Man arrested after brandishing a knife and breaking into a home, police say

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) - According to the Salinas Police Department, a wanted felon was arrested on February 19th after they took out a knife and forced their way into a home to try and flee.

The situation started when a commander saw a male suspect identified as 32-year-old Gerardo Padilla at the corner of Garner Ave. and Towt who was wanted on a felony criminal threats case.

Police say Padilla took out a knife and started running towards officers after they tried to de-escalate the situation with the suspect.

An officer realized Padilla was fleeing into homes and was able to force his way into an uninvolved home terrorizing a family inside.

Officers were able to evacuate the residence before the suspect could harm any of them. After a brief stand off and with sound tactics, officers were able to talk Padilla into setting the knife down.

Investigators say Padilla would not walk more than a foot away from it.

Padilla was tased, which gave officers the brief opportunity to safely take him into custody, according to SPD.

The suspect was later transported to Monterey County Jail and is facing felony criminal threats charges.