KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Knoxville Police Department officers arrested a wanted man and recovered tactical body armor, an AR-15 rifle and ammunition during an operation in East Knoxville on Saturday.
According to KPD, East District officers were attempting to serve arrest warrants on 33-year-old Victavious Jamal Gilbert, who was wanted on charges of felony aggravated kidnapping, domestic assault and vandalism.
Police said officers went to a residence in the 1600 block of Jefferson Avenue on August 8 after receiving information that Gilbert was inside the home.
Officers initially knocked on the door in an attempt to make contact, but no one answered. A short time later, officers encountered family members who drove past the residence and began speaking with them.
While those conversations were taking place, Gilbert opened the door and came outside, according to police.
Authorities said Gilbert was wearing tactical body armor when he exited the home. During the investigation, officers recovered an AR-15 rifle and ammunition from inside the residence.
Gilbert was taken into custody on the outstanding warrants without incident. No injuries were reported during the arrest.
Police have not announced any additional charges related to the recovered weapon, body armor or ammunition.
The Knoxville Police Department praised the efforts of the East District officers involved in the operation, noting their work resulted in the safe arrest of a wanted suspect and the recovery of potentially dangerous items.
The investigation remains ongoing.
