Standoff ends with peaceful surrender to VPPD officers

The Ville Platte Police Department made three arrests Tuesday night after a three-hour long standoff.
According to the release by VPPD, On June 15, 2016 at approximately 11:00 p.m., VPPD responded to a report of a possible aggravated assault with a firearm on West Hickory Street.
Upon arrival officers attempted to make contact with the subjects inside of the residence. Officers repeatedly knocked and identified themselves as police officers. No one inside the residence responded to commands to open the door. While waiting for backup units to arrive, officers observed a male subject walk to the front of the residence and turn off the lights on the porch and inside the residence.
Other agencies arrived to assist and surrounding homeowners were asked to leave the area for their safety. The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police and Louisiana State Police SWAT responded to requests for assistance by the Ville Platte Police Department.
Chief Neil Lartigue stated that the department requested assistance for the safety of the community and the officers. Lartigue added that they were unsure of the circumstances inside the residence or if anyone inside had weapons.
After more than three hours of officers and detectives attempting to make contact with the subjects, Chief Lartigue was able to reach one person inside by cell phone. Chief Lartigue was able to speak to the subject and convince them to peacefully surrender to authorities. All three individuals inside the residence surrendered and no one was injured.
•Amanda Jester Gilder, 29 of 108 West Hickory was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice. Gilder’s bond was set at $20,000.00
•Garrett Gilder, 28 of 108 West Hickory was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice. Gilder’s bond was set at $20,000.00
•Napoleon Freeman, 37 of 108 West Hickory was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice. Freeman’s bond was set at $20,000.00
Chief Lartigue would like to thank the Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police Troop I and Louisiana State Police SWAT for their assistance in the incident.
Chief Lartigue asks citizens to report any suspicion of illegal activity by calling 363-1313. Your call will remain anonymous.