Ada County deputies justified in the shooting of Harry Andrews who was armed with a knife

Harry Andrews, 49, was sentenced Thursday, Jan. 11, to 25 years in prison after he was found guilty of an incident that happened one prior.

In a news release from Ada County Prosecutor's Office, on Jan. 3, 2023, Boise police responded to a report of a man walking westbound on I-84. Police located Andrews walking along the highway with a knife in his hand.

Ada County stated that the responding officer commanded Andrews to stop and get on the ground, but that he did not follow the commands. He then ran toward the officer still holding the knife, which prompted an officer to shoot Andrews, injuring him.

The Ada County Prosecutor's Office said while police were detaining and aiding Andrews, he said to the officers, "I wanted to kill you."

Andrews was arrested after being released from the hospital where he was treated for his injuries.

In October 2023, Andrews pleaded guilty to aggravated assault upon certain personnel with a deadly weapon enhancement.

Andrews was sentenced by Ada County District Judge Peter Barton to serve 25 years in prison with 20 years fixed before he is eligible for parole, the county said.

"The Boise Police Sergeant acted with courage in the face of danger," said Ada County Prosecutor Jan Bennetts. "I'm pleased to see justice served in this case."

Later Thursday, the City of Boise issued a news release stating that Gem County Prosecuting Attorney Erick Thomson deemed the officers' actions were justified.