee County man involved in a standoff with police is facing new charges after authorities say he tried to take an officer’s gun following a court hearing Wednesday.

Auburn police on Tuesday responded to a domestic violence call near the 1000 block of Opelika Road. Officers tried to carry out a traffic stop on suspect Randy Travis Navarre, who had fled the scene.

Navarre led police on a high-speed chase, and ultimately was located at a residence on Windway Road.

Authorities said Navarre refused to exit the residence and police discovered that three juveniles were also inside with Navarre.

The countywide SWAT team as well as hostage negotiators responded.

During prolonged communications with Navarre, the Auburn Police Department was able to facilitate the release of the juveniles, and later Narvarre surrendered to officers without further incident.

The juveniles were evaluated by medical personnel, and they were found to be unharmed.

Navarre was charged with third-degree domestic violence, attempting to elude a police officer and three counts of reckless endangerment.

On Wednesday, Navarre was taken to Auburn Municipal Court for a bond hearing. The Auburn Municipal Court ruled that bond would be temporarily withheld, pending further evaluation and safety measures.

While being escorted for transport back to the Lee County Jail, Navarre assaulted an Auburne officer. During the assault, Narvarre attempted to take the officer’s gun, police officials said.

Officers were able to regain control over Navarre and he was transported to the Lee County Jail. The incident resulted in injuries to the officer who did not require hospitalization and there were minor damages to property.

Navarre is now charged with second-degree assault, attempting to disarm a law enforcement officer, first-degree escape and third-degree criminal mischief.

He is being held without bond.