A man has been indicted on multiple serious charges following a reportedly dramatic altercation with police that left three officers injured during a February 2024 incident in Washington, D.C. Stephen Rattigan, 49, also known by the name Julius James, is set to be arraigned after a grand jury handed down a sweeping indictment that includes charges of assault with intent to kill and animal cruelty.
The events that led to Rattigan’s charges began when officers from the Metropolitan Police Department responded to complaints about the condition of dogs at his residence on Hanna Place SE. A neighbor had reportedly alerted authorities about a strong smell emanating from Rattigan’s home, prompting an investigation by the Washington Humane Society.
On the morning of Valentine’s Day, officers arrived around 7:30 AM to execute an arrest warrant for alleged animal cruelty. They announced their presence but faced resistance from aggressive dogs when they attempted to breach the front door. As they partially opened it, gunshots apparently rang out from inside, with three officers suffering injuries from the gunfire. The bullets reportedly struck the officers in their lower legs and grazed one’s arm, while another officer endured bruising from a bullet that impacted his ballistic vest.
Following the shooting, Rattigan allegedly barricaded himself inside the house, initiating a tense standoff that reportedly lasted for several hours. During this time, Rattigan apparently intermittently fired shots from within the home, further escalating the situation. In a later phone call with an officer he knew, Rattigan allegedly claimed he shot out of fear after someone tried to enter his home. He reportedly indicated he would not surrender, stating, “They will have to kill me,” regarding his unwillingness to abandon his dogs.
By the afternoon, Rattigan finally surrendered to authorities, leading to his arrest. A search of the premises revealed a disturbing scene: law enforcement allegedly discovered 31 dogs, which were removed under the jurisdiction of the humane society, alongside three handguns, two assault rifles, and multiple rounds of ammunition.
Rattigan has been indicted on a total of 31 charges, including six counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, six counts of assault on a police officer while armed, and numerous counts related to firearm possession and animal cruelty. Each assault charge contains a mandatory minimum sentence of five years, with additional time for each firearm violation.
This alarming incident has drawn attention to both the treatment of animals and the potential dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. As Rattigan prepares for his arraignment, the community remains shaken by the violent confrontation that unfolded that February morning.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of addressing allegations of animal cruelty, especially in cases where the safety of the public and law enforcement is at risk. Rattigan’s upcoming legal proceedings may explore the intersections of animal welfare, public safety, and mental health considerations.