Convicted Felon Steals Car, Smashes Into Vehicles And Fences In Fairfield: Police

FAIRFIELD, CT — A 35-year-old Norwalk man was arrested Tuesday after police said he drove a stolen vehicle through the South Benson Marina and Jennings Beach areas in Fairfield, crashing through fences and gates, striking several vehicles and causing thousands of dollars in property damage.

Michael Clapp was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer, first-degree criminal mischief, second-degree criminal mischief, second-degree reckless endangerment and engaging police in pursuit.

According to Fairfield police, the incident began with a report of a vehicle stolen from Cambridge Street. An officer located the vehicle shortly afterward and attempted a traffic stop, but Clapp allegedly refused to stop and fled at high speed.

The officer did not pursue the vehicle, in accordance with Connecticut state law, police said.

Clapp then "drove recklessly through the South Benson Marina and the Jennings Beach area," where officers observed him crash through fences and gates, causing thousands of dollars in damage, according to police. He also struck several vehicles.

Officers deployed tire deflation devices, disabling the stolen vehicle near Reef Road and Quincy Street.

Police said Clapp resisted officers' attempts to handcuff him before being taken into custody.

Clapp, whom police described as a convicted felon with previous interactions with the department, was held on a $100,000 bond. He was scheduled to appear Nov. 24 in Bridgeport Superior Court.

"This vehicle was stolen after being left with the keys inside," Fairfield police wrote on Facebook. "The Fairfield Police Department reminds residents to always remove their keys, lock their doors, and secure their vehicles, even when parked at home. Taking a few seconds to secure your vehicle can help prevent theft and the dangerous situations that can follow."