A man from Ava has pleaded not guilty to charges in connection with a hostage incident and standoff with authorities in Douglas County. 

Fifty-seven year old Tommy Gunter entered the not guilty plea during his initial arraignment this week.  Gunter allegedly held his wife, two other family members and two neighbors hostage last week.  He’s charged with domestic assault, second degree assault, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon. 

The standoff ended peacefully, and numerous weapons and “sniper” scopes were recovered from Gunter’s home, some strategically placed near windows and doors.

Gunter is due in court again next week.  He remains in the Douglas County Jail on 75-thousand dollars bond.