What started as a roadside confrontation on Eastlake Boulevard turned into a weapons arrest last Wednesday, after deputies say a 30-year-old woman pointed a handgun at several drivers in northeast El Paso. The woman was taken into custody and a pistol was seized at the scene, according to local authorities.
Deputies with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office were called to the 13600 block of Eastlake Boulevard near Horizon Heights Elementary on a report of a person with a weapon. At the scene, a victim told deputies that the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Adleena Zhana Sibande, had pointed a handgun at him. Deputies recovered the firearm and initially booked Sibande into the county detention facility on a $20,000 bond on an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge. Two days later, detectives took over the case and determined she had also allegedly pointed the gun at another person, which led to a second aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge and an additional $25,000 bond. As reported by KVIA, Sibande was rebooked on the extra charge while detectives continue their probe.
What the Charge Carries
Under Texas law, an assault becomes aggravated when it involves a deadly weapon or causes serious bodily injury. Aggravated assault is typically a second degree felony that can carry two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, although specific circumstances can increase the penalties. The Texas Penal Code lays out the legal definitions, enhancements and special provisions, including those for assaults on public servants and for firing a gun from a vehicle.
Investigation and Next Steps
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office says detectives are still interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence as they build the case for the district attorney's office. Prosecutors will review the investigative file to decide on formal charges and schedule any court appearances. With the investigation ongoing, officials have kept additional details under wraps for now.
