Kentucky AG: Five-Year Sentence for Pointing Weapon at Police

AG: Kentucky News Releases

Filed March 20th, 2026

Detected March 20th, 2026

Summary

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced a five-year prison sentence for Daniel Lewis, who pleaded guilty to three counts of Wanton Endangerment of a Police Officer. Lewis pointed an assault weapon at officers responding to a domestic disturbance call in July 2023.

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What changed

The Kentucky Attorney General's office announced the sentencing of Daniel Lewis to five years in prison for pointing an assault weapon at Berea Police Department officers. Lewis pleaded guilty to three counts of Wanton Endangerment of a Police Officer, First Degree. The incident occurred in July 2023 when officers responded to a domestic disturbance and found Lewis actively firing the weapon, ignoring commands to stop.

This case highlights the severe consequences for individuals who endanger law enforcement officers. The sentence serves as a deterrent against similar actions and underscores the risks faced by officers responding to volatile situations. Regulated entities, particularly those in sectors with potential for public safety interactions, should review their internal policies and training related to de-escalation and compliance with laws protecting first responders.

What to do next

Review internal policies regarding interactions with law enforcement and public safety.
Ensure training programs address de-escalation techniques and compliance with laws protecting first responders.

Penalties

Five years in prison

Source document (simplified)

Attorney General Announces Five-Year Sentence for Madison County Man Who Pointed Assault Weapon at Police Officers

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 20, 2026) —Attorney General Russell Coleman announced today a Berea man who pointed an assault weapon at officers during a domestic disturbance call is heading to prison.

A Madison County Circuit Court judge sentenced Daniel Lewis, 56, who pleaded guilty to three counts of Wanton Endangerment of a Police Officer, First Degree (Class D Felony), to five years in prison.

In July 2023, multiple officers with the Berea Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance and found Lewis actively shooting the weapon off the back deck of his home. He ignored repeated instructions from law enforcement to put down his weapon and continued firing. Law enforcement incapacitated Lewis with a nonfatal gunshot and took him into custody.

Click here for Lewis' photo.

“This is policing at its finest. On behalf of all Kentuckians, I commend these Berea officers whose willingness to put themselves at risk deescalated the threat and preserved life,” said Attorney General Coleman.

Kentucky State Police investigated the case. Assistant Attorney General Lindsey Studebaker prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth.