5 Kids, 11-15 Charged In Connection With Stolen Car, Robberies: PD

EAST HAVEN, CT — Five juveniles, ranging in age from 11 to 15, were arrested following a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle occupied by several suspects linked to multiple armed robberies and thefts in the area, according to East Haven police spokesperson, Capt. Joseph M. Murgo.

Murgo described the incident that led to the children being charged:

"On Tuesday at noon, East Haven and New Haven police officers worked together to apprehend a vehicle which was later determined to be occupied by five juveniles, after a stolen vehicle involved in multiple armed robberies and thefts was located. The vehicle, a red Hyundai with New Jersey plates, had been reported stolen and was suspected to be involved in a series of recent crimes, including armed robberies.

Officers were dispatched to the area of Laurel Street and Eldred Drive to assist the New Haven Police Department who was tracking the vehicle as it traveled into East Haven from New Haven.

The vehicle was soon spotted by East Haven Detective Jon Trinh in the Millbrook Plaza on Foxon Road, circulating the lot. Units got to the area and attempted to conduct a motor vehicle stop on the vehicle, which fled, initiating a pursuit. Multiple East Haven officers, along with New Haven police, pursued the vehicle. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle disregarded traffic controls, including stop signs, and traveled in the wrong direction on several streets.

The pursuit came to an end after an East Haven officer successfully used his police cruiser to disable the stolen vehicle. The five juvenile occupants fled the scene on foot, but officers from both departments quickly apprehended all five.

The juveniles were each charged with Larceny of a Motor Vehicle and Interfering with an Officer. One of the juveniles was transported to the Bridgeport Juvenile Detention Center due to a remand-to-custody order, while the others were released to their guardians with a summons to appear in juvenile court. A warrant will be applied for one of the juveniles, who was transported to the hospital following the use of pepper spray by a New Haven Police officer during his arrest.

Due to the ages of the arrestees, which range from 11 to 15 years old, and in accordance with Connecticut State law, neither the dash cam footage their identities will be released.

This case remains under investigation, as the suspects involved are believed to be involved in several thefts and armed robberies that have occurred in the area recently."