NEWS RELEASE
Date: January 22, 2021
Contact: Captain Ronald Smith
Phone: (203) 230-4029
PIO#: 21-12
On January 21, 2021, at approximately 7:30p.m. Deputy Chief Bo Kicak responded to
the report of a “fight” at Walmart, 2300 Dixwell Avenue. His investigation revealed that a
male, who was later identified as Shavon Bethea-Lafrazier, threatened two people
inside of the store, including a pregnant female.
Bethea-Lafrazier and his accomplice, Jaydah Gore, subsequently fled on foot, before
entering a motor vehicle. Deputy Chief Kicak approached the vehicle, at which time
Bethea-Lafrazier drove at him at a high rate of speed.
Moments later, Detective Mark Sheppard observed Bethea-Lafrazier’s vehicle travel
towards the southbound entrance to Route 15. A pursuit ensued. During the pursuit,
Bethea-Lafrazier purposely struck a Hamden Police vehicle. Bethea-Lafrazier’s vehicle
left the roadway, coming to a stop in nearby bushes. Bethea-Lafrazier and Gore were
arrested and transported to police headquarters.
Officers quickly determined that the firearm might have been thrown from the vehicle. A
subsequent search led to the discovery of a loaded 9mm handgun, with a 30 round
extended magazine. Further investigation revealed that the firearm was stolen from a
Hamden resident on December 23, 2020.
Hamden Police arrested:
Shavon Bethea-Lafrazier, 24, of 25 Market Street, 2nd floor, New Haven. He was
charged with Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Carrying a Pistol without a Permit,
Illegal Possession of a High Capacity Magazine, Reckless Endangerment in the 2nd
Degree, Criminal Attempt to Assault a Police Officer, Theft of a Firearm, Threatening in
the 2nd Degree, Breach of Peace in the 2nd Degree and Violation of a Protective Order.
Bethea-Lafrazier, who was detained on a $200,000.00 bond, is scheduled to appear at
Meriden Superior court today.
Jaydah Gore, 21, of 34 Bradley Avenue, Hamden. She was charged with Breach of
Peace in the 2nd Degree. Gore, who was released on a written promise to appear, is
scheduled to appear at Meriden Superior Court on April 5, 2021.
