Tag Archives: Carjacking

Roundup: Carjacking Plea, Lanternflies, Crabs …

Posted on August 30, 2024 | 12 comments

The 17-year-old charged in connection with last September’s carjacking of an Aston Martin from the garage of a Bayberry Lane home would not face a home invasion charge — if he agrees to serve 8 1/2 years in prison.

Assistant State’s Attorney Elizabeth Moran made the offer on Tuesday, at State Superior Court in Stamford. It came “in light of the defendant’s age, behavior while being out on release and lack of adult record.”

The teenager has until October 9 to make a decision. Click here for the full story, on CT Insider.

Footage from a security camera of last September’s carjacking.

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Spotted lanternflies are (ugh!) back.

But we don’t have to just sit back and look at their fascinating and ugly selves.

Joe Schnierlein, Aspetuck Land Trust offers these tips, via the Pennsylvania Department of Forestry:

SQUISH THEM

And when you do so, do it well. One adult can lay about 80 eggs.

REMOVE ALL TREE OF HEAVEN

The Tree of Heaven is also invasive, so you are doing double duty. Click here for information.

WRAP TREES AND BUSHES WITH STICKY TAPE

Wrap tape around a tree or shrub. Lanternflies get stuck as they climb up the plant. Tape made by Catch Master (4 30-foot rolls for about $24 is so sticky that you also need to put screening or mesh about 1/2 to 1 inch over the sticky tape, to keep birds from getting stuck in it.

SPRAY WITH VINEGAR & SOAP, OR VINEGAR ALONE

Reports are that this is effective. however, plants may react to the acidity.

REMOVE THE EGG MASSES

Click here to see the lanternfly’s life cycle. Spotted lanternfly egg masses can be laid on any surface (outdoor furniture, fence posts, etc.).

Spotted lanternflies last year, at Winslow Park. (Photo/Michael Mossman)

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A reader writes:

“The Old Mill neighborhood is fed up with the blue crab industry that has arisen on our pristine beach.

“Participants arrive from New York State around low tide anytime after 5 p.m., when they can park legally on Hillspoint Road adjacent to the two concrete stairways down to the beach.

“They often come in groups of 15 at all hours of darkness, each with a bright LED flashlight fastened to their head. The lights disturb the precious marine ecosystem, and the surrounding neighbors’ sleep.

Old Mill crabbers, with LED lights.

“The crabbers harvested crabs the night the town closed the beaches to swimming as a result of the recent huge rainstorm. This could cause serious illness to unsuspecting consumers at the end of the commercial supply chain.

“Perhaps most disconcerting is the trash left behind each night, next to where they park: beer bottles and cans, plastic bottles, food packaging, wet socks, used rubber gloves, cigarette butts, plastic buckets and more.

Old Mill garbage.

“This is just what we see. Who knows what they are discarding in the water that is hidden.

“The town needs to prohibit overnight parking in this area starting at 5 p.m. to any vehicle without a Westport beach permit, and needs to patrol the Old Mill parking lot after 10 p.m.

“This abuse must stop. Our beaches are not intended to support a commercial industry, especially one unsupervised and unchecked by health officials.”

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Registration for Westport Parks & Recreation Department programs begin online this coming Wednesday (September 4, 9 a.m.).

Click here to see all programs.

To prepare: Sign in to your online account. Under “Account Options,” you’ll see your name with a pencil next to the edit button. Select the edit button; then choose the “Contact Info” tab.

Verify that your email address is current; select the save button at the bottom. You will be directed back to the “account options” page.

Under your family name, you will see your family members. Follow the steps below for each family member.

  • select “manage family members”
  • choose a name from the list
  • Under “Family Member Information,” make any necessary changes. Make sure that the grade (if applicable) is correct; hit “Save.”
  • Go to “Contact Information” to verify your cell/home phone, and provide carrier if interested in receiving text messages. Make sure your email is current. Click “Save.”
  • Continue this process for every family member.

Have an address change? Email recreation@westportct.gov.

If you are not able to log into your online account, do not create another profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152.

Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities — the non-profit that helps children with learning and attention differences reach their full potential — has a new short video.

It tells the story of who the group is, and what they do, while inspiring and comforting parents of kids with LD and ADHD.

The film — which features honorary chair Henry Winkler – was created by Westporter Robert Steven Williams.

All interviews wee conducted at the Southport School. Click below to watch:

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Storyfest — the Westport Library’s 7th annual genre-spanning literary festival (and the largest in Connecticut), celebrating all forms of storytelling — is just 3 weeks away.

The event kicks off Friday, September 20, with a keynote conversation with Roxane Gay and Oliver Radclyffe. Saturday (September 21) features a full panel lineup, 2 live podcast recordings, and a dedication to Westport literary icon Sybil Steinberg. Pitchfest caps off the weekend on Sunday (September 22).

Click here for full details.

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Earthplace calls this a “wonder-‘fall'” time of year.

The environmental and educational center welcomes September with live performances, foraging and wildlife programs, a community volunteer clean-up day, a “Harvest Homecoming” including a nature walk, canoe paddle, family campfire, after-school activities and more.

For details, click here.

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The honors keep coming for Harold Bailey Jr.

Yesterday, “06880” reported that the longtime resident/TEAM Westport chair/Westport Country Playhouse board member will be honored — with his wife Bernicestine McLeod Bailey — at the WCP gala with Kristin Chenoweth and Mary-Mitchell Campbell on Saturday, September 14.

The previous week — on September 6 ( 2 p.m.) — Bailey will be featured at the Senior Center, through their “This is Your Life” project.

A collaboration with The Legacy Project USA, it’s an up-close-and-personal look at the lives of friends and neighbors, both well known and quiet — before and during their time here.

Rozanne Gates, co-owner of The Legacy Project, will moderate the event. The public is invited.

Harold Bailey Jr.

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Hummingbirds don’t usually fly too quickly to be photographed.

But this one hung around in Marvin Frimmer’s yard long enough to be captured — photographically, of course — for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Marvin Frimmer)

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And finally … today is National College Colors Day. We’ll celebrate with 3 of the greatest college fight songs in the history of athletics.

Feel free to disagree.

(Here’s one thing no one has to fight over: support for “06880.” We all agree: This is where Westport meets the world. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

12 Comments

Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, Police

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Roundup: Carjacking Update, Mitchells Party, Earthplace Events …

Posted on July 10, 2024 | 4 comments

The 20-year-0ld Waterbury man arrested after last September’s carjacking of an Aston Martin from a Westport garage pleaded guilty yesterday, in Stamford Superior Court.

Vincys Baez was charged with second-degree robbery (with a carjacking enhancement),  first-degree burglary, conspiracy to commit first-degree larceny, and third-degree assault.

He may be sentenced to up to 8 1/2 years in prison.

A 16-yyear-old and 22-year-old were also charged in the crime. Baez and the 22-year-old also face charges related to a car theft the previous day. They are alleged to have stolen a BMW from Church Lane, when the owner was inside a restaurant picking up an order.

Screenshot from a security camera, during the carjacking. The driver is still in the vehicle, in his garage.

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It was the 25th (or so; no one is really sure) annual Mitchells company cookout at Compo Beach last night.

Over 200 employees and family members from the Westport and Greenwich (Richards) stores enjoyed lobster and steak, just a couple of miles from where the original men’s shop opened 66 years ago.

What made it special — and what makes Mitchells the company that it is — is that the grills were manned by the owners.

Mitchells now includes the 4th generation. But Ed and Norma’s 7 grandsons did what the family has always done: led by example.

And the founders’ sons, Jack and Bill — both now in their 80s — were there in their familiar roles: greeting the crowd; making sure everyone felt comfortable;  quietly and humbly, giving back in every way they could.

Bill Mitchell, welcoming everyone at Compo Beach. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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July is humming at Earthplace.

Westport’s non-profit science, conservation, environmental and education center has activities for all ages, all month. They include:

  • 2nd annual Moth Ball (July 12, 8-11 p.m.; $10 adults; under 21 free); nighttime celebration of summer.
  • “Books ‘n’ Bugs: Who’s Living in our Stream?” (July 16, 1-2:30 p.m.; $15 per family). Hands-on, with an Earthplace naturalist.
  • “Invasive Plant Removal” (July 22, 10-11:30 a.m.; free).
  • “Organic Vegetable Gardening for Beginners” (July 24, 2-3 p.m.); $5 members, $10 non-members).

In addition, there’s a photo contest for inclusion in Earthplace’s 2025 calendar. And a few spots are still available for summer camp.

Click here for details on every program and event.

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Speaking of enjoying the outdoors: Blau House & Gardens and the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra present “Music in the Garden” (August 18).

There’s a pre-concert tour of the magnificent property off Bayberry Lane from 4:30 to 5 p.m. The woodwind quintet plays in the gorgeous gardens from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m.

Bring your own picnic, blankets and chairs. There’s a shuttle from Coleytown Elementary School. Tickets are $75.  Click here to order.

A small section of the Blau Gardens.

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“Party School” is a coming-of-age teen romance that “reminds us that it doesn’t matter what college you go to, but what you make of the journey.”

Journalist Jon Hart says his debut novel, with a heavy dose of “school shaming,” was inspired by Fairfield County (his parents lived in Fairfield).

Hart grew up in New York, but says, “Westport is all over ‘Party School.’ One of the main characters, the crowd-pleasing ‘Spicoli with heart,’ was inspired by a Westport native.”

Click here for more information, and to order.

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Wendy Levy calls today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo “First Blush.”

We call it “mouth-watering.”

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … happy 77th birthday to Arlo Guthrie.

Woody Guthrie’s son is best known for “Alice’s Restaurant.” But his 5 decades of work go far beyond that 20-minute Thanksgiving garbage dump talking classic.

I saw him at the Westport Country Playhouse many years ago. He was the consummate performer. And I really loved that great head of white hair.

(You can get anything you want at “06880.” This blog is your blog. But we can’t do it without readers’ support. Please click here to help. Thank you!) 

4 Comments

Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Local business, Media, Police

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Roundup: Detours, Long Lots Meetings, Carjacking …

Posted on October 19, 2023 | 21 comments

We can’t emphasize it enough: I-95 will be a mess this weekend.

And local roads will be collateral damage.

The I-95 northbound entrance ramp at Exit 17 will remain closed from now through Friday, October 31. Traffic is being detoured to Riverside Avenue, then to the Post Road, Sherwood Island Connector, and onto Exit 18.

In addition, parts of I-95 itself will be closed — as will the northbound Exit 17  entrance and exit ramps, and the southbound exit ramp — along with nearby Saugatuck Avenue, from 8 p.m. this Friday, October 20, through 6 a.m. Monday, October 23.

The closures are necessary for the new I-95 northbound bridge to be placed using Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques. While I-95 northbound is closed, 2 lanes of I-95 northbound traffic will be crossed over on the I-95 southbound bridge. Traffic flow in both directions will be severely impacted all weekend.

For additional information on the project, including detours, click here.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee holds a special meeting tonight (Thursday, October 19, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 201), to “meet briefly to accept the written recommendation for presentation to the First Selectwoman.”

That recommendation of a new building is for “Option C,” voted unanimously by the LLSBC earlier this month.

An hour later tonight (Thursday, October 19, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria), the Board of Education agenda includes a discussion/action item: “Long Lots Building Committee Update.”

It will be presented by LLSBC chair Jay Keenan.

The Long Lots project moves forward next Tuesday (October 24, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), with a special session of the Board of Finance. They’ll meet with the Building Committee and Board of Education, “to discuss only their recommendations.”

The Board of Finance will take comments from the public for 30 minutes.

Long Lots School Building Committee.

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A third arrest has been made, in connection with last month’s carjacking incident at a resident’s Bayberry Lane garage.

Vineys Baez, a 20-year-old Waterbury resident, was arrested yesterday.

He was charged with:

  • Home invasion
  • Burglary, 1st degree
  • Robbery by carjacking
  • Assault, 3rd degree
  • Reckless endangerment
  • Larceny 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit larceny, 1st degree
  • Robbery, 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit robbery, 1st degree.

Baez is the second person identified through surveillance video. A third person was also arrested.

Baez was held on $500,000 court set bond.

The Westport Police Detective Bureau has completed their investigation into the carjacking.

Two men were caught on surveillance video taking an Aston martin, as the owner was in the vehicle in his Bayberry Lane garage.

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Westport’s annual Children’s Halloween Parade returns to Main Street next Wednesday (October 25). It’s free for all kids (especially those age 8 and younger).

Children and parents will meet at the Main Street/Post Road East corner at 3:30 p.m. The parade heads up Main Street, then goes right on Avery Place and left on Myrtle Avenue to Town Hall and Veterans Green.

Youngsters may trick or treat along Main Street, and in front of Town Hall. Entertainment, refreshments and a small gift will be provided on Veterans Green (across from Town Hall) at 4 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Westport Parks & Recreation Department, Westport Downtown Association and Westport PAL.

This photo is from 2011. Where is this former Halloween parade-goer today?

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The United Methodist Church invites everyone to a couple of cool — and very different — events.

This Saturday (October 21, 1 to 3 p.m.), “Trunk or Treat” offers a fun, safe Halloween alternative for kids under 12, with snacks and games.

The suggested admission price is simple: 5 non-perishable food items for the Person to Person pantry, per child.

Don’t be spooked by the weather forecast. It’s on, rain or shine. (Heavy rain will move it indoors.)

On Sunday, October 29 (4 p.m.). “Jazz Vespers” is an inspiring service of words and music with a quartet featuring UMC’s new music director, John Hoddinott. A free will offering will be received.

Trunk or treat!

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An Israeli flag appeared on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge last night.

It was apparently not placed there by town officials, or the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut.

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It’s Thursday.

That means the Westport Farmers’ Market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

Everyone is welcome. Except, of course …

(Photo/Rachel Konstantin)

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The Levitt Pavilion season is not over.

Well, at least not until tonight.

This evening (Thursday, October 19, 7:30 p.m.) the outdoor venue transforms into a giant disco, with the debut presentation of Say She She.

The band’s album “Prism” is under consideration for a Grammy nomination for Best R&B album. Meanwhile, their new album “Silver” is earning raves.

The new turf area in front of the stage provides a perfect dance floor. In a nod to the season, the terrace bar will offer hot chocolate.

Additional free tickets have just been released. They’re available at www.levittpavilion.com,  and 2 hours before showtime at the box office.

Click  below for the band’s special shoutout to Westport:

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For many years, Penny Slinger wanted to visit Friday Kahlo’s home.

In July, the London-born, Los Angeles-based artist’s dream came true.

She recorded her visit in photographs. Now she’s sharing her experience with audiences around the country.

On November 2 (7 p.m.), Slinger brings her “Frida Kahlo and Me” exhibition to MoCA Westport. It’s a side-by-side comparison of both women’s works.

Advance registration is requested: $10 general admission, free for MoCA members. Click here to register, and for more information.

Penny Slinger, and art materials.

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I can’t imagine a more “Westport … Naturally” photo than this one:

(Photo/Jim Hood)

Sure, it’s Koda — one of the beach neighborhood’s most famous dogs.

But it could be anyone’s. Anywhere in town.

Westport loves its pooches!

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And finally … Say She She will be at the Levitt Pavilion tonight (story above).

If you have no idea who they are (and I sure didn’t), click below. Enjoy!

(If you appreciate “06880” saving you from traffic hell this weekend, please consider a donation. Click here — and thank you!)

21 Comments

Posted in Downtown

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Auto Theft Audience Applauds Police, Demands Legislative Action

Posted on September 21, 2023 | 27 comments

Westporters respect, admire, even love their police department.

Westporters hate laws that hamper law enforcement, attract criminals, and allow juvenile car thieves to return here again and again, sometimes even taunting officers.

Both themes emerged strongly last night, at a Town Hall forum with the Westport Police command staff, a representative of the Bridgeport Auto Theft Task Force, and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

The event was scheduled in the wake of a Bayberry Lane carjacking Sunday afternoon. Two people were arrested within 72 hours — but the incident highlighted the ongoing problem of auto thefts.

The panel at last night’s forum (from right): 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Westport Police command staff David Farrell, Ryan Paulsson, David Wolf, Anthony Prezioso, Jillian Cabana, and Bridgeport Auto Theft Task force officer David Scinto. Not pictured: Eric Woods. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Police Chief Foti Koskinas and his top aides told the crowd of over 150 — including his counterparts from neighboring towns, and several TV crews — that several factors contribute to the thefts, which so far this year number 50.

One is the number of expensive cars owned by Westporters. Unfortunately — despite repeated warnings — residents continue to leave their cars unlocked, with the keys in the ignition or fobs inside, and valuables in plain sight.

One of the 2 BMWs driven by the pair to the Bayberry Lane carjacking had been stolen the night before on Church Lane. A resident left his car running, while he went into a restaurant to pick up a takeout order.

Residents can take precautions to make it harder for thieves to spot and steal vehicles, Koskinas and the officers noted.

But another element in the rash of thefts stems from laws passed several years ago by state legislators, severely limiting consequences for juvenile offenders. They know exactly how quickly they can be released; how hard it is for police to find out if they’ve committed prior crimes; how insignificantly they’ll be punished; even how constrained officers now are to give chase following a property crime.

(The carjacking was different– it was a crime against a person, as the driver was still in his vehicle. However, police must still consider many factors like traffic, weather and road conditions when giving chase — things that people in stolen cars never consider.)

Two people confront a car owner in his garage on Sunday.

Koskinas and his department received several strong rounds of applause, with most speakers beginning their remarks by thanking them for all they do despite the challenging circumstances.

But applause was even more sustained for speakers who demanded that the General Assembly revisit, and revise, legislation that hamstrings police at many levels of their work, particularly with juvenile offenders.

Police are also impacted by a “Police Accountability Law,” which make them more responsible for decisions made in the heat of the moment, including during a crime and while trying to apprehend a criminal.

“We are not inept,” Lieutenant Anthony Prezioso said. “But criminals know what we can and cannot do. They know what lines to cross, and what the system offers them at their age. They flaunt it.”

“This is not a partisan issue. It’s a safety issue,” said Westport Representative Town Meeting member Jimmy Izzo.

Though different municipalities have different priorities, Koskinas noted that car thefts have ramifications beyond taking property, and violating trust. Stolen cars are often used in other crimes, including burglaries, robberies, drug deals and drive-by shootings, in cities like Bridgeport, Waterbury, Hartford, even Newark.

The juvenile justice system works for “98 or 99%” of youths arrested, Prezioso said. He supports the move toward restorative justice — with accountability to parents and themselves — rather than punishment.

But for “the other 1 or 2%,” the loopholes are wide. And widely exploited.

Prezioso described the pandemic’s impact on juvenile justice. When courthouses were shut, it created a backlog of cases that continues today.

“The same 50 to 75 kids across the state are responsible for most of the crimes,” Deputy Chief Ryan Paulsson said.

“We know exactly who they are. But our hands are tied.”

When the public spoke, several asked about personal safety. Beyond the oft-repeated advice — lock cars always; keep them in a garage, with keys, fobs and valuables removed — officers recommended lights all around a property, including the back; being aware at all times; making sure vehicles have tracking devices, and calling police for any suspicious activity.

Knowing your neighbors, and working together, also helps.

Diane Lowman was among 2 dozen people who spoke at last night’s forum. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Yet the loudest applause came from residents who castigated politicians who promoted, and passed, legislation that has led to the current situation.

Koskinas agreed. While praising support he’s received from Westport officials, who provide him with the tools and personnel he needs — along with the regional cooperation of many law enforcement agencies — he made the “not great analogy” with the current debate on gun safety.

“Cars are bullets too,” he said. “An unsecured car can become as dangerous as an unsecured gun.”

In the aftermath of the carjacking, Koskinas said, all of Westport’s legislators reached out to him.

“Our state legislature needs input from police departments — and everyone here” to change the current laws, he said, to robust applause.

“I hope they’re as tenacious about this as they were when they passed the Police Accountability bill.”

(Hat tip: Bill Dedman) 

27 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Police

Tagged , ,

Unsung Heroes #303

Posted on September 20, 2023 | 4 comments

This week’s Unsung Heroes selection is a no-brainer.

Less than 48 hours after Sunday’s carjacking, the Westport Police helped arrest two suspects. They also recovered the Aston Martin stolen from a Bayberry Lane garage.

Working with the Bridgeport Auto Theft Task Force (of which Westport is a member), the Connecticut State Police Violent Crime Task Force, and the Berlin and Waterbury Police Departments, a 39-year-old man and juvenile were arrested yesterday.

It took a ton of effort. Westport detectives worked tirelessly. Police Chief Foti Koskinas had “a couple of sleepless nights.”

But the job got done quickly, efficiently and effectively.

Kudos to everyone involved, from the first responders to all who worked behind the scenes. You truly do “serve and protect.”

(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com).

4 Comments

Posted in Police, Unsung Heroes

Tagged

Roundup: Carjacking Forum, Car Theft Podcast, Lyman Apartments …

Posted on September 20, 2023 | 3 comments

Tonight’s special forum on car thefts, vehicle break-ins and Sunday’s carjacking (Wednesday, September 20, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will also be livestreamed. Click here to access that page, on the town’s website.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas will lead a discussion on safety concerns voiced by residents. He and members of his command staff will describe the work of the Regional Auto Theft Task Force, formed in response to increased car thefts and vehicle break-ins in the area.

The discussion will also include police practices utilized to combat vehicle thefts.

Yesterday, Koskinas and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker taped a special edition of “What’s Happening … Westport.” They discussed the escalation in incidents, and what residents can do. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston podcast.

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Meanwhile, Westport Police made one custodial arrest between September 13 nd 20. A woman was charged with disorderly conduct, following a domestic dispute.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations 6 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signs: 2
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Distracted driving (2nd offense): 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle using a handheld phone: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Improper use of license plates: 1

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As winter nears, Westport’s sister city of Lyman is in a race against time.

52 apartment buildings need repairs, so they can survive the cold weather and be fully restored in the spring.

Ukraine Aid International co-founder Brian Mayer — the Westporter who helped create the sister city relationship, and has made many trips to Lyman on our behalf — sends a video that shows how much our town has helped.

And how much remains to be done.

(Donations through Ukrainian Aid International will help rebuild the many heavily damaged apartments. Click here to help. Under “Designation,” click the dropdown menu and select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”)

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This Friday’s Westport Country Playhouse show is called “I’ll Drink to That! A Broadway Cocktail Party.”

Fittingly, it will feature Broadway stars.

Joe Delafield, Kristen Hahn and Maggie Lacey will perform cocktail-themed tunes and scenes from Broadway productions, while author Laurence Maslon recounts tales of actors, shows, and cocktail concoctions from his recently published book, “I’ll Drink to That!”

The event (September 22, 6 p.m., Playhouse courtyard and barn) begins with cocktails that pay homage to Broadway. The 70-minute program concludes with a second cocktail and book signing. Cocktails are included with $50 ticket.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

From left: Joe Delafield, Kristen Hahn, Maggie Lacy.

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STAR Inc. and Voices Center for Resilience present a special program: “A 22-Year Journey from 9/11 to Today: Helping Families and Communities Prepare for Emergencies” (October 18, 7 p.m., Westport Library).

Mary Fetchet — founding Director of Voices Center for Resilience — lives in New Canaan. Her son Brad died in the September 11 attacks.

She will share her personal experience and perspective on preparing communities in advance of a tragedy. The presentations also includes representatives of local and state emergency management, highlighting their efforts to prepare communities.

For more information and to register,  click here.

Mary Fetchet, with a photo of her son Brad.

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When kids go to the doctor, they may be nervous.

Like many offices, Village Pediatrics provides distractions to calm their nerves.

Their latest surprise, for patients big and small: an outer space room.

Huck (in the rocket control center) and Lola Shipman, with their mother.

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Speaking of doctors: BD²: Breakthrough Discoveries for Thriving with Bipolar Disorder today announced an $18 million first round of grants, focusing on research in bipolar disorder.

Among the recipients: Westport resident Dr. Hilary Blumberg. She will lead a Yale University team in an investigation of mitochondrial-related genes, metabolic changes, and the central importance of energy- and activity-related symptoms at the onset of bipolar-related episodes. These studies w may translate that into pharmacological therapeutics and behavioral interventions. (Hat tip: Sherri Peyser)

Dr. Hilary Blumberg

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The bar for “06880” Entitled Parking photos has been set incredibly high.

Drivers must now show breathtaking acts of selfishness to be featured here.

This one does:

(Photo/David Meth)

That’s not one, but two handicap spots taken up at Stop & Shop.

Plus, the car is taking up space in the drivers’ part of the lot too.

And — of course! — there is no handicap placard inside the car.

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Johanna Keyser Rossi reports for “Westport … Naturally” from Sherwood Island State Park:

“There were lots of monarch butterflies yesterday, all around the milkweeds and bees. Unfortunately, lanternflies were everywhere too.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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Roger Whittaker — described by the New York Times as “a British singer whose easy-listening ballads and folk songs caught the sentiments of perfect summer days and last farewells, touching the hearts of mainly older fans across Europe and America for four decades” — died last week in France. He was 87.

Click here for a full obituary.

(By contributing to”06880,” you support local news coverage. Please click here to help your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

3 Comments

Posted in Library, Local politics, Police, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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Juvenile Arrested In Westport Carjacking

Posted on September 19, 2023 | 21 comments

The Westport Police Department has issued this press release:

Earlier today, the Westport Police Detective Bureau arrested a 16-year-old juvenile in connection with the carjacking that occurred this past Sunday.

Based on information obtained by the Westport Detective Bureau, a warrant to search a residence in Berlin, CT was secured.

(Yesterday), the warrant was executed by members of the Bridgeport Auto Theft Task Force, of which Westport is a member, along with members of Berlin Police Department.  During this search 4 stolen motor vehicles were recovered, one of which was the Aston Martin taken during the carjacking.

 

Aston Martin recovered in Berlin.

A 2021 BMW 530i that was stolen from Westport on September 16 and used in the carjacking was also located during the search.

Finally, a BMW stolen from Ridgefield and a Porsche stolen from Rhode Island were also recovered. Thirty-nine-year-old Derrick McGill, who lives at the home where the stolen cars were found, was placed under arrest  by the Bridgeport Auto Theft Task Force but does not currently have charges pending in Westport. He is being held on a $250,000 bond and has been charged with the following crimes:

  • Larceny of Motor Vehicle 1st Degree (4 Counts)
  • Conspiracy to Commit Larceny of Motor Vehicle 1st (1 Count)
  • Payment Card Theft (1 Count)
  • Illegal Operation of a Chop Shop (1 Count)
  • Conspiracy to Commit Illegal Operation of a Chop Shop (1 Count)

BMWs stolen  from Westport and Ridgefield.

On September 19, 2023, Westport Police Detectives, the Connecticut State Police Violent Crime Task Force, and members of the Waterbury Police Department executed a second search warrant on a residence in Waterbury. A handgun with an extended magazine was seized.

A 16-year-old juvenile who resides in the home was arrested by Westport police after evidence linking him to the carjacking was uncovered. He was charged with the following crimes:

  • Strangulation 1st Degree
  • Robbery by Carjacking
  • Burglary 1st Degree
  • Criminal Attempt to Commit Larceny of Motor Vehicle 1st Degree
  • Assault 3rd Degree
  • Home invasion

Additionally, he was arrested for his alleged involvement in the theft of the BMW on September 16, 2023, and used in the carjacking. The juvenile was charged with the following:

  • Larceny of Motor Vehicle 1st Degree
  • Illegal Taking of Payment Card

Westport detectives will seek an order to detain and if granted the juvenile will be transported to Bridgeport Juvenile Detention Center later today.

Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas stated, “By utilizing technology, inter-departmental cooperation, and good old fashioned police work, the Detective Bureau in concert with Bridgeport Auto-theft Task Force was able to make rapid progress in this investigation which resulted in the arrest of one of the suspects less than 36 hours after the incident occurred.”

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker said, “As always, the professionalism, expertise and experience of our Westport Police Department, was on full display as they worked diligently and rapidly to solve this case. I am also grateful for the assistance from the other State and municipal agencies and the Task Force who helped bring it to a swift conclusion.”

She added, “Together with our public safety officials, we will continue the conversations and daily practices to deter further incidents, and to make Westport a community that remains safe and welcoming for all.”

Westport Police want to thank the Connecticut State Police Violent Crime Task Force, Bridgeport Auto Theft Task Force, Berlin Police Department and Waterbury Police Department for their assistance with the investigation.

Westport Police Detectives continue to work with partner agencies in developing leads to identify additional suspects involved in this incident.

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Townwide Forum On Wednesday Will Address Auto Thefts, Carjacking

Posted on September 18, 2023 | 19 comments

Yesterday’s carjacking — and the recent spike in car thefts — has rattled many Westporters.

This Wednesday (September 20, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) Westport Police Department and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will host a town forum on public safety. It will focus on car thefts, vehicle break-ins, and Sunday’s carjacking.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas will lead a discussion on safety concerns voiced by residents. He and members of his command staff will describe the work of the Regional Auto Theft Task Force, formed in response to increased car thefts and vehicle break-ins in the area.

The discussion will also include police practices utilized to combat vehicle thefts.

All Westporters are invited to Wednesday’s event.

Meanwhile, Westport Police have released Ring videos of the carjacking. Portions of the video have been redacted, to protect the victim’s identity.

 

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Koskinas On Carjacking, Car Thefts, What Cops Can And Can’t Do

Posted on September 18, 2023 | 38 comments

Yesterday’s daylight carjacking in the garage of a Bayberry Lane home surprised and shook many Westporters.

One man was not surprised: Police Chief Foti Koskinas.

With the rise in car thefts and break-ins around town — always of unlocked vehicles — he’s feared an escalation like this was coming.

He’s also frustrated. He followed the stolen vehicle from I-95 exit 19 to Route 8 exit 27, where he had to stop.

Two carjackers surround the driver of an Aston Martin in his Bayberry Lane garage yesterday.

The carjacking — with an assault on the driver, in his vehicle in his own garage — is different from the “property crimes” of break-ins and thefts.

Early this morning — after being up all night — Koskinas discussed both with “06880.”

“There is a level of frustration, as a department,” the chief said. “There’s not much we can do initially,” when officers respond to a break-in or theft.

“We do all the follow-up. We try to get DNA, and lift fingerprints. We have an officer on an Auto Theft Task Force with area towns. They’ve recovered cars, and guns.”

But the problem starts with cars that are left unlocked in driveways, or open garages — often with the keys, fobs and/or valuables in plain sight.

None of the car thefts have involved jump starts or punched ignitions, Koskinas said.

The carjacking was different. Two men followed the victim — driving an Aston Martin — home, then assaulted him and stole his car.

They followed him in 2 vehicles that they had stolen previously.

When Koskinas saw the Aston Martin, he followed it on and off the highway.

The drivers “were taunting me — baiting me,” Koskinas said. “They were not afraid.” Eventually — due to heavy traffic, and the potential for an accident — the chief had to back off.

Westport Police Chief Fotios Koskinas (Photo/Dan Woog)

Those were legitimate concerns after a carjacking. Connecticut laws on pursuit following a property theft — an unlocked car, for example — are even more restrictive.

“It makes sense. You don’t want to injure or kill someone — the car thief or anyone else — after a property crime.”

But to not give officers the latitude to make that decision in the middle of the night, when there is very light traffic, for example, is frustrating.

So is the knowledge that catching car thieves — many of whom are juveniles — is almost fruitless.

The official age of “juveniles” was raised years ago, from 16 to 18. Juveniles caught now are released within hours, Koskinas said — even if they have multiple charges already pending. It’s almost like fishermen’s “catch and release.”

“The court system is overwhelmed,” Koskinas said. “They’re still backlogged with pre-COVID cases. And young people know what the police can and can’t do.”

He noted that the consequences for yesterday’s crime — if the carjackers are caught — are much more serious than a simple car theft.

“I try not to do politics,” Koskinas said. “But every time I hear a politician touting that jails are empty and crime is down — well, it’s not true. The hands of the police are tied.

“People talk about holding police accountable for their actions. They should. In Westport, we hold ourselves to the highest standard. But society has to be held accountable too. There’s a balance.

“Its extremely frustrating,” Koskinas continued. “These guys know if they come to Westport, they’ll be successful. So they come, the word gets out, and they come back and bring others. They have a high rate of success here, stealing very nice cars.”

Westport police recover almost 100% of cars — often with extensive damage. The stolen cars don’t go to chop shops, or overseas, the chief says.

They’re used to commit other crimes: robberies, street crimes, gang-related shootings in other cities.

Koskinas has increased patrols at times when crimes happen. He’ll continue to do so.

Koskinas is heartened that every town official — from “the selectwoman’s office to the newest RTM member” — has supported his requests. “My hands have never been tied,” he said.

But, he noted, “we have 10,000 or 11,000 homes in town. Yesterday, 2 people followed someone home. Having another 10 officers might have helped after this happened, but it wouldn’t have stopped it before.”

So what can Westporters do? Be very careful of your surroundings. Call the police — any time — when something looks or feels suspicious.

And park your cars in locked garages. If they must be outdoors, put them in well-lit areas, with keys, fobs and all valuables safely inside your home.

Thieves go where they’ll be most successful. The harder we make it for them in Westport, the less chance they’ll keep coming back.

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Carjackers Attack In Bayberry Lane Garage

Posted on September 17, 2023 | 23 comments

A Bayberry Lane resident was a victim today of a carjacking — in his own garage.

At 3:50 this afternoon (Sunday), he pulled into his garage. Two men followed him in.

They assaulted the man while he was in his vehicle, forcibly removed him, and stole his blue Aston Martin.

Westport Police believe the suspects arrived in a dark blue BMW, as it was seen fleeing along with the stolen vehicle.

The victim suffered minor injuries, but declined medical attention.

Both vehicles were last seen traveling north on Route 8.

The Westport Police Detective Bureau is investigating the carjacking. Anyone with information should call 203-341-6080.

Police add: “It is believed the victim was targeted and followed back to their residence. We encourage residents to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior to 911.”

The incident was captured on the Ring app:

Two men surround the victim’s car, after he pulls into his garage.

A few seconds later, they attack him from the same side. (Photos from Ring app)

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