Tracy Police were involved in an hours-long standoff that took place about 8:19 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 12, in Tracy.
According to reports, the Tracy PD observed a gray Chevy Silverado 1500 that matched the description of a vehicle wanted in connection with a Brown County felony warrant. The warrant information indicated the driver, identified as Justin James Larson, of Hanska, might be in possession of a firearm. An officer followed the vehicle to the 600 block of Greenwood Avenue, where the driver parked and shut off the lights.
Larson refused to exit the vehicle for more than two hours despite multiple commands given over squad PA systems, the complaint said. During the standoff, Larson communicated with officers through a cell phone provided by a witness. During these conversations, he allegedly insisted he was “Joel Ray Farber,” providing that individual’s full name, date of birth, and address to investigators. Due to heavy window tint and Larson covering his face, officers were initially unable to confirm his identity.
The standoff escalated when Larson allegedly started the vehicle in an attempt to move, prompting officers to block the truck with squad cars and place stop sticks under the tires. At approximately 10:25 p.m., a State Patrol Trooper forced entry into the passenger side door. Larson was removed from the vehicle and placed in handcuffs.
Officers were able to definitively identify him by a neck tattoo that matched past booking records. Following his arrest, Larson reportedly claimed he had swallowed “numerous pills” and was transported to an emergency room for medical clearance before being taken to jail.
Assisting the Tracy Police Department on scene were the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office and Minnesota State Patrol.
Larson has been charged with one gross misdemeanor count of Giving Peace Officer False Name-of Another Person and one misdemeanor count of Obstruct Legal Process-Interfere w/Peace Officer. Bail was set at $4,000 by with conditions. An alternative bail amount of $6,000 was set for release without conditions. Conditions of release include remaining law-abiding and making all future court appearances.
