Ellington Increases Overnight Police Patrols To Combat Vehicle Crimes

ELLINGTON, CT — Officials in Ellington have secured funds from the town budget to increase overnight police patrols to address motor vehicle and catalytic converter thefts, as well as other crimes of opportunity.

The increased patrols will continue into the new fiscal year. A budget referendum scheduled for next Tuesday continues the funding for the new fiscal year.

"Our dedicated team of resident state troopers and constables is committed to protecting your family and property," Resident State Trooper Sgt. Brian Santa said. "The additional resources allow us to strategically target and deter criminal activity in our community."

First Selectman Lori Spielman said, "Ellington, like so many other communities, has experienced these crimes and we are taking action. The increase in patrols add another layer of deterrence against these opportunistic criminals."

"We have heard loud and clear from residents and businesses concerned about car break-ins and costly catalytic converter thefts," Deputy First Selectman David Stavens said. "That’s why we are taking action now as well as adding resources to the proposed town budget to counter this troubling criminal trend."

Board of Finance Chairman Michael Purcaro said, "Public safety is our top priority. I believe that there is much that can and should be done by both government and individual residents to effectively address and reduce crime in our communities. Our current local efforts along with our proposed budget provide more support for our police officers and increases their capabilities to combat crime."

The Resident Trooper’s Office and the Ellington Office of Emergency & Risk Management are working with local and state elected officials to obtain additional grant funds to further enhance police services.

"Residents play an important role in being the first line of defense against this type of criminal activity," Santa said. "Criminals look for easy targets. So remember to remove valuables from your vehicle, lock your doors, take your keys inside your residence and park in a well-lit area."

A recently passed state law (Public Act 22-43) concerning catalytic converters requires scrap metal processors, junk dealers and junk yard owners to record a photo, name and address of the seller, as well as information about the vehicle that the catalytic converter was detached. The law further limits an individual to sell only one catalytic converter per day and implements additional regulatory reporting requirements to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

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