Axe-wielding Man Arrested by Sedalia Police

Late Tuesday night, Sedalia Police responded to reports of a man walking around a residence in the 1300 block of South Lamine wielding an axe.

The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Joseph R. Luera, was taken into custody following an encounter with law enforcement.

Police observed a silver Ford F-150 running in the driveway. Moments later, Luera was seen moving behind the house, slipping on ice before regaining his balance and continuing toward the residence. When confronted by police, Luera reportedly claimed he was looking for an individual named Wayne, making derogatory remarks about him.

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Inside the home, a victim said she saw Luera outside with an axe, causing her to fear for her safety and that of her young child. The witness confirmed that Luera had ongoing issues with him and was angry over a job dispute. Reports also indicated that Luera had visited his ex-wife’s home the previous night searching for the same person.

Following his arrest, officers located the axe inside Luera’s vehicle and placed it into evidence.

Police submitted charges of First-Degree Harassment and Armed Criminal Action to the prosecutor.

Luera has since posted a $10,000 bond. He now has a March 4 court date.