SWAT Team Called To Help Deputies Capture Alleged Child Rapist

A tense situation emerged when Trinity County Sheriff’s Deputies tried to arrest an alleged child rapist in Lewiston Wednesday. At around Noon, deputies arrived at the first avenue home of Derick Bletcher. He was wanted on charges including forcible rape and lewd acts against a child. As deputies were clearing the house they heard a gunshot from one of the rooms, and then saw Bletcher climbing out of a window at the rear of the house. When he saw the deputies he retreated back inside. When another gunshot was heard, deputies held their positions and called for help from the Shasta County SWAT Team. Nearby residents were told to shelter in place. When the SWAT Team arrived they found Bletcher hiding in a closet. Two guns were found in the house, including a revolver in the closet with Bletcher.