Special to the Record
A three-hour standoff at 207 Shurtleff Street ended peacefully late Wednesday evening, May 19, resulting in the arrest of a suspect wanted on multiple warrants, according to Chelsea Police.
At approximately 6:45 p.m., Chelsea Police officers responded to a report of a disturbance at the apartment complex. The suspect, later identified as Douglas Chin, age 29 of Apartment 213, was allegedly involved in a violent altercation in the hallway, destroying property and threatening on-site staff, according to police.
Upon arrival, officers encountered Chin in the hallway and determined that he had outstanding warrants out of Cambridge District Court, including multiple assault charges, some involving police officers.
As officers attempted to take Chin into custody, he retreated into his apartment and refused to comply with police commands. Officers believed he might have been armed with a knife.
Chin became increasingly hostile, barricading himself inside his unit and making continued threats, according to police.
Chelsea Police secured the scene, evacuating residents from the affected floor for their safety. A trained CPD crisis negotiator was brought in and engaged in an extensive dialogue with Chin in an effort to de-escalate the situation, according to police.
After nearly three hours of negotiations, the Chelsea Police Department requested the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police Tactical STOP Team to conduct a forced entry if necessary.
At approximately 10:20 PM, State Police STOP Team members entered Chin’s apartment and successfully took him into custody without incident. Chin was transported to the Cambridge Health Alliance in Everett for medical evaluation before being booked at Chelsea Police Headquarters.
“This outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of de-escalation efforts, teamwork, and our collaboration with state law enforcement partners,” said Chelsea Police Chief Keith Houghton. “Our priority is always the safety of the community, and I commend our officers and our crisis negotiator for his patience and professionalism in resolving this tense situation peacefully.”
Houghton was on the scene and praised his officers, Chelsea Fire, Cataldo Ambulance Service, and the State Police, who, working under unified command, he said seamlessly collaborated to achieve a positive resolution.
Chin was arraigned on charges in district court last week.