Derby Police congratulate Chief Scott Todd on his retirement after 38 years

Chief Scott Todd

The Derby Police Department recognizes and celebrates the retirement of Chief Scott Todd after 38 years of dedicated service to our community.

Throughout his career, Chief Todd has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety, professionalism, and the men and women of the Derby Police Department. His leadership, integrity, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our department and the City of Derby.

On behalf of the entire Derby Police Department, we extend our sincere gratitude for your decades of service and commitment to protecting our community. Thank you for leading this department with pride and dedication.

Please join us in congratulating Chief Scott Todd on his well-earned retirement. We wish him good health, happiness, and the very best moving forward.

Congratulations, Chief Todd, and thank you for your service! 

Shared from the Derby PD Facebook page.

Derby Police Department posts safety tips during extreme heat

EXTREME HEAT WARNING

The next three days are expected to bring dangerously high temperatures and humidity. Please take precautions to protect yourself, your family, your neighbors, and your pets.

Heat Safety Tips:

Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.

Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.

Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Limit outdoor activities, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Check on elderly family members, neighbors, and those with medical conditions.

Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle—temperatures inside can become deadly within minutes.

Make sure pets have plenty of fresh water, shade, and avoid walking them on hot pavement.

If you begin experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness such as dizziness, confusion, nausea, or excessive weakness, move to a cool place immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

The Derby Police Department encourages everyone to look out for one another during this period of extreme heat. A simple phone call or visit to check on a vulnerable neighbor can make all the difference.

Stay safe, stay cool, and remember—if you have an emergency, call 911 and for routine calls dial 203-735-7811.

Shared from the Derby PD Facebook page.

Ansonia Police congratulate Lt. Patrick Lynch on his retirement after 36 years

Today, the Ansonia Police Department recognizes and celebrates the retirement of Lieutenant Patrick Lynch after 36 years of dedicated service to our department and the City of Ansonia.

Throughout his career, Lieutenant Lynch demonstrated unwavering commitment, professionalism, and leadership while serving and protecting our community. His dedication to the residents of Ansonia, as well as the officers and staff he worked alongside, has left a lasting impact on this department and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.

On behalf of the entire Ansonia Police Department, we thank Lieutenant Lynch for his 36 years of faithful service and wish him nothing but happiness, good health, and success in this next chapter of life.

Congratulations on your retirement, Lieutenant Lynch. Your service will not be forgotten, and your legacy will continue to be felt for years to come. Enjoy a happy, healthy, and well-deserved retirement!

Ansonia offers cooling center at Ansonia Rescue Medical Services HQ

 

Ansonia Police caution motorists of rise in vehicle thefts, break-ins

The Ansonia Police Department has seen an increase in vehicle thefts and vehicle break-ins throughout the city. Hyundai and Kia vehicles continue to be among the most commonly targeted.

We've also seen criminals successfully access and steal vehicles, even when they are locked and the keys are not inside.

Help reduce your risk by taking a few extra precautions:

Consider using a steering wheel lock as an added layer of security.

Remove wallets, bags, electronics, and other valuables from your vehicle, or store them out of sight before you arrive at your destination.

Always lock your doors and close all windows.

If you notice suspicious activity in your neighborhood, do not approach the individuals. Instead, contact the Ansonia Police Department immediately so officers can respond.

Working together, we can help deter crime and keep our community safe. If you see something suspicious, say something.

 * Editor's note: My locked Hyundai was stolen from my driveway on May 31. Fortunately it was recovered the next day in New Haven with some damage; it is being repaired but I still don't have it back. 

I want to publicly thank the Ansonia Police for their quick response and follow-up assistance!  

Ansonia Police recognize teamwork of officer, K9 in narcotics seizure

K9 Rip

ANSONIA  - Officer Fowler and his K9 partner, Rip, conducted a motor vehicle stop Sunday that led to a significant narcotics seizure, police said today in a written release. 

During the course of their investigation, Officer Fowler and K9 Rip located approximately 52.6 grams of cocaine packaged for sale, along with $2,800 in cash consisting of $100 and $50 bills. 

This successful interdiction is a direct result of the dedication, training, and teamwork demonstrated by Officer Fowler and K9 Rip. Their efforts continue to help keep illegal drugs out of our community and make Ansonia a safer place for everyone. 

Please join us in recognizing Officer Fowler and K9 Rip for a job well done!

Ansonia Police post today's Memorial Day Parade route

ANSONIA - The annual City of Ansonia Memorial Day Parade is TODAY, May 31, 2026.

The parade will begin at Nolan Field on Wakelee Avenue at 2 P.M. In order to ensure all the parade participants are safe, we will be closing the parade route to vehicle traffic beginning at 1 p.m.

The parade route is Wakelee Avenue from Nolan Field to Jackson Street, left onto Jackson Street to Maple Street, right onto to Maple Street over the Maple Street bridge right onto Main Street and ending at Main Street and West Main Street.

Only vehicles involved in the parade and residents that live on Franklin Street, North Westwood, South Westwood Road and Wakelee Avenue from Franklin Street to the Seymour town line will be granted access to those areas starting at 1 p.m.

Additionally, East Main Street, between Kingston Drive and State Street, will be a no parking area to allow for temporary 2-way traffic during the parade.

We expect the road closures to last 2 to 3 hours.

Derby Police Department launches new drone team

 

From Derby Police Department Facebook page:

"We’re excited to announce our newly certified Drone Team, featuring Ptl Iacuone, Ptl Giovanelli, Ptl Tirado and Ptl Szymansky!!!

"After successfully completing a rigorous FAA certification course, these officers are ready to take to the skies to enhance public safety.

"Our drone will help with help supplement Officers' with:

-Search & Rescue: Quickly locating missing persons or lost individuals.

-Accident & Crime Scene Analysis: Capturing aerial views for thorough investigations.

-Crowd Monitoring & Public Safety: Supporting large events and emergency situations.

-Evidence Gathering: Providing perspectives that aren’t always visible from the ground

"This technology gives our department a new set of eyes in the sky, helping us respond faster and more efficiently while keeping our community safe.

"Stay tuned for aerial views from our officers in action!"

NYC school threat suspect not city resident, Ansonia Police report

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Police Department has received media requests for information regarding an Ansonia resident making threats to a school in New York. 

The suspect in a New York City Police Department investigation does not live in Ansonia, he was arrested late last year by the Ansonia Police Department in a separate and unrelated case. 

The suspect’s known address with this department is in another state. 

We assisted NYPD by checking the location of our arrest incident but the suspect was not there. 

There is no credible threat in Ansonia or to the Ansonia school system.

This is a press release from Lt. Patrick Lynch.

Earlier post shared this morning in the Valley Independent Sentinel:

From Derby Public Schools Superintendent Matthew Conway:

“Sharing an update I received from Deputy Chief Grogan this morning.

Yesterday, a gun threat was made toward a specific school in New York City. Law enforcement has since identified a suspect believed to reside in Ansonia, and police agencies are actively working to locate and arrest the individual.

As a precaution, there will be a police officer present on campus for a period of time this morning.

There is no indication of a direct threat to our schools at this time. We will continue to stay in close communication with local law enforcement and will keep you informed of any updates as needed.”

Ansonia Police share update on repair work on N. Main Street

**Road Closure Alert**

******** UPDATE*******

8/19/24 1832 hours

North Main Street in Ansonia is now open.

There will be work on a sink hole on State Street at South Cliff Street.

Please avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Stay safe.

Shared from APD Facebook page.

Derby Police remind residents to lock vehicles, hide valuables

 

Shared from Derby PD Facebook page.

Cassetti calls Ansonia residents at midday with update on flooding

"This is an update from Mayor Dave Cassetti on the flooding that occurred yesterday.

"Due to the damage caused by the heavy flooding from yesterday’s storm, North Main Street between Main Street and Fourth Street is closed to traffic.

"The city engineers and public works are working with the State DOT to evaluate and repair the damage.

"North Main Street will remain closed until the road is safe for travel. Commuters are asked to avoid the area and find alternate routes. Traffic delays should be expected.

"Due to the rising waters, the flood gates were closed last evening. The river levels have lowered and all flood gates are now open. Metro North is working on repairs to the tracks to start up train service.

"Please check City of Ansonia and Ansonia Police Department sites for more information. Updates will be provided later this afternoon.

I will update you with more information as we receive it. Stay safe and God Bless you all."

This is shared from the Valley Independent Sentinel Facebook page.

Ansonia Police post updates on flooding issues

PRESS RELEASE

On August 18, 2024, our area received heavy rainfall causing massive flooding issues in multiple surrounding communities.

Several roads in Ansonia were closed last evening due to flooding. Roads closed last evening included Wakelee Avenue and Franklin Street.

Additionally, part of a retaining wall on North Main Street behind Assumption Church and School collapsed.

The debris from the collapse spread onto North Main Street (Rt. 115) causing North Main Street to be closed between Main Street and Fourth Street. A detour is currently in place for this closure.

Emergency services, including the Ansonia Police Department, Ansonia Fire Department and Ansonia Public Works responded to the locations to mitigate the damage.

As the Naugatuck River increased to flooding levels, a precautionary closing of all of the flood gates was completed. This was coordinated with Metro North who stopped all train travel on the line.

The Emergency Operations Center was activated and is monitoring.

On August 19, 2024, the Naugatuck River levels receded to levels that allowed the flood gates to be reopened. All gates are now open. Metro North is assessing the entire line before resuming train service.

Assumption Church and School are operating as normal with the exception of a section of the rear parking lot that is blocked off for safety reasons.

As of August 19, 2024, at 1000 hours, North Main Street remains closed between Main Street and Fourth Street. Rail service has not been resumed. All other roads in the City are open.

Further updates will be given as needed.

This is shared from the APD Facebook page.

Ansonia Police post updated road closures due to flooding

**Road Closure Alert**

******** UPDATE*******

Due to flooding, upper part of Franklin Street, Wakelee Ave at Nolan Field entrance, and North Main Street by the exit of the one way Liberty St. Please avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Stay safe and updated for further information.

Klarides-Ditria lists new legislation taking effect Oct. 1

I wanted to make you aware of new laws affecting Connecticut taxpayers and businesses taking effect on Saturday, Oct. 1.  This year, several important public safety measures become law, including many that were a result of pressure from both the public and Republican lawmakers concerned about an increase in crime, especially juvenile crime, and the dramatic rise in incidents of car theft; from 2019-2020 the increase in motor vehicle theft was just less than 4 times the national average - 41% vs 12%. Public Act 22-115 makes many changes to juvenile justice statutes to continue to preserve the rights of younger offenders, while also delivering faster arraignments and access to necessary intervention and diversionary program services. This bipartisan legislation is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done. The new law will, among other things: Require juveniles to be arraigned no more than 5 days after arrest (in some cases the next day) Require that the juvenile be assessed for services (such as diversionary programs) within 2 weeks of arraignment Allow a judge to order GPS tracking of a juvenile who is already awaiting trial for an offense and is arrested for a second or subsequent offense involving theft of a motor vehicle or a property crime Require judges to articulate within 48 hours the reason for denying a request for detention Replace the existing larceny statutes dealing with motor vehicles with a new standalone charge of “larceny of a motor vehicle,” with gradually increased charges based upon number of arrests The CT Post covers the topic in this article. Children’s Mental Health I supported Public Act 22-47 - An Act Concerning Children’s Mental Health - to address both the immediate and long-term needs of the state’s mental health systems. This wide-ranging legislation aims to address the youth mental health crisis and support children and families by growing the behavioral health workforce, expanding treatment facilities, and increasing insurance coverage for mental health services. Additionally, the legislation funds a 9-8-8 suicide prevention and mental health crisis lifeline. Protections for Domestic Violence Victims Another law I supported was Public Act 22-82 to address several important topics, including increased protections for domestic violence victims, increased safety for online dating, domestic violence training, workplace sexual harassment, employment discrimination, and more. The law requires online dating operators to provide Connecticut users with safety awareness notifications before allowing them to use the platform, sets up a grant program to provide education and training on online abuse, and extends anti-discrimination statutes to more workplaces. The law also prohibits discrimination against domestic violence victims, requires state agencies provide domestic violence training, and requires the Department of Social Services (DSS) provide $1.44 million for domestic violence agencies.  View the full list of new legislation here New legislation effective dates are typically January 1, July 1, and October 1 throughout the calendar year.

Sincerely,

Berthel backs GOP proposals to address violent crime in CT

State Sen. Eric Berthel

HARTFORD - State Sen. Eric Berthel, R-32, Thursday issued a statement supporting the Connecticut Senate Republicans’ package of legislative proposals to address the surge in violent crime across Connecticut. 

The plan, A Better Way to a Safer Connecticut, includes justice reforms to improve crime response, support law enforcement, and remove barriers to intervention services, as well as policies to address the root causes of crime including issues related to trauma, education, housing and jobs.

“Public safety should be our most essential priority. Right now, people do not feel safe in their own home or when out in the community. We see almost daily stories of violent crime with law-abiding citizens as the victims. This is not fear-mongering or playing politics. This is a fact - simply looking at a newspaper proves this point,” said Berthel.

“We must restore law enforcement’s ability to prevent and stop crime and also look at the root causes for those crimes. This is a holistic plan that addresses these matters. 

"Everyone in Connecticut deserves the opportunity to succeed and this success begins with access to jobs. For youthful offenders, as a ranking member of our Education Committee, this includes a strong pipeline to these jobs by way of mentors and apprentice/internships. I hope that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle join me in supporting these initiatives to restore a Connecticut where everyone has the tools to succeed,” he said.

READ the plan in full at CTSenateRepublicans.com (https://ctsenaterepublicans.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/101321_ASaferConnecticut_SRO.pdf).

WATCH the press conference: https://ct-n.com/ctnplayer.asp?odID=19011


PLAN HIGHLIGHTS:

Part 1: Crime Response
Increase information sharing and modify standards around detention orders
Require next day court for juveniles to expedite access to services
Ensure current programs are effective in addressing recidivism rates
Better recognize when a juvenile needs enhanced services and supports available through the adult court system, with the protections of the Youthful Offender docket in place.

Part 2: Prevention and Opportunity
Support for community programs focused on trauma, truancy, mediation, and mentorship
Workforce development programs
Partnerships with schools and local businesses to create a pipeline to careers
Summer jobs program
Vocational program recruitment
Safe housing policies

Part 3: Support Police & Safe Communities
Law enforcement recruitment
Targeted modifications to laws to enable police officers to do their jobs and keep people safe
Expand explorer programs to build better relationships between young people and our officers

CRIME STATISTICS:

HARTFORD is on pace for one of its deadliest years in decades, with 29 murders reported as of Oct. 2. A year over year 61.1% increase in murder.
NEW HAVEN murders year to date up 37.5%, assault with firearms up 9.5%, shots fired up 68% from 2020, a 122% increase from 2019, as of Sept. 12, 2021.
WATERBURY year to date all crime up 13.4%, murder up 28.6%, auto theft up 23%.
MIDDLETOWN homicide rate the highest it has been since 1993.
The number of homicides in Connecticut increased 31% in 2020 according to the FBI, just over the historic 30% increase nationwide. Nationally, this is the largest single-year increase ever recorded in the country, according to official FBI statistics.
FBI data shows car thefts in CT rose 42.5% from 2019-2020. Nationwide increase was 11.8%. CT Motor Vehicle Theft Arrest in 2020: 667 …CT Motor Vehicle Theft Offense Counts in 2020: 7,773.
According to AAA National Insurance Crime Bureau, Connecticut saw a 42% increase in stolen vehicles in 2020 as compared to 2019. Almost 6,000 vehicles were stolen in 2019, which would suggest more than 8,500 vehicles were stolen in 2020.
Auto theft-related arrests have risen 23% in 2020 compared to the first full year of data gathered in 2019, according to a Judicial Branch report.


Berthel represents Connecticut's 32nd District, which includes the towns of Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Middlebury, Oxford, Roxbury, Seymour, Southbury, Washington, Watertown, and Woodbury. 

www.senatorberthel.com

This is a press release from Berthel's office.

Oxford Ambulance Association to hold public safety fair

Derby PD posts info about tonight's fireworks

*Shared from the Derby Police Department Facebook page:

"ANNUAL DERBY-SHELTON FIREWORKS are scheduled for TONIGHT WED JUL 3rd (expected start time is approximately 9:00pm)

Elizabeth Street will be closed between Main Street and Fifth Street beginning at 4:00pm. Please remove all vehicles prior to that or risk being towed. That Elizabeth Street area will remain open for spectators and the local businesses are expected to remain open as well. The upper level of the parking garage will NOT be open to spectators this year (2019) due to safety concerns (people throwing debris onto spectators below). 
There will also be a variety of food and beverage trucks parked on Third Street (between Minerva Street and Elizabeth Street).

Due to safety concerns, NO SPECTATORS are allowed in / on the following areas:

- South side of Main Street (nearest the river);
- First Street and the Greenway / Riverwalk from the Derby- Shelton bridge to Water Pollution Control on lower Caroline Street;
- The Derby / Shelton train trestle
- Upper level of the parking garage

ALL vendors (food, drink, and novelty) MUST obtain a City of Derby vending permit or be subject to a fine. Single day permits can be obtained through the Police Department records office.

Please use caution if you are driving through the downtown area after 4:00pm as there will be a high volume of spectators and pedestrian traffic.

Thank you and ENJOY the show!"