At approximately 4:55 a.m., Santa Maria Police officers responded to the 1800 block of North Broadway regarding a theft involving a knife.
The 35-year-old suspect had reportedly selected a kitchen knife from a store shelf, removed it from its packaging, and left the business. Officers located the suspect within the shopping center, still in possession of the knife.
The suspect, identified as Sherman Braddock, was uncooperative and refused to follow officers’ commands. Officers believed he may have been under the influence of drugs, and a standoff ensued.
Throughout the incident, officers demonstrated patience, professionalism, and a calm demeanor while attempting to communicate with the suspect, who refused to cooperate with negotiations. Officers employed sound tactical practices and continued working to bring the situation to a safe resolution. Braddock’s parole agent also assisted during the incident, helping keep him calm while officers worked to resolve the situation.
After several minutes, officers successfully took Braddock into custody without further incident at the scene.
While at the hospital, Braddock reportedly assaulted an officer, resulting in an additional charge of assaulting a police officer.
Braddock, who was on active parole for weapons violations, was booked into the county jail on charges related to theft, drug-related offenses, assaulting a police officer, and a parole violation.
Prepared by:
Sergeant Jesus Garcia
Patrol Sergeant
Santa Maria Police Department
(805) 928-3781
