Suspect arrested after hours-long standoff

Mountain Democrat staff

A man attempting to evade authorities July 1 drove down a U.S. Forest Service Road near Georgetown and got stuck, leading to a standoff with El Dorado County sheriff’s deputies.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers had initially attempted to stop the driver, Franklin Shaffer, 38, on a vehicle code violation, according to CDFW Northern Enforcement District Assistant Chief Erica Manes. CDFW records indicate Shaffer is a resident of Garden Valley.

To assist in the pursuit, CDFW officers called sheriff’s personnel into the Darling Ridge Road area.

Sheriff’s Sgt. Alexander Sorey told the Mountain Democrat there were two occupants in the vehicle in addition to Shaffer, one who fled on foot and another who was compliant and exited the vehicle.

CDFW officials said Shaffer, who is on probation, was armed and refused to comply with officers. El Dorado County sheriff’s SWAT responded and after many hours, Shaffer surrendered, Sorey reported.

Georgetown residents in the Lake Walton area saw a large law enforcement presence, including EDSO’s Rook critical incident tactical vehicle trailered into Darling Ridge Road via Balderston Road as part of the response.

Charges recommended to the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office by CDFW include probation violation, evading law enforcement and being prohibited from owning firearms or ammunition.

CDFW officials added that Shaffer was released from custody July 6.