Cannon, loaded guns located in threat case

A formal charge of harassment with threat to kill was filed in superior court Thursday by Prosecutor Denis Tracy against Kent Kimberling, 61, Garfield. Kimberling was booked into jail Tuesday at 4:45 p.m.

According to the arrest report, Kimberling is alleged to have made threats in a late call Monday to a Garfield family. He also allegedly made threats against Palouse police officers who also patrol in Garfield.

The arrest report said Sheriff Brett Myers and a deputy went to the Kimberling residence Tuesday and located a cannon with an attached pop fuze, two rifles, and two .22 pistols. Also found was approximately 1,500 rounds of ammunition and four banana rifle bullet clips which were loaded with .22 ammunition.

The arrest report alleges Kimberling called the Garfield town clerk and relayed threats against Palouse police officers. A report by the clerk, filed with the arrest report, said Kimberling told her he was tired and wanted to go join his deceased father. He allegedly told her he didn't care how many people he took with him.

At Kimberling's first court appearance, Judge Gary Libey ordered the suspect to be held in jail until he undergoes examination by a mental health professional and the examination report is submitted to the court.

ATF officers have been contacted to analyze the cannon which was found at the residence.