UTICA, N.Y. — A Utica man was charged after allegedly threatening police officers with a knife during a mental health crisis last week, the Utica Police Department announced Monday.
On January 31, officers responded to a residence on the 300 block of South Street for a report of an emotionally disturbed person. Upon arrival, they encountered the individual, later identified as Jamie Longworth, 46, who appeared to be in distress.
As officers and Crisis Intervention Team members attempted to de-escalate the situation, Longworth entered the kitchen, grabbed a large knife, and menaced the officers. One officer drew his firearm and ordered him to drop the weapon, which he eventually did. Officers then attempted to place Longworth in handcuffs and, after a brief struggle, successfully detained him.
Longworth was transported to Wynn Hospital for a Mental Hygiene Law 9.41 arrest. Upon his release on February 3, he was taken into custody and charged with menacing a police officer and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.