Sanford man arrested in assault on stepdad after overnight standoff

Garth Johnson (Sanford Police photo)

SANFORD - A Sanford man was taken into custody after a brief standoff with a SWAT team Friday after he allegedly assaulted his father inside the family home on Grammar Road and then refused to come out when ordered by police.

Garth Johnson, 21, was charged with aggravated domestic violence assault.

Police first responded to 85 Grammar Road around 1 a.m. after Johnson's stepdad told dispatchers he had been cut and punched. When officers arrived they evacuated the parents and found that Johnson had retreated to his bedroom, where it was said he had access to a gun.

After attempts to communicate with Johnson by phone and a public address system were unsuccessful during the overnight, Southern Maine Special Response Team (SMSRT) was activated around 10:30 a.m.

With an arrest and search warrant in hand, the response team established a perimeter around the residence and shut down Grammar Road. Team members then addressed Johnson over a loudspeaker whereupon he appeared in the doorway, followed all commands and was safely taken into custody without incident.

Johnson's stepfather was treated at an area hospital for a fractured rib and severely lacerated finger.

Johnson was taken to York County Jail where his bail was set at $20,000 pending a court appearance on Monday.