INCIDENT DEBRIEF

On May 13, 1982, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department responded to the residence of Royce Sands to arrest him for aggravated assault. The previous night, he beat his pregnant wife. When Sands fell asleep, Pat Sands escaped their mobile home, leaving their four children inside while a neighbor drove her to the hospital. Kino Hospital reported the assault to the police. As law enforcement arrived at the home, they saw Sands standing in the window and holding a gun. SWAT was called to assist. What seemed like an everyday warrant service turned into a six-day stand-off with hostages, including the Sheriff, being taken hostage. This historic case relied on three specific case laws, which many are unaware of. This presentation discusses those case laws while providing in-depth details of the incident itself. The presenter has reviewed over 700 pages of documents and conducted in-depth, in-person interviews with the primary negotiator, Dr. Kevin Gilmartin, and the coach. Historic photos, articles, and much more are included. A unique case with historical and legal significance, this powerful presentation provides a wealth of information to negotiators.