Naugatuck Man Armed With Ax Charged With Home Invasion, Assault

NAUGATUCK, CT — A 53-year-old Naugatuck man was arrested on charges of home invasion, first-degree assault and related violations after police said he broke into a home and threw knives at the victims during a domestic dispute and ensuing altercation.

In addition to the above-mentioned charges, Steven Pelletier, of Salem Street, also was charged with the two counts of disorderly conduct, second-degree threatening and second-degree criminal mischief.

According to Naugatuck police, the case began on Saturday, when Pelletier was accused of throwing a large rock through the picture window of the victims' home before fleeing the scene.

He is accused of returning to the home at 2 a.m. on Sunday, armed with an ax, and breaking into the home through a basement window.

"An altercation took place between Steven and the occupants of the residence," Naugatuck police said in a statement. "One of the victims was able to dial 911 despite Steven’s attempts to hinder and prevent the victims from calling for help. Officers responded and treated and a male victim who sustained a laceration to his hand during the incident and was treated at a local hospital for the injury.

"Further investigation showed that the suspect had entered with an ax but when the ax was taken during a struggle, Steven then proceeded [to] grab several knives from the kitchen and began throwing them at both victims."

Pelletier again fled, but was captured at a hotel in Waterbury. He is being held in lieu of bail of $250,000, and he is scheduled to appear in Waterbury Superior Court on March 23.

"The Naugatuck Police Department takes issues of domestic violence very seriously," authorities said. "No person should have the safety of their home and person violated. If you or anyone you know is in a domestic violence relationship and needs assistance, please know that there are resources throughout the state to assist you and NPD is always here."