Stolen Motor-Vehicle, Illegal Use of a Credit Card, Distracted Driving, Interfering with an Emergency Call, Damage to Dog Park Fence, Assault and Threatening through 12-12-15

The East Haddam Police and the Connecticut State Police, Troop K in Colchester report the following incidents:

STOLEN MOTOR-VEHICLE AND ILLEGAL USE OF A CREDIT CARD - On Nov. 28 at approximately 11:32 p.m., East Haddam police were dispatched to a Schulman-Veselak Road, East Haddam residence for the report of a stolen car. The victim stated that Hailey Davis, 19, of the same address had taken the keys to a 2010 Ford Fusion, as well as a credit/debit card out of her purse and had left with the vehicle. The victim also told police that she had been able to track the use of her card to the town of Waterbury. During the police investigation, the accused perpetrator returned to the home and still had the credit/debit card in her possession. The 19-year-old was arrested and charged with 2nd-Degree Larceny, (theft of a motor vehicle) and Illegal Use of a Credit Card. Davis was originally held on a $5,000 bond, which was later changed to a written promise to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 12/8/15.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT - On Dec. 1 at approximately 3:00 p.m., East Haddam police were dispatched to a Triangle Drive, Moodus address to investigate a physical dispute between a boyfriend and girlfriend.  Tracy Shepley, 57, of the same address and Douglas Wilson, 52, of LaBella Circle, Middletown were both arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct. They were later released on $1,500 bonds each and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 12/2/15.

MOTOR-VEHICLE VS DEER & TREE - On Dec. 1 at approximately 4:32 p.m., Daniel Newell, 42, of Town Street, Moodus was traveling northbound on Town Street in East Haddam in the area of Maple Avenue, operating a 1979 Ford F-100 pick-up truck. Police said that the driver struck a deer, swerved off the right-hand side of the road and collided with a tree. No injuries were reported, but the driver was issued a written warning for Traveling Too Fast for Conditions.

MOTOR-VEHICLE ROLLOVER - On Dec. 7 at approximately 7:09 a.m., a 17-year-old driver of Wickham Road, East Haddam was traveling northbound on Falls-Bashan Road in the area of Woodland Road in Moodus, operating a 1997 Toyota Camry. Another 17-year-old female driver of Whitman Road, Moodus was traveling westbound on Woodland Road, operating a 1997 Honda Civic. Police said that as the driver of the Honda was attempting to turn right onto Falls-Bashan Road, the vehicles collided, causing the Toyota to roll over. The driver of the Honda was issued a written warning for Failure to Grant the Right-of-Way at a Private Road.

DISTRACTED DRIVING AND FAILURE TO DRIVE UPON THE RIGHT - On Dec. 8 at approximately 3:36 p.m., Laurinda Marsilio, 50, of Pine Road, East Haddam was traveling northbound on Eli Chapman Road near the intersection of Mott Lane in Moodus, operating a 2008 Nissan Versa. Veronica Jones, 25, of Ballahack Road #2 was traveling southbound on Eli Chapman Road, operating a 2010 Chevy Cobalt. Police said that Jones crossed the center line and struck Marsilio's vehicle. She was issued a written warning for Failure to Drive Upon the Right and Distracted Driving (use of cell phone). Marsilio was transported to the Marlborough Clinic for evaluation and treatment.

DAMAGE TO DOG PARK FENCE - On Dec. 10 at approximately 1:54 p.m., East Haddam police were dispatched to the East Haddam Dog Park on the East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike in Moodus to investigate damages caused to the chain-link fence. The damage occurred sometime between Wednesday, Dec. 9 and Thursday Dec. 10. Anyone with possible information is asked to contact Officer Jeff Rhoades at 860-891-8200. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you may leave a voice-mail on the (confidential) Crime Tip Line at 860-873-5013.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT, INTERFERING WITH AN EMERGENCY CALL, ASSAULT AND THREATENING - On Dec. 12 at approximately 5:04 p.m., Mark Anson Davis, 48, of Red Mill Lane, Moodus was taken into custody at a residence located on Wangonk Trail in East Hampton, pursuant to a warrant for his arrest related to a domestic violence incident. The accused was held on a $100,000 bond and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 12/14/15.

​

Please be advised that an arrest or infraction does not indicate a conviction, and all individuals listed in these reports are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.​

Connecticut State Police Prepare for Holiday Highway Enforcement

Connecticut State Troopers remind motorists that combining careful planning with sensible driving will lead to safer holiday trips for all making a trek during the busiest travel week of the year.

With lower gasoline prices this month, many more travelers are expected to drive on Connecticut highways during the upcoming holidays.  State Police ask motorists to follow all driving laws, as their behavior on the roads is essential to keeping potential hazards at a distance. 

Simply putting traffic laws into practice will prevent accidents and save lives:   

• Drive the speed limit.
• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts.
• Signal when turning, changing lanes or taking an exit.
• Refrain from texting or using your phone.
• Never consume alcohol or prescription drugs before you get behind the wheel.
• Move over (when safe to do so) whenever law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances or tow trucks are occupying a lane. Please give them room to do their job efficiently and safely.

Drivers are also reminded to plan their trips with care:

• Fill the gas tank prior to your journey.
• Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid and tire pressure.
• Fully charge your cell phone.
• Carry winter blankets, drinking water and snacks
• Check traffic conditions before leaving home
• Keep a shovel and sand or salt in the trunk of your vehicle.

“Your cooperation is critical to ensuring the well-being of all who are driving our roads throughout the holiday week. Whenever you get behind the wheel, the safety of the motoring public must be your top priority,” said Dora B. Schriro, Commissioner of the Department of
Emergency Services and Public Protection.

“Our Troopers will be patrolling highways with a keen focus on those driving with distractions and those operating under the influence. Please be our partner in keeping the roadways safe for all by obeying all rules of the road,” noted Colonel Brian Meraviglia, Commanding Officer of the CT State Police.

State Police will operate roving patrols and conduct DUI checkpoints starting December 23, 2015, and continuing through January 3, 2016.  Please see list of patrols and checkpoints HERE.

Information provided by the Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection, Connecticut State Police, Public Information Office

Criminal Trespass, Distracted Driving, Failure to Appear in Court, DUI and Larceny through 11-25-15

Radio Communications Tower at the Connecticut State Police, Troop K.

The East Haddam Police and the Connecticut State Police, Troop K in Colchester report the following incidents:

FAILURE TO APPEAR IN COURT - On Nov. 15 at approximately 10:04 p.m., Matthew Lafo, 27, of Grapevine Road, Higganum was arrested and charged with (2) counts of 1st-Degree Failure to Appear in Court and (1) count of 2nd-Degree Failure to Appear in Court. According to the State of Connecticut, Judicial Branch website (http://www.jud2.ct.gov/), he is currently facing previous charges of Violation of Probation, Conspiracy to Commit 3rd-Degree Burglary and Failure to Appear in Court.  Lafo was held in lieu of court-set bonds totaling $85,000 and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 11/25/15.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS - On Nov. 19 at approximately 5:30 p.m., Christopher Millette, 28, of Grist Mill Road, Moodus turned himself in to Troop K based on an active warrant related to the charge of 1st-Degree Criminal Trespass. Millette was processed according to State Police policy and procedure, released on a $500 bond and given a court date of 12/28/15 at ​Hartford​ Superior Court.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS, FAILURE OF DRIVER MAKING A LEFT TURN TO GRANT THE RIGHT-OF-WAY AND DISTRACTED DRIVING - On Nov. 24 at approximately 11:20 a.m., Dena Zeim-Grandmaison, 42, of Woodmont Circle, East Haddam was arrested, pursuant to an active warrant related to a 3/6/15 motor-vehicle accident on Route 149 in Moodus, and charged with the above violations. Ziem-Grandmaison was released on a $5,000 bond and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 12/9/15.

​OPERATING A MOTOR-VEHICLE UNDER SUSPENSION, FAILURE TO USE A SEAT BELT AND FAILURE TO APPEAR IN COURT - On Nov. 24 at approximately 5:34 p.m., Kevin Butler, 25, of Town Street, Moodus​ turned himself in to Troop K after being advised of an outstanding warrant by Middletown Superior Court, related to the above charges. Butler was released on a $250 bond and given a court date of 12/3/15 at Middletown Superior Court.

LARCENY - On Nov. 25 at approximately 5:45 p.m., Francis Carisio, 29, of Jasmine Lane, Wolcott was located by Newington Police Department and turned over to Troop K for processing, based on an active warrant for his arrest for 6th-Degree Larceny. The warrant was related to an incident that took place on 9/20/15 when a bottle of liquor was reported stolen from the Moodus Package Store. Carisio was held on a $200 cash bond and given a court date of 12/8/15 at Middletown Superior Court.

Please be advised that an arrest or infraction does not indicate a conviction, and all individuals listed in these reports are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

If you would be interested in receiving these reports as they are posted, just send a request to TheNeighborhoodWatchReport@gmail.com

Holiday Safety & Shopping Tips from the Connecticut State Police

It's the heart of the holiday shopping season, and the race is on to find those special gifts for everyone on your Christmas list.

East Haddam residents are fortunate to have so many great local stores and gift shops to chose from, right here in town. But for those of us who will venture out to the shopping malls and surrounding towns and cities, the Connecticut State Police have some important tips to keep you and your family safe. 

Following this advice can reduce the opportunity criminals have to target you, your family or your personal property:

•  Lock your cars while shopping and while parked at home;  move valuables out of  sight.
•  Shop with friends/family; remember safety in numbers.
•  Never leave your vehicle running when you go into a store.
•  Never leave children unattended in the store or alone in a  vehicle. (as well as  being dangerous, you can be charged  criminally)
•  Teach your children about stranger safety. 
•  Keep your purse close to you; carry your wallet in your  front pocket.
•  Don’t leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart.
•  Have your keys out when approaching your vehicle.
•  Be aware of your surroundings.
•  Keep purchased merchandise in your trunk/out of view.
•  Park in a well-lit area if shopping at night. 
•  Alert store security/police if you see an unattended bag.
•  Alert store security/police if you notice someone acting  suspiciously. 
•  Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
•  Only give cash to someone at a register; be alert for  criminals posing as  employees. 
•  Be alert for strangers/con-artists distracting you while  another person takes  your purse/wallet.

Many of us will choose​ not to travel, but rather do their holiday shopping from home, on the internet. Online thieves and hackers can be a threat, and police have some advice to keep your accounts and information secure:

•  Make sure the computer you’re using has security  software/anti-virus/spyware/ firewalls.
•  Keep your login usernames and passwords secure.
•  Only shop from secure websites; look for the padlock icon  in the URL or at the  bottom of the screen. Also make sure  the URL starts with https:// 
•  Only shop from reputable companies, i.e. Amazon.com,  Macys.com,  Bestbuy.com, etc. Look for tricks in the URL  such as Amazon.net,  Bestbye.com, Maceys.com
•  Never send personal information via email to “verify”  information; legitimate  companies/banks would never ask  you to do this.
•  Online shopping companies do not need your social  security number; asking for your SSN is a red flag.
•  Save receipts/email confirmations for purchases made  online. 
•  Review bank statements to double-check transactions and  identify any suspicious activity.

An alternative to using your credit card online would be to purchase a gift card with a pre-set amount on it, which are available at most convenience stores or pharmacies. They charge a small activation fee, but can be used just as you would use any credit/debit card.

If you're planning to have packages delivered directly to your home rather than the post office and your door-step is visible from the road, consider asking a neighbor to watch for and pick up the package if you're not going to be home on the day it's expected to arrive. Thieves have been "in the news" and caught on surveillance cameras, picking up packages that have been dropped off by the parcel delivery trucks.

For more tips about online shopping safety, you can visit StaySafeOnline.org at  https://www.staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/protect-your-personal-information/online-shopping

Have a safe & happy holiday season!

*Photo credit Dreamstime.com

East Haddam Police & Resident Trooper: Stuff-A-Cruiser Toy Drive

The East Haddam Police Officers and Resident State Trooper will host our 10th Annual "Stuff-A-Cruiser" Toy Drive on Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  The event will be held at the Nathan Hale Plaza located at 26 Falls Road, Route 149 in Moodus.

New, unwrapped toys are needed for children from infants to age 18. In addition to toys, donations of hats, gloves, scarves and socks are needed for children of all ages.  All donations will be distributed through East Haddam Youth and Family Services (EHYFS) to children within the community.

Any family in East Haddam or Moodus that is in need of assistance during the holiday with gifts for their children should contact Kaitlin Hagan at EHYFS.  She can be reached at 860-873-3296.

For additional information on the Stuff a Cruiser event, please contact Trooper Ian Hawes at 860-537-7555 x 4008, Officer Craig Mansfield at 860-873-6019 or send an email to police@easthaddam.org

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs, Traveling Too Fast for Conditions and Disorderly Conduct through 11-11-15

The East Haddam Police and the Connecticut State Police, Troop K in Colchester report the following incidents:

MOTOR-VEHICLE ACCIDENT - On Nov. 3 at approximately 8:41 a.m., Roy Perkins, 72, of Sillimanville Road, Moodus was traveling northbound on Route 82 on the East Haddam swing bridge, operating a 2012 Honda Ridgeline. Police said that as Perkins was attempting to slow down for traffic, Jennifer Sumerix, 24, of Windrift Court, Ormond Beach, Florida (traveling behind Perkins in a 2007 Nissan) struck his vehicle from behind. No injuries were reported.

CAR VS. TREE - On Nov. 6 at approximately 7:14 a.m., a 17-year-old driver of Honey Hill Road, East Haddam was traveling northbound on Town Street in East Haddam, in the area of Banning Road, operating a 2000 Volvo V-70. Police said that the juvenile lost control of the vehicle, struck a tree on the side of the roadway and rolled over. According to police, the driver and her 15-year-old ​female ​passenger both sustained minor injuries. The 17-year-old was issued infractions for Traveling Too Fast for Conditions and Passenger Restrictions​.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS, FAILURE TO DRIVE UPON THE RIGHT AND FAILURE TO CARRY INSURANCE - On Nov. 7 at approximately 8:57 p.m., Kevin Kane, 24, of Stonybrook Drive, East Haddam was traveling northbound on Falls Road (Route 149) in Moodus, operating a 1965 Ford Mustang. Police said that Kane's vehicle left the travel portion of the roadway and collided with a utility pole. The vehicle then continued northbound and collided with a second utility pole. Kane reportedly sustained a minor laceration to his face, but refused medical treatment. He was arrested and charged with the above violations. Kane was later released on a $500 bond and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 11/18/15.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT - On Nov. 11 at approximately 6:57 a.m., State Police were dispatched to a Bashan Road, East Haddam residence for a reported​ domestic disturbance. A subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of Robert Cone, IV, 28, of Bashan Road, East Haddam for the above charge. Cone was held on a $1,000 bond and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 11/12/15.

Please be advised that an arrest or infraction does not indicate a conviction, and all individuals listed in these reports are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

State Police Prepare for Thanksgiving Holiday Road Safety

With tens of thousands of travelers driving through Connecticut during the Thanksgiving weekend, State Police are ramping-up their plans to keep highways safe for everyone during the holiday rush. 

Beginning on November 25th at 12:01 a.m. and running through Nov. 29th at 11:59 p.m., Connecticut State Police will supplement its normal routine patrol personnel with additional Troopers throughout the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend. 

Across the state, Troopers will patrol roads and highways across Connecticut, and will focus on aggressive drivers, unsafe drivers, and drunk drivers.

Troopers are committed to reducing crashes through preventative enforcement initiatives such as roving DUI patrols, and will also be looking for violators who cause accidents on Connecticut roads and highways.  

Every effort to reduce accidents will be taken, however Connecticut residents are asked to be a part of the public safety solution by obeying traffic laws:  don’t follow too close, drive the speed limit, stay off your cell phone while driving and, if you drink, then please do not drive.  

Residents should remind all young people, especially college students returning home the first time this semester, of the laws regarding alcohol consumption and drinking and driving. 

Uniformed Troopers will use traditional and non-traditional patrol cars to observe traffic and issue tickets to reckless and distracted drivers.  

A reminder to all drivers: anyone who is consuming alcohol should never get behind the wheel. If you see a suspected drunk driver, call 911 as this is a true emergency.

2014 Thanksgiving Statistics: 

SPEEDING: Arrests: 1,106

SEAT BELT VIOLATIONS: Arrests: 314

OTHER HAZARDOUS MOVING VIOLATIONS: Arrests:  3,538

(including unsafe lane change, following too close, cell phone usage, failure to signal, etc.)

DUI ARRESTS:  52

ACCIDENTS INVESTIGATED: 934; With Injury: 97; Fatals: 1

Trooper First Class Kelly Grant

Trooper Tyler Weerden

Connecticut State Police

Public Information Office

1111 Country Club Rd.

Middletown, Ct. 06457

IRS Scam-Alert from the East Hampton Police Department

...A message from the East Hampton Police Department to be shared with East Haddam Residents:

The East Hampton Police Department has received reports from residents that an automated phone system has been leaving messages for residents to call a phone number with a Washington, DC area code claiming to be the IRS.  

The recorded message sounds official and states that the victim owes back taxes. 

According to the IRS, if there is an issue with your federal taxes, you'll first receive a letter or notice in the mail from the IRS. Don't fall for scam artists on the internet or over the telephone. 

Real IRS employees have badge numbers. Ask the caller for his or her badge number, and then call 1-800-829-1040 to confirm it. 

Sometimes the caller may volunteer a false badge number before you even ask for one. Victims may be told they owe money to the IRS. If the victim refuses to cooperate, they may be threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver's license.

In many cases, the caller becomes aggressive and insulting.

If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, here's what you should do: 

If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS at  1.800.829.1040. 

The IRS employees at that line can help you with a payment issue – if there really is such an issue.

If you know you don't owe taxes or have no reason to think that you owe any taxes (for example, you've never received a bill or the caller made some bogus threats as described above), then call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1.800.366.4484. 

If you've been targeted by this scam, you should also contact the Federal Trade Commission and use their "FTC Complaint Assistant" at FTC.gov

Please add "IRS Telephone Scam" to the comments of your complaint.

Motor-Vehicle Break-In,Trailer Tire Vs. Motor Vehicle, Larceny, Disorderly Conduct and Unsafe Backing through 10-11-15

The East Haddam Police and the Connecticut State Police, Troop K in Colchester report the following incidents:

UNSAFE BACKING - On Oct. 4 at approximately 6:30 p.m., Patricia Tierney, 55, of Bogel Road, East Haddam was in the parking lot of St. Stephen's Church on Route 149 in East Haddam, operating a 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Police said that as she was attempting to back the vehicle up, she collided with the driver's side of a 2008 Ford Focus and then left the scene. No injuries were reported, but police issued Tierney an infraction for Unsafe Backing of a Motor-Vehicle.

MOTOR-VEHICLE BREAK-IN - On Oct. 5 at approximately 11:23 a.m., East Haddam Police received a complaint from a Mott Lane, Moodus resident, reporting that their (locked) vehicle had been broken into while it was parked in the driveway. Nothing was reported missing, but the case remains under investigation. Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious is asked to contact Corporal Karl Karabienikoff at the East Haddam Resident Troopers' Office at 860-891-8201. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you may leave a voice-mail on the (confidential) Crime Tip Line at 860-873-5013.

TRAILER TIRE VS. MOTOR-VEHICLE - On Oct. 8 at approximately 5:39 p.m., Susan Sinnott, 58, of Wickham Road, East Haddam was traveling eastbound on Route 82 in East Haddam in a 2005 Mazda Tribute, crossing the East Haddam Swing Bridge. Warren Elliot, 58, of River Road in East Haddam was traveling westbound, operating a 2001 Ford F-150, towing a boat on a trailer. Police said that one of the trailer tires fell off, rolled into oncoming traffic and struck Sinnott's vehicle in the front end. No injuries were reported.

​

FAILURE TO OBEY A STOP SIGN

​

 - On Oct. 8 at approximately 9:15 p.m., Kathleen Santo-Christo, 53, of Deer Run, East Haddam was traveling eastbound on Town Street in East Haddam, driving a 2014 Acura MDX approaching the intersection near the East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike. Juliana Lagace, 18, of Cherry Swamp Road, Moodus was traveling southbound on the East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike, operating a 2009 Nissan Versa. Police said that Lagace failed to stop at the stop sign and struck Santo-Christo's vehicle. Lagace 

was issued an infraction for failure to obey a stop sign. She and her passenger reported minor injuries and were transported to Middlesex Hospital in Middletown for evaluation and treatment.

​

 

LARCENY - On Oct. 9 at approximately 7:14 a.m., East Haddam Police received a complaint from a resident of Mount Parnassus Road. Several items, including car batteries, radiators, scrap metal and tools were taken from the yard. Anyone with possible information is asked to contact Corporal Karl Karabienikoff at the East Haddam Resident Troopers' Office at 860-891-8201. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you may leave a voice-mail on the (confidential) Crime Tip Line at 860-873-5013.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT - On Oct. 10 at approximately 11:00 p.m., Theodore Paluha, 48, of Town Farm Road, East Haddam voluntarily turned himself in to Troop K , pursuant to an active warrant for his arrest related to a domestic altercation. Paluha was given a court date of 10/13/15 at Middletown Superior Court.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT - On Oct. 11 at approximately 4:40 p.m., Tracy Burr, 52, of Harbor Parkway, Clinton voluntarily turned herself in to Troop K, pursuant to an active warrant for her arrest related to a domestic altercation. Burr was scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 10/13/15.

Please be advised that an arrest or infraction does not indicate a conviction, and all individuals listed in these reports are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm, Reckless Endangerment, Interfering with a Police Investigation, Motorcycle Vs. Tree, Threatening and Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia through 10-2-15

The East Haddam Police and the Connecticut State Police, Troop K in Colchester report the following incidents:

MOTORCYCLE VS. TREE - On Sept. 15 at approximately 3:17 p.m., Derek Skinner, 20, of Florida Road, East Haddam was traveling eastbound on Ray Hill Road in East Haddam, operating a 2015 Yamaha FZ-09 motorcycle. Police said that Skinner lost control of the bike and struck a tree on the southbound shoulder of the roadway. Skinner sustained minor injuries as a result of the accident.

CRIMINAL POSSESSION OF A WEAPON, UNLAWFUL DISCHARGE OF A FIREARM, RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT, THREATENING, BREACH OF PEACE AND INTERFERING WITH A POLICE INVESTIGATION - On Sept. 23 at approximately 6:42 p.m., East Hampton police were dispatched to Meeks Point Road in East Hampton for multiple 911 calls reporting several gunshots being fired.  After a brief investigation, Jason Alward, 43, of Meeks Point Road, East Hampton was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Unlawful Discharge of  a Firearm, 1st-Degree Reckless Endangerment, 1st-Degree Threatening  and 2nd-Degree Breach of Peace.  Alward was unable to post bond and was held until his arraignment at  Middletown Superior Court on 9/24/15. Jessie Lee Poland, 20, of  Palmer Martin Road, East Haddam was arrested for Interfering with a Police Investigation. Poland was released after signing a $2,500.00 non-surety bond wherein she agreed to appear before the Middletown Superior Court on 10/6/15.

FAILURE TO GRANT THE RIGHT-OF-WAY AT AN INTERSECTION - On Sept. 28 at approximately 2:10 p.m., George Clark, 83, of East Haddam-Colchester Turnpike, East Haddam was traveling eastbound on Route 151 (Town Street) in a 2007 Nissan Murano. A 16-year-old driver of Petticoat Lane, East Haddam (operating a 1994 Ford pick-up truck) attempted to make a left-hand turn from School Drive onto Town Street and struck Clark's vehicle. No injuries were reported, but police issued the 16-year-old an infraction for the above violation.

TRUCK VS. VAN - On September 30 at approximately 5:00 p.m., Laurence Hermann, 49, of Beebe Road, East Haddam was traveling eastbound on Route 82 (Main Street) East Haddam, operating a 2001 Ford Econoline van. Police said that as Hermann attempted to slow down for another vehicle turning onto Hem Street, he was struck by Robert Warley, 51, of Old Marlborough Road, East Hampton, driving a 2005 Chevy Silverado who was traveling behind him. No injuries were reported.

POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA, POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA AND FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN INFRACTION - On Oct. 2 at approximately 10:09 a.m., East Haddam Police initiated a traffic stop on Fox Hopyard Road in East Haddam. A subsequent investigation determined that a passenger of the vehicle had an active arrest warrant filed against him. Joshua Shaw, 30, of Powerhouse Road, Moodus was taken into custody and transported to Troop K for processing. Shaw was arrested and charged for the above charges and later released on a $120 cash bond. He was scheduled to appear at Norwich Superior Court on 10/8/15.

​

Please be advised that an arrest or infraction does not indicate a conviction, and all individuals listed in these reports are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.​

Connecticut State Police to Honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month with Purple Ribbons on Cruisers

The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of State Police, is honoring Domestic Violence Awareness Month by displaying purple magnetic ribbons on all of their marked cruisers. The ribbon states “CSP Cares” and includes the national DV Hotline number, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

“The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection has undertaken important steps to ensure that domestic violence situations are handled in the most comprehensive ways possible. Law enforcement continues to work proactively to improve its response to these serious and unfortunate circumstances,” Governor Malloy said. “By working with our partners as part of a coordinated system, our State Troopers are making a measurable difference.”

“I applaud and thank the Connecticut State Police on taking this very visible stand against domestic violence,” said Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman. “State Troopers are often among the first people a victim of violence sees, how they approach and support victims during their investigation is critical. Connecticut is grateful for their commitment and their expertise.”

During the fiscal year 2015, Connecticut State Troopers responded to 1,381 domestic violence calls for service. In over 50% of those instances the intimate partner was determined to be at heightened risk of harm. When they were offered the opportunity to speak with a DV hotline worker, more than 90% of those victims availed themselves of assistance.

“We are committed to combating domestic violence and providing assistance to those most at risk,” said Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora Schriro. “These ribbons provide an important opportunity to increase public awareness and promote the safety and well-being of those affected by this all too often deadly crime.”

"Our Troopers are dedicated to protecting the victims of domestic violence. We take great pride in working with communities on strategies to protect individuals, especially the children who live in daily fear of verbal and physical abuse,” said State Police Union President Andrew Matthews. “For all who are exposed to domestic violence, know when a State Trooper arrives on scene, we will protect and defend you from the danger and abuse."

Trooper Tyler Weerden 

Connecticut State Police

Public Information Office

K-9 Officer Nero receives body armor: Life-Protecting Vest

Connecticut State Police K-9 Nero has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. 

The vest was sponsored by Macy's and is embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Macy's”.  K9 Nero, and his partner Trooper First Class Michael Beauton, patrol Troop G in Bridgeport.  

Three-year-old Nero is trained as a patrol dog, and cross-trained in narcotics detection.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c(3) charity located in East Taunton, MA. whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests, and other assistance, to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. 

The non-profit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four-legged K9 officers. 

Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provided over 1,600 protective vests, in 49 states, through private and corporate donations, at a cost of over 1.5 million dollars. All vests are custom made in the USA by Armor Express in Central Lake, MI. 

The program is open to dogs actively employed in the U.S. with law enforcement or related agencies who are certified and at least 19 months of age. New K9 graduates, as well as K9s with expired vests, are eligible to participate.

The suggested donation to provide one protective vest for a law enforcement K9 is $1,050.  Each vest has a value between $1,795 – $2,234 and has a five-year warranty. 

There is an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9’s throughout the United States.  

For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts tax-deductible donations of any denomination at www.vik9s.org or mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA. 02718.

Trooper First Class Kelly Grant 

Connecticut State Police

Public Information Office

Violation of a Protective Order, Risk of Injury to a Minor, Assault, Disorderly Conduct, DUI's and Harassment through 9-9-15

The East Haddam Police and the Connecticut State Police, Troop K in Colchester report the following incidents:

ASSAULT AND DISORDERLY CONDUCT - On August 30 at approximately 12:14 a.m., Daniel Newell, 42, of Town Street, Moodus was arrested and charged with 3rd-Degree Assault and Disorderly Conduct. Newell was released on a $1,500 bond and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 8/31/15.

FAILURE TO DRIVE A REASONABLE DISTANCE APART - On August 30 at approximately 11:04 a.m., State Police were dispatched to investigate a motor-vehicle accident that occurred on Westchester Road (Route 149) near River Road in Colchester. Michael Robichaud, 57, of Hillside Lane, Colchester (operating a 2015 Toyota Tundra) had stopped for a pedestrian in the crosswalk at the Airline Trail. Police said that Taylor Bauer, 23, of Eli Chapman Road, Moodus (driving a 2000 Chevy Malibu) was traveling behind Robichaud and was unable to stop in time, striking Robichaud's vehicle from the rear. No injuries were reported. Police issued Bauer an infraction for the above violation.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS, FAILURE TO DRIVE UPON THE RIGHT AND POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS NOT IN THEIR ORIGINAL CONTAINER - On Sept. 7 at approximately 7:57 p.m., Richard David, 57, of Madison Street, New Britain was arrested and charged with the above violations. David was released on a $500 bond and given a court date at Middletown Superior Court on 9/21/15.

RISK OF INJURY TO A MINOR, DISORDERLY CONDUCT AND OPERATING A MOTOR-VEHICLE UNDER A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUE TO AN ALCOHOL-RELATED OFFENSE - On Sept. 8 at approximately 10:51 p.m., State Police were dispatched to a Westwood Drive, Moodus address for a report of a domestic dispute between a husband and wife. William Smith, 47, of Westwood Drive, Moodus had left the scene but was later located by police and arrested and charged with the above violations. Smith was unable to post a $5,000 bond and was transported to Middletown Superior Court on the same day to answer to the charges.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS, MAKING AN IMPROPER TURN AND OPERATING WITHOUT A DRIVER'S LICENCE - On Sept. 9 at approximately 1:12 a.m., Lindsay Bobzin, 38, of Old Middletown Avenue, East Hampton was involved in a motor-vehicle accident on North Moodus Road in Moodus. Police said that Bobzin failed the Standardized Field-Sobriety Tests and was arrested and charged with the above violations. Bobzin was later released on a $500 bond and scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 9/21/15.

VIOLATION OF A PROTECTIVE ORDER AND HARASSMENT - On Sept. 9 at approximately 11:30 p.m., Colchester Police were dispatched to a Brindlewood Path, Colchester residence to investigate a harassment complaint. A subsequent investigation lead to the arrest of Jayme Ficara, 24, of Neptune Avenue, Moodus. Ficara was held on a $15,000 bond and scheduled to appear at Norwich Superior Court on 9/10/15.

Please be advised that an arrest or infraction does not indicate a conviction, and all individuals listed in these reports are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day in East Haddam

During the last decade, Americans have turned in more than 4,823,251 pounds of pills —more than 2,411 tons. Studies show that many who abuse prescription drugs obtain them from family and friends, including from their home medicine cabinet. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. is on the rise at alarming rates, along with accidental poisonings and overdoses. This drug abuse is fueling a rise in heroin addiction as well. A growing number of young people who start abusing expensive prescription drugs are switching to heroin, which is cheaper and easier to buy. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – both potential safety and health hazards. National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing prescription medications. Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can bring your old prescriptions for safe disposal to: The Town Hall, Colchester Resident Trooper's Office, 127 Norwich Avenue, Colchester  The East Haddam Resident Trooper's Office, River House, 7 Main Street, East Haddam If this is not a convenient location for you, call 1-800-882-9539 or follow the link below. (The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles, only pills or patches). The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. *Prescription Drug Take-Back Day: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/NTBI/ntbi-pub.pub?_flowExecutionKey=_cBA1458E0-9142-B272-EAA0-5031AACC04F1_k63D09906-DA76-A00B-2104-1A8530B8574F. Please note that these take-back locations are not resident-driven and anyone can utilize them. Best, State Representative Melissa Ziobron 34th General Assembly District