Battery on a Peace Officer

On Aug 9, 2022, at about 6:15 p.m. the Chico Police Dispatch Center received a telephone call from a retail business in the 2500 block of Notre Dame Blvd reporting a transient looking male (later identified as Mr. James Owens; 36 years) was walking through the store pushing shopping carts at customers acting as though he was trying to strike them. Mr. Owens pointed his finger at citizens acting as though he was shooting them with his fingers. Citizens believed Mr. Owens was on drugs and were frightened by him.

Officers arrived at the store and employees told the officers, Mr. Owens was walking through the store swinging a hammer in the air and acting as though he was going to strike customers with it.

Officers located Mr. Owens inside the store and attempted to deescalate the situation by using space and communication while deploying several less-lethal tools. Mr. Owens fled through the store and officers pursued. One officer caught up to Mr. Owens to detain him. Mr. Owens punched the officer, breaking a bone in the officer’s face. The officer continued to take Mr. Owens to the ground as other officers assisted in placing him under arrest.

Mr. Owens was transported to Butte County Jail on several charges related to battery on a Peace Officer resulting in serious bodily injury.

The officer was seriously injured but we are grateful to report he is expected to make a full recovery.

Location: 2500 Block of Notre Dame Blvd.

Victim: Withheld

Suspect: James Owens (36 years)

Supervisor: Sgt. Bass S6

Lieutenant: Lt. Love L9

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!