CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – A well-being check at an Inverness apartment complex escalated into a tense 3.5-hour standoff with an armed woman earlier Friday, ultimately concluding with her peaceful arrest.
Lauri Sadowski, 66, was taken into custody and faces charges of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer.
The incident began when Fire Rescue and EMS personnel were dispatched to the Colonnade Park Apartments for a well-being check. According to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Sadowski refused entry to the first responders and allegedly threatened to shoot through the door. This prompted the call for CCSO assistance.
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Upon arrival, deputies reported observing Sadowski walking around her apartment and on her balcony, visibly armed with a firearm in each hand.
Recognizing the immediate threat to public safety, the CCSO activated its Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) in an attempt to de-escalate the volatile situation. Negotiators made multiple attempts to contact Sadowski by phone. However, authorities say she would answer and then quickly disconnect the calls, all while continuing to pace with weapons in hand.
Due to Sadowski’s erratic behavior and the ongoing risk, the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team was also deployed to the scene. Both specialized units worked in tandem for several hours, focusing on engaging with Sadowski to achieve a peaceful resolution.
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After approximately 3.5 hours, Sadowski exited her apartment without incident and was taken into custody by law enforcement. She was medically evaluated by EMS personnel at the scene before being transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility.
Sheriff David Vincent praised the efforts of his deputies. “I am proud of our entire team, especially that of the CNT, for working together in such a stressful situation to peacefully resolve this situation,” he stated. “The coordination and professionalism displayed today highlight our commitment to protecting this community while prioritizing the safety of everyone involved, including the subject.”
Lauri Sadowski has been charged with Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer.
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