South Windsor Police Department
151 Sand Hill Road
South Windsor, CT  06074
(860) 644-2551
9-1-1 for Emergencies
Home     Town of South Windsor

Daily News Release

Sgt. Scott P. Custer
Public Information Officer
(860)648-6255
EMail: Sgt. Custer

 

   

CT Freedom of Information Commission

The following releases report arrests and other activity by South Windsor police officers.  This list is not intended to be all inclusive.   Other arrests and incidents may have been reported however, operational considerations may prevent their immediate public release.  A release is not intended to indicate guilt or conviction.  This information is released in accordance with applicable Connecticut General Statutes.  All arrested persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law

Friday May 17, 2013:
Fireworks Display Saturday Night:
On Saturday, May 18, 2013, the South Windsor Patriotic Commission will present “An Evening in the Park”. This celebration of Armed Forces Day will be held at Nevers Road Park from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free.  The event will feature armed forces displays and equipment, veterans groups and civic organizations, a patriotic band concert, and activities for kids including a bounce house, petting zoo and giant slide. There will be food available for purchase. The South Windsor Community Band concert will begin at 1930 hours. There will be a fireworks display at dusk.

Wednesday May 15, 2013:
Traffic Advisory- Wednesday - Chapel Road near Murielle Drive:
Traffic will be detoured Wednesday morning and afternoon on Chapel Road near Murielle Drive as crews work paving the roadway for the new C.R.E.C. school.  Detour signs will be in place and traffic control officers will be posted.  

P201201588 Larceny in the Sixth degree:
On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 South Windsor Police arrested Laquanna Watkins, age 22, of 2443 Main St., Hartford, CT on an arrest warrant.   She was charged with Larceny in the Sixth degree and was later released on a $500.00 non-surety bond.  She is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on May 23, 2013. Watkins’ charge stems from a May 2012 shoplifting incident at the Target store on Buckland Hills Drive.  Target security staff notified police of the theft after the suspects had left the store. Officers later identified Watkins as the involved person and obtained an arrest warrant for her.  

Low Cost Rabies Clinic:
The South Windsor Police Animal Control Officers will be hosting a low cost rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday May 18th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Fire Headquarters.   Company 1- Fire Headquarters is located at 1175 Ellington Road (Route 30) and the event is open citizens from other towns as well.  The vaccinations cost $20.00, only cash payment will be accepted.  All dogs must be on a leash and all cats must be brought in carriers.  Written proof of prior vaccination is required for a 3 year certificate. 
Additional information is available from Animal Control Officers Robin Bond and Brian Kelley at 860-648-6239 or robin.bond@southwindsor.org and brian.kelley@southwindsor.org

Tuesday May 14, 2013:
P201301417 Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol:
On Monday, May 13, 2013 at about 8:20 p.m.  South Windsor Police were dispatched to a motor vehicle violation in the area of Fairview Drive.  A motorist reported that a vehicle was being driven erratically in that area.  Officers located the car and interviewed the operator.  Following a series of roadside sobriety tests officers arrested the operator, Andrea Delfino, age 50, of 12 Ryan Drive, Ellington, CT.    She was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and was later released on a $500.00 non-surety bond.  She is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on June 3, 2013.  

P201301415 Breach of Peace:
On Monday, May 13, 2013 South Windsor Police were dispatched to a domestic dispute that had occurred earlier at a Pleasant Valley Road home.  A woman complained that her ex-boyfriend had yelled at her during an argument.  Officers later arrested the man, Milton Jackson, age 19, of 577 Griffin Road, South Windsor. He was charged with Breach of Peace and was later released on a $500.00 non-surety bond.  He is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on Tuesday May 14, 2013.  

Monday May 13, 2013:
P201301375 Breach of Peace/Threatening/Assault in the Third degree:
On Friday May 10, 2013 South Windsor Police arrested Wahad Dode, age 23, of 48 Jessica Drive, South Windsor. He was charged with Breach of Peace, Threatening, Assault in the Third degree, Unlawful Restraint in the Second degree and Strangulation in the Second degree. He was held on $75,000.00 surety bond.   He will be presented at Manchester Superior Court on Monday May 13, 2013.
Dode’s charge stems from a complaint from a woman who stated that he’d assaulted her earlier Friday morning. Officers later located Dode in Manchester and took him into custody.

P201300197 Illegal Use of Credit Card/Identity Theft:
On Friday May 10, 2013 South Windsor Police arrested, Errol Walters, age 24, of 608 Circular Ave, Hamden, CT on an arrest warrant. He was charged with Illegal Use of a Credit Card and Criminal Attempt to Commit Larceny in the Fourth degree and Criminal Attempt to Commit Identity Theft in the Third degree. He was held on $25,000.00 surety bond and will be presented at Manchester Superior Court on Monday May 13, 2013.
Walters’ charges stem from a January 2013 larceny investigation. A man’s wallet was stolen from his locker at L.A. Fitness on Buckland Road.  His credit cards were used at area businesses. Officers were later able to identify Walters and obtain an arrest warrant for him.

P201301390 Threatening/Interfering with an Emergency Call:
On Saturday May 11, 2013 South Windsor Police responded to a 911 call from a home on Oakland Road.  Officers learned that a woman had struck a male resident of the home and broke his cell phone when he tried to call 911.  Officers arrested the woman, Lisa Giano, age 23, of 480 Oakland Road, South Windsor, CT.  She was charged with Breach of Peace and Interfering with an Emergency Call. She was later released on a $1000.00 non-surety bond.   She is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on Monday May 13, 2013.

P201301396 Failure to Appear in the Second degree/Oper. Vehicle under Suspension:
On Sunday May 12, 2013 South Windsor Police arrested, Heidi Territo, age 25, of 245 Pleasant Valley Road, South Windsor. She was charged with Failure to Appear in the Second degree and Operating a Motor Vehicle while License is Suspended.   She was later released on a $750.00 cash bond.   She is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on May 21, 2013. Territo’s charge stems from a missed court date for a motor vehicle violation.

P201203236 Failure to Appear in the Second degree:
On Sunday May 12, 2013 South Windsor Police arrested, Kelly Bailey, age 29, of 32 West Raymond St. Hartford, CT on a re-arrest warrant.   She was charged with Failure to Appear in the Second degree and was held on a $4000.00 surety bond. She will be presented at Manchester Superior Court on Monday, May 13, 2013.  Bailey’s charge stems from a missed court date for a 2012 motor vehicle violation.

Friday May 10, 2013:
P201301360 Larceny in the Fifth degree:
On Thursday May 9, 2013 South Windsor Police responded to a shoplifting complaint at the Target store on Buckland Hills Drive.  Store security had detained a woman who had attempted to steal a large amount of baby formula and children’s clothing. Officers arrested the woman, Monica Bryan, age 29, of 92 Lake Road, Coventry, CT. She was charged with Larceny in the Fifth degree and was later released on a $1000.00 non-surety bond.   Bryan is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on May 23, 2013.

Thursday May 9, 2013:

Medication Disposal Box installed at Police Headquarters:
South Windsor residents looking to discard unused, unwanted or expired medications can now dispose of them anytime at the South Windsor Police Station. On May 8th, we completed the installation of a medication disposal drop box in the headquarters lobby.
Residents wishing to dispose of prescription and/or over-the-counter medications will be able to access the secure collection box, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, in our lobby.  We will accept pet medication and illegal drugs as well, but needles will NOT be accepted.
This program is offered as part of South Windsor’s efforts to reduce the supply of unused or unwanted medications, especially those with a potential for abuse and misuse. The proper disposal of medication keeps them out of landfills and waterways, lessening the harmful effect on our environment.
The process is confidential, there are no forms or questions posed to citizens and the medication is incinerated under the supervision of police personnel.  

Document Shredding Event on Monday May 13th:
The South Windsor TRIAD is sponsoring it's 3rd Annual Shredding Day on Monday, May 13th from 10:00 a.m to 12:00 noon at the Community Center, 150 Nevers Road.  The event is free and volunteers will assist citizens loading unwanted documents into the vendors on-site shredding truck.
For additional information contact Andrea Cofrancesco at 860-648-6357 or Sgt. Tom Field at 860-648-6224.

Wednesday May 8, 2013
P201202028 Failure to Appear in the Second degree:
On Tuesday May 7, 2013 South Windsor Police arrested Kelle McDougal, age 27, of 69 Brook St. South Windsor, CT on a re-arrest warrant.    She was charged with Failure to Appear in the Second degree and was later released on $500.00 surety bond.  McDougal is scheduled is appear at Manchester Superior Court on May 16, 2013. McDougal’s charge stems from a missed court date for a 2012 motor vehicle violation case.

P201301344 Request for Witnesses – Motor Vehicle Accident:
The South Windsor Police Department is seeking witnesses to a non-injury motor vehicle accident that occurred Tuesday May 7th at 5:30 p.m. at the intersection of Ellington Road and Dart Hill Rd.  Two vehicles collided in the intersection.  Anyone who witnessed the accident is requested to contact Officer Tina Mazzoccoli at 860-644-2551.

Monday May 6, 2013:
P201301315 Larceny in the Fourth degree:
On Saturday May 4, 2013 at about 8:00 p.m. South Windsor Police officers were dispatched to a larceny complaint at the Coldwater Creek store in Evergreen Walk. Officers arrested Debra Coleman, age 58, of 63 Westford Circle, Springfield.    She was charged with Larceny in the Fourth degree was later released on $1500.00 non-surety bond.  She is scheduled is appear at Manchester Superior Court on May 16, 2013.

P201301318 Larceny in the Sixth degree:  
On Saturday May 4, 2013 at about 10:00 p.m. South Windsor Police officers were dispatched to a shoplifting complaint at the Target store on Buckland Hills Drive.  Target store security staff had witnessed a man conceal cans of baby formula in his jacket and leave the store.  Officers arrested the man, Ian Murzin, age 36, of 118 Main Street, Hartford, CT.  He was charged with Larceny in the Sixth degree and held on a $10,000.00 surety bond.  Murzin will be presented at Manchester Superior Court on Monday May 6, 2013.

Wednesday May 1, 2013:
P201301262 Failure to Pay or Plead:
On Tuesday April 30, 2013 South Windsor Police officers arrested Erin Sullivan, age 24, of 170 South St. Vernon, CT on a re-arrest warrant held by Hartford Police.    She was charged with Failure to Pay or Plead and was later released on $150.00 surety bond.  She is scheduled is appear at Hartford Superior Court on May 2, 2013.

Monday April 29, 2013:
Changes to Fingerprinting Policy effective today:
Effective today we will only be offering fingerprinting via a vendor at headquarters on Thursday's from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary and the $25.00 fee is payable by cash, bank check/money order or business check. (Personal checks and credit cards cannot be accepted). All applicants needing fingerprints taken must present valid photo identification.
This change is policy is necessary due to the significant increase in fingerprint requests for pistol permits, pre-employment screening and other licensing.
Alternate locations and times for fingerprinting are:
Tuesdays:
Hartford PD 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Manchester PD 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Thursdays:
Hartford PD 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
S. Windsor PD 3 p.m to 7 p.m.
Saturdays:
Manchester PD 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Pictured from left: front row, Bill Conley, Roger Hildebrand, Lorraine Gaffney, Walter Moriarty, Laurette Billig. Second row, Peter DeMallie, Sgt. Tom Field, Tom Bartomeli.

Medication Disposal Day-RESULTS:
The South Windsor Police Department hosted a DRUG DISPOSAL DAY on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at the South Windsor Police headquarters. Volunteers from the South Windsor Triad (Police, Human Services & Senior Services) were on hand to receive unwanted medications from citizens. The group collected over 450 pounds of medications and made over 230 citizen contacts. Also, Terri Trenholm  from the South Windsor Fire Marshal’s office was present and handed out 322 smoke detectors and educational materials to residents.
These events are part of a nationally coordinated Drug Enforcement Administration program to allow citizens to safely dispose of unwanted medications. All medications area accepted: prescription, non-prescription and over the counter. (No needles will be accepted.)
These events are held to reduce the risk of prescription drug diversion and abuse, and accidental ingestion. Additionally, the proper disposal of unwanted and outdated medication lessens the chance of negative environmental impact such as groundwater contamination and watercourse pollution.
Additional information is available from Community Outreach Sgt. Tom Field at 860-648-6224 (Thomas.Field@southwindsor.org) or Human Services staff, Andrea Cofrancesco at 860-648-6357.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Grand Opening – Tyler Regional Animal Care Shelter (TRACS)
Friday, April 26, 2013, 11:00 a.m.
 

On Friday, April 26, 2013, South Windsor will join with the towns of Manchester and East Hartford in a celebration of the completion of the new regional animal shelter known as TRACS – Tyler Regional Animal Care Shelter.  The shelter is located at 124 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor. 

TRACS will serve as a regional animal shelter for the towns of South Windsor, Manchester and East Hartford.  For years each of the three communities contracted with outside organizations to house stray and injured animals found in their towns. 

In 2008, South Windsor received a grant from the State of Connecticut in the amount of $515,000 for the purchase of land for an animal control shelter.  The project was originally going to be coordinated through the Connecticut Humane Society however; economic challenges forced the Humane Society to withdraw from the project. 

The towns then commissioned a study that looked at the feasibility of constructing a shelter in one of the three communities.  The study concluded that a facility built to handle animals from the three communities would cost between 4.7 and 5.2 million dollars to construct. 

With no hope for funding of that magnitude the towns continued to look for more feasible options.  In mid 2011 the South Windsor Fire Department moved into a new firehouse on West Road in South Windsor.  This move left the old Company 3 firehouse on Sullivan Avenue vacant.  Chief Reed of the South Windsor Police Department suggested that the Sullivan Avenue facility could be re-purposed for use as an animal care shelter. 

Town Manager Matthew Galligan presented the idea to the South Windsor Town Council.  The Council approved.  Mr. Galligan and Chief Reed presented the idea to the towns of Manchester and East Hartford.  They too agreed that use of the former firehouse would be feasible and committed to the project. 

Using the funds from the state grant, Rockwell Builders of Tolland was awarded the contract to perform the work.  Construction began in spring 2012 and was completed by the end of the year. The three towns began to use the facility on January 1, 2013. 

The facility is governed by a Board of Directors which is comprised of the Chiefs of Police of each of the participating towns.  The South Windsor chief serves as the administrative manager of the facility overseeing the day to day operations of the shelter.  

Animal control officers from each community work at the shelter each day caring for animals from their respective communities.  Each community contributes to the cost of operating the shelter based on a formula that takes into account the number of animals and duration of stay of each animal at the shelter. 

The Tyler Regional Animal Care Shelter is named in honor of Chief Gary K. Tyler.  Chief Tyler served as South Windsor’s chief of police for 23 years from 1987 until his retirement in 2010.  Chief Tyler died in 2011 after a battle with cancer. 

Chief Tyler was a staunch supporter of service-sharing and regionalization.  Throughout his years in South Windsor Chief Tyler was instrumental in forming several regional policing teams including the Capitol Region Investigative Support Team (CRIST), Metro Traffic Services (MTS) and the Capitol Region Emergency Services Team (CREST). 

Members of the public interested in adopting dogs from the shelter should contact their own town’s animal control officer.

 

On Friday, April 19th, the South Windsor Junior Women's Club presented a generous donation of $2,000 to Chief Matthew Reed on behalf of the regional animal shelter (pictured below).  These funds will be used to fund fencing to assist in the care of large animals at the shelter.  

Pictured from left: Chief Matthew Reed, Maureen Schroder, Sue Gerich, and Terri Dicky-Gaignat

Overnight Parking Ban- Ended:
The overnight parking ban for the period from November 15 to April 15 has ended.  The South Windsor Police Department and Department of Public Works thank our citizens for their cooperation in keeping the roads free of parked vehicles, allowing the Public Works crews to clear and sand roadways in a timely and efficient manner, making travel safer for everyone.

Thursday April 4, 2013:
Update: April 4, 2013:
Here is a link to the new gun laws, some are in effect immediately and others are phased in over time. Most of the administration of these registration regulations will be via the Connecticut State Police.
http://www.cga.ct.gov/2013/BA/2013SB-01160-R00-BA.htm

 

Metro Traffic Services- Truck Inspections:
On Thursday, March 28, 2013 members of Metro Traffic Services conducted commercial truck inspections on John Fitch Blvd near Pleasant Valley Road.  The regional traffic team members inspected 12 trucks which resulted in 7 vehicles receiving “out of service” violations.  Those violations were for brake violations (4) and 3 for other equipment violations.   A total of $1316.00 in infraction tickets were issued.  These checkpoints are conducted to insure that commercial vehicles are being operated in a safe manner and to remove unsafe vehicles from the roadways.

Thursday March 14, 2013:
Accident and Collision reports now available online
We have recently set up an account to distribute accident reports electronically via www.crashdocs.org , a division of the Carfax corporation.  Our department records staff will upload our completed accident reports to the Crashdocs website.  The web-based company then maintains them in an on-line database. Citizens and insurance companies can then retrieve and pay for the report online, downloading it immediately. There is no cost to the town to participate in this service. Crashdocs will send the department a check once a month for our share of collected fees.  This agreement also gives officers the ability to query Carfax records for vehicle information which may be helpful during investigations of abandoned or stolen cars.
The Crashdocs.org information is listed on the back page of the Motor Vehicle Accident Information form that we complete for the involved persons at accident scenes, and a link is on our homepage. 
Customers can still retrieve reports in person or via mail; this service is simply to better serve citizens who may not be from this region.  It is also very helpful to insurance companies who request a significant volume of reports each year.   Questions about this service can be directed to Sgt. Scott Custer at (860)648-6255 or scott.custer@southwindsor.org

South Windsor Police Summer Youth Academy:
The South Windsor Police Department is currently accepting applications for the 2013 South Windsor Police Summer Youth Academy. The program will run daily Monday through Friday, August 12-16, 2013. The hours will be 8 AM to 2 PM. The days will consist of classroom time at headquarters as well as outdoor activities.
The goal of the academy is to provide a week-long, co-ed, exploratory summer program for South Windsor youth ages 12-16. Youths interested in this program should have a strong interest in learning about law enforcement and good citizenship, and an eagerness to be an active program participant. The lead instructors for the program will be members of the South Windsor Police Department. Additional assistance will also be provided by members of the South Windsor Youth and Family Services and other speakers from various agencies.
For applications or more information contact Ofc. Caleb Lopez at 860-644-2551 or caleb.lopez@southwindsor.org

South Windsor Police recognized by Connecticut Special Olympics:
The South Windsor Police Department was honored on Thursday February 28th by Special Olympics Connecticut for fund raising efforts in 2012.  The SWPD was the top law enforcement fundraiser in the state again last year, raising more than $45,000 for the Special Olympics.
The honor is due largely to the hard work and dedication of Agent Ron Littell, our S.O.C.T.  liaison and Law Enforcement Torch Run committee member.   The “Cop on Top”, “Tip a Cop”, Penguin Plunge, Law Enforcement Torch Run and “Haunted Torch Walk”  are all local events that raise money for the Special Olympics.  
We extend a special thanks to all the citizens, businesses and officers who have been our supporters and contributors. Their generosity has led to this recognition and more importantly, to the success of Special Olympics.
www.soct.org

 

Ofc. Caleb Lopez & Sgt. Tina Ferrante

 collected items awaiting distribution

Community Charity event: “Bundles of Love baby item collection”:
The South Windsor Police and South Windsor Youth & Family Services are collaborating to collect baby items throughout February and into early March. We seek to collect items for families in need to supply them with essentials such a diapers, wipes, ointments, lotions, bath soap, bottles and related supplies.  Collection bins are located at Police Headquarters, 151 Sand Hill Road, as well as the Community Center on Nevers Road. Distribution: On Friday, February 22nd, deliveries of donated items were made to local residents, as well as The Network Against Domestic Abuse Women’s Shelter, St. Agnes Home, Interval House, KidSafe CT and 1st Way Life Center. Each facility received several hundred diapers, two crates of baby wipes, baby food, clothes, lotions, soaps and powders and various miscellaneous items (pacifiers, bottles etc). Total amounts varied, but each location received a truck load of supplies.   Also, a large donation of food went to the South Windsor Food Bank
There was a Collection Event held last Saturday (February 16th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) at two local supermarkets; Stop & Shop (1739 Ellington Road) and Geissler’s Market (955 Sullivan Ave.) The volunteers at the two stores received enough donations of baby items to fill the cargo bed our Chevy Silverado pickup truck, and we received $650.00 in cash donations.
These generous donations will be distributed to local families in need and we thank everyone for their support!

Car Seat Check- RESULTS
The South Windsor Police hosted a car seat clinic last Friday evening, February 15th, 2013 at South Windsor Fire Headquarters, 1175 Ellington Rd, South Windsor. This special event was designed to be more convenient for those who cannot attend our weekly clinic on Wednesday mornings. The Child Passenger Safety Seat technicians (pictured below) assisted 28 families with car seat installations. 
Studies have found that 4 out of 5 car seats are used improperly.  Proper installation and fitting of a child passenger safety seat can reduce injuries in an accident.  We offer a weekly car seat clinic weekly on Wednesday mornings at Fire Headquarters from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.  There is no cost for this service. Additional information is available from Community Outreach Sgt. Tom Field at 860-648-6224 or thomas.field@southwindsor.org or on the police department webpage at http://police.southwindsor.org/community_outreach.htm
 

Pistol Permit Application Update: January 16, 2013:
Due to the significant increase in applications, processing at the State & Local level is taking longer than normal. Applicants should expect the process to take 8 weeks or more from the date of submission.
The state examiners only work normal business hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays. We cannot issue a permit without verification from the state examiners. This delay is beyond our control and we will notify you when the permit is issued. Thank you for your patience.

Reminder- Parking Ban during Winter Storms:
Residents are reminded that no vehicles shall be parked on the public streets of the town overnight for the period from November 15 to April 15. Any vehicle parked continuously between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. during this period shall be deemed to have been parked overnight, and the owner may be subject to a fine.
Snow/Ice Storms: No vehicle shall be parked on the public streets of the town during a snow or ice storm that has been in progress one hour and continuing for a period of 24 hours after the storm has ended. Residents’ cooperation in keeping the roads free of parked vehicles allows the Public Works crews to clear and sand roadways in a timely and efficient manner, making travel safer for everyone.

Charitable Donation Received- Car Seat Program:
On Tuesday December 4th, the South Windsor Jaycees donated $800.00 to the South Windsor Police Child Passenger Safety Program. The generous donation was received by Sgt. Tom Field, Community Outreach coordinator and Child Passenger Safety instructor. This donation will help the police department purchase and distribute materials aimed at keeping every child passenger safe while traveling in cars. Additional information about our Child Passenger Safety program and the Jaycees can be found at http://police.southwindsor.org/community_outreach.htm and http://www.swjaycees.org

Charity Event- “Stuff a Truck” Food and Toy Drive:
On Saturday, December 8, 2012 the South Windsor Police joined members of the South Windsor Fire Department and South Windsor Ambulance Corps at Stop & Shop for a “Stuff a Truck” event.   Emergency services personnel received toys and food donations to benefit local families in need.  The items will be distributed locally to the families of over 185 children. 

Thank you to all those who helped us help those who need assistance during this holiday season!


Pedestrian Safety Tips:
In response to recent complaints from drivers who are encountering pedestrians/joggers in the travel lane of the roadway, we are passing along these reminders from the Highway Safety Research Center at the University of North Carolina:
Tips for Drivers                                         

Pedestrians can be very hard to see - especially in bad weather or at night. You must keep a lookout and slow down if you can't see clearly.

When entering a crosswalk area, drive slowly and be prepared to stop.

Stop for pedestrians who are in a crosswalk, even if it is not marked. When you stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, stop well back so that drivers in the other lanes can also see the pedestrian in time to stop.

Do not overtake and pass other vehicles stopped for pedestrians.

When you are turning, you often will have to wait for a "gap" in traffic. Beware that while you are watching for that "gap," pedestrians may have moved into your intended path.

Be especially attentive around schools and in neighborhoods where children are active.

Tips for Pedestrians

Be predictable. Stay off freeways and restricted zones. Use sidewalks where provided. Cross or enter streets where it is legal to do so.

Where no sidewalks are provided, it is usually safer to walk facing road traffic.

Make it easy for drivers to see you - dress in light colors and wear retro-reflective material. It might be wise to carry a flashlight in very dark areas.

Be wary. Most drivers are nice people, but don't count on them paying attention. Watch out - make eye contact to be sure they see you!

Alcohol and drugs can impair your ability to walk safely, just like they do a person's ability to drive.

Use extra caution when crossing multiple-lane, higher speed streets

Haunted Torch Walk to benefit Connecticut Special Olympics: Results:
On Saturday, October 20, 2012 members of the South Windsor Police Department and other South Windsor groups presented a “Haunted Torch Walk” in Nevers Road Park. The event featured a series of Halloween themed displays along the trails in the park. Participants received refreshments and gift bags at the conclusion of the walk.  The event raised $6,000.00 for Connecticut Special Olympics.
The Haunted Torch Walk is a new event this year, coordinated by Agent Ron Littell as part of our efforts to raise money for a great organization.  We thank everyone who attended the event, and all the groups and businesses that contributed time and resources to make this event a success.

Monday October 1, 2012
Medication Disposal Day Results:
The South Windsor Police Department hosted a DRUG DISPOSAL DAY, on Saturday, September 29th, at the South Windsor Police headquarters.  Volunteers from the South Windsor Triad (Police, Human Services & Senior Services) collected unwanted medications from citizens during the “drive up” event.  The volunteers collected the unwanted medications for proper disposal. The free event was part of a nationally coordinated Drug Enforcement Administration event to allow citizens to safely dispose of unwanted medications. During these events all types of medications are accepted: prescription, non-prescription and over the counter. (No needles are accepted.) 
These events are held to reduce the risk of prescription drug diversion and abuse, and accidental ingestion. Additionally, the proper disposal of unwanted and outdated medication lessens the chance of negative environmental impact such as groundwater contamination and watercourse pollution.
The South Windsor Event took in 320 pounds of unwanted medication from 174 different citizens.    The event was coordinated by Sgt. Tom Field and staffed by several community volunteers including Laurette Billig, Elaine Cooley, Roger Hildebrand, and Peter DeMallie from the South Windsor TRIAD,  Bob West and  Walt Moriarty from the Super 60’s Sportsman Club, Matt Falletti, of the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department and Jennifer Samsel, Morgan Ledden, and Daniel Dzen from the South Windsor Volunteer Fire Department Explorers.  We thank all the volunteers and citizens who came out to make this event a success.

Thursday August 30, 2012:
South Windsor Police Child Seat Program Receives A Charitable Donation:
On Thursday, August 30, 2012, the Windsor Lodge #2060, of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks donated 16 Evenflo Titan Child Safety Seats to the South Windsor Police Child Safety Seat Program. The generous donation was delivered by Charles Rhodes, Past Exalted Ruler, and was received by Police Chief Matthew Reed, Lieutenant Timothy Edwards, Sergeant Thomas Field (Community Outreach Officer), Community Service Officer Robin Bond, and the Chief’s Executive Secretary Merlyn Guild.
The car seat donation coincides with National Child Passenger Safety Week, which runs from September 17th to September 22nd. It is a week highlighting the importance of keeping kids safe while traveling by car. We encourage everyone to get their car seats and booster seats checked to make sure they are a safe fit and properly installed for their child. To check where you can get your Child Safety Seat checked go to www.ctsafekids.org

 (Pictured from left: Lt. Timothy Edwards, Mrs. Merlyn Guild, Charles Rhodes, Chief Matthew Reed, Sgt. Tom Field and C.S.O. Robin Bond).

Cop on Top event to benefit Connecticut Special Olympics: Results:
South Windsor Police Agent Ron Littell collected $1000.00 in donations during the Cop on Top event on Saturday.  The event occurred at T.S.I. Harley Davidson in Ellington (398 Somers Rd/Route 83). We thank those who made donations and appreciate all the support we get for this great cause.
The “Cop on Top” event is a fundraising effort conducted by Connecticut law enforcement units during a pre-determined weekend. To raise money for Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT), law enforcement officers, local PD, correctional officers, state troopers, etc., collect donations from customers and the general public as they are perched on the rooftops of a local business. These law enforcement personnel “cannot” come off the roof for a certain number of hours/days or until the fundraising goal has been reached. As “Guardians of the Olympic Flame”, Connecticut law enforcement is an integral part to the overall success and mission of the Special Olympics.  The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community. Additional information is available at:  www.soct.org 
 The South Windsor Police wish to thank the staff and management of T.S.I. Harley Davidson for hosting this event!

Friday July 13, 2012:
South Windsor Police Summer Youth Academy- Advanced Class Graduation:
On Friday, July 13, 2012 Chief Matthew Reed awarded certificates of completion to 10 students that had participated in the weeklong Summer Youth Academy.   The week-long program is designed for youths ages 12-16. The students in this advanced class all had participated in the first Youth Academy last summer.  Last week, the students completed 5 days of study and lecture that culminated with group presentations about crime scene processing.  They all did outstanding work learning and applying Crime Scene investigation techniques.
The program instructors were from the South Windsor Police Department, with additional speakers from South Windsor Youth and Family Services and others involved in Criminal Justice.  The program was coordinated by police department staff and Joann Moriarty, director of South Windsor Youth and Family services. Youth and Family Services provided the students with bus transportation for field trips and snacks. We thank all of the Town of South Windsor staff and participants who helped make this program a great success.

Congratulations to the students who completed the SWPD Advanced Youth Academy today! The students completed 5 days of study and lecture that culminated with group presentations about crime scene processing. They all did outstanding work learning and applying Crime Scene investigation techniques. The students are seen here receiving certificates from Chief Matthew Reed.


Officers receive M.A.D.D. Award:
On Wednesday June 20, 2012 Officer Stephen Hoover and Officer Kevin Geraci received awards from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for their enforcement efforts in 2011.  Connecticut Police Officers were recognized at a ceremony at Anthony’s Ocean View restaurant in New Haven on Wednesday afternoon.  Officer Hoover made 10 arrests for DWI in 2011 and Officer Geraci made 19 DWI arrests.  This is Officer Hoover’s third MADD award and Officer Geraci’s second award. 
We appreciate both officers’ dedication to the enforcement of Driving While Intoxicated laws.  Their efforts, along with all of our patrol staff, have made the roadways safer for the public, reducing accidents caused by impaired operators.

Wednesday May 30, 2012:
South Windsor Police to participate in “Click It or Ticket” Campaign: Results
On Tuesday, May 29th, officers from the South Windsor Police Department, as well as officers from the regional Traffic Unit, Metro Traffic Services, conducted a seatbelt enforcement checkpoint. The checkpoint was held on John Fitch Blvd near Chapel Road from 8:30 a.m to noon. The 9 officers were from South Windsor, East Windsor, Windsor, Manchester, Glastonbury and Vernon.  The officers wrote 54 infraction tickets, made one in custody arrest for party who had a large knife in the vehicle, and took a tractor trailer unit out of service due to multiple safety violations. The trailer was being operated with a damaged tire (pictures below) and a MTS Commercial Vehicle Inspector found other violations, that report and infraction ticket is pending.
The South Windsor Police Department is joining with hundreds of other law enforcement agencies across the U.S., working to save lives by intensifying efforts to enforce seat belt laws among all motorists. The two week enforcement campaign continues through Monday June 4th. Police departments throughout Connecticut will be looking for drivers and passengers who don’t buckle up during the “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement campaign. So when you pack up the family, or even just yourself, please do so safely. Don’t put your own life at risk, or the life of your family or friends. Buckle up! It only takes two seconds to buckle up and those two seconds could literally save your life. They will also keep you from getting a ticket and a fine.
These enhanced enforcement efforts are being funded by a grant from the State of Connecticut Dept. of Transportation. Further information is available at www.nhtsa.gov/portal/site/nhtsa and www.ct.gov/dot
 

 


Animal Shelter Donation received from Orchard Hill School:
On Tuesday, May 1, 2012 members of the Orchard Hill School Student School Life Committee presented the Police Department with animal food, toys and treats to be used at the animal shelter.  The students sponsored the donation drive last month and the items collected will be used at the animal shelter on Sullivan Avenue.   The regional animal shelter will be located in the former Company 3 firehouse at 124 Sullivan Avenue.  South Windsor currently houses animals in the building while awaiting grant funded renovations of the building that will allow the towns of Manchester and East Hartford to use the facility as well.  The three towns will share the associated costs for maintaining the shelter and caring for animals brought in from the 3 communities.

The Orchard Hill School Student School Life Committee with animal shelter donations

South Windsor Police recognized by Connecticut Special Olympics:
The South Windsor Police Department was honored on Thursday February 16th by Special Olympics Connecticut for fund raising efforts in 2011.  The SWPD was the top law enforcement fundraiser in the state, raising more than $36,000 for the Special Olympics.
The honor is due largely to the hard work and dedication of Agent Ron Littell, our S.O.C.T.  liaison and Law Enforcement Torch Run committee member.   The “Cop on Top”, “Tip a Cop”, Penguin Plunge and the Law Enforcement Torch Run are all local events that raise money for the Special Olympics.  
We extend a special thanks to all the citizens, businesses and officers who have been our supporters and contributors. Their generosity has led to this recognition and more importantly, to the success of Special Olympics.
www.soct.org

Bark Park Renamed in honor of Chief Gary K. Tyler:
On Monday October 17, 2011 the South Windsor Town Council passed a resolution re-naming the Bark Park as “Chief Gary K. Tyler Memorial Bark Park”.  Chief Tyler served as the South Windsor Police Chief for 23 years before retiring in 2010.  During his tenure, Chief Tyler worked to create an off-leash dog park for South Windsor citizens which opened in 2007.   The dog park has been a great success and attracts citizen from all over the area. It has become the model for several other dog parks as well.
Chief Tyler died in August 2011 and he is fondly remembered by the citizens of South Windsor for all that he did to improve the community and the police department.