BSO Deputies Arrest Parkland Man Following Armed Standoff and Family Escape

by Ryan Yousefi February 8, 2025

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BSO Deputies Arrest Parkland Man Following Armed Standoff and Family Escape 1

Stephen Spano {BSO}

A Parkland man is in custody after allegedly pointing a gun at his family and barricading himself inside their home following their escape and a 911 call.

According to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office police report, on February 5, deputies responded to a domestic violence incident at a residence in Parkland. Upon arrival, deputies encountered a victim who told them her ex-husband, identified as Stephen Spano, 54, had visited the home with her permission to spend time with his daughter and collect personal belongings amid ongoing divorce proceedings.

The victim told law enforcement the situation escalated when she asked Spano to leave the home, but instead, against her attempts to stop him, Spano broke into the main bedroom — where both parties were aware a firearm was located.

Spano allegedly forced his way into the room, retrieved a black semi-automatic handgun from beneath the bedcovers, and pointed it at both his wife and daughter. Both victims managed to escape the home and call for help.

Reports show Spano subsequently barricaded himself inside the residence but surrendered approximately 30 minutes later after negotiations with authorities. Upon being taken into custody, he disclosed where he hid the firearm, which was recovered by police.

Once in custody, Spano reportedly told law enforcement he was suffering from emotional distress due to the divorce and admitted that he may have “bladed” or inadvertently pointed the weapon toward the victims.

The victims – who emphasized their fear for their lives during the terrifying incident – reported to investigators that they had revealed receiving alarming text messages from Spano leading up to the night of the incident.

Both victims have requested a “No Contact Order” to ensure their safety and called for a mental health evaluation for Spano.

Spano was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

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Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiples outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.