I’m against the feds’ intersession and pre-trial detention, but this has that “not the whole story” feel.
If the former neighbor is really such a threat, why not file a complaint and let local LE deal with it?
Frequent armed patrols around a tiny property in a city-limits, right across the street from an elementary school might be legal, but it is also irresponsible and selfish. Gabe might NEVER fire at kids deliberately. But he is setting the stage for a shootout, more or less challenging his supposed nemesis to bring it on, knowing that he is near a location with lots of children packed into small spaces, making the chances of a stray shot hitting them far too high. If he really anticipates an armed feud, he should move to the sticks.
There is no mention of Gabe having employment, implying that he lives off his 71 year-old mama, allowing him to defend their palace full time. Small wonder they are poor.
The have been having "local law enforcement" the Billings Police, deal with it for over two years.
The results do not reflect well on the Billings Police.
First, it was "We can't do anything until you get a restraining order. Then they got a restraining order, then the police were reluctant to accept evidence, and wouldn't investigate clear crimes. Gabriel and his mother got video evidence of Carpenter's threats and an assault.
David Carpenter assaulted Gabriel Metcalf (the son), and was convicted. He and his confederates kept up the harrassment. Carpenter's landlord refused to renew his lease, about the same time the Order of Protection forced Carpenter to move. Lots more harassment from Carpenter and associates, in retaliation.
Another warrant out for Carpenter's arrest, which took months to serve.
See how much income you generate with constant vigilance to keep your home from being burned out, and very little help from the police.
Carpenter is still out on bond, awaiting trial for the second time, which is scheduled for January.
Most of the time, he was in his front yard, with shotgun for defense, and a camera to document violations of the order of protection. He would sometimes attempt to get a better picture of a vehicle, or escort his mother from her shop to the house and back, a couple of hundred feet.
There were hardly any children around, as the school was not in session, most of the time.