Cleveland, OH – A 55-year-old Cleveland man is facing federal charges after allegedly opening fire on U.S. Marshals during an hours-long standoff at his apartment earlier this week.
Officials say the incident left one deputy U.S. Marshal wounded and sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community.
The suspect, identified as Larry Leon Dwight Wiley, was arrested following the violent confrontation and appeared in federal court Wednesday.
According to prosecutors, the shooting unfolded on Tuesday when members of the Cleveland U.S. Marshals Service arrived at Wiley’s residence to execute an arrest warrant for a prior federal violation. As officers entered the unit, Wiley allegedly fired multiple shots from a .380 caliber handgun, striking one deputy in the arm. The wounded officer was transported to a nearby hospital and is expected to make a full recovery.
Federal response and court appearance
Wiley was charged with assault on a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and now faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. He made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer Dowdell Armstrong and was ordered detained pending trial, following a motion from U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi praised the responding officers and condemned the attack, calling it “a stark reminder of the dangers” faced by law enforcement in the line of duty.
Officials vow to prosecute aggressively
U.S. Attorney Toepfer emphasized that any assault on federal law enforcement would be met with maximum legal action. “We will aggressively prosecute anyone who harms a federal law enforcement officer who is pursuing the mission of protecting the public,” Toepfer said, thanking multiple agencies for their rapid response.
Joint investigation underway
Authorities from the FBI, ATF, Cleveland Police Department, and Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office worked together to bring the situation under control and prevent further harm. FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen said the agencies’ swift coordination demonstrated their commitment to removing violent offenders from the community.
If convicted, Wiley’s sentence will be determined by the court following a review of his record and role in the offense.