Standoff With Norwalk Police Ends With Suspect's Arrest: UPDATE

NORWALK, CT — A 53-year-old Norwalk man, who was arrested a year ago under similar circumstances, was arrested by Norwalk police Friday following a standoff with authorities after domestic incident.

Joseph Sander, of Creeping Hemlock Drive, was charged with second-degree strangulation, third-degree criminal attempt at assault, and disorderly conduct after he surrendered to police Friday night.

The incident began at about 5:15 p.m. at Sander's home.

"The caller told officers her husband, Joseph Sander, had choked her and was now making 'Molotov cocktails' intending on committing 'suicide by cop,'" Norwalk police wrote in a release. "The victim was able to leave the residence and make contact with officers. Patrol officers responded to the scene where Sander was inside the residence. Emergency Services Unit Tactical and Negotiating units responded to the scene as well."

Norwalk police and fire apparatus set up a perimeter around the neighborhood and warned people Friday evening to stay away from Creeping Hemlock Drive, Valley View Road and Butternut Lane. At the time, police referred to the situation as a "critical incident."

Police negotiators eventually convinced Sander to leave the home, and he was taken into custody. He is being held in lieu of bail of $150,000, and is scheduled to arraigned in court on Monday.

A search of the home uncovered an undisclosed number of "improvised Molotov cocktail devises," according to police. The devices were secured by authorities.

A year ago, Patch reported about a standoff on Creeping Hemlock Drive involving Sander and Norwalk police that occurred days after he was accused of making threats, which led to authorities confiscating firearms from his home.

He was arrested following that incident and charged with reckless endangerment and other violations. That case is still pending.

As for Friday's incident, Norwalk police thanked residents for their patience.

"This situation was brought to a peaceful resolution and the suspect is in custody," police said. "We appreciate the cooperation of the community and the area residents as we dealt with this situation. This is an isolated incident and there does not appear to be any threat to the public."