🌱Chapman Said Child 'Deserved It' + McDonald Wrote Letter To Town

Hello, everybody! I'm back in your inbox this summer morning to walk you through everything you need to know about what's happening in Essex-Chester-Deep River.Keep reading for the latest.

First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and less humid. High: 84 Low: 61.

Here are the top three stories in Essex-Chester-Deep River today:

1. Reportedly, 48 year-old Jameson Chapman, of Deep River, who has been arrested and charged with second-degree breach of peace, risk of injury to a child and third-degree assault after he allegedly assaulted an 11-year-old on a bike Monday, told state troopers the child “deserved it,” according to a police report of the incident and an article in the Torrington Register Citizen. The article states, "Chapman was on probation for his third operating under the influence arrest when the incident occurred Monday. He was located and taken into custody at a local condo complex, state police said. He was ordered during his arraignment Tuesday to seek behavioral health treatment, court records show. He also cannot have contact with the 11-year-old or the child’s friend who captured videos of the incident." According to state police records, Chapman has a criminal history that includes three operating while under the influence convictions and arrests for violation of a protective order, assault, illegal discharge of a firearm and reckless endangerment, according to state police and court records. (Torrington Register Citizen)
2. The First Selectman of Deep River, Angus McDonald sent out a statement via e-mail to town residents on Friday which read, "Early this week an incident involving Deep River residents occurred on Main Street and High Street. Make no mistake, an assault on an 11-year-old is unacceptable. The alleged assailant has been arrested and the matter is being handled, as is appropriate, by the Connecticut State Police. The video recording that has been distributed has brought national attention to Deep River. We are reminded, for the second time, that Deep River is not immune from the kinds of unpleasantness we prefer to associate with the outside world. It is critical that we remind ourselves, and inform others, that the actions of the few individuals involved in two distinct and separate incidents do not represent the thinking of the vast majority of the people of Deep River. Our town does not condone violence in any way and encourages dialogue as a means to a peaceful resolution. Toward that end, the town, together with the Anti-Defamation Leagle and community leaders, is working to schedule a community forum and subsequent programs directed toward education, communication and healing. The events of the last few weeks have brought to mind the words of Alexander Dumas: “Hatred is blind, anger is foolhardy and he who pours out vengeance risks having to drink a bitter draft.” As the weeks progress let us act thoughtfully and deliberately toward a peaceful future. Angus"
3. Reminder, July 4th Fireworks: Near Middletown (Patch); Near North Haven (Patch); In Madison (Patch); Middletown Fireworks Guide: Road Closures, Event Information (Patch)

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From my notebook:

• Visit Chester CT: "And then there’s this cutie, Alanna!! Chakana Sky Alpacas has also just welcomed a baby girl!" (Visit Chester CT via Facebook)
• Visit Chester CT: "Welcome to baby boy Chester! Chakana Sky Alpacas is on cuteness overload. It’s official. First born male, his name is Chester!" (Visit Chester CT via Facebook)
• Essex Library: "Teens! See you tomorrow for STEM Culinary Camp. Grades 7-12. Call 860-767-1560 or e-mail staff.essexlib@gmail.com to register! This week, we will be making ROCK CANDY!" (Essex Library via Facebook)
• Chester Public Library: "Beat the summer heat with Hallmark’s Christmas in July collection on Hoopla Digital! Click the link to be directed to the collection: https://www.hoopladigital.com/... Hoopla is an all-in-one media service offered by the lib..." (Chester Public Library via Facebook)
• Tri-Town Youth Services Bureau: " This month we are turning our attention to National Make a Difference to a Child Month, specifically mentoring youth! Keep an eye on our weekly newsletters and social media." (Tri-Town Youth Services Bureau via Facebook)
• Rotary Club of Chester, CT: "Important for in-person race, there is no limit to the number of runners. COVID numbers are low, however, please social distance wherever possible and feel free to wear a mask before and after running when unable to social distance." (Rotary Club of Chester, CT via Facebook)
• Essex Fire Engine Co. #1: "Fireworks… Keep it legal, keep it safe." (Essex Fire Engine Co. #1 via Facebook)
• Essex Library: "FISH with CARE: FREE fishing events are scheduled three times per week all of July in both fresh and saltwater locations around the state - come join the fun! http://ow.ly/hIfR50JLWYe." (Essex Library via Facebook)

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Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll see you around!

— Karena Garrity

About me: I am a native of Connecticut, who currently resides in the Tri-Town community of Chester, Deep River and Essex. I have been a community reporter for the better part of the past 20 years. I love my small town community and I am honored to be a part of Patch.com. You can reach me at; karena.garrity@patch.com.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Essex-Chester-Deep River Daily? Contact me at karena.garrity@patch.com