Man Arrested After Circling Chowchilla Police Department on Bike, Wielding Large Knife
Photo: video snip of Clingham
47-year old Paul Clingham of Chowchilla was already a wanted man when he was arrested in the early morning hours of March 17th.
Clingham was circling the Chowchilla Police Department on his bike, attracting the attention of police watching him on the surveillance camera. Noticing Clingham was in possession of a large knife, police went to confront him while he was in the back, outside area of the department building.
Clingham and his knife
When the officer checked outside, he saw the unoccupied bike on the parking lot pavement. Speculating the bike was being used as a distraction, the officer proceeded with caution, clearing areas where Clingham could be hiding.
The officer spotted the suspect with the knife in hand. He drew his duty weapon and pointed it at the suspect while ordering him to drop it and lay on the ground. Clingham advanced and the officer shouted out the command several more times before gaining compliance.
When searched, it was discovered the suspect had methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in his possession. A records search of his name produced an active warrant for attempted murder.
Clingham self-reported that he was wanted for stabbing a correctional officer in Kansas.
He was booked into the custody of Madera County Jail under the charges of assault with a deadly weapon, resisting arrest, drug related misdemeanors, and for the open Kansas felony warrant.
Photos from CPD
