‘Violent Felon’ Arrested; 4 Officers, Civilian Injured: Hamden PD

HAMDEN, CT — Four officers and a civilian were injured while police were trying to apprehend a “violent felon” who was wanted on five arrest warrants Thursday morning in Hamden, according to officials. John Sullo, 42, was arrested after fleeing from police in an unregistered tow truck, hitting another vehicle along with a utility pole and two traffic signs and while “violently” resisting officers, according to Capt. Ronald Smith.

The situation began unfolding around 10:40 a.m. on Feb. 27 when police responded to the Davenport Residence, 125 Putnam Ave., on the report of an unwanted person, according to Smith. Officers were advised that Sullo, who had five active arrest warrants, was on the premises and operating an unregistered tow truck.

Officers Steven Teague and Derick Manning found Sullo and conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of Clifford Street and Ralston Avenue. As they attempted to arrest him Sullo “aggressively” resisted and was able to escape, enter the tow truck, and flee toward Treadwell Street, Smith said.

Sullo then drove into a driveway on Marne Street and placed the vehicle in reverse, while “lowering the boom on the tow truck” and attempted to strike an occupied police vehicle,” according to Smith.

“Officers quick actions avoided a collision,” Smith said. “Sullo promptly drove towards Haig Street, before entering Dixwell Avenue. While on Dixwell Avenue, Sullo drove the tow truck northbound, at a high rate of speed. He subsequently struck a motor vehicle, utility pole and two traffic signs. Sullo then exited his vehicle and fled on foot towards Route 15. Officer Teague and Officer Manning were able to successfully apprehend Sullo, after he again violently resisted.”

The driver of the vehicle that Sullo struck reported neck and back injuries and was taken to Yale-New Haven Hospital, according to Smith. Four Hamden police officers were injured during the incident.

Sullo, of Putnam Avenue in Hamden, was charged with two counts of assault on a police officer, interfering with a police officer, first-degree failure to appear, four counts of second-degree failure to appear, reckless driving, operating a motor vehicle without insurance, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, evading responsibility and engaging an officer in pursuit. He was detained on bonds totaling $139,500. Sullo is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on March 12.

“Hamden police arrested a violent felon that was wanted on five active arrest warrants,” Smith said. “Four police officers and a civilian suffered injuries during the incident. As per department protocol, the incident will be closely reviewed to determine if officers were in compliance with State of Connecticut and Department Policy.”