Floyd Man Arrested Following Hours-Long Standoff with Law Enforcement

A Floyd man faces two felony charges following an hours-long standoff with law enforcement Sunday afternoon.

According to the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, deputies located 44-year-old Nolan Paulus in the yard of his home at 308 Washington Street in Floyd at about 2:30 p.m. Sunday, August 9th. Authorities say Paulus had a valid arrest warrant for criminal mischief.

The Sheriff’s Office says Paulus disobeyed a deputy’s orders and ran into his residence. Shortly afterward, authorities say Paulus stepped outside holding a hatchet above his head while yelling at the deputy. A Taser was deployed but was unsuccessful.

Law enforcement established a perimeter around the residence, and the Iowa State Patrol Tactical Team responded to the scene. Authorities say negotiations continued for several hours but were unsuccessful. The tactical team eventually entered the residence and took Paulus into custody.

Paulus was charged with assault on persons in certain occupations while displaying a dangerous weapon, a Class C felony, and interference with official acts while displaying a dangerous weapon, a Class D felony.

The Floyd County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Patrol Tactical Team and the Charles City Police Department.