SOUTHINGTON, CT — Three Waterbury men were arrested Monday morning following a police chase involving a stolen Jeep that ended in a crash and foot pursuit.
Around 9:30 a.m., Southington Police were alerted to a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo reported stolen out of Orange, Connecticut, spotted near Meriden Waterbury Turnpike. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver sped off in an effort to evade capture.
Police deployed pursuit prevention devices, successfully disabling three of the vehicle’s four tires. Despite the damage, the suspect continued driving until losing control and crashing into a mailbox near Old Turnpike Road and Buckland Street. The three occupants fled on foot.
Alexander Almeida-Colella, 19, was quickly apprehended with a bag containing a realistic BB gun, brass knuckles, latex gloves, and ski masks. Dhaejruh Gonzalez, 24, was caught shortly after, while the final suspect, Rahquel Cranford, 21, was located following a brief foot chase.
Police noted that such incidents often involve links to violent crimes, illegal firearms, and narcotics trafficking. “Our officers stand committed to ensuring the safety of this community,” said the Southington Police Department.
Charges:
Dhaejruh Gonzalez was charged with first-degree larceny, engaging police in pursuit, reckless driving, evading responsibility, third-degree criminal mischief, and failure to maintain lane.
Alexander Almeida-Colella was charged with possession of a facsimile firearm, weapons in a motor vehicle, and interfering with an officer.
Rahquel Cranford was charged with third-degree burglary and interfering with an officer.
All three suspects were held on $250,000 bonds and remain in custody.
