3 Caught Breaking Into Vehicles In West Haven: Police

WEST HAVEN, CT — Three people were arrested after they were caught breaking into vehicles early Wednesday morning in West Haven, according to police.

Police are searching for a fourth suspect who eluded officers during the incident.

Police responded around 5:40 a.m. on Aug. 19 to the area of Trumbull Street and Aimes Drive after a resident reported seeing four suspects entering a parked vehicle.

Officers found a Kia Forte with a smashed window and damaged steering column, according to police. A short time later, police said officers saw four people matching the suspects’ description.

All four suspects fled from police.

“Following multiple foot pursuits, the establishment of a perimeter, and an extensive search of the surrounding neighborhood, officers apprehended three suspects—one adult and two juveniles,” police wrote in a news release. “The fourth individual was not located; however, investigators are actively pursuing leads to confirm that individual’s identity.

“Officers recovered burglary tools, including a window-breaking device, as well as a wallet containing a driver’s license and multiple bank and credit cards that had been stolen from another vehicle in the immediate area.”

The three suspects were charged with several offenses related to motor vehicle tampering, attempted motor vehicle theft, criminal mischief, possession of burglar’s tools, larceny, conspiracy, and interfering with officers, according to police.

Police said their names are not being released at this time.

“Investigators believe this group may be connected to additional motor vehicle break-ins and stolen motor vehicles reported in West Haven during the preceding days and nights,” police wrote. “Those incidents remain under active investigation.

“The West Haven Police Department is aware of the recent increase in motor vehicle tampering and thefts throughout the city. Officers are actively patrolling affected neighborhoods, reviewing surveillance footage, investigating reported incidents, and working to identify and apprehend those responsible.

“Residents are reminded to lock their vehicles, remove valuables and key fobs, and immediately report suspicious activity. Anyone with surveillance footage that may assist with these investigations—or footage of future suspicious activity—is asked to preserve the footage and contact the West Haven Police Department.”