NEWS RELEASE
Date: February 29, 2020
Contact: Captain Ronald Smith
Phone: (203) 230-4029
PIO#: 20-25
On February 27, 2020 at approximately 10:40a.m. Hamden Police responded to 125 Putnam Avenue, Davenport Residence, on the report of an unwanted person. Central Communications advised responding officers that John Sullo was on the premises and that he was operating an unregistered tow truck. Central Communications further advised officers that there were 5 active warrants on file for Sullo’s arrest.
Officer Steven Teague and Officer Derick Manning located Sullo and subsequently conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of Clifford Street and Ralston Avenue. As officers attempted to arrest him, Sullo “aggressively” resisted. Sullo was able to escape, enter the tow truck, and flee towards Treadwell Street.
Moments later, Sullo drove into a driveway located on Marne Street. He then placed the vehicle in reverse, while lowering the boom on the tow truck. He then attempted to strike an occupied police vehicle. Officers quick actions avoided a collision. Sullo promptly drove towards Haig Street, before entering Dixwell Avenue.
While on Dixwell Avenue, Sullo drove the tow truck northbound, at a high rate of speed. He subsequently struck a motor vehicle, utility pole and 2 traffic signs. Sullo then exited his vehicle and fled on foot towards Route 15. Officer Teague and Officer Manning were able to successfully apprehend Sullo, after her again violently resisted.
The operator of the vehicle that Sullo struck reported neck and back injuries and was transported to Yale-New Haven Hospital. Four Hamden Police Officers were injured during the incident.
John Sullo, 42, of 125 Putnam Avenue, Apartment 506, Hamden was charged with 2 counts of Assault on a Police Officer, Interfering with a Police Officer, Failure to Appear in the 1st Degree, 4 counts of Failure to Appear in the 2nd Degree, Reckless Driving, Operating a Motor Vehicle without Insurance, Operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Evading Responsibility and Engaging an Officer in Pursuit. He was detained on bonds totaling $139,500.00. Sullo is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on March 12th.
Hamden Police arrested a violent felon that was wanted on 5 active arrest warrants. Four police officers and a civilian suffered injuries during the incident. As per Department protocol, the incident will be closely reviewed to determine if officers were in compliance with State of Connecticut and Department Policy.
