Felon Arrested for Threats made with Hatchet

On May 10, 2023, at approximately 7:00 p.m., officers were called to the area of 100 S. 15th St. Parsons, KS for a report of Benjamin Michael Watson, 33 years old of Parsons, threatening a victim with a hatchet. Corporal Christian Smith investigated the report and collected information from the victims and a witness.

Later in the same shift on May 11, 2023, at approximately 12:10 am, officers were called to the 400 block of South 15th St. for a male, later identified to be Watson, in the area and causing another disturbance. Cpl. Smith and other officers went to the area. There it was learned that Watson had threatened yet another victim. A possible location for Watson was found and officers went to the 1500 block of Corning Ave to find him.

Watson was arrested without further incident. During the time of arrest, officers located a controlled substance, which field tested for methamphetamine. They also found drug paraphernalia.

An affidavit for charges on Watson was presented to the Labette County Attorney's office for Aggravated Assault, Criminal Threat, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 12, 2023, Watson appeared in Labette County District Court on these new charges and three other pending complaints for charges of Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Domestic Battery, Aggravated Burglary, Criminal Threat, and Aggravated Intimidation of a Victim/Witness. Watson was ordered to be held with a $100,000 dollar bond. Watson was later transferred to the Labette County Jail.

Watson is a familiar face with Parsons Police Department, as he has been listed as a suspect in 7 cases since January 1st of 2023 and arrested 4 times in the same timeframe.

Watson who was released from the Kansas Department of Corrections in August of 2020 and has convictions for Criminal Possession of Weapons and Distribution of Controlled Substance. Watson is currently supervised through Court Services in the 11th Judicial District, which includes Labette County.

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.

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