Armed Man Arrested After Standoff

Clyde Dean Dyer, Andrews, NC

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.  All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced that December 20th, 2017 arrest of 41-year-old Clyde Dean Dyer of Andrews, North Carolina for charges stemming from an armed standoff with Cherokee County Deputies.

On December 19th, 2017 at approximately 10:45 pm, Patrol Deputies of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to an Andrews, North Carolina residence to investigate a report of a Clyde Dean Dyer, who was armed and holding a mother and two children against their will. Further information was provided that if law enforcement officers arrived at the residence that Dyer stated he would kill the officers.

As Patrol Deputies arrived on scene, Cherokee County EMS was staged at a safe distance to provide further assistance if needed. Additionally, Cherokee Tribal PD SWAT was requested to come to the scene to provide additional tactical assistance.

As the situation unfolded, the Patrol Deputies positioned themselves and were able to remove the two children from the residence. Shortly thereafter, Dyer pointed a rifle at the Patrol Deputies and discharged it.

After assuring the safety of the two children, the Patrol Deputies repositioned themselves around the trailer and short time later Dyer exited the residence and was subdued by the Patrol Deputies. It was later learned that Dyer had been wrestling with his wife who had taken a loaded .45 caliber pistol from Dyer just prior to his exit from the trailer. The .45 caliber pistol and a .22 magnum rifle were seized from the residence.

Dyer was arrested and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center where he was charged with 3 counts Kidnapping First Degree, 5 counts Assault with A Firearm on a Law Enforcement Officer, Assault on a Female, Assault by Pointing a Gun, 5 Counts of Resisting Officer. Dyer is currently under a $250,000.00 secure bond. Dyer is expected to be in Cherokee County District Court on January 19th, 2018.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “We thank both Cherokee County EMS and Cherokee Tribal for the assistance they provided. I want to compliment the bravery and courage of the officers who placed their safety and lives on the line in removing the children from the threat and reengaging to subdue Dyer. This shows the caliber of officers we are blessed to have serve our community. Job well done!”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.