Man Charged With Having Stolen Gun At Library: New London PD

NEW LONDON, CT — Police said a man was arrested Monday afternoon after an alleged disturbance at the New London Library. Police said the accused is charged with having a stolen handgun with him during the incident.

Police said they received a call around 11:30 a.m. reporting a disturbance in the library involving two men, one of which was reported to have a gun, according to a release. Officers were informed upon arrival by witnesses that the man who allegedly had the gun had already fled the scene.

Police said the other allegedly involved man was found at the library and spoke with officers. A description of the allegedly armed man was subsequently sent out, and officers searched the area, police said.

Police said area schools were also contacted and a school "lockdown” protocol was initiated. The accused was located in the area of Crystal Avenue and State Pier Road after an "intense search" of the surrounding area, police said.

Police said Taj Johnson, 23, was arrested on charges of threatening, breach of peace, assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a pistol without a permit and theft of a firearm.

Police said a stolen .380 semi-auto pistol was recovered as a result of the incident. Police also said Johnson's arrest may be associated with other current ongoing police investigations.

Anyone with information concerning this incident or any other incident(s) involving the accused is asked to contact the New London Police Department's Detective Division at 860-447-1481. Anonymous information can be submitted via the New London Tips 411 system by texting NLPDTip plus the information to Tip411 (847411).

Photo credit: New London police