Crime & Safety
Robertson County, TN Armed Standoff Leads to Federal Gun Charge
Cross Plains, TN – A violent armed standoff involving alleged hostage threats and gunfire directed at sheriff's deputies has resulted in a federal firearms charge against a Robertson County man, autho
By Tessa Morgan · 2026-10-22T02:27:41.471Z
Cross Plains, TN – A violent armed standoff involving alleged hostage threats and gunfire directed at sheriff's deputies has resulted in a federal firearms charge against a Robertson County man, authorities announced Wednesday.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Tennessee, Stephen E. Clark, 44, of Cross Plains, was charged Wednesday, Oct. 21, with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a confrontation on Sept. 4.
The incident began when Robertson County Sheriff 's Office deputies responded to a 911 call reporting that Clark was allegedly behaving aggressively, threatening self harm and possibly armed.
Upon arriving, deputies reportedly heard shouting and sounds of a physical altercation inside the residence. When officers attempted entry, Clark allegedly pointed a firearm at a deputy, forcing officers to retreat.
Investigators later learned that Clark's girlfriend remained inside the home and was allegedly being held hostage while Clark threatened to kill both of them.
After hearing gunfire, deputies reentered the residence. One deputy fired a shot at Clark, who retreated into a bathroom and allegedly fired multiple rounds toward officers.
The woman eventually escaped and told investigators Clark had fired a shot at her and threatened their lives while holding two pistols. She reportedly escaped after Clark fell asleep inside the bathroom.
Deputies subsequently found Clark unconscious with two firearms nearby.
Federal prosecutors said Clark was legally prohibited from possessing firearms because of previous felony convictions involving theft, vandalism, reckless endangerment and other offenses.
If convicted, Clark faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Robertson County Sheriff's Office investigated the case.
The federal charge remains an allegation, and Clark is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.