Amid Crime Spree, Berlin Officials Rip State Law Enforcement Laws

BERLIN, CT — A candid statement issued by local officials Tuesday lashed out at recently approved state laws on law enforcement as local police cope with a rash of car break-ins and thefts.

According to a joint statement issued by town, police and local legislative officials, Berlin tried to reassure community members affected by the ongoing crime spree.

They said Berlin and many other communities are dealing with the same issues.

According to Berlin officials, state legislation enacted in recent years restricting the type of responses police can make in going after suspects is making matters difficult.

The statement was signed by Republican Berlin Mayor Mark Kaczynski; state Rep. Donna Veach, R-Berlin; Berlin Police Commission Chairman Steven Wilson; and Berlin Police Chief Matthew McNally.

The quartet of leaders said the new laws, simply, hold back police efforts to catch the scofflaws breaking into and stealing vehicles.

They cited recent state legislation that makes police officers more legally liable for their actions.

"Gone are the days of police engaging in fleeing suspect pursuits for minor offenses and property crimes," reads the statement.

"To be frank, with the reduction of police-qualified immunity protection, officers are erring on the side of caution, with regard to liability, which in turn is restraining their response to calls for service."

In addition, the group of local leaders said police responses to juveniles have legally changed and "much of the current crime wave hitting our community is being perpetrated by juveniles."

Berlin officials said the BPD has created special, "anti-crime patrols" during "specific, high-crime activity hours."

Part of this includes officers working extra shifts on the streets "to try and address the tide of vehicle break-ins, stolen vehicles, larcenies and the subsequent rise in 'quality of life' crimes."

Meanwhile, Berlin officials said folks should still call the police if they see anything suspicious and keep police informed.

"We value and need your assistance," wrote local officials. "It takes a strong community/policing partnership to keep a community safe."

For the full Town of Berlin statement, click on this link.