Good Samaritan Steps In: Stop Led To Foot Chase, Struggle With Officer: Police

EAST HAVEN, CT — Wednesday afternoon, while on patrol, East Haven police Officer Luke Rasile identified a vehicle linked to an active felony arrest warrant traveling northbound on Hemingway Avenue, East Haven Police Spokesperson, Capt. Joseph M. Murgo said.

The car pulled into the Stop & Shop parking lot, Murgo said.

Though the occupants were later identified as Daniel Taylor, 41, and Sarah Baber, 35, Murgo said that "Taylor initially provided a false name before fleeing on foot, prompting a brief foot pursuit through the parking lot. "

Murgo said Taylor "physically resisted arrest during a struggle with Officer Rasile but with the assistance from a Good Samaritan who helped restrain Taylor’s legs, Officer Rasile was able to take Taylor into custody without further incident."

"The East Haven Police Department commends the civilian who selflessly intervened to assist Officer Rasile during the arrest," Murgo said. "Their quick action and willingness to help reflect the strong partnership we share with the East Haven community in keeping each other safe."

Baber also fled on foot and was later located hiding in the women’s restroom inside Stop & Shop, Murgo said, and was taken into custody without incident.

A search of the vehicle Taylor was driving resulted in the recovery of narcotics and drug paraphernalia, Murgo said.

"Furthermore, a search of the restroom where Baber was located revealed drug paraphernalia discarded in the trash, consistent with items recovered from the vehicle," Murgo said.

Taylor was charged with interfering with police, two counts of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Baber was charged with interfering with police and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Taylor was released on a $10,000 non-surety bond and is due back in court May 21. But following his release, Taylor was turned over to the Bridgeport Police Department on an active extraditable felony arrest warrant related to a family violence assault charge, as well as two violation of probation warrants involving firearms offenses and larceny, police said.

Baber was released on a $5,000 non-surety bond and is due in court May 21.