Meriden Man Strangled Police Officer: PD

MERIDEN, CT — A Meriden man was arrested on various charges including that he strangled a police officer, according to a police statement. Police said they responded to 233 Cook Ave. several times Tuesday and Wednesday.

Dave Andaz, 53, was "the caller as well as the subject of each investigation," according to police. Andaz was accused of disturbing the residents of the multifamily home where he lives.

Police learned Andaz had an active warrant for his arrest. Police also learned that Andaz may have been suffering from a psychological episode. Police established a perimeter, and crisis negotiators were dispatched to the scene.

Before they were able to make contact with Andaz, he left the home and got into an altercation with a police officer. Andaz strangled the police officer and had to be torn away by assisting officers, according to police.

He continued to resist arrest as officers attempted to gain control of his arms. Police found Andaz had a can of pepper spray.

He was transported to Midstate Medical Center where he was treated and released into police custody.

The officer assaulted sustained minor injuries and is expected to return to work soon.

Andaz was charged in three separate cases with third-degree assault, two counts of second-degree breach of peace, two counts of second-degree threatening, misuse of 911, second-degree harassment, assault on a police officer, first-degree strangulation, disorderly conduct, and second-degree criminal mischief.

He was held on a combined bond of $450,000.