Use Of Stun Gun By Naugatuck Police Officer Under Investigation: PD

NAUGATUCK, CT — Police said that the use of a stun gun by a police officer is under investigation.

In a statement, Naugatuck police said, "During an internal preliminary use of force review, the Naugatuck Police Department raised concerns regarding the use of a taser during an arrest that occurred in Naugatuck on October 14, 2023.

"After conferring with the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office, a criminal investigation was referred to the Connecticut State Police. At the same time, this department has launched a separate but concurrent internal investigation by an outside law firm. We ask for the communities’ patience as this investigation is completed. The officer involved in the incident has been placed on paid administrative leave," police continued in a news release.

"The Naugatuck Police remain committed to maintaining and upholding high ethical standards and ensuring that all individuals are always treated with dignity and respect. Our officers have received de-escalation, and fair and impartial training previously and will readily continue to receive such training on a recurring basis. We hope that the hard work and dedication that the men and women of the Naugatuck Police display on a daily basis will not be overlooked by the public. The Naugatuck Police remain committed to providing the highest quality service that Naugatuck deserves," the Naugatuck Police Department's statement concludes.

Police went on to provide more background of the incident by stating:

"In Naugatuck on October 14, 2023 while taking into custody a suspect for a robbery arrest a Naugatuck Police officer deployed their taser a total of three times. After a supervisory review of the video as is policy with this department, concerns were raised on the deployment of the taser and the issue was brought before the Waterbury State's Attorney for review. At that point, the Waterbury State's Attorney Office immediately ordered the matter referred for the Connecticut State Police for possible criminal charges against the officer. There were no injuries reported after this incident. The name of the suspect and the officer involved are not being released at this time," police said in a follow-up statement.