Man arrested after allegedly chasing woman with hatchet in Laurel County

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. – One man is behind bars after allegedly chasing a woman with a hatchet in Laurel County.

According to Laurel County Sheriff John Root, 40-year-old Benjamin W. Holt of East Bernstadt was arrested Wednesday afternoon off of Old Crab Orchard Road.

Authorities say they were dispatched to a complaint of an “out of control subject” that may have been under the influence of methamphetamine. According to Root, the complaint stated the male subject was tearing up a building and busting out windows.

Authorities say they were also told the male subject had tried to kill a female at the residence with a hatchet and was now standing at the front door.

Upon arrival, authorities say they saw Holt armed with a hatchet, chasing a female subject around her vehicle. He then struck the victim’s car hood with the hatchet, leaving a large hole in it, authorities say.

According to authorities, the male subject then threw a machete at the female, nearly striking her.

After he entered a building, deputies say they gave commands for him to exit. Deputies say Holt had an outstanding arrest warrant.

Authorities say they entered the residence and determined he had barricaded himself in a back room of the building.

Deputies say following a brief struggle with the suspect, he was taken into custody.

Holt was charged with first-degree wanton endangerment, resisting arrest, menacing and second-degree criminal mischief.

In addition, he was charged on the warrant for public intoxication.

Holt was lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center.