A Hutto man, Malcolm Watts, was sentenced to a 30-year prison term for opening fire on a Georgetown police officer's vehicle during a domestic disturbance in May 2021. Watts, 25, entered a guilty plea to one count of aggravated assault of a public servant, as reported by FOX 7 Austin.
After receiving a call reporting a disturbance on Walnut Street, the responding officer, while still inside his vehicle, became the target of 16 rounds discharged from Watt's firearm. The first bullet passed through the windshield, narrowly missing the officer's head resulting in minor injuries despite that he did not get struck, caused by broken glass the situation could have ended much worse. FOX 7 Austin details that the attack was an ambush, initiated by Watts in a fit of anger springing from a personal crisis when the mother of his children left him.
In a statement obtained by KVUE, Williamson County District Attorney Shawn Dick emphasized the gravitas of the situation, saying, “This was a terrifying incident that could have had a tragic outcome. It underscores the dangers of domestic violence situations and the risks that officers face in the line of duty.” The District Attorney commended the Georgetown Police Department for their handling of the incident, which avoided escalation and resulted in Watts' capture without further incident.
Further evidence presented during the sentencing hearing, which spanned two days, revealed that before the shooting Watts had used a firearm to threaten his girlfriend and her family. "I commend the Georgetown Police Department for deescalating the situation and safely apprehending Mr. Watts. My office will continue to ensure that violent offenders are held accountable and prioritize the safety of our community," stated Dick as reported by KVUE.
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