Rick Riebe, 63, Arrested and Jailed for Shooting at Police Officers During Domestic Violence Incident in Lake County, Montana
On Saturday, April 6, 2024, the Polson County Sheriff’s Office apprehended and incarcerated Rick Riebe, 63, after a tense standoff that culminated in him opening fire on law enforcement officers. According to Lake County Sheriff Don Bell, the incident began as a “domestic violence incident” on Kerr Dam Road, with a relative reporting the attack to 911 at approximately 6:45 p.m. after witnessing the victim’s injuries.
When deputies arrived at the residence around 7:30 p.m., they encountered Riebe, who allegedly threatened to shoot the officers. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, Riebe continued to threaten police, even after locking himself inside the residence. Sheriff Bell stated that Riebe had previously exited the residence armed with a shotgun but returned inside before continuing to refuse attempts to resolve the matter peacefully.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Flathead County Special Weapons and Tactics squad, which arrived at the scene around 10:30 p.m. After negotiations failed, Sheriff Bell announced that “chemical agent munitions were deployed inside the residence to compel Riebe to exit the home” around 11:30 p.m. However, Riebe responded by opening fire with his shotgun and rifle on the officers.
Sheriff Bell explained that the police did not retaliate because they were unsure of Riebe’s precise location. Just fifteen minutes later, Riebe exited the residence and was subdued by a K9. He was subsequently arrested and transferred to the Lake County jail, where he is currently being held on charges of criminal endangerment, assault on a spouse or family member, and assault on a law enforcement officer.
Additional charges are also being examined as a result of the incident, according to Sheriff Bell. The victim, who was already outside the house when the crime occurred, suffered injuries and was treated at the scene. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of de-escalation techniques in volatile situations.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is commended for their professionalism and restraint in handling the situation, which could have ended in tragedy. The incident is a testament to the bravery and dedication of law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities.
Riebe’s actions were reckless and dangerous, putting not only the officers but also the victim and other bystanders at risk. His refusal to cooperate and repeated threats to shoot police officers demonstrated a clear disregard for human life and the law.
The incident is a sobering reminder of the consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help if you or someone you know is in crisis. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies are committed to serving and protecting their communities, even in the face of danger and adversity.
In conclusion, Rick Riebe’s arrest and jailing serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the rule of law. His actions put many lives at risk, and it is fortunate that no one was seriously injured or killed during the incident. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies will continue to serve and protect their communities with bravery and dedication.
The incident will be thoroughly investigated, and additional charges may be filed as a result of the ongoing investigation. The community is grateful for the professionalism and restraint shown by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies involved in the incident.
