Shoplifter Tried Spitting On Officer At Stop & Shop: Hamden PD

HAMDEN, CT — A New Haven man is accused of trying to spit on a Hamden police officer several times after saying he was infected with the coronavirus during a shoplifting incident Saturday at Stop & Shop, according to officials. Hamden Police Officer Keron Bryce was working an extra-duty assignment May 16 at Stop & Shop on Dixwell Avenue when he was approached by a loss prevention officer, who pointed out a potential shoplifter, according to Capt. Ronald Smith.

Smith said Bryce detained the shoplifter, Juan Acevedo, who is accused of trying to steal numerous items.

“Acevedo then advised Officer Bryce that he was infected with COVID-19 and began coughing,” Smith wrote in a news release. “As Officer Bryce attempted to arrest him, Acevedo 'attempted to spit' on him several times.”

Acevedo was arrested and taken to police headquarters. While at police headquarters, Acevedo told police that he is not infected with COVID-19, according to Smith.

Acevedo, 48, of Kimberly Avenue in New Haven, was charged with criminal attempt to assault a police officer, interfering with a police officer, sixth-degree larceny and third-degree criminal trespass. He was held in lieu of a $25,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court July 6.