Cedar Park Man Found Guilty in 2020 Hostage Standoff That Injured Three Officers
On December 2, 2025, Joseph DeSean Taylor was found guilty on three counts of Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer and two counts of Aggravated Kidnapping for his involvement in a violent standoff on August 16, 2020, in Cedar Park, Texas. The case stemmed from a shooting incident that escalated into an 18-hour hostage situation at a residence on Natalie Cove.
According to court records, Taylor opened fire on responding officers during a call to the residence and then barricaded himself inside with three family members. During the confrontation, three Cedar Park Police officers were struck by gunfire:
- Officer Jacqueline Quiles, a four-year veteran, was hit in the rib cage, but her ballistic vest prevented a serious injury.
- Officer Nik Anderson, then an eight-year veteran, was shot in the bicep, requiring surgery and hospitalization.
- Officer Cris Hester, a ten-year veteran, sustained a bullet graze to the head, narrowly avoiding a life-threatening wound.
All three officers ultimately recovered from their injuries.
During the trial, the defense argued that Taylor was legally insane at the time of the offense. However, Judge Rick Kennon rejected this claim after reviewing all evidence and testimony, finding Taylor fully criminally responsible for his actions.
The Cedar Park Police Department praised the officers’ professionalism and bravery, highlighting that their actions prevented the situation from becoming even more tragic. Cedar Park Police Chief Mike Harmon said, “Our officers put their lives on the line that day to protect the victims inside the home and the surrounding community. Today’s ruling delivers justice, not only for our officers, but for the victims and our entire community.”
The prosecution was handled by the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office, with coordination and support from the Texas Rangers and other law enforcement agencies. Taylor will remain in custody as the case proceeds to sentencing.
