Man Causes $20K in Damage to Vehicles: Hamden Police

Hamden police charged a Durham man with causing $20,000 worth of damage to 16 vehicles at Bob Thomas Ford early Saturday morning.

Hamden Officer Peter Conti observed an individual, who was later identified as Richard Chapman, walking near Bob Thomas Ford at about 3 a.m. on June 20, Capt. Ronald Smith said in a press release.

Officer Conti then heard a “scraping sound” as Chapman walked past the new and used motor vehicles.

Smith said investigation revealed that Chapman used a fixed blade knife to damage 16 vehicles and caused about $20,000 worth of damage.

Chapman was promptly arrested and transported to Hamden Police Headquarters.

Chapman, 40, of 58 Wildwood Lane in Durham, was arrested on six counts of first-degree criminal mischief and 10 counts of second-degree criminal mischief. Chapman, who was detained on a $20,000 bond, is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on July 3.

Richard Chapman, 40, of Durham

Hamden Police Department photo