MOSCOW, ID – The City of Moscow Police Department arrested a 48-year-old man for unlawful discharge of a weapon within city limits, disturbing the peace, and resisting and obstructing officers following an incident in which Shepard barricaded himself in his residence.

On August 20, 2025, at approximately 12:15 p.m., Moscow Police officers were dispatched to a report of James Shepard displaying sexually explicit images in view of the public. Officers contacted Shepard and issued him a misdemeanor citation for I.C. 18-4105 public display of offensive sexual material.

At approximately 7:00 p.m., officers were again dispatched to Shepard’s residence following a report that he had discharged a firearm outside his home. When officers arrived, Shepard barricaded himself inside and refused to comply with commands or communicate with officers on scene.

The Latah County Regional SWAT Team, comprised of members of the Moscow Police Department and the Latah County Sheriff’s Office, was activated and responded. Additional personnel, resources, and equipment were provided by the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office, the Pullman Police Department, and the Lewiston Police Department.

After SWAT members established a perimeter and aided neighboring residents in evacuating the area, Shepard was taken into custody without incident. No injuries were reported.

The investigation remains ongoing.