American National Handcuffed After Drunken Rampage Threatens Lawyer in Talisay City
An American national was apprehended and placed in handcuffs after engaging in a drunken rampage and issuing threats against his neighbor, a lawyer, in Talisay City. The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026, in the Azienda Roma area of Barangay Lawaan 1, Talisay City.
Details of the Complainant and Suspect
The complainant has been identified as Atty. Leilani Cabañero Jurado, a 28-year-old resident of Azienda Roma. The suspect is Joseph John Leatherby, a 42-year-old single American national residing in Upper Lawaan 1 within the same barangay. One of the key witnesses in the case is their neighbor, Ajay E. Singh, aged 31.
Police Report and Disturbance
According to the Talisay City Police Station, Leatherby was heavily intoxicated and behaving in a disorderly manner when he approached Jurado's home. He caused a significant disturbance and allegedly threatened her life, alarming Jurado, Singh, and other nearby residents. The situation escalated, leading to a citizen's arrest, during which a kitchen knife was recovered from Leatherby's direct possession and control.
Background and Motive
Police investigations uncovered that the suspect held a grudge against Jurado stemming from an incident in June 2025, when he was bitten by her pet dog. Despite receiving a settlement of P6,000.00 to cover anti-rabies vaccines, Leatherby had been fabricating stories and harboring resentment, which culminated in the recent threatening behavior.
Arrest and Aftermath
Due to his actions and the recovery of the weapon, Leatherby was arrested for the offenses. Upon the arrival of SWAT personnel from the Talisay City Police Station, he was officially handcuffed and taken into custody. The case highlights the dangers of alcohol-fueled disputes and the effectiveness of community intervention in preventing potential violence.
