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Former Arizona corrections director facing charges after Tempe police standoff

The former corrections director reportedly shot himself in the hand during a standoff with police officers.

TEMPE, Ariz. — Editor's note: The above video aired in a previous broadcast.

Former Arizona Department of Corrections Director Charles Ryan is facing criminal charges after he allegedly shot himself in the hand during a standoff with police earlier this month.

The Tempe Police Department said Ryan pointed a gun at officers while they were responding to a shooting call at his home. Ryan was the only person injured in the incident. 

The department has submitted the following charges against Ryan: 

  • two counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer;
  • one count of unlawful discharge of a firearm.

The charges have been submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office for review.

RELATED: Former Arizona corrections director injures self, points gun at Tempe officers during standoff

Officers were called to Ryan's home near Rural and Warner roads around 9:30 p.m. on Jan. 6. Officers found Ryan armed inside the home. Police said Ryan's wife and daughter were able to safely leave the home and speak with investigators outside.

Police said officers tried to communicate with Ryan but were unsuccessful.

Officers said Ryan opened the door leading from the house into the garage and pointed a gun at the officers standing outside.

Ryan was eventually taken into custody and hospitalized for his injury.

Ryan retired from the DOC in 2019.

RELATED: Man shot dead at north Phoenix Motel 6

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