On June 27, 2025, at approximately 7:00 a.m., El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of criminal mischief in the area of Air Lane in Cimarron Hills, located in unincorporated El Paso County. The suspect, 36-year-old David Whitcomb, reportedly caused over $2,000 in property damage during what appeared to be a mental health episode.
When deputies arrived on June 27, David Whitcomb was no longer on scene.
Deputies were already familiar with Whitcomb due to a prior arrest on June 21 for felony menacing. During the incident, he had been armed with knives and refused to cooperate with deputies.
At approximately 8:41 a.m., dispatch received a separate report of a man bathing in a rain-filled sinkhole along Preble Drive. The caller described the individual as matching Whitcomb’s appearance. Deputies responded and found Whitcomb standing in the water, refusing to follow commands.
A containment perimeter was established, and deputies used the vehicle’s PA system to notify Whitcomb he was under arrest. Despite repeated announcements, he refused to comply, yelled incoherently, and shouted, “I will not comply.”
Deputies initially deployed less-lethal pepperball rounds in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, which proved ineffective. A second attempt was made, after which Whitcomb tried to flee. Deputies moved in and, after a physical struggle in the water, safely took him into custody.
David Whitcomb was transported to the El Paso County Jail and booked on the following charges:
- Attempted Second-Degree Burglary
- Felony Criminal Mischief
- First-Degree Criminal Trespass
- Resisting Arrest
- Obstructing a Peace Officer
He is currently being held on a $2,000 bond.
Sheriff Joseph Roybal praised the deputies’ actions, stating:
“This was a highly unpredictable situation involving an individual in crisis. My deputies showed professionalism, restraint, and commitment to preserving life while ensuring the safety of the community. I commend them for resolving this incident without serious injury to anyone involved.
“My Detention staff will ensure Mr. Whitcomb will be evaluated and provided mental health services while in our care.”