A tense encounter unfolded in the Security/Widefield area on May 18th when a man wielding swords threatened community members. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office reported that Daniel Adolpho-Rivera, 32, was arrested for menacing residents with weapons and subsequently charged with multiple offenses.
Authorities responded to the scene after receiving a call around 10:52 AM, with deputies encountering Adolpho-Rivera walking with two large swords along Larch Drive. When approached, he led officers on a brief chase, ending underneath plywood boards in a local's backyard, according to El Paso County Sheriff's Office.
In the standoff that ensued, communication and negotiation between the deputies and the suspect resulted in a non-violent surrender. El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal highlighted the peaceful resolution, stating, "I am grateful for my deputy's quick response and skills to negotiate a peaceful surrender from this suspect," as reported by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. "Because of their training and dedication to our mission, everyone safely walked away from a dangerous situation."
The investigation revealed two victims who had encountered Adolpho-Rivera while tending to their yard. They described him as swinging the swords, making verbal threats. Although the suspect initially failed to comply with deputies' commands, the situation was diffused without further altercations, and the swords were recovered. Adolpho-Rivera sustained minor injuries while fleeing and was cleared by medical professionals at the scene.
After his arrest, Adolpho-Rivera was charged with two counts of Felony Menacing and one count of Criminal Trespass. He is currently held at the El Paso County Jail with a bond set at $2,000. Further details regarding his motives or state of mind at the time have not been disclosed.
