New Haven Man, 35, Charged With Manslaughter In Fatal OD: Branford PD

BRANFORD, CT — Branford police have made an arrest in connection with the fatal overdose of a resident in August 2021.

Shawn Plaza, 35, of New Haven was charged with second-degree manslaughter. Plaza is also charged with tampering with physical evidence. He's held on a $150,000 court-set bail and will be arraigned in New Haven Superior Court Thursday.

Branford Police Department detectives spent a year on the investigation, which led to police being able to secure the warrant for Plaza's arrest.

"Our agency is committing to battling the opioid crisis from all fronts and is actively investigating other similar cases which resulted in the death," police wrote in a news release.

Police also reminded Branford families that those battling addiction should reach out to the department's Police Social Worker Danielle Suraci at 203-481-4241, who can assist with resources. Read more about the Branford police social worker initiative here. Police also urge folks to call 911 in the event of a drug-induced emergency.