A man involved in an argument with his girlfriend on Tuesday discharged a rifle in the direction of a Las Cruces Police officer before being arrested and charged with a third-degree felony.
Michael Chavez, 29, of the 1900 block of Princess Jeanne Drive, was arrested and charged with one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon upon a peace officer. There is a possibility that the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office may consider additional charges against Chavez.
At around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17, Las Cruces Police were dispatched to a domestic disturbance between Chavez and his 21-year-old girlfriend. One officer approached the rear of the home and, through a window, observed Chavez and the woman in a heated argument.
A short while later the officer saw Chavez carrying a long gun which he subsequently fired from within the residence, striking the window near where the officer was standing.
The window shattered but the officer was not struck or injured.
Chavez eventually put down the weapon and exited the house where he was arrested.
Chavez was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $10,000 but he has since posted bail.