Knife-wielding Parsons man charged with aggravated domestic battery

(From the Parsons Police Department)

On May 14, 2023, around 4:24 pm, the Parsons Police Department was notified about a domestic battery that was in progress in the 400 block of South 21st. It was also reported that one party had a knife.

While officers were responding to the call it was reported that the male had fled from the scene. The caller gave a description of the male and Sergeant Waylon Kepley spotted him in the 2200 block of Grand. The male took off running from Sgt. Kepley and threw an object down while fleeing. He then stopped and surrendered to Sgt. Kepley.

Edward David Gutierrez, 28 of Parsons, was detained by Sgt. Kepley for suspicion of domestic battery. Other responding officers were able to speak to the victim and a witness of the event and probably cause was developed for the arrest of Edward. A large combat style knife was located where Sgt. Kepley spotted Edward tossing something down. Edward was also reported to have threatened a witness with the knife as well as the victim of the original call.

Parsons Police are seeking the following charges on Edward: Aggravated Domestic Battery, two counts of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Weapons Violation by a Felon and Criminal Restraint. These charges have been sent to the Labette County Attorney's Office for review and official charging. According to Edwards' criminal history he was released from Arizona Department of Corrections in April of 2023 before relocating to Parsons.

Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks said, "I am glad that this incident was resolved quickly, and an arrest was made. Domestic violence plagues our city and is one of the most dangerous crimes for officers to respond to. Any violent crime that we can effect a good arrest on is great for the community and the victims."

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.