Groton Officer Dragged By Car Returns To Duty: PD

GROTON, CT — Police said a Groton officer who was injured after being dragged by a car returned to duty Friday. Chief Louis J. Fusaro Jr. said in a news release that Officer Tyler DeAngelo has been temporarily assigned to other duties as he continues to recover from his injuries.

Police said the incident occurred Feb. 26 close to 4 a.m. after DeAngelo pulled a vehicle over on Fort Hill Road, just west of the intersection of North Road (Route 117). The officer subsequently detected an alleged odor of marijuana after stopping 22-year-old Taj L. Dickerson of New London, who allegedly admitted to having some on him, police said at the time of the incident.

Police said the accused ran back to his car after officers found crack cocaine and made arrangements for his arrest.

See also: Groton Officer Dragged By Car, Accused Driver Arrested: PD

Police said the accused was able to put the car into drive during a struggle and accelerated away with DeAngelo partially hanging out of the vehicle. The accused then continued west on Fort Hill Road and onto Poquonnock Road, going as fast as 50 mph with the driver's door open the entire time, police said.

Police said DeAngleo gave countless commands to stop the car, and was dragged for approximately a mile. The officer was eventually able to grab the steering wheel and turn the vehicle when it appeared the accused was directing the car at a telephone pole, police said.

Police said DeAngelo then released himself from the vehicle and fell onto Poquonnock Road. The officer sustained non-life threatening injuries as a result of the incident, police said.

The accused was subsequently arerested in New London on charges of Interfering with a Police Officer, Assault on a Police Officer, Reckless Endangerment, Unlawful Restraint, Threatening, Cruelty to Animals, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Defective Tail Lamp, Reckless Driving and Engaging Police In Pursuit.

Police said DeAngelo's injuries included abrasions, contusions and a laceration to the back of the head that required staples to close. He is expected to make a full recovery and will return to regular patrol duties, police said.

“On behalf of Officer DeAngelo and the entire department, we appreciate the thoughtful sentiments of fellow law enforcement officers and the many well wishes shared by members of the public," Fusaro said in a release. "We are all thankful that Officer DeAngelo did not suffer more extensive injuries and glad that he is returning to full duty.”

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