Executive Summary
- Police responded to reports of gunfire on Fountain Crest Circle Sunday night.
- SWAT and crisis negotiators were deployed for a standoff involving a child.
- Two suspects were arrested and charged with resisting law enforcement and other offenses.
JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. – Two individuals were taken into custody late Sunday following an hours-long standoff involving gunfire and a specialized police response, according to the Jeffersonville Police Department.
Officers responded to the 2100 block of Fountain Crest Circle around 8:40 p.m. on January 26 after multiple callers reported an argument escalating into gunfire. Police stated that witness reports indicated between six and 12 shots were fired at the scene.
Upon arrival, law enforcement established a perimeter and determined that two adults and a child were inside the residence. Investigators noted the discovery of spent shell casings outside the home, though officials confirmed that no injuries resulted from the discharge of firearms.
Due to the nature of the threat, authorities activated the SWAT team, the Unmanned Aerial System (Drone) Team, and the Crisis Negotiation Team. A press release issued by the department confirmed that the standoff continued for several hours before the two adults exited the home and were detained.
Police identified the suspects as Natalie Hendricks and Paul Phillippe, both 42. Hendricks faces charges of neglect of a dependent, resisting law enforcement, and criminal mischief. Phillippe has been charged with criminal recklessness with a firearm, obstruction of justice, and resisting law enforcement. Officers also confirmed that the Department of Child Services was notified regarding the welfare of the child present during the incident.
Investigative Outlook
This incident highlights the procedural escalation protocols utilized by local law enforcement when firearms and minors are present in a barricaded suspect situation. The deployment of crisis negotiators alongside tactical units suggests a focus on de-escalation to preserve the safety of the dependent inside the residence. As the investigation proceeds, prosecutors will likely weigh the ballistic evidence against the endangerment caused to the community and the child. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
