Hamden K-9 Tracks Down Man Who Pulled Rifle on Cab Driver

Hamden police arrested a man they say pulled a rifle on a cab driver after he exited the taxi without paying the fare.

The man was later found hiding in a back yard Sergeant Michael Nawrocki and his K-9 partner “Hank” and arrested.

Police responded to Notkins Street at about 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9 on the report of an individual pointing a rifle at another person, Capt. Ronald Smith said in a press release.

Investigation revealed that the operator of a taxi cab transported Robert Boardman to Notkins Street, according to Smith.

Smith said Boardman exited the taxi, without paying the $40 fare. He then removed a rifle that he had stored in his duffel bag and pointed it at the victim, while threatening to put “a slug in him.”

Boardman then fled on foot through several backyards located on Notkins Street.

Nawrocki and Hank conducted a track that led to the discovery of Boardman and the rifle. Boardman was found hiding in a backyard. He was promptly arrested and transported to police headquarters.

Boardman, 54, of 2850 State Street in Hamden, was arrested on charges of second-degree threatening, second-degree breach of peace, sixth-degree larceny and first-degree criminal mischief.

Boardman was arraigned at court in Meriden on Wednesday.

Officer Christina Giori conducted the investigation.