DOUGLAS LAKE-Cocke County Sheriff's Deputies clasped the wrists of Dexter L. Morris, 64, 2724 North Brook Drive, Morristown, after he threatened both their lives and patrons of the Southland Tavern off Highway 25E early Wednesday morning.

      According to a report by Dep. Robert Thornton, sheriff's deputies were called to the Southland Tavern after receiving information about a man pointing a firearm at the front door of the bar. Upon arrival, Lt. Richard Caldwell, Dep. Joseph Owings and Thornton observed Morris pointing the weapon and heard him say, "Come on outside and get some, wed don't have to wait for the law, I'll kill all of y'all."

      The deputies gave Morris several commands to drop the firearm (a .25-caliber Astra Firecat) but, according to the report, "He turned toward officers and pointed the gun toward officers." Although Morris eventually put the gun down, deputies had to force him to the ground. While deputies tried to cuff Morris, he pulled his hands under his body.

      Morris reportedly smelled strongly of alcohol, had bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. In addition, Morris reportedly became "violent toward officers and belligerent." Morris threatened to kill Owings and Thornton when he got out of jail.

      Morris was arrested on charges of three counts of assault, resisting arrest, public intoxication and possession of a firearm. Additional charges are pending. Morris said he has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is bipolar.