By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
LINCOLN PARK — A man charged with keeping police and SWAT teams at bay during a day-long armed standoff will face multiple felony counts in circuit court.
John Joseph Christner, 40, was bound over to Wayne County Circuit Court on Tuesday during a preliminary appearance before 25th District Court Judge David Zelenak. An arraignment on information is scheduled for Tuesday morning.
In District Court Christner was arraigned last month on nine felony counts after allegedly barricading himself, his wife and their son in their house. Police responded to calls at 3 a.m. on Sept. 30 to the 1500 block of Cleophus after neighbors reported a likely domestic situation.
Prior to the standoff Christner was allegedly seen outside the house, armed with a long gun, after a reported argument with his family. Prosecutors said that Christner assaulted both his wife and son, and when police arrived retreated indoors to begin a lengthy hostage situation. Several shots were heard throughout the day before Christner surrendered about 10:30 p.m.
Lincoln Park police were joined at the scene by the Downriver Special Weapons and Tactics team.
Pending charges to be confirmed at Circuit Court include three felony counts of assault with intent to commit murder, four counts of felonious assault, one count of carrying a dangerous weapon with unlawful intent, felony firearm and aggravated domestic assault.
Christner faces a possible life sentence if convicted, and remained in custody on $1 million bond.