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Man Arrested After Hours-Long Standoff in Helena

Helena, MT – An East Helena man was arrested early Saturday morning following a standoff with law enforcement that lasted for several hours on December 20, 2024.

Harley Jesse McIrvin, 35, was taken into custody after a tense situation unfolded at a residence on the 600 block of Lewis Street. The incident began around 6:45 p.m. when police were called to the scene following a report that McIrvin had allegedly attempted to hit a woman and pointed a firearm at her.

East Helena police officers arrived first and quickly called for backup when McIrvin reportedly entered another residence on the same property and refused to comply with officers’ orders to surrender. The Helena Police Department, along with the Lewis & Clark County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team, responded to the scene, where they attempted to negotiate with McIrvin for several hours.

After a lengthy standoff, McIrvin was taken into custody just after 2 a.m. on Saturday, December 21. He has been charged with felony assault with a weapon, as well as several misdemeanors, including partner-family member assault and obstructing a peace officer.

McIrvin’s bail has been set at $50,000. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Written by Denise Malone

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