Connecticut Criminal/DUI Defense Blog

Farmington CT Police Looking for Diamond Thief

2010-02-05T15:08:00.001-05:00

Typically when you think of “shoplifting”, you think of some kids stealing snacks or, at the worst, some boosting of clothing and merchandise at the mall. The Courant recently published a story, however, revealing the surveillance photo of a man accused of “shoplifting” $36,000 in diamonds.

The story isn’t specific about how the theft went down, but they do say that the unknown thief made off with three diamonds from Monarch Jewelers on Farmington Avenue.

Similar thefts from jewelers often go something like this. A nice, interested customer asks to see a tray of jewelry or loose diamonds that is behind the glass. Once it is in the open, the thief grabs and dashes for the door. Not a very high tech theft attempt, but obviously one that has limited success.

Police have not yet identified the man seen in surveillance photos, though they are likely chomping at the bit to get him into custody.

In Connecticut, the charge you face for theft is directly related to the amount of money or value of the items stolen. In this case, with the reported value being about $36,000, the thief would be looking at Grand Larceny charges.

Grand larceny is a Class B felony and the most serious theft charge under Connecticut law. It carries a potential 20 year prison sentence and fines reaching $15,000.

There are many ways to get a theft charge and shoplifting is only one. You could be charged with theft for taking something from someone you know without permission. Perhaps you are accused of embezzling funds from your employer or obtaining services by fraud.

All of these are theft charges and all of them carry fairly serious penalties. If you are up against any type of theft or white collar crime charge in the state of Connecticut, call me today.
I can help you figure out the best way to handle the charges and together we can work towards the best possible results.

Hartford Man Rejects What Could Have Been a Lenient Plea Agreement

2010-01-28T13:34:00.000-05:00

A man who had previously pled guilty to charges of 1st degree assault, two counts of 1st degree robbery, and 1st degree aggravated sexual assault rejected a plea deal at the last minute, instead electing to head to trial in a move that is likely being questioned by all those around him.

Twenty-one year old Antoney Drummond had originally been okay with a potential 20 years that the plea agreement had suggested. When the case was brought before Superior Court Judge David P. Gold, however, Gold wanted the option of adding another 5 years, something that the defendant just couldn’t bring himself to agree to.

The details of the case are what led Judge Gold to request the additional 5 years after hearing them explained by prosecutor Chris Pelosi.

According to the Hartford Courant, the defendant was accused of robbing a woman at gunpoint on Albany Avenue. He allegedly took the few dollars she had and then forced her onto the ground next to her car where he raped her. The rape was interrupted by a witness who was also said to have been robbed by Drummond before he left the scene.

Following his arrest, Mr. Drummond allegedly confessed to the crime and DNA was recovered from the victim linking him to the incident. Incidentally, the DNA also linked him to a similar rape which occurred on May 5, 2008.

Despite all this evidence, Drummond wants to go to trial. Judge Gold cautioned Drummond, telling him the chances of him seeing a better outcome at trial weren’t very good considering the evidence. Drummond faces a total of 90 years if convicted and this is only related to the December charges.

Plea agreements are only made when both parties are satisfied with the details. In some cases they offer defendants a more lenient sentence or lesser charge. But, if a defendant decides the agreement isn’t in his best interest, he doesn’t have to go forward with it. This is why it is called an “agreement”.

Plea agreements are something that should be carefully analyzed by the defendant, with his attorney. Most cases in our state end in pleas, so knowing how the system works and having a defense attorney to help you through the plea process is crucial.

Whether you are facing charges of DUI to drug trafficking, the prosecution may offer you a plea deal. Contact me today so we can discuss the best possible plan for your case.

High Profile Attorney Pleads Not Guilty in Ct. Domestic Assault Case

2010-01-26T09:08:00.001-05:00

A high profile attorney in Connecticut that formerly worked under both Bush Administrations pled not guilty this week in a case that accused him of trying to kill his wife with a flashlight after learning she wanted a divorce. The not guilty plea sets the stage for plea negotiations that could begin in a pre-trial conference scheduled for February 16th.

The formal charges against 57 year old John Michael Farren include attempted murder, strangulation, and first degree assault.

The incident that led to these charges occurred on January 6th of last year when his 43 year old wife was beaten unconscious with a flashlight. According to the Stamford Advocate she was left with a broken jaw, facial lacerations and fractures. When she regained consciousness she was apparently able to hit a panic alarm and get out of the house with the couple’s two children.

Two days prior to the incident, Farren’s wife had served him with divorce papers.

Domestic violence incidents are rarely this violent. However, it sometimes takes an extreme assault for a victim of such violence to seek help. It is quite common for victims of domestic violence to be ashamed of the violent relationship and want to keep it a secret.

Being accused of domestic violence like this, or even less serious cases, can be stressful and humiliating for all parties. When you are accused of beating your wife, girlfriend, or mother of your child, you will face shame and judgment from even those who you are closest to.

The mere accusation of domestic violence can end close relationships as family and friends typically seek to protect the alleged victim. Like Farren, if freed on bail in a case like this, you are typically barred from contacting the victim and even members of their family.

If you are facing charges of domestic assault or even assault of a stranger, I can help. When you think no one is on your side, you need a defense attorney in your corner willing to fight for your interests. Contact me today to discuss the details of your case.

"Sexting" Against the Law, Says CT Police Spokesmant

2010-01-21T17:36:00.002-05:00

In an effort to scare kids into considering their online and texting behavior, a Connecticut police spokesman said that sexting is a crime.
"Sexting" is the sending of text messages with photos of an explicit or obscene nature. "Even between 14 year olds, sexting is a violation of child pornography laws", according to the statements of Lt. Donald Melanson, a West Hartford police spokesman in the Hartford Courant.
Child pornography offenses are felony level crimes, that can result in jail time, and permanent status as a registered sex offender, if prosecuted and found guilty.
Thought one presumes that reason would prevail in a case of kids acting irresponsibly, it's clear by this threat that the laws would support such a prosecution.
Legal reform in Connecticut is clearly necessary to make a distinction between dangerous adult sex offenders and child pornographers, and kids acting stupidly.

In Connecticut and Nationwide, Female Drunk Drivers on the Rise

2010-01-04T16:10:00.001-05:00

In an interesting story from the Hartford Courant this week, it is revealed that women aren’t only gaining ground in the workplace and other areas of society, but also when it comes to DUI arrests. According to the report, the reasons for this are many.

The percentage of women in drunk driving arrests was 17.4 in 1997 and rose to 21.7 in 2006 in our state. During that time, male arrests for DUI fell as female arrests climbed. Nationally, the trend is similar, women are being arrested more for DUI while the number of men is steadily decreasing.

Experts attribute the climb to many factors including an increase in binge drinking among women as well as an increase in women behind the wheel. The Courant also points to the fact that the law may not be as lenient on women as it once was.

The decrease in DUI’s among men may be attributed to greater social stigma over the past several years or enhanced punishments.

Overall, from 2007 to 2008 there was a decrease in DUI arrests and a decrease in DUI related accidents. This is a positive trend that will hopefully continue. However, the overall rate may decline while the percentage of women still increases.

No matter who you are or what your gender is, you hope for equal treatment, whether in the criminal justice system or elsewhere. The DUI laws in Connecticut aren’t set up to treat people differently and that’s part of the reason a defense attorney is necessary.

Having a defense attorney on your side in court means that there is an advocate for your rights. Believe it or not, the system is designed to protect the rights of the accused; a defense attorney is there to make sure it works.

When facing charges of DUI, you are looking at jail time, fines, and a license suspension. Dealing with these penalties can be very difficult. Dealing with the potential of facing these types of penalties can be extremely stressful.

Call me today to discuss your case and let me help you through this tough point in your life. Let’s take a look at how your arrest was handled and see if we can come up with an effective defense strategy.

Fairfield Connecticut Drug House Busted

2009-12-09T17:34:00.001-05:00

A home on Bibbins Avenue in Fairfield was raided this week after police has received several tips that there was drug activity taking place inside. The raid resulted in two teenagers facing serious charges and plenty of confiscated evidence.

Eighteen year olds Sotirios Georgakopoulos Jr. and Pema Tenzin are both facing charges for operating a drug house. Both are currently being held on $250,000 bond, according to the Connecticut Post.

The bust was quite an ordeal, involving 15 officers and 2 K9s. The police forced entry through the front door and saw 8 people scurry to back bedrooms. The officers again had to use force to break into the bedrooms where they found Tenzin allegedly throwing pills out of the window.
All other occupants of the home were found to be guests and only the two 18 year olds have been charged.

Among the evidence seized in the raid was: methamphetamine pills believed to be ecstasy, 1 pound of marijuana, a canister of nitrous oxide, drug packaging material, paraphernalia, and $700 in cash.

The two young men face charges of possession of marijuana with intent to sell, possession of marijuana more than 4 ounces, possession of marijuana within 1,500 feet of a school, possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to sell methamphetamine, possession with intent to sell meth within 1,500 feet of a school, illegal possession of a restricted substance, operating a drug factory, and impairing the morals of a minor, as the 15 year old brother of Georgakopoulos was in the home at the time.

With a lengthy list of charges like these, these young adults are looking at spending the next several years behind bars.

Facing drug charges of any kind is no walk in the park, particularly if they are as serious as these. Depending on your criminal history and the details of your case, however, sometimes a deal can be struck with the prosecution. For fairly minor charges like possession of marijuana, there are often a few options available.

Call me today if you are facing drug charges in our state. I am eager to help.

Accelerated Rehabilitation Works for Ball Player’s CT Assault Charges

2009-11-17T14:36:00.002-05:00

A judge recently dismissed two charges of 2nd degree assault against former Red Sox player Jose Offerman. The dismissal comes at the end of a successful 2 year probationary period and the use of a legal practice called “accelerated rehabilitation.”

According to the Connecticut Post, Offerman was originally charged in 2007 with two counts of assault after a fight that erupted when he was playing for the Long Island Ducks.

Offerman was hit in the leg with a ball pitched by Bridgeport Bluefish player Matt Beech. Offerman charged Beech with a bat in his hand and ended up with a broken finger. The catcher, Jonathan Nathans, was reportedly struck in the head with the bat during the incident.

In October of that year, Judge James Ginocchio granted accelerated rehabilitation to Offerman.
Accelerated rehabilitation is similar to pretrial diversion in that it allows a defendant to serve a period of time on probation prior to answering to the charges. If the term is satisfied, the charges are dropped. It is often used in cases where the defendant doesn’t have a criminal history.

For Offerman, the program meant anger management classes, restitution, and other common probation conditions like meeting with a probation officer and avoiding further law violations. Because Offerman completed his probation successfully, his assault charges were dropped.

Accelerated rehabilitation is just one option in the courts for people accused of their first criminal offense. It allows them to deal with the charges without having to plead guilty or fight through a trial. It also works to keep a conviction off of your permanent record.

Because second degree assault is a felony, the two years probation is a good bargain for Offerman.

If you are facing criminal charges like assault, possession of a controlled substance, or even DUI, I may be able to help. There are several options when it comes to addressing your charges and accelerated rehabilitation is just one.

Contact me today for some free legal advice and to discuss how I might be able to help.

Connecticut Man Freed From Prison Following DNA Exoneration

2009-10-23T21:33:00.002-04:00

After spending what should have been the best years of his life behind bars, 40 year old Kenneth Ireland is learning how to live in the real world once again.

Back in 1988 at the young age of 20, Ireland was convicted of raping and murdering Barbara Pelkey of Wallingford. He was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the crime that he maintained he was innocent of.

According to the New Haven Independent, The Innocence Project of Connecticut took on his case and after the DNA evidence was found to not belong to Ireland, got him a new trial. He was released in August on this premise.

In a similar case in 2006, a man named James Tillman was released after spending 18 years in Connecticut prisons for a rape he did not commit. Tillman’s case set the precedence allowing men like him and Ireland to file a claim with the State Claims Commissioner for monetary compensation. Tillman was awarded $5 million.

As this article from Fox 11 details, Ireland is spending his time readjusting to life on the outside of the prison walls. He admits that it is a big adjustment as he is adapting to devices he has never had to use and free for the first time in 20 years.

DNA evidence, though frequently used in television dramas, is more rarely used in real life. Organizations like the Innocence Project utilize DNA evidence to assist people who may have gotten caught up in shoddy police work, unfair investigations, or cases of mistaken identities.

Evidence takes many forms in a criminal investigation and the police and attorneys should always treat the evidence with the utmost care and interest. From fingerprints to eyewitness testimony, factors like this can mean the difference between years behind bars and walking away a free woman or man.

Whether you are facing drug charges or assault charges, the evidence should be examined by all parties, including your own defense attorney. If you have questions about the laws regarding evidence and how they affect your case, call me.

I will listen to your story and be able to offer some free legal advice.

Connecticut Trio Faces Gun Charges Possibly Related to Recent Gang Violence

2009-10-14T16:22:00.002-04:00

Three young men are facing charges related to a MAC 10 firearm they were found to be in possession of this week. This after two of their associates were killed in the past month in gang related shootings.

Twenty three year old Travon Clark, Gregory Hughes, and 27 year old Jeffrey Daniels were found in the parking lot of the Marina Village housing complex riding in a Mazda without a license plate. Police stopped the vehicle for this reason and found the .45 caliber machine pistol in the back seat.

Bridgeport police were originally called to the scene for suspicion of drug activity but failed to find such activity taking place.

Once they got the men out of the vehicle, the weapon was easily seen, reportedly sticking out of a bag on the floor of the back seat. According to this Connecticut Post article the MAC 10 was loaded and ready to be used.

The men involved are suspected of being associated with the “Stack Boys” or the “South Side Crew”. Ronald Miley, shot and killed in September, and another shooting victim from just last week were said to be acquaintances of the men, leading police to jump to the assumption that these men were prepared for retaliation of sorts.

All three young men are facing charges of weapons in a motor vehicle and interfering with police. Hughes and Daniels face the additional charge of criminal possession of a firearm. A woman is also facing charges for trying to move the vehicle before the gun could be recovered.

Firearm offenses are numerous in the Connecticut criminal code. These laws are designed to protect the public but are often applied in inconsistent manners.

When you are facing felony charges, whether related to a weapon or not, you have to know your criminal history will come in to play. If the court has seen you before you will need an attorney to assist you in convincing the court you deserve another chance.

The chance of the judge being lenient on your case is significantly improved if this is your first criminal charge.

If you are facing any sort of criminal charge in the Connecticut courts, you need an aggressive defense attorney to ensure your side is heard. Contact me today to discuss what happened on the date of your arrest and to get some free legal advice.

Plea Deal Reached in Connecticut Drunk Driving, Hit & Run Case

2009-10-12T11:57:00.003-04:00

Way back in January of this year, 17 year old Jessica Lee was hit while crossing the street at Boston and Central Avenues in Bridgeport. She was thrown onto the windshield of the vehicle and landed “several feet away” according to the Connecticut Post.

Following the accident, 38 year old Darren McDermott of Milford turned off his headlights and continued driving into the night. He was caught and found to have a blood alcohol level of .189. McDermott was also said to have struggled with the police when they tried to take him in to custody.

Since the accident, which left Lee with two broken legs and a concussion, McDermott has been participating in a sobriety program, something that may have helped his chances in getting the plea agreement.

McDermott plead no contest to second degree assault with a motor vehicle, driving under suspension, evading responsibility, and two counts of DUI. The prosecution is recommending he serve a three year prison sentence when he goes back before the judge on December 8th.
Plea agreements are not unusual and typically seek to satisfy both parties involved. Because McDermott was driving on a license that had been suspended for a prior DUI at the time of the accident, the odds were stacked against him.

In some cases the plea agreement states that the defendant will plead guilty while others, as in this case, allow for the defendant to plead “no contest”. No contest simply means he will not argue that the charges against him are false but won’t admit outright to committing the offenses.
It is quite common for one incident to end with multiple charges. A string of law violations isn’t that unusual and in this case the first violation (driving while intoxicated) led to the others (assault, leaving the scene).

If you are facing criminal charges and aren’t sure where to turn, contact me to discuss your case. If the situation doesn’t look good, perhaps we can work something out with the prosecution. However, whatever you choose to do with your case, as your attorney, it is my job to back you up.

Serial Connecticut Bank Robber Caught in Hartford

2009-09-29T13:59:00.001-04:00

Within the past few weeks, the nation watched grainy surveillance video as a brazen woman walked into 6 banks and demanded money. She never disguised her face nor made any attempt to conceal her identity. Now, Heather Brown is in custody.

Brown, a 34 year old Connecticut resident, has a history of drug abuse and crime, according to this article from the Hartford Courant. She is currently on probation for charges of burglary, larceny, forgery, and prostitution. She was recently released from a 30 month prison bid for a 2006 bank robbery.

People believe it was drugs that led Brown to so boldly rob 6 banks in 6 days. As a matter of fact, when she was apprehended, she was found on the North End of Hartford where it is believed she was trying to purchase drugs.

Brown never showed a gun but claims, on a few occasions, that the bag she carried in the robberies contained a bomb. She is now being held on $250,000 bail and the full extent of her charges is not yet known.

Bank robbery is one of the most serious theft crimes because it contains a threat of violence. Robbery is a similar offense that puts individuals at risk.

With general theft crimes, also called larceny charges, the charge you face and the subsequent sentence are only based on the value of the property in question. Robbery falls under a completely different category all together.

If you face larceny charges, however, you could be facing something as small as a Class C misdemeanor charge in the case of 6th degree larceny, or as much as a Class B felony charge and up to 20 years in prison for Grand Larceny.

Typically offenses like this are committed out of need. Many people see the risk they take when committing a theft crime to be worth the potential outcome. They see it as worth the risk, that is, until they get caught.

If you are facing charges of larceny or robbery, I may be able to help. Call me today to discuss the details of your case.

DUI for Connecticut High School Coach

2009-09-21T11:27:00.002-04:00

Forty three year old Paul Burke faced a judge this past week on charges of DUI stemming from an arrest that took place over a year ago. Burke pled not guilty last year and it seems his case is finally ready to go forward.

According to The Connecticut Post, the Greenwich high school lacrosse coach crashed his BMW into a wall on Middlesex Road in Darien last year. Police found Burke to be unsteady on his feet with bloodshot, glassy eyes. They took him in where he was found to reportedly have a blood alcohol level of .29 percent.

He wasn’t arrested until two months after the accident, at which time he was charged with DUI and failure to keep right. He was subsequently suspended from his position as coach and history teacher.

Since the suspension, Burke was reinstated on an agreement with the school district stating that any further violations will result in his terminations. The agreement also has Burke submitting to criminal background checks, donating his money to an advocacy group and refraining from drinking in illegal capacities.

As expected, some parents were appalled at the coach’s situation while others defended him. The same can be said with most criminal charges. It is when you are in your darkest moments that you truly find out who is on your side and who is a fair weather friend.

Burke has at least one prior DUI on his record which could impact his sentence if found guilty this time. A first time DUI offense leads to license suspension, jail time, and fines, among other things.

If you are facing DUI charges now, you are likely wondering if your case could take as long as Burke’s to resolve. If we opt to go to trial, it could, though it is unlikely.

Call me with questions about your case today. I am willing to give you a free consultation and we can discuss your options at a greater length.

Connecticut Domestic Violence Laws Have Changed But Has It Helped?

2009-08-19T15:15:00.003-04:00

Over the past several decades, the attitude towards domestic violence cases has dramatically shifted. Once brushed under the rug and considered to be a private matter, mandatory arrests and community awareness has brought these types of situations into the light.

As this article from the Hartford Courant shows, domestic violence cases have increased over the past year and many of these cases have been high profile ones. As the economy struggles, it is not unusual to see cases of domestic violence increase.

Women are typically the victims in these cases and more resources are available to them now than ever. However, that doesn’t necessarily make it easy for them to get out of the unhealthy relationship. Money, kids, and fear all work to keep an abused woman in this type of situation.

If an officer responds to a domestic violence call and there is evidence of abuse, an arrest must be made. This legal requirement is courtesy of the Tracey Thurman law.

In the Tracey Thurman case, she was beaten very badly by her husband at the time, in 1982, and left to die. She sued local law enforcement for failing to protect her. Thurman won a $2.3 million judgment and her name solidified in the law.

Incidents of domestic violence like this are horrifying, and naturally police aggressively arrest anyone involved in a suspicious incident. But that doesn't mean all arrests are legitimate threats.

It's understandable that police take these matters extremely seriously, but it can be complicated to sort out what really happened, and establish whether a crime actually took place.

Trivial incidents and heated arguments will result in an arrest, and prosecutors don't tend to be cooperative on any alleged domestic case. Even where the facts are extremely weak and there is no evidence of abuse of violence, it can take an experienced defense lawyer significant time and effort to work through the situation.

What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest?

Once arrested on a domestic violence charge a protective order will likely be issued. If violated, the offender can face additional charges.

There are many resources also available for domestic violence offenders as the state of Connecticut seeks to prevent this type of case. Even without being convicted of a domestic assault, you may be required to attend counseling or classes related to the offense.

If you are accused of domestic violence charges or charges of violating a restraining order, I can help. Contact me immediately for a free consultation on your case.

I know you feel alone, but I will work for you and with you, and not judge you.

No Age Limit on Connecticut Theft Charges

2009-08-18T15:05:00.001-04:00

Don’t expect the Connecticut legal system to have pity on your because of your age or ability. Sixty-year old career burglar Okasana Lysenko is again in front of the judge for new charges.
Lysenko has 40 convictions on her record, according to the Hartford Courant. She has been in and out of the Connecticut prison system for these charges as well.

Her latest charge involves police finding her leaving a Bentwood home with stolen jewelry, gloves, and a screwdriver. Because of her past convictions, the gloves and screwdriver will no doubt be considered burglary tools.

The law is no stranger to Lysenko’s ways. Captain Joseph Lasata, of the West Hartford police, states “We’ve been arresting her for years”.

She currently has a 4th degree larceny charge pending in Hartford regarding an earlier April 16th arrest. Her latest arrest has landed her with new charges of 5th degree larceny, 3rd degree burglary, 2nd degree criminal mischief, and possession of burglar’s tools.

Lysenko is currently being held on $500,000 bail.

Although most theft offenders don’t return to court again and again like Ms. Lysenko seems to, it isn’t all that uncommon to see someone appear and reappear for similar charges. Unfortunately, the more times you appear before a judge, the less lenient they are likely to be if you are convicted and appear in court for sentencing.

If you are caught up in the legal system again, facing new charges, you need all the help you can get.

Some offenses have progressively harsher sentences for multiple offenses actually written into the law. DUI charges are a good example of this, getting stricter with each subsequent count.
Regardless of what the charge is, I may be able to help. We may be able to negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecution regarding your potential sentence. Depending on the case, we may even be able to get the charges against you dropped altogether.

If you are facing charges in Connecticut criminal courts, call me today for a free consultation.

Potential Sexual Assault, a Dead Body, and Missing Drugs Mark Connecticut’s 2009 Vibes Festival

2009-08-10T15:23:00.003-04:00

Referred to as the Northeast’s “premier music, arts, and camping festival”, the third annual Vibes gathering occurred a few weeks ago in Seaside Park. The festival has been back and forth between locations over the last few decades but seems to have settled back in CT for a while.

This year’s festival was not without its interesting crime news. This article from the Connecticut Post reveals that the private agency responsible for security did not turn over confiscated drugs to the Connecticut police as they should have. This incident is under investigation.

Also, a body was found the second day of the festival. Despite early reports of a potential murder, it seems foul play is not suspected.

Lastly, a woman at the gathering reported she had possibly been sexually assaulted. This case is also being investigated.

Modeled after the lifestyle of Grateful Dead fans, drugs like marijuana and LSD aren’t all that unusual at the Vibes festival. While the majority of these types of gatherings are non violent and uneventful, the drugs are still against the law.

Many people in neighboring communities don’t like the temporary neighbors they get when the Vibes campers roll into town.

Despite the stigma around marijuana being far less than its other illegal drug counterparts, it can still pack a heavy punch when you are charged with possessing it.

Unfortunately, small amounts of marijuana have not been decriminalized in Connecticut as they have elsewhere. If you are found in possession of even a small personal stash, you can face criminal charges.

Some judges and prosecutors are willing to work out more lenient situations, however, for first time offenders.

If you are facing marijuana charges in the state of Connecticut, your best option is to retain a local attorney who is used to practicing in the area. Call me today to discuss your case.

Bird Fighting Rings Warrants Animal Cruelty Charges in CT

2009-07-30T22:26:00.002-04:00

Typically if you hear of animals being trained to fight for human pleasure you think of dogs or even roosters. A recent case out of Danbury, however, uncovered the lesser known practice of finch fighting.

According to this article from the Connecticut Post, 150 finches were seized from a suburban home where they were being pitted against one another in battles to the death. Nineteen men were arrested, all of them Brazilian natives.

Despite the similarities between the charged parties, the police caution that this isn’t just a South American phenomena. People who want to wager money on the fights come from all walks of life and all nationalities.

So what’s the allure of using finches? They are smaller and quieter than roosters and dogs. The majority of the birds seized were saffron finches, typically used as house pets.

Police Sergeant John Krupinsky reveals that a good fighting bird can bring in $1,000 a fight and can sell for around $5,000. At the time of the arrests, about $8,000 in cash was also taken.

Occurrences like this are not the norm, but they do happen. A few years back the dog fighting case involving NFL baller Michael Vick opened the nation’s eyes to an activity that has been going on for ages.

Although the Connecticut Post article doesn’t reveal what type of charges these men face, the Connecticut statutes reveal that for owning, possessing, keeping, training, or betting on a fight of this nature the men could be facing up to 5 years in prison for each count.

Little known criminal activities happen all the time. Sometimes you may not even realize you were breaking the law. Unfortunately, ignorance is rarely a supportable defense.

If you are facing any criminal charges in the Connecticut legal system, you need a skilled and aggressive attorney fighting for your freedom. Call me to talk about your case today. I may be able to help you get the charges dismissed or at least ensure you get the best outcome possible on your day in court.

Potential Charges for Cop Involved in Fatal Crash

2009-07-24T09:13:00.001-04:00

Last month two young people died when the vehicle they were in was involved in an accident with a police cruiser. The investigation into that accident is now being treated as a negligent homicide, according to this article from the Connecticut Post.

Officer Jason Anderson from the Milford, CT Police Department was leaving a “mutual-aid call” in New Haven around 2:15 am on June 13th when he collided with the 2008 Mazda carrying 19 year olds Ashlie Krakowski and Dave Servin. Servin died at the accident scene while Krakowski was transported to a New Haven Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The entire crash was recorded on the dash camera of fellow Officer Rick Pisani who was following Anderson at the time of the wreck. Witnesses have stated that Anderson may have been speeding.

While there is no current indication what could have made this a potential negligent homicide, a search and seizure warrant for the vehicles was issued on June 16th. The warrant application said there is “probable cause to believe” that the police cruiser contained evidence of a negligent homicide.

When the warrant was executed on June 17th, investigators took the powertrain control module from the Crown Victoria. This module can provide information such as vehicle speed, tire condition, and brake status at the time of the accident.

This investigation obviously isn’t over and we are likely to see more details emerge as time goes on.

This accident is evidence that not all traffic accidents are cut and dry. As a matter of fact, there are many criminal traffic offenses that you can be charged with.

Although they are nowhere near as serious as negligent homicide, charges like reckless driving and hit & run can land you jail time and a criminal record.

If you have found yourself on the wrong side of the law due to a traffic offense and you want help determining what course of action to take, call me today.

Fraud Charges for Milford Man

2009-07-20T15:06:00.002-04:00

A Milford CT man is facing serious charges of fraud after he and an accomplice swindled $100,000 in donations from a local woman according to this article from the Connecticut Post.
Michael Kahn is facing charges first degree larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, violating the state opportunities investment act, and charges of sale of unregistered securities.

Kahn and friend Barry Diamond received $100,000 in donations from a Fairfield woman who believed she was donating to see the rehabilitation of Norwalk condominiums for the poor. When she asked for status updates on the project and received none, she demanded her donation be returned.

The woman later found out that these men did not own the Norwalk project and Kahn had actually left for Singapore.

Diamond was charged for the incident back in April and is awaiting trial as well. He had previously served as the president of the Trumbell Chamber of Commerce and other fairly prestigious positions in the community.

Fraud cases often deal with fraudulent charities and misdirected donations. People are often willing to come out of pocket for a good cause and some see this as an opportunity to make money the wrong way.

Facing charges like 1st degree larceny, as these two men do, can be very intimidating. These particular men could be going to prison for a long time.

First degree larceny in itself carries a potential 20 year prison sentence along with $15,000 in fines. It is a Class B Felony charge.

Even stealing less valuable goods and services can carry a hefty penalty. Sixth degree larceny occurs when the value of the stolen goods is less than $250. This offense is considered a Class c misdemeanor and carries a potential 3 months in jail.

If you are looking at doing time or paying huge fines because of fraud or larceny charges, call me today to discuss your case. You want an experience local attorney going to bat for you and I could be the right one for the job.

Arson Conviction Upheld in High Profile 2006 Case

2009-07-08T15:55:00.002-04:00

Fifty-two year old Randall Licari was convicted in Bridgeport Superior Court in November of 2006 of 1st degree arson, first-degree larceny, insurance fraud, and conspiracy. The former supervisor for the New York Department of Environmental Protection was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

According to the Connecticut Post, the Connecticut Appeals Court recently upheld his conviction despite his claims that the prosecution fabricated evidence and controlled the lineup of testimony from people called by the defense at trial.

Licari’s Cape Cod style home burned to the ground in December of 2003. The family received an outpouring of support from the Red Cross and the community. They also received a sizable check from the insurance company.

Licari used this $350,000 check and gifts to build a bigger and better home following the fire. Later, the investigation into the fire was opened back up after the adult daughter of Licari stated her father started the fire himself in order to collect on the insurance policy.

Investigators found what they had formerly believed to be wrapped Christmas gifts to actually contain DuraFlame logs wrapped in Christmas paper and placed below the wires for the Christmas tree lights. Licari claimed those were a gift from his wife, despite not owning a fireplace.

The motive for the arson: financial problems. Often this is why crimes of arson take place. People get caught in rough financial times and see insurance money as a potential savior.
Arson, however, is a serious crime and not the best way to get out of debt. If caught and convicted of 1st degree arson, you could be sentenced to several years in prison and carry around a serious rap sheet for the rest of your life.

A property crime doesn’t have to be as serious as arson, however, to change your life. Criminal mischief and theft crimes also carry heavy penalties under Connecticut law.

If you are facing criminal charges and wonder if you will get a fair shake in court, let me know. Call me for a free consultation on your case today.

CT Man Allegedly Hid Crack-Cocaine in Buttocks

2009-07-06T15:43:00.002-04:00

Police were working in the Sanford Place area of Bridgeport earlier this week when they found a man hiding some serious loot.

Officers on the Strategic Enforcement Team recognized Elliot Rankin, who has previous drug convictions according to this brief article in the Connecticut Post. When they approached Rankin, however, officers noticed he was standing as if he had his buttocks clenched together.

Rankin initially denied he had anything and refused to relax. However, police were able to recover 53 small baggies containing a total of more than 5 grams of crack cocaine that Rankin had been hiding in between his buttocks.

Some may be laughing but Rankin certainly isn’t as he faces charges of possession of narcotics with intent to sell, within 1500 feet of a school, trespass, and possession of narcotics.

As the police move in on someone with drugs, it’s not uncommon for the suspect to stash the drugs wherever possible. While the pants are an obvious choice, it may be a little more unusual to find drugs between the buttocks.

Regardless of where the substance is found, facing charges for being in possession of any controlled substance is not a laughing matter.

As a matter of fact the drugs don’t even have to be on you to be charged with possession. If the police see you hide drugs or throw them away, you can be charged. If they are under the seat in your car or even under the seat of a car you are a passenger in, you can face charges.

Whether you are facing charges of possession of marijuana or something more serious like possession with intent to distribute cocaine, the experience of a criminal defense attorney on your side is crucial. Call me for a free consultation on your case today.

68-Year CT Old Woman Sentenced in DUI Crash

2009-06-25T10:22:00.002-04:00

In Bridgeport, 68-year old Barbara Preston was recently sentenced to serve 8 years of a 15 year sentence behind bars according to this article from the Connecticut Post. The harsh sentence was courtesy of Ms. Preston’s multiple offenses and the injuries sustained in the accident.

Last year Preston rear ended 47-year old Lee Everett as he sat at a red light. The force of the impact was so great that it sent Mr. Everett’s pick up about 70 feet, causing it to roll over. Everett was crushed in the accident and spent a month in a coma.

Everett has recovered enough that he was able to speak at the sentencing but his wife states that his insurance benefits are about to run out and he has racked up around $500,000 in medical bills.

This was Preston’s third drunk driving offense. She was found to be over 3 times over the legal limit and had an open beer in her car with her. At sentencing she apologized for the accident.
Preston pled guilty to first degree assault with a vehicle and a third offense DUI. She was sentenced to 15 years with 7 of those suspended.

Even a 1st offense DUI charge can be serious, with no accident or injury. If you are facing a 2nd or 2rd offense DUI, the penalties increase dramatically. For a third offense DUI you face up to 1 year in jail and permanent revocation of your license.

If you have ever faced any DUI charges, you know how inconvenient a license suspension can be. For a first time offense you may face suspension of one year in addition to fines and up to 6 months in jail. In addition, your license suspension can be extended if your Blood Alcohol Content is over .16 or twice the legal limit.

Our attorneys have successfully defended many clients from DUI and related charges. If you are facing any alcohol related charges, we may be able to help. Contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss your case.

Car Part Theft Charges Add Up

2009-06-22T15:26:00.002-04:00

Stealing from a scrap yard doesn’t seem like it could be a big money maker. Thieves have hit in Waterbury, however, and made off with quite a stash from Dana DeCapua’s livelihood, his auto scrap yard.

Catalytic converters are car parts that are definitely worth some cash. These parts clean the air from your engine and are made of expensive materials like platinum and palladium, materials that are worth about $1,200 per ounce according to this WFSB story.

Forcing their way into a scrap yard through the garage door, DeCapua estimates the thieves made off with between $5,000 and $8,000 in parts. The thieves obviously know a little something about cars to know both the value of the converters and how to remove them.
In addition to the parts, the thieves stole a van to carry them off in. A nearby garage lost a van it was working on when the thieves took it, drove it to the scrap yard, and loaded up the stolen parts.

Interestingly a few weeks ago a Honda dealership in Watertown was hit with the same type of theft, losing around $18,000 in parts.

Larceny Charges aren’t always considered minor offenses in the eyes of the court. Sure stealing candy from the convenience store didn’t seem like a big deal when you were a kid, but valuable car parts are another story. The reason this is so much more serious is because the courts base your charge on the value of the items stolen.

A stolen candy bar is a Class C misdemeanor (if charges are even filed). However, stealing over $20,000 in auto parts is a Class B Felony. We aren’t talking about a few months in county jail here. We are talking about up to 20 years in state prison.

Theft crimes can be very serious and carry quite serious penalties. If you are facing larceny charges and aren’t sure what the charges mean or how to deal with them, I can help. An experienced defense attorney is there to answer your questions and give you high quality legal advice.

A criminal theft or larceny charge in Connecticut is a serious legal problem. If you are facing charges like these, call our attorneys to discuss the details of your case today.

Long Beach West Cottage Fires Result in Arson Charges

2009-06-17T10:42:00.000-04:00

An arrest has been made in the fire that burned 4 vacant cottages on Long Beach West last March. According to the Connecticut Post, carnival amusement manager Kevin Stewart of Trumbull faces 3rd degree arson charges and is currently out on bond pending arraignment.

Stewart reportedly was seen by several witnesses the day of the fires, climbing a radio tower near the cottages and knocking down the red light used to alert aircraft. Other witnesses claim that they were invited to the empty cottages by Stewart to hang out in what he called his “fort”.

The four abandoned cottages were lit with candles, according to people who were present with Stewart the day preceding the fires. Although Stewart initially denied having anything to do with the blaze, he later stated that he may have unintentionally knocked over a candle.

Although the cottages were empty, arson is a serious criminal offense that could get Stewart a stint in prison. Property crimes like arson and criminal mischief often carry penalties that surprise the people facing those charges.

Criminal mischief is the most common property damage crime and is split into 4 categories or degrees. The charge you face for criminal mischief depends on several things including what it was that was damaged and the value of the damage done.

For a simple criminal mischief charge in Connecticut, one can face anywhere from 3 months in jail to 5 years in prison. This long range of potential penalties can cause a serious amount of uncertainty and stress when you go before the judge.

As a local criminal defense attorney, I can help you come up with the best strategy for your case. But, I can’t do that without your help. Call me today and tell me about the charges you are facing. Together we can come up with a solution.

Vandalism and Graffiti a Problem Statewide

2009-06-11T23:13:00.002-04:00

Graffiti is typically done with spray paint on the side of a building. It is often the chosen art form of gangs and bored teens. Although the expressive crime may seem like a minor offense, the consequences can be quite serious depending on the circumstances.

This article originating in Shelton details a park playground that has recently been the target of taggers. People who frequent the park are upset and don’t like having to look at the graffiti when they are there for a good time with their children.

Likewise, the same station covered some acts of vandalism occurring in Danielson, where buildings and even cars are being tagged with spray paint. The markings aren’t clearly gang related and police aren’t sure what they mean at all. What is known: business owners and the public are not happy about the emergence of this vandalism.

Vandalism is typically charged as criminal mischief in the Connecticut criminal justice system. What these vandals face if caught and convicted depends on the amount of damage they did. If the property is destroyed or damaged up to a value of $250, the offense will likely be considered 3rd degree criminal mischief.

As the damage increases, however, so do the charges and the potential penalties. For instance, 1st degree criminal mischief is the most serious criminal mischief charge and involves situations which result in more than $1500 in damages. This offense carries a potential sentence of one to five years in prison, fines, and a felony record.

Regardless of who is doing the graffiti, whether it is gang related or a teen prank, the charges can be quite serious. If you are facing criminal mischief charges for vandalism like this or another destruction of property, you need the assistance of an experienced defense attorney.

Call us for a free consultation today and we can discuss the best way to handle your case.

Trumbell CT Man Faces DUI and Slew of Other Charges

2009-05-22T12:39:00.002-04:00

Evading the police while intoxicated is a horrible way to start your week. But, that’s exactly how David Damio decided to start his early Sunday morning. It all began with a two car accident…
After being involved in an accident, Damio apparently hit the median barrier and fled the scene in an effort to not get caught. He later resisted the State Officer who put him in custody according to this short piece from the Connecticut Post.

After the arrest he was charged with several offenses including DUI, evading responsibility, interfering with a police officer, and driving in the wrong lane. Any one of these charges would be stressful but the combination surely has Damio rethinking his actions on that Sunday morning.

Simply leaving the scene of an accident, or hit and run, is a serious charge. Luckily for Damio, no one was injured in the other vehicle. Many traffic offenses like this carry serious potential penalties simply because the risk of injury to the public is so high. Reckless driving is one of those offenses that seems like a minor traffic offense but carries potential jail time.

DUI is another serious and very common offense. It isn’t clear if Damio has had prior convictions but if he has, his penalty could be exacerbated. First offense DUI carries a potential 6 months in jail as well as fines and license suspension. With a 2nd offense, that potential jail sentence climbs to up to 2 years.

Driving offenses aren’t always as minor as one might think. Crimes like this are taken seriously by the Connecticut criminal court system in an effort to prevent future offenses and injuries. Because of this, people facing these kinds of charges should come to court equipped with an experienced lawyer.

If you are facing charges similar to Damio’s or any other criminal driving offense, I may be able to help you. Contact me to discuss your case today with an experienced Connecticut criminal attorney.