UPDATE: A man has been sentenced to probation after firing a pistol at a pickup truck during a dangerous drive across state lines last summer. Shawn T. Johnson, aged 59, from Sequim, Washington, received a withheld judgment for his guilty plea to an aggravated assault charge on Thursday in Nez Perce County’s 2nd District Court in Lewiston. This decision comes as authorities continue to address gun violence and mental health crises in the community.
The incident unfolded on August 6, 2022, when police received reports of a man in a pickup truck brandishing a pistol and firing shots at another driver around 4:06 p.m.. Witnesses reported that Johnson’s reckless behavior forced another motorist to speed away on U.S. Highway 95 to escape the gunfire.
Judge Michelle Evans acknowledged Johnson’s remorse, stating she found his commitment to mental health treatment genuine. As part of his sentence, Johnson was placed on probation for five years and ordered to pay a $1,000 civil fine to the driver he threatened, despite the victim not seeking compensation. Additionally, Johnson will cover other court fees, while the court noted he had already served 76 days in jail.
In court, Johnson admitted, “I put other people’s lives in danger,” and emphasized his struggle with bipolar disorder, stating, “I do need to take medication for it.” His attorney, Samuel P. Harrich, revealed that Johnson was experiencing a mental health crisis during the drive, which extended from Sequim to Coeur d’Alene through Colfax before reaching Lewiston.
On the day of the incident, a state policeman spotted Johnson’s vehicle as he exited U.S. 95 and entered Lewiston. Johnson reportedly thanked the officer upon arrest, indicating he had been trying to get arrested. Authorities found that he was in possession of “multiple firearms” at the time.
Judge Evans, noting Johnson’s previously clean record and his business ownership in Sequim, expressed her belief in his sincerity. “I believe what you are saying. I believe you are credible. This is not you. This is not normally you,” she stated, emphasizing her discretion in believing defendants’ remorse.
Johnson’s case highlights ongoing concerns about mental health and public safety, raising questions about how similar incidents might be averted in the future. As communities grapple with the implications of gun violence, Johnson’s story serves as a reminder of the critical need for mental health awareness and support.
As Johnson embarks on his probation, the community watches closely to see how he will navigate his challenges and whether he can reform his life after this harrowing episode.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
