Armed Standoff Ends as Man Charged in Winchester
A 60-year-old man has been charged after a tense public order incident on Andover Road, Winchester, that sparked a heavy police response.
Threat with Imitation Firearm Sparks Police Siege
Police were called to Andover Road just after 2.45pm on August 25. On arrival, officers were threatened with a weapon. Richard Peter Kempson, from Andover Road, was charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
Two-Day Standoff Ends After Police Negotiations
Police spent two days negotiating with Kempson at a block of flats on Mountbatten Court, Andover Road. Firearms units and dog handlers backed up officers during the tense stand-off, which was linked to eviction proceedings Kempson was facing from his landlords.
Residents Locked Down Amid Major Police Operation
Local residents were barred from entering or leaving the area during the siege, with 13 police vehicles and cordons sealing off the road. By late Thursday night, some cordons were lifted as officers scaled down the operation.
Police have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the wider community.
Next Court Date Set
Kempson appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates Court and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at 1 Crown Court on September 29.
