A man was taken into custody Sunday evening after allegedly threatening Walmart employees and causing a disturbance at a nearby apartment complex, according to a probable cause affidavit filed by the Ava Police Department.
Authorities say Richard Ryan Reeves, a resident of White Oak Apartments, entered the Ava Walmart around 5:00 p.m. and demanded that associates wire money to the Philippines. Reeves allegedly warned that if the money wasn’t sent, five people would die. The incident prompted immediate concern and was reported to law enforcement.
Following the confrontation, Reeves reportedly returned to his apartment complex and began banging on the doors. Officers from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and Ava Police Department responded to the scene, where Reeves was found making alarming statements about widespread danger to the city and its residents.
Witnesses described Reeves as agitated and shouting about the Philippines. One resident stated that Reeves had never exhibited such behavior before and expressed concern for his mental health. Officers attempted to have Reeves evaluated by EMS, but paramedics determined they could not proceed without a law enforcement order for hospital admission.
Reeves was verbally trespassed from Walmart and later arrested for his actions, which included threats and disorderly conduct. A search of his apartment revealed a prescription bottle labeled “Quetiapine,” but no evidence of the medication Reeves claimed he needed to survive.
