Andrew Colabella reports:
“Yesterday at 2:10 a.m., 2 vehicles were stolen out of a driveway in the Compo Beach/Hillspoint area. Keys were left in both cars.
“The thieves were flanked by another vehicle following, traveling at a high rate of speed circling the cul-de-sac multiple times trying to get out, waking up neighbors.
“At 3:42 a.m. they were seen on camera entering another driveway, looking into vehicles for any valuables.
“One car has been recovered.
“They’re known to be between the ages of 14-26, from the Waterbury/Torrington and New Haven areas, and carrying illegally obtained pistols.
“Reminder: Remove valuables from your vehicle at night, so they are not in plain sight. Lock your vehicles, whether in the driveway, garage or carport, at all times.
“Keep key fobs far from your vehicle, as they might be able to start it within only a short range of distance.
“If you see anything suspicious, call 911 or 203-341-6000.”
Car thieves in Westport don’t have to break in, or jimmy locks. By leaving doors unlocked, with keys in the ignition, we make things easy for them.
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Speaking of police: Westport officers made 3 custodial arrests between September 6 and 13.
After a hit-and-run accident on Post Road East at Turkey Hill, an officer spotted the driver northbound on I-95. The driver was stopped at Exit 25, and charged with evading responsibility; operating an unregistered motor vehicle; driving with a suspended license; failure to register a motor vehicle; failure to drive right, and possession of a controlled substance (cocaine).
Following a complaint about a check that was stolen, altered and deposited, a man was charged with larceny, criminal attempt at larceny, and forgery.
After a traffic stop for going straight in the “left turn only” lane on Post Road West at Riverside Avenue, a man was charged with 2 counts of failure to appear, based on active re-arrest warrants in Bridgeport and Fairfield.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
- Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations 11 citations
- Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
- Failure to obey traffic control signals 2
- Failure to renew registration: 2
- Traveling too fast for conditions: `
- Unsafe passing: 1
- Failure to comply with passing on the right side rules: 1
- Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
- Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
- Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
An extreme case of unsafe passing.
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Speaking still of police: They may soon be called to the corner of Post Road West and Riverside Avenue (see above) — not for failure to turn properly, but for this accident that is waiting to happen:
(Photo/Ken Warren)
Ken Warren — who took the photo — says, “I can loan them a level if they need it.”
They do.
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The Westport Public Schools will offer free, confidential cardiac screening for students.
The voluntary event 14-point screener and EKG screen can identify risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest.
In A Heartbeat — a Connecticut nonprofit — will provide the screenings October 4 (3 to 7:30 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria). Parents will receive EKG results within 2 weeks. Click here to register.
Volunteers are needed for medical and non-medical duties. Email mike@inaheartbeat.org to help.
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“06880” shies away from “rankings” stories.
They’re clickbait, and often based on arbitrary criteria. Besides, if (for example) our school system is #1 one year, and #2 the next, people push the panic button and wonder what the hell is wrong.
So I was about to delete the “World Atlas” rankings of “13 Small Towns in CT That Were Ranked Among US Favorites.”
But then I read the writeup. It’s bizarrely interesting. “World Atlas” writes:
There are many waterfront towns in Connecticut — and then there is Westport. This Connecticut treasure boasts the most ocean waterfront in Connecticut. So if you are looking for a blue-space gem, complete with refreshing breezes and beaches, look no further.
And it is not just about the oceanfront area. Westport also boasts the largest riverfront in the state. Aside from the serene waterfront vistas that define Westport and its sand-fringed beaches, Westport, unknown to many, is a bibliophile’s dream destination. It plays host to the Westport Library, for instance, the only 5-star library in the state.
Aside from this idyllic, one-of-a-kind community gem, you will love to spend an afternoon (or an evening) strolling through Westport’s Library Riverwalk and Garden, a stunning walkway that runs along the scenic Saugatuck River.
Here’s the photo that ran with the story. (Hat tip: Richard Stein)
(Photo courtesy of Miro Vrlik Photography)
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The first event of the second season for Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — is next Wednesday (September 20, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Toquet Hall).
Called “Reconnect, Renew & Karaoke Too,” it’s a chance to meet old friends, make new ones, and sing along.
Snacks are available ($1 to $3). The Westport Book Shop provides popcorn for all. (Parents can head over to the Book Shop for a “sip and chat” with artist Maj Kalfus). Click here to register.
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One of the fall’s best events is Push Against Cancer.
It’s also one of the most strenuous.
And most worthwhile.
The 14th annual PAC takes place Sunday, October 15 at Staples High School’s Jinny Parker Field.
The all-fitness-level/all-ages event begins at 9 a.m. There are 2 registration types. A 40-minute family-friendly pushup event challenges individuals or groups to do as many push-ups as possible in 40 minutes. The contenders division is a competitive 1-hour pushup contest. Championship belts go to the male and female who complete the most pushups in an hour.
All proceeds benefit children with serious illnesses and their family members through The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Click here to register or donate, and for more information.
A small part of the Push Against Cancer.
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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibit showcases Connecticut artist Carol Young.
Her work explores America’s rural and coastal landscape, in energetic, vibrant and nostalgic ways.
Her paintings are on view from tomorrow (September 15) through the 24th. Carol Young’s original paintings will be on view through Sunday, September 24th. Click here for more information. 
Works by Carol Young
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Totney Benson spotted this the other day:
(Photo/Totney Benson)
She writes: “A young man assembled these horseshoe crab carcasses today on the beach near the eastern end of Compo Beach. It’s molting season!”
And to the young carcass assembler: Smile! Your carcasses are today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
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And finally … Larry Chance, the leader of the classic doo-wop group the Earls — died last week in Florida. He was 82, and suffered from lung cancer. Click here for a full obituary.
(Remember: “06880” relies on reader’s contributions! Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Very detailed reporting. What source ? Thank you
Police need to ticket the impatient drivers who can’t wait for traffic light. At Post Rd and Hillspoint when the light is Red, now many irresponsible drivers think it’s ok to speed thru the Cumberland Farms lot blow the stop sign out onto Post rd. One day someone exiting the store will be hit by these reckless drivers. Your irresponsible driving will not go unnoticed.
Aside from the charm, I really like the light traffic as shown in the photo. Glad I moved to Westport.
Thank you Westport PD for all you do. It’s sad our State Legislature has basically turned “Protect and Serve” into “Watch and Report.”
No Tests for Drug Drivers
No Pulling over anyone for Tail Lights being out.
No searching of vehicles for illegal guns etc.
Catch and Release for car thefts
The bad guys don’t stay home because the good guys are being handcuffed…
So much to unpack here. Good job by the PD. Make some car stops and catch some bad guys. Nice! The cardiac screenings sounds like a no brainer. I’ve always loved Westport’s ocean front..lol…
As for that straight electric utility pole at Post Road West and Riverside Avenue.
We Eversource customers just need to remember two things. One, Eversource bills us for “distribution charges” on our bills every month at a charge that is 150% of the charge for the electricity itself !
Two, Connecticut is second only to Hawaii for the highest cost for electricity among all 50 states in the USA!
So they cannot in most Westporter,’s minds justify not taking better care of their equipment such as this! Rediculous!
Has anyone called Eversource emergency line with the pole # and filed an incident? That might be better than just sharing on Social Media.
As for car thefts, I really do wish insurance companies would not pay out for stolen cars with keys left in the vehicle over night. These bad neighbors are causing all of our rates to go up, not too mention, what if someone gets run over by the thief in the stolen car? Maybe a compromise would be a 50% deductible for theft with keys left in? Maybe throw-in some fines on the vehicle owners.
Amen to #2. It makes as much sense to leave your key fob in the car as to leave the house unlocked when you go on vacation.
I think the World Atlas write-up is authored by ChatGPT. It reeks of inaccurate hyperbole.
Here is my version of that, as written by ChatGPT with this Prompt “write a 3 paragraph blog post about westport ct that talks about why it is such an interesting and fun town”
**Westport, CT: A Hub of Culture and Coastal Charm**
Tucked away in the heart of Fairfield County, Westport, Connecticut, is more than just a commuter town; it’s a delightful blend of cultural richness, coastal beauty, and historical significance. Known for its picturesque downtown, sophisticated arts scene, and vibrant community spirit, Westport has long attracted artists, writers, and thinkers, adding a layer of depth and creativity to its identity.
One of the major highlights of Westport is its commitment to the arts. The Westport Country Playhouse, a historic theater with nearly a century of history, showcases top-notch performances and has seen countless Broadway talents grace its stage over the years. In addition to this, the Levitt Pavilion offers free outdoor concerts throughout the summer, making it a favorite spot for families and music enthusiasts. Beyond the performing arts, Westport’s streets are dotted with art galleries, lending an aesthetic appeal and offering a testament to the town’s dedication to creative expression.
But it’s not just about the arts. Westport’s coastal location means that residents and visitors alike can revel in the beauty of the Long Island Sound. Compo Beach, with its expansive shoreline, is the perfect destination for a sunny day out, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy a picnic. Moreover, the town’s eclectic mix of restaurants and boutique shops ensures that there’s always something new to explore. All these elements combine to make Westport not just a place to live, but a destination full of adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Westport, CT promises a blend of fun, culture, and natural beauty.
I am reading 1984 in relationship to my job at a HS, I am relieved that the word revel was used by the chatGBT. In 1984 they talk about words disappearing from language and revel is a classic don’t you think?
I’ll never understand the “keys were left in both cars” BS – I hope insurance companies don’t cover the loss when the owners facilitate the theft. That raises my rates, and I’m not that naive.
Speaking of guns in cars in Westport…
On July 11th, “multiple shots” were fired from a white car in the vicinity of Saugatuck Ave and Franklin St. Police closed the area for an investigation. 06880 reported it the next day, and it generated the grand total of just one comment. Plenty of comments about the big blue blight building at Compo, but just one about this shooting.
Have there been any updates? I’ve seen none.
Did you know that your side view mirrors may be a signal to a thief that your car is unlocked and the key may be in the vehicle?
It’s true. Thieves know that the side mirrors fold inward when the car is locked… Autos with side view mirrors which are extended outward can potentially signal which auto is vulnerable. While this feature is designed to provide convenience to the vehicle owner, it can inadvertently provide information to potential thieves.
While it is very hard to deter a determined auto thief from stealing your auto if they really want it, here are a few steps you can take to help prevent car theft and minimize the risk associated with this feature:
Disable the Mirror Folding Feature: Many vehicles with this feature allow you to disable it through the car’s settings or by consulting the owner’s manual. By turning off the mirror folding when the car is locked, you eliminate this potential signal to thieves.
Park in Well-Lit Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit and populated areas. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in areas where they can be easily seen.
Keep Your Key Fob Secure: Always keep your key fob in a safe and secure place when you’re not in the vehicle. Avoid leaving it in the car, and be cautious of potential signal amplification attacks where thieves can boost the signal to your key fob.
Install a GPS Tracker: Consider installing a GPS tracker in your vehicle. This can help track your vehicle in case it’s stolen, increasing the chances of recovery.
Vehicle-Specific Anti-Theft Measures: Some vehicle manufacturers offer additional anti-theft measures or aftermarket security systems that can be installed to enhance the protection of your car.
Remember that no security measure is entirely foolproof, but by taking a combination of precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of car theft and increase the security of your vehicle.
“Lock it and pocket the Key/ Fob.”
wild to see That in WSPT; you shouldn’t let it progress in that direction. I’m in downtown NYC and it’s mostly still empty here because of the crime, assaults, thefts, vandalism, self defense being criminalized. the major tax paying businesses moving to Florida but also Greenwich, Stamford, Westport and White Plains because of that whole crime and criminalization of self defense equation.
when in WSPT we’d go to beach (a lot of jeep wranglers and convertibles then) we’d of course leave keys in cars so we didn’t lose them in the sand = it’s beach community living and socializing.
don’t feel badly about shoving criminals back, and deterring then = making it clear that Westport has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to stealing. (you’re lucky you don’t have the rest of the list happening there yet, incl assaults and vandalism).
Car theft
Completely agree on our responsibility for prevention however, there are no consequences for juvenile criminal behavior so can we please add that to the discussion! Thank you!!