A Rock Island man faces a slate of criminal charges in Cumberland County General Sessions Court today following a summer standoff that required SWAT intervention and tear gas to bring him into custody.

According to court affidavits, the series of events began on May 13, 2025, when Crossville Police responded to a domestic disturbance on Dayton Avenue. Authorities allege that Peter James McChesney attempted to fight another individual at the residence before breaking a single-pane window valued at approximately $240 and fleeing the scene. An arrest warrant for vandalism was subsequently issued.

The situation escalated early on the morning of June 19, 2025, when an officer patrolling near East Adams Street spotted McChesney—who had outstanding warrants for vandalism, probation violations, and sex offender registry violations—arriving at a residence. Upon noticing law enforcement, McChesney reportedly fled inside and barricaded the door.

Key Details of the Standoff & Arrest

• SWAT Response: After officers, negotiators, and SWAT team members gave over 20 unanswered commands via PA speaker and made multiple unsuccessful phone calls, a search warrant was secured.

• Gas Deployed: Tactical units introduced CS gas into the home. McChesney surrendered roughly 5 to 10 minutes later and was taken into custody.

• Weapons Recovered: A subsequent search of a vehicle associated with the scene yielded shotgun shells, drug paraphernalia (burnt foil), a Smith & Wesson .38 Special, and a Glock 33.

Current Charges

McChesney, a convicted felon, appeared on the court docket represented by a public defender. He faces multiple charges, including:

• Vandalism (Up to $1,000)

• Evading Arrest

• Resisting Stop, Arrest, or Search

• Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon (Multiple Counts)