Crime & Safety

Shoplifting Attempt at Branford Big Y Thwarted in East Haven; Suspect Flees in Stolen Car

Branford and East Haven police work together to catch alleged car thief.

Branford Police Officer Jay Kaufman thwarted off a shoplifting attempt on Tuesday and later arrested the suspected for being in possession of a stolen motor vehicle with the assistance of Sergeant Frank Montagna, of the East Haven Police Department. The incident began just before 9:30 a.m. as Officer Kaufman was targeting patrol in the parking area on West Main Street due to recent criminal activity. 

Lieutenant Arthur Kohloff, who is the day shift commander, said Officer Kaufman noticed a vehicle parked in front of Big Y and the operator appeared to be covering his face. As the operator noticed Officer Kaufman, he left the parking lot and lead Kaufman on a brief pursuit when Kaufman attempted to stop him.

“As Officer Kaufman pursued the suspect onto I-95 toward New Haven he learned that the vehicle had been reported stolen in New Jersey. The suspect made an abrupt turn and exited the highway at Exit 52 in East Haven striking the guardrail.” Kohloff continued, “Sgt. Montagna [who] was monitoring our radio activity was in the area and was able to apprehend the suspect after a brief foot chase.”

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Apprehended and taken into custody was Gregory Springer, 18, of unknown address. Officers determined that Springer had stolen the 2005 Honda Accord in Allendale New Jersey on October 24. 

Chief Kevin Halloran reiterated the success in the ability of neighboring police agencies to monitor the adjacent department’s radio transmissions. “After September 11, 2001 ‘Interoperable Communications’ became a buzzword that most agencies adapted.” said Halloran. “This marks one of several occasions whereby criminals have been apprehended by our police partners due to our ability to communicate via radio.”

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Springer was charged with Larceny in the 1st Degree, Interfering With a Police Officer, Engaging An Officer In Pursuit and Reckless Driving.  Since Springer is homeless and was last known to reside in New Jersey, he was held on a $100,000.00 bond. He was arraigned today in New Haven Court.     

This is a press releae from the Branford Police Department


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