LEICESTER                                 Police Department

Press                        Release

Keeping Our Residents Updated With The Activities of Your Police Department

Tuesday – October 5, 2010 

 House Break on Auburn Street

An Auburn Street resident came home today at approximately 3 PM and entered the residence only to be confronted by a male who had broken in.  Male fled North on Auburn Street on foot and no vehicle was seen.   Leicester, Auburn and State Police searched area using a K-9 without any luck.   Crime scene processing led to the discovery of a very promising lead.   Suspect is a white male 5’ 08” tall, approximately 40-50 years old with salt and pepper hair.   He was seen walking earlier from the area of Stafford and Auburn Street north up Auburn Street.   More information will be disseminated as it becomes available.

 

Tuesday – October 6, 2010  

 RE: House Break on Marshal Street 

There was another house break in Leicester today.  The house break occurred on Marshall Street between 3 PM and 5:30 PM.  This is a similar time frame to yesterday’s house break on Auburn Street.  Crime scene processing was done at the home.   This is the third house break in Marshall Street in the past month.   Vehicle wanted in connection with a prior house break on Marshall Street was a four door sedan color green (witness stated it was an unusual color green).  Please report any suspicious activity in you neighborhood immediately to the LPD.  

Monday – September 27, 2010  

To: All Leicester Residents and Community Members 

From: Chief Jim HurleyRE: Attempted House Break on Whittemore Street

 

At approximately 9:45 AM this morning a white male approximately 20 years of age, clean shaven operating a green 4 door sedan attempted to break into a home on Whittemore Street in Leicester.  Resident was home at the time and had all doors to the home locked.   Suspect rang the bell and when resident did not answer as the resident was not expecting anyone the suspect attempted to kick in the front door.   Resident yelled they were calling the police and suspect jumped into vehicle which was backed into the driveway and fled toward Bond Street.  A search of the surrounding area by Leicester, Paxton and State Police failed to locate the vehicle.   Residents in and around the Whittemore Street and Marshall Street areas should be particularly alert as there have been a number of house breaks in this area.

Please report all suspicious activity in your neighborhood immediately to the Leicester Police Department by calling 911.

 

9-16-10 RE: House Breaks, Car Breaks and Phone Scam 

  1. House Breaks – For the second time in a little less than a week there has been a house break on Marshall Street.   We have had very few house breaks this year but to have two this close together and in the same neighborhood is highly unusual.   Please keep an eye out for any suspicious activity in your neighborhood and report it immediately the Leicester PD.
     
  1. Car Breaks – We had several car breaks over the past few days.   Please remember to lock your vehicle even when it is parked outside your home.  Remove all GPS systems, laptops, I-pods, wallets and other electronic devices from the vehicle when it is parked.   The individuals who are committing these car breaks are targeting vehicles that have these items inside.  We made a significant number of arrests of suspects who were committing car breaks over the past few months thanks to tips from alert neighbors. 
     
  1. Automated Phone Scam – Last Saturday a number of area residents reported that they received an automated phone call from Country Bank informing them that their bank card had been locked.  The message requested that the person receiving the call enter their bank code via the telephone keypad to unlock their card.   This was a wide scale scam which targeted communities from communities from Lowell to Leicester.   Please contact Country Bank immediately if you gave out any information in response to this call and you can report the incident to the LPD via our website at www.leicesterpd.org and use the internet crime reporting system.

As always should you have any questions or concerns pertaining to any of these issues please feel free to contact me at your convenience. 


9-8-10 Disturbance Ends with Drug Arrest 

Leicester - A disturbance at a local business ended with the arrest of an East Brookfield woman on Tuesday evening.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the incident began at approximately 6:45 PM when a local business contacted the Leicester Police Department Dispatch Center reporting a disturbance involving a female who had been recently fired by the business who was now outside creating a disturbance.   Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Scot Brooks responded to the scene.  Upon arrival at the business the officers encounter the male and a female in a motor vehicle outside the business.   When approached by the officers the male operator of the vehicle turned over a marijuana pipe that was in the vehicle.   A subsequent search of the motor vehicle led to the discovery of prescription narcotics in the female passenger’s purse for which she could not produce a valid prescription or labeled bottle in her name.   She has been identified as Ryann N. Bathgate, 25, 308 East Main Street #1, East Brookfield, MA.   She has been charged with; 

1.      Possession of a Class C substance – Valium

2.      Possession of a Class E substance - Seroquel

3.      Possession of a Class E substance - Nylan

4.      Possession of a Class E substance – Celexa 

Officers also issued a non criminal citation to Ms. Bathgate for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana.  Ms. Bathgate was booked at the Leicester Police Department and released on $100 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court this morning.  The arrest and investigation was handled by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Scot D. Brooks.

8-23-10
Three Charged With Attempted Break In At Business Complex

Leicester – Two Holden residents and a Worcester man were arrested Sunday afternoon after they attempted to break into a business complex in Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 5:50 PM when a caller notified the Leicester Police Department Dispatch Center that two male subjects were attempting to break into the rear of 69 Main Street (Rt. 9) in Leicester.   The building is a former mill that has been converted to a business complex which houses a number of commercial establishments.   The caller was able to update the dispatch center as to what the suspects were doing, including trying to kick in a rear door of the building, as officers were responding to the scene.    Prior to the police officers arriving at the scene the two suspects fled from the area of the building on foot towards McCarthy Ave and Brook Street.    As Officer Derrick Ruth arrived at the scene he observed a motor vehicle traveling west on Brooks Street in excess of the legal speed limit.  As the vehicle passed by Officer Ruth he observed on person slouched down in the front passenger seat attempting to hide from view and a second passenger wearing clothing that matched the description provided by the witness to the attempted break in. 

The vehicle was stopped and after a brief investigation all three suspects were arrested.  The suspects who were arrested have been identified by police as: 

  1. John R. Collette, 23 of 103 Rodney Street (2nd), Worcester, MA
  2. Christopher M. Katinas, 24, of lka 60 Jackson Street, Jefferson, MA
  3. Danielle C. Dickman, 20, of lka 60 Jackson Street, Jefferson, MA

John Collette and Christopher Katinas were charged with: 

  1. Attempted Breaking and Entering in Daytime
  2. Malicious Destruction of Property Over $250.00

Danielle Dickman was charged with: 

  1. Accessory Before the Fact
  2. Accessory After the Fact

Chief Hurley indicated that Officers Derrick Ruth and Michael Fontaine who conducted the investigation were able to determine that Mr. Katinas and Collette asked Danielle Dickman to drive them to the business complex in Leicester.   The two men instructed Ms. Dickman to drop them off in the vicinity of the complex and then to wait nearby in the area.  The two men then attempted to forcibly enter the business complex damaging a rear door.   Approximately 10 minutes later the two men came running at a full sprint back to the car and instructed Ms. Dickman to “get out of here quick,” at which point Ms. Dickman attempted to drive the men our of the area.   Sgt. Paul Doray assisted in the arrests and investigation. 

All three suspects were held overnight at the Leicester Police Department on bail and were scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court this morning (Monday).

8-23-10
Correction / Clarification 

The July 19, 2010 Leicester Police Department log indicated that an arrest was made at Mum’s Restaurant; 15 South Main Street, Leicester.  The arrest did not take place at nor was it associated with Mum’s Restaurant but rather was the arrest of an individual walking through the parking lot of the plaza. 

8-19-10

RE:  An Arrest Earlier Today Man Arrested After Brandishing Hand Gun During Neighbor Dispute 

Leicester – A local resident was arrested this afternoon (Thursday) after he brandished a handgun during a neighbor dispute.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 1:15 PM when the Leicester Police Department’s Dispatch Center received a report of an irate male waiving a handgun around in the office of the Staffordshire Apartment Complex on Stafford Street in Leicester.   As the responding officers approached the scene they were informed that the man had just left the office and was headed back to his apartment and that he was still armed with a handgun.    Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Julie Berry responded directly to the suspect’s apartment and were able to detain him and recover the handgun when he answered the door at his apartment.    The investigating officers were able to determine that the incident that occurred today stemmed from an ongoing noise dispute between neighbors.  The situation escalated today when one neighbor who was involved in the dispute knocked on Mr. Sarfo’s door to speak to them over the noise coming from his apartment.   The neighbor knocking on the door to his apartment led to Stephen K. Sarfo, 53 of 501 Stafford Street (apt. # 18), Leicester becoming irate.   He did not answer the door but yelled to the person outside his door that he had a gun.   The neighbor immediately left.  Mr. Sarfo waited a short time and then went the management office to complain about the incident.   While in the management office complaining Mr. Sarfo pulled out a loaded Smith and Wesson semi-automatic .40 caliber handgun and began waiving it around.   There were two people in the office at the time of the incident and they were not injured.   After a short period of time Mr. Sarfo returned to his apartment where he was confronted by police who recovered the loaded gun and took Mr. Sarfo into custody.   He was arrested and charged with:

 

  1. Carrying a dangerous weapon
  2. Assault with a dangerous weapon
  3. Disturbing the peace
  4. Disorderly person

 

Police conducted several interviews of witnesses and Chief Hurley indicated that the investigation was still ongoing but indicated that he did not expect any additional arrests in the case.  Mr. Sarfo was being held on $15,000 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Friday morning.   Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo and Detective Timothy Fontaine assisted in the investigation.  Chief Hurley praised the quick work of the responding officers.   The contained the situation and brought it under control immediately.  That’s excellent police work!!

8-18-10
RE: Overnight Activity in Leicester
Man Arrest Breaking into Motor Vehicle Also Wanted on Six Outstanding Warrants

Leicester – A Webster man was arrested early this morning (Wednesday) by Leicester Police on a variety of charges including breaking and entering a motor vehicle.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 4 AM this morning when the Leicester Police Department Dispatch Center received a report of a man breaking into a motor vehicle in the Pleasant Street/Hillcrest Road area of Leicester (we are not releasing exact address based upon restraining order).    The Leicester Police Dispatcher kept the caller on the line and was able to provide responding officers with updates as the suspect’s location in real time as Sgt. Daniel Dyson and Officers Craig Guertin and Frank Bulman responded to the area.   As Sgt. Daniel Dyson arrived in the area he located a parked motor vehicle with a female and her infant son inside the vehicle.   The female in the vehicle indicated that she had driven her brother to location to “pick up some tools that were in his girlfriend’s car.”    She identified her brother as Jake Tomlinson, 23, of 108 Upland Ave. 1R, Webster, MA.   The initial responding officers ran a records check on the Mr. Tomlinson and found that he was wanted on six outstanding arrest warrants and that his ex-girlfriend whose home was nearby had an active restraining order against him.   The officers were also able to determine that a motor vehicle in the driveway of the home which did not belong to ex-girlfriend had been broken into.   Officers determined that Mr. Tomlinson fled the scene as police were arriving in the area.  The Leicester Police requested a State Police K-9 be sent to the scene called for mutual aid from the Spencer Police Department and the State Police Barracks in Brookfield.   Both agencies sent personnel and the Leicester Police were able to set up a perimeter in the hopes of containing Mr. Tomlinson in the area.    Once the perimeter was set up and the K-9 arrived the K-9 was used to track Mr. Tomlinson.   The K-9 tracked from the motor vehicle that had been broken into to a wooded area approximately 200 yards from the scene and gave its handle Trooper Maher an indication that the suspect was in the immediate area.    Police ordered Mr. Tomlinson to surrender but he failed to comply.    With the K-9 standing by Officer Frank Bulman entered into the wooded area and located Mr. Tomlinson laying down hiding in the brush.   He was placed under arrest and transported to the Leicester Police Department for processing.    Mr. Tomlinson was charged with:

 

  1. Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle in the Nighttime
  2. Violation of an Abuse Prevention Order
  3. Resisting Arrest
  4. Straight Warrant – Worcester District Court – Receiving Stolen Property Over $250.00
  5. Default Warrant – Dudley District Court – B&E (misdemeanor) and Destruction of Property Under $250.00
  6. Default Warrant – Dudley District Court – Defacing Property and Assault
  7. Straight Warrant – Dudley District Court – Operating w/ a Suspended License
  8. Default Warrant – Plymouth District Court – Larceny Over $250.00
  9. Straight Warrant – East Brookfield Court – Larceny Over $250.00

 

Mr. Tomlinson was held at the Leicester Police Department and transported to the East Brookfield District Court for arraignment on Wednesday morning.   Officer Craig Guertin assisted Officer Frank Bulman with the arrest and investigation.    The Leicester Police Department’s investigation into the incident remains ongoing according to Chief Hurley and the Leicester Police will be notifying the appropriate Social Service Agencies pertaining to the infant child being present in the vehicle used to transport Mr. Tomlinson to the scene of the crime.

 

Chief Hurley also wants to make residents aware that this is the second incident of car breaks in the last two weeks.  We have been very fortunate that in both cases we have arrested the suspects responsible for the car breaks, but residents must do their part to deter these crimes.   The Chief asks residents to lock their vehicles even when they are parked in their driveways and not leave valuables such as laptops, i-pods or GPS systems in their vehicles.   The Chief also noted that this is the third time in two weeks that the Leicester Police have utilized a State Police K-9 to assist them in making an arrest.   Last week a K-9 located a stash of marijuana in a motor vehicle which lead to an arrest and the seizure of cash, and the last two incidents of car breaks a K-9 was utilized to locate and arrest a total of three suspects.   Chief Hurley also recognized the assistance of the Spencer Police Department during the last two incidents and arrests involving car breaks.    Spencer sent several officers to Leicester to assist and their quick response allowed us to set up the perimeter which is essential to containing the suspect so that K-9 has a better chance of success.   We are fortunate that Spencer PD has been able to send us mutual aid so quickly during both these incidents.  It really made a difference.  This was an excellent team effort from the dispatcher who guided the officers into the scene using information relayed from the victim to all the agencies who worked together to get the job done.

8-8-2010

Two Local Residents Arrested For Motor Vehicle Breaks 

Leicester – Two local men were arrested early Sunday morning and charged in connection with the theft of items from numerous motor vehicles.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 3:30 AM when a resident called to report that two males appeared to be entering motor vehicles on Charles Street in Leicester.    Sgt. Daniel Dyson and Officer Craig Guertin responded to the area and observed the suspects flee into the woods.   The two officers were able to set up a perimeter with the assistance of officers from the Spencer Police Department who responded to the Leicester Police Department’s call for assistance.    Two police K-9’s also responded to the scene one from Auburn PD and one from the State Police.    After a brief search of the woods the State Police K-9 located on suspect in the wood and he was taken into custody.    The second suspect was located a short time later and arrested.   They have been identified as follows: 

  1. Timothy B. Holland, 17, of 19 Burncoat Lane Leicester
  2. Chad Peter Gosselin, 19, last known address of 9 Denny Place, Leicester

Both were arrested on the following charges: 

  1. Breaking & Entering in the nighttime with the intent to commit a felony
  2. Possession of burglarious instrument
  3. Trespassing
  4. Resisting arrest
  5. Receiving stolen property

Both suspects were processed at the Leicester Police Department and were being held on $1,000 bail.   Chief Hurley stated that the officers recovered items which were taken from several motor vehicles during the arrest and subsequent investigation.    Chief Hurley also stated that the investigation is still ongoing and that additional charges could be filed at some point in the near future.   The chief also credited the quick work of Sgt Daniel Dyson and Craig Guertin who were able to set up a perimeter and contain the suspects with the help of several officers from Spencer PD.   We were also fortunate to have two K-9’s respond to the scene so quickly.   The K-9’s really enhanced the officer’s chances to apprehend the suspects.     It was excellent multi-agency teamwork that led to these arrests. 

 

8-8-2010

Disturbance Leads to 2 Arrests 9 Others to be Summonsed & Parents/Homeowners May Be Charged 

Leicester – Two men were taken into custody after a noise complaint led to the discovery of a gathering at local residence where underage drinking was taking place.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 2 PM when the LPD dispatch center received a call reporting a disturbance on Lake Ave in Leicester.   Responding officers located 11 individuals creating a disturbance at 65 Lake Ave., in Leicester and took two individuals into custody during the initial response. 

  1. Matthew P. Brosnan, 20, of 65 Lake Ave., Leicester was taken into custody and charged with person under 21 in possession of alcohol and person under 21 procuring alcohol.   He was also issued a citation for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana.
  1. A 17 year old Millbury man was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant pertaining to a juvenile matter.

Chief Hurley indicated that the investigation into the underage drinking at the residence is ongoing and that all nine other individuals will receive summonses to appear in court on charges related to the underage possession and/or consumption of alcohol or the procurement of alcohol by others for the minors.    Chief Hurley also stated that the parents who were reportedly home at the time of the incident are also the target of the ongoing investigation.   If the responding officers feel that there is enough probable cause to charge the parents with a violation of the state’s “Social Host Law” then they will be charged.    Chief Hurley stated that the Leicester Police Department has a zero tolerance stance on underage drinking and that includes adults who provide or are aware that minors are consuming alcohol at their home.    The chief also noted that this was the second disturbance at this address within the past few days.

5-28-10

 Car Hits Trees and House Southbridge Man Arrested 

Leicester – A Southbridge man was arrested Friday afternoon after the vehicle he was operating veered off of Stafford Street in Leicester hit two small trees, a house and caused damage to a motor vehicle parked in the driveway of the house that it struck.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the accident occurred at approximately 3:10 PM and was witnessed by Officer Derrick Ruth of the Leicester Police Department who was patrolling Stafford Street and was three vehicles behind the one involved in the accident.    Chief Hurley indicated that the Mr. Heriberto was operating a 2004 Ford Explorer west on Stafford Street when it went off the road, struck two small trees in front of 757 Stafford Street, then struck the house and pushed debris from the trees and the house into a car parked in the driveway of 757 Stafford Street causing damage to the vehicle.  The vehicle then went across the driveway of the home into the woods.   Officer Derrick Ruth who witnessed the accident assisted the operator of the vehicle who was involved at the scene and then after a brief investigation placed the operator under arrest.   Leicester Police have identified the operator as Heriberto Cosme, 37, of 42 Syles Street #1, Southbridge, MA.   He was charged with: 

  1. Operating Under the Influence of Drugs
  2. Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
  3. Operating After Suspension of Driver’s License
  4. Possession of a Class A substance (Heroine)

Mr. Heriberto was taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  While Mr. Cosme was being booked at the Leicester Police Department Officer Ruth was able to interview the owner of the motor vehicle that Mr. Cosme was driving.   The owner indicated that the last time she saw her vehicle it was in her driveway parked because of brake problems.   She further indicated that she knows Mr. Cosme but had not given him permission to use the motor vehicle.   Based upon the statement of the vehicle owner Mr. Cosme was additionally charged with ”using a motor vehicle without authority.”   The owner of the vehicle also told Officer Ruth that she had received a message shortly before the Leicester Police contacted her to call the Worcester Police regarding her Ford Explorer being involved in a personal injury accident is Worcester shortly before the Leicester accident.   Officer Ruth was working to coordinate his investigation with the Worcester Police.   Mr. Cosme was being held on $2,500 cash bail at the Leicester Police Department.   The vehicle Mr. Cosme was operating sustained damaged and had to be towed from the scene.

Based upon the addition of the charge of “using a motor vehicle without authority” Mr. Cosme’s bail has been set at $25,000

5-22-10Three Connecticut Residents Arrested for Attempted theft of 13 Laptops 

Leicester – Three Waterbury Connecticut residents were arrested early Saturday night in connection with the attempted theft of 13 computers from the Super Wal-Mart in Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began on Saturday at approximately 3:15 PM when loss prevention personnel from Wal-Mart notified the Leicester Police that two males and a female had attempted to steal 13 laptop computers but fled the store before they could remove all the anti-theft devices on the computer.   Leicester Police responded to the store and also began a search of the area for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier with a Connecticut registration that the suspects fled the scene in.    As officers were checking the area they also had the dispatch center notify Oxford Police of the incident.   Oxford Police notified the Wal-Mart store in Oxford of the incident and learned that the three suspects were in that store a few minutes ago and were leaving the parking lot.   Trooper Andrew Daige of the State Police was monitoring the Leicester and Oxford Police radio transmissions and set up surveillance at the intersection of Routes 12 & 20 in the hope of intercepting the motor vehicle.   A short time later Trooper Daige observed the 1997 Cavalier pass by his location.  Trooper Daige stopped and detained the suspects.   Oxford PD responded to Trooper Daige’s location and assisted.   Leicester Police also responded to the scene and arrested all three suspects.   They were transported by State, Oxford and Leicester Police back to the Leicester Police Department for booking.   They have been identified and charged as follows: 

Suspect #1

Amie M. Aquino (age 33)
55 Elmwood Ave.
Waterbury, CT 06708 

Attempting to commit a crime (to wit larceny over)

Conspiracy

Outstanding warrant from Springfield District Court for shoplifting

 

Suspect #2

Julio A. Felix (age 27)

24 Laurel Street  #1

Waterbury, CT 06708

 

Attempting to commit a crime (to wit larceny over)

Conspiracy

 

Suspect #3

Jason McHolland (age 37)

55 Elmwood Ave.

Waterbury, CT 06708

 

Attempting to commit a crime (to wit larceny over)

Conspiracy

Furnishing a false name during booking

 

All three were booked at the Leicester Police Department where they were being held on $7,500 bail.  Chief Hurley indicated that Mr. McHolland provided police with an incorrect name during booking, but that the live scan finger print check run by the Leicester Police Department matched his fingerprints to another name.    The chief also stated that this was an outstanding arrest by all the agencies involved and it illustrates the excellent interagency cooperation and communication that took place by all the officers and agencies involved.  The chief also indicated that the investigation is ongoing and that the Leicester Police will be working with other agencies in Massachusetts, Connecticut and beyond to link these suspects to other multiple shopliftings in the region.   The total value of the property stolen was almost $5,000.

5-16-10 Three Arrested for Multiple Car Breaks in Leicester 

Leicester – Two adults and a juvenile were arrested late Saturday night in connection with the breaking and entering of nine motor vehicles in the King Street area of Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 11:30 PM on Saturday night when a resident saw two individuals breaking into a vehicle at his residence.   The resident called police and reported that the suspect had fled on foot.   All three Leicester Police cruisers that were on duty responded to the call and as the officers preceded to the scene they were all assigned separate approaches to the take to the scene hoping to trap the suspects in the immediate area.    Officers also requested that a police K-9 be dispatched to the scene for tracking purposes.    As Officer Ronald Tarentino approached the scene he observed a 2001 Ford Focus color black leaving the area. As the vehicle approached the officer’s cruiser Officer Tarentino illuminated the vehicle with his cruiser’s spot light.   Inside the vehicle he could see three males who were all dressed in black and they were sweaty as if they had been running.   Additionally a male in the back seat immediately placed his hands in the air as if he were surrendering.

      Officer Tarentino stopped the motor vehicle and with the assistance of Sgt. Daniel Dyson and Officer Alexander Samia and the three males were taken into custody.   Officers recovered a stolen GPS system, change, wallets, an iPod and other items from inside the motor vehicle.   Police have identified the three suspects arrested as: 

  1. Michael D. Kohlstrom, 19, 15 Elmwood Ave., Millbury, MA
  2. Kenney A. Santos, 18, 52 Crystal Street #1, Worcester, MA
  3. A fifteen year old juvenile male

All three men are charged with the following offenses: 

  1. Breaking and entering a motor vehicle (night time) with the intent to commit a felony – 9 counts
  2. Possession of burglarious tools
  3. Receiving stolen property over $250
  4. Minor in possession of alcohol

All three males were booked at the Leicester Police Department.   Mr. Kohlstrom was released after posting $1,000 bail, Mr. Santos was being held at the Leicester Police Department on $1,000 bail.  The juvenile was processed and released.    Chief James Hurley indicated that a total of nine vehicles have been identified as being broken into and he expected some of the stolen property which the officers recovered but had not yet identified would lead them to solving other car breaks.   Chief Hurley commended the quick response of the officers who made the arrests.   While they were responding they put together a plan and followed it.   I love it when a plan comes together the Chief said. 

Scooter Ride + Alcohol + Cocaine = Arrest
Leicester – An early morning scooter ride lead to the arrest of a local resident on charges of operating under the influence of alcohol and possession of cocaine.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began early Saturday morning at approximately 12:30 AM when Sgt. Daniel Dyson was conducting radar enforcement on Stafford Street in Leicester.    Sgt. Dyson clocked a motor scooter on radar at 43 mph in a posted 30 mph zone.     As the scooter passed the officer’s location he activated is emergency lights and the scooter stopped abruptly.    As the officer approached the scooter he observed the operator to be unsteady on his feet along with displaying other signs of alcohol intoxication.     Sgt. Dyson had the scooter operator perform several field sobriety tests which he failed.   A computer check of the scooter operator’s license also indicated that his license was revoked.    Sgt Dyson took the scooter operator into custody and while searching the suspect found a baggie of a white powder in his pocket which appeared to be cocaine.    The suspect taken into custody has been identified as: 

Albert Rivera, 27, of 51 Wells Street, Rochdale, MA 

He has been charged with the following offenses: 

  1. Operating under the influence of alcohol
  2. Possession of class B cocaine
  3. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle
  4. Operating after revocation of license
  5. Speeding

He was transported to the Leicester Police Department where he underwent the normal booking procedure.   He was released on personal recognizance and will appear in the East Brookfield District Court for arraignment the beginning of the week.

 

4-13-10
RE: Tollbooth Permits 

Based upon the recent layoff of personnel and budget constraints we are currently experiencing at the Leicester Police Department (LPD) we have been able to conduct a review of the “Toll Booth Fundraisers.”  We will begin to process the requests as we have in the past starting 04-11-10.    Please contact me at (508) 892-7010 ext#2010 to reserve a date.   Your organization must then submit a written request for the permit once you have reserved a date. 

The LPD  will conduct a review of the toll booth process at some point in the near future which will include a public survey so that everyone has an opportunity to express there opinion. 

Chief Jim Hurley

4-10-10 Police Investigate Car Vandalism Unknown Fluid Thrown on Vehicles Ruins Paint 

Leicester – Local police are investigating an incident involving the vandalism of two motor vehicles at Lakeview Drive residence in Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the vandalism was reported Friday morning at approximately 7:15 AM after the residents went outside and observed that the vehicles had been damaged.   Officer Julie Berry responded to the scene and observed that there appeared to have been and unknown liquid thrown on to the vehicles which caused the paint to blister and peel.   The vehicles which police described as a 2006 Subaru wagon and a 1994 Toyota Camry suffered extensive damage and will likely need to be totally repainted.    Chief Hurley indicated that Officer Berry did recover some potential evidence during the course of her investigation and that evidence is currently being evaluated and will like be sent to the state crime lab for additional processing.    Chief Hurley stated that this type of senseless vandalism appears to be on the rise within the past several weeks.   Recently the Leicester Police Department has responded to several vandalism incidents including a fence which had been spray painted with offense language and another fence which had been damaged.    The Leicester Police Department is offering a reward of up to $300 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual(s) involved in any of the recent vandalism that has occurred in Leicester.     Anyone with information can contact the Leicester Police Department’s Crime Tip Hotline by calling (508) 892-7010 and select option #7 all calls are confidential.

 

The attached photo shows the damage to the roof of one of the vehicles that was vandalized and the doors that were damage on the second vehicle.


3-30-10 Multiple Car Breaks Occurred Last Night Residents Reminded to Lock Vehicles 

Leicester – Local police were kept busy early this morning responding to reports of numerous vehicles which had been broken into in the Charlton Street, Hammond Street, and Parker Street areas of town.    Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department’s Communication Center began receiving calls reporting vehicles being broken into around 3 AM.   As of approximately 11 AM this morning Chief Hurley stated that department had taken 8 reports of motor vehicle breaks.   It appears that all of the vehicles that were entered were unlocked and that only items which could be quickly gathered up carried away were taken, however police and the victims were still compiling a list of stolen items.   Chief Hurley indicated that these types of multiple car break in’s have occurred in the past.  The rain and cold weather mean that people have their windows closed and are less likely to hear something outside.   Additionally the rain makes it easier for a suspect to move around without making noise.   The chief asked anyone who might have seen anything suspicious in the areas where the cars were broken into between midnight and 3 AM yesterday to please call the Leicester Police Department Crime Tip Hotline at (508) 892-7010 (press option #7).   Chief Hurley also encouraged anyone whose car was broken into and has not reported it to police to do so using the Leicester Police Departments on-line (non emergency) crime reporting system which is available on the departments webpage at www.leicesterpd.org.


3-14-10 Driver Escapes Serious Injury in Rollover Accident 

Leicester  -  A North Brookfield man escaped serious injuries in an accident that occurred Wednesday afternoon on Rt. 9 in Leicester.    Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that Robert Weston 46 of 11 North Common St. North Brookfield was transported to U-Mass Medical Center University Campus after his pick up truck which was traveling west veered off Rt. 9 and struck a utility pole.   The force of the impact caused the truck to roll over and snapped the pole completely in half.  No other vehicles were involved in the crash.  The accident which occurred at approximately 4 PM backed traffic up for several miles in both directions.   Police remained at the scene for approximately 1 hour investigating the accident and over seeing the removal of the vehicle.  Utility crews were working to replace the pole early in the evening.   The accident is being investigated by Officer Derrick Ruth of the Leicester Police Department who was assisted at the scene by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and troopers from the East Brookfield Barracks.Photos of the accident are attached.  Please list them as courtesy of the Leicester Police Department

3-4-10 Midnight Snack Lands Woman in Jail 

Leicester – A Marlborough woman is facing multiple charges after she was arrested early Wednesday morning at a local convenience store.   Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 1:45 AM when the clerk at a local convenience store called police to report an intoxicated female in the store eating snacks, which she did not have the money to pay for, and causing a disturbance.    

Officers who responded to the call found the suspect who was later identified as Robin M. Gill, 26, of 378 Hosmer Street, Marlborough, MA inside the store causing a disturbance, highly intoxicated and eating snacks.   The woman’s vehicle was parked taking up two parking spots and she could not provide officers with any identification or her name.  She was taken into custody and charged with:

  1. Operating Under the Influence of Liquor
  2. Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
  3. Shoplifting
  4. Disturbing the Peace
  5. Disorderly Person

Officers had difficulty booking the woman based upon her highly intoxicated state.  She was held at the Leicester Police Department on $2,500 cash bail which she was unable to post.  She was transported to the East Brookfield District Court on Wednesday morning for arraignment.  Sgt. Daniel Dyson made the arrest.   He was assisted by Officer Scot Brooks and Frank Bulman. 

2-27-10 Two Escape Serious Injury in Leicester Roll Over 

A Paxton couple escaped serious injury this morning when their 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser rolled over on Rt. 56 near the Paxton line.   Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that Paul and Virginia Robertson of Paxton were transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital for treatment on non-life threatening injuries.   The accident occurred at 8:17 AM and is under investigation by Officers Julie Berry and Ronald Tarentino/.

 Two Worcester Women Faces Charges Handicapped Parking Violation Leads to Arrest
Leicester – Two Worcester women were facing charges after they were arrested Wednesday (2-24-10) in Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 10:50 PM when the Leicester Police Department received a report of a vehicle illegal parked in one of the handicapped parking spots at the Wal-Mart located on Rt. 9.    The officer who responded to the call issued a parking ticket for illegal parking in a handicapped parking spot.   When the officer notified the dispatch center that he had issued the parking ticket the registration of the illegally parked motor vehicle was cross checked for entry into the Leicester Police Departments computer system.   The cross check revealed that the registration plates were not assigned to the motor vehicle that the plates were on and that the vehicle was unregistered.    Officer Scot Brooks kept the vehicle under surveillance for a short period of time and at approximately 11:05 PM he observed two females leave the Wal-Mart store and walk over to the vehicle and begin to get inside.   As the women were entering the vehicle one female took the parking ticket off the vehicle and threw it on the ground and the two women then began to drive off in the motor vehicle. 

Officer Scot Brooks stopped the motor vehicle for being unregistered and determined that the female operating the motor vehicle, who police identified as Yanniris Rivera, 24 of 59 Outlook Drive #14, Worcester, MA, did not have a drivers license.  Ms. Rivera was taken into custody and while she was being taken into custody the officers recovered numerous items which had been stolen from Wal-Mart.  

Ms. Rivera was charged with the following:

  1. Operating an unregistered motor vehicle;
  2. Operating an uninsured motor vehicle;
  3. Attaching wrong plates to a motor vehicle;
  4. Littering;
  5. Unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle;
  6. Shoplifting by concealing merchandise;
  7. Tampering/removing a parking ticket;

She was held on $2,500 bail at the Leicester Police Department which she did not post.  She was transported to the East Brookfield District Court on Thursday morning for arraignment. 

A female passenger in the motor vehicle who police have identified as Carmencita Santiago, 24 of 20 Gambier Ave. #1A, Worcester, MA was also taken into to custody by Leicester Police after she was found to be illegally possessing Xanax.    Ms. Santiago was booked at the Leicester Police Department and released on personal recognizance for her appearance in the East Brookfield District Court on Thursday morning.  Sgt. Daniel Dyson and Officer Ronald Tarentino assisted Officer Brooks in the investigation and arrests.


2-15-10 Auburn Man Arrested After Short Pursuit Is Re-Arrested After Release from Custody 

Leicester – An Auburn resident was arrested twice in seven hours by the Leicester Police over the weekend.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the first incident began Sunday night at approximately 8:15 PM when an off-duty police officer from another community called the Leicester Police Department Dispatch Center and reported that there were three people involved in an altercation on Rt. 56 near the Leicester/Oxford town line.   While officers were responding to the incident a female called on her cell phone to report that a male was following her and attempted to strike her motor vehicle.   When she stopped and her boyfriend got out the male in the other vehicle who was intoxicated started an altercation with her boyfriend.  The male fled the scene prior to police arriving but the callers gave a description of the suspect, the vehicle he was operating, and his direction of travel.   Detective Alexander Samia who was responding to the call observed the vehicle matching the description pass by him in the opposite direction.    Detective Samia reversed directions and attempted to stop the motor vehicle, but the operator failed to stop and led the officer on a short pursuit during which Officer Samia back off chasing the vehicle based upon its erratic operation.    Detective Samia pursued the vehicle down Stafford Street a short distance and backed off.  Detective Samia continued down Stafford Street and at the intersection of Auburn Street came upon the motor vehicle stopped in the middle of the intersection. As Detective Samia began to approach the stopped vehicle the operator again attempted to flee the scene and in doing so lost control of the motor vehicle and struck a pole.   The operator of the motor vehicle who police have identified as Joseph Blaise Carlson, 55, of 57 Oxford Street North, Auburn, MA was taken into custody and has been charged with the following offenses: 

  1. Operating Under the Influence of Liquor (3rd offense)
  2. Failure to Stop for a Police Officer
  3. Negligent Operation of Motor Vehicle
  4. Marked Lanes Violation
  5. Resisting Arrest
  6. Speeding

The Ford Bronco which Mr. Carlson was operating sustained moderate damage as did the utility pole which was struck.   Mr. Carlson claimed he was not injured as a result of the accident.   He was booked at the Leicester Police Department and released on personal recognizance and was scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday.   He was released to the custody of a responsible party.   Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Derrick Ruth assisted in the investigation and arrest.

      At approximately 2:30 AM on Monday morning, approximately 7 hours after Mr. Carson’s arrest, and shortly after his release from custody Officer Frank Bulman observed a male inside the vehicle storage area of a local towing company.   The storage area is a fenced in and locked area where vehicles are stored.   As the officer approached the scene he also observed a vehicle running in the parking lot of the business.   He identified the operator of the motor vehicle and was able to climb into the fenced in area and apprehend the male who was inside a vehicle in the fenced in area.  The male was identified as Joseph Blaise Carlson, 55, of 57 Oxford Street North, Auburn, MA.   He was arrested for a 2nd time and charged with trespassing.   The vehicle which he had entered into was his own vehicle.    Mr. Carlson was again transported to the Leicester Police Department where he was booked for a second time.  He is currently being held on $5,000 cash bail.   Officer Frank Bulman was assisted by Sgt. Daniel Dyson and Officer Ronald Tarentino.

      The person who brought Mr. Carlson to the tow company will be summonsed into court at a later date for trespassing 


2-9-10
Police Seek Charges - Armed Sexual Assault was Fabricated
Chief Renews Calls for Stiffer Penalties on False Reports 

Leicester – Local police have filed an application for criminal charges against a former Leicester resident, alleging that she falsely reported an armed sexual assault in November of 2009.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that investigators forwarded an application to the East Brookfield District Court Clerk’s Office seeking the following criminal charges: 

  1. Filing a false police report
  1. Misleading a police investigation

The woman, whose name police are not releasing as she has not yet been arraigned, will appear in court at a later date. 

Chief Hurley stated that the Leicester Police received the report in November of 2009 which alleged that the woman was entering her apartment when she was grabbed from behind by a male with a knife.   The woman alleged that she was forcibly held against her will and raped by the man.   The woman identified the man who attacked her at knife point as a family acquaintance. 

During the course of the investigation police processed the crime scene for evidence and interviewed a number of individuals pertaining to the crime.   The woman even went to the hospital and submitted to a sexual assault evidence kit which was sent to the state crime lab for processing. 

As part of the police response to the alleged assault, police assisted the woman in getting an emergency restraining order issued via the judicial response network as it was sought outside the court’s normal business hours.   The woman later appeared in court requesting an extension of the order which was granted. 

As the investigation progressed, the detective working the case noticed inconsistencies in the woman’s story which resulted in additional follow up by the investigator.   Once sufficient evidence was compiled supporting that the incident had not occurred, the investigator confronted the woman who admitted that the story had been fabricated. 

Chief Hurley expressed his continued frustration with the penalties faced by those who falsely report crimes.   The maximum penalty for falsely reporting a crime is 1 year in jail and/or a $500, and the penalty for misleading a police investigation is imprisonment for not more than 2 ½ years in a jail or house of correction or not more than 10 years in a state prison or by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $5,000. 

In this particular case the woman report that she had had been raped by an armed intruder in her home by a party she identified.  If police had not been able to determine that report had been fabricated, the suspect could have been charged with rape and home invasion both of which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.  A conviction on the rape charge would also require the man to register as a sex offender.   This would all be in addition to the man’s reputation being damaged.   The woman may also face perjury charges for lying on the restraining order affidavit and subsequent court appearance seeking the extension of the order. 

In addition to the potential penalties faced by the man who was accused, there are also ancillary ramifications to these types of reports which affect other victims of crime as the number of false reports increases.   Police are now being placed in the position of having to question individuals who report crimes to verify the incident occurred before they conduct an investigation.   This is unfair to true victims of crime. 

Chief Hurley further stated that the Leicester Police Department had dedicated substantial resources to the investigation, including manpower all of which likely cost the department thousands of dollars.   The department, like many others, is struggling through tough economic times.   “The Leicester Police Department has laid off police officer’s due to funding shortages yet the tax payers have to foot the bill for this type of fraudulent report” Chief Hurley said.   “The punishment for this type of crime needs to be increased.   If you fraudulently accuse someone of a crime that could put them in jail for 20 years, then the person who fraudulently reports the crime should face the same penalty.”   The Leicester Police Department has investigated 4 serious crimes in the past 18 months, all of which were fabricated, resulting in the unwarranted cost of the investigation ultimately being Bourne by the taxpayers of the community who fund the police department’s budget.    When a community is in a fiscal crunch spending this type of money hurts. 

Chief Hurley commended the work of Sgt. Paul Doray who investigated the case.  If it was not for his detail oriented investigation, this case could have gone in the other direction and resulted in an innocent person being charged.   As police officers, this is something we don’t want to have happen on our watch.   Sgt. Doray did an outstanding job in getting to the truth in this investigation. 


2-1-10
Alert: ATM Skimming Targets Boston Area 

This is a reminder that the Boston area has recently been targeted by a group of highly organized criminals who have been conducting ATM skimming.    This is a highly sophisticated scam which we have discussed on the LPD cable show “Police Beat” several times.  We will be focusing on it during the next segment of the show once again to remind residents of how this scam operates and how to avoid becoming a victim.   Until then you may wish to read the news articles on the ATM skimming operating in the area.   For those articles use the links below: 

http://wbztv.com/wireapnewsma/Canadian.man.charged.2.1456166.html  

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/01/29/3_people_accused_of_atm_skimming_in_mass/ 

Stay alert 

Chief Jim Hurley

 

1-31-2010
 Connecticut Man Arrested for Check Fraud Also Wanted on 4 Warrants 

Leicester – Local police working with asset protection officers at the Leicester Wal-Mart have arrested a Connecticut man who is believed to part of an organized check fraud ring currently operating in Massachusetts.    Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident began on Friday night at approximately 9 PM when asset protection officers at the Leicester Wal-Mart suspected that an individual cashing a check at the store had presented a fraudulent check.    The asset protection officer notified the Leicester Police Dispatch Center and several officers were dispatched to the call.   Officer Scot Brooks arrived at the scene and the man who was passing a check in the name of Tomas Burton using a North Carolina driver’s license with the same name was taken into custody.   Officer Brooks was able to determine that the North Carolina license which was being used was fraudulent.   Officer Brooks determined the man taken into custody for the check fraud was actually Akilah Shaabazz, 34, or 58 Dwight Street, New Britton, CT.   Mr. Shaabazz has been charged with: 

  1. Forgery of a Check (2 counts)
  2. Attempted Larceny over $250.00 (2 counts)
  3. Possession/Use of a False RMV Document
  4. Straight Warrant for; larceny over $250, Use of a false registry document, and false financial statement out of Chicopee District Court
  5. Straight Warrant for; larceny over $250, Use of a false registry document, and false financial statement out of Chicopee District Court
  6. Straight Warrant for; larceny over $250, Use of a false registry document, and false financial statement out of Chicopee District Court
  7. Straight Warrant for; larceny over $250, Use of a false registry document, and false financial statement out of Greenfield District Court

 

Mr. Shaabazz was booked at the Leicester Police Department and he is being held there without bail.  He will be transported to the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning by Leicester Police for arraignment. 

 

Chief Hurley stated that the investigating officer also recovered the two checks that Mr. Shaabazz’s was attempting to cash during his arrest and that both the checks appear to be counterfeit.   Chief Hurley indicated that the investigation into this matter is ongoing and that several other area departments have already contacted the Leicester Police Department as they have had similar incidents in their communities.   Leicester Police are also seeking to identify a second individual who was involved but left the scene before officers arrived.   Officer Brooks was assisted in the arrest and investigation by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Det. Alexander Samia.

 


1-21-2010
Two Arrested On Narcotics Charges after Vehicle Chase 

Leicester – Two Worcester men were arrested after they led Leicester Police on a brief pursuit early this morning (Thursday).   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley state that the incident began around 2 AM when Sgt. Daniel Dyson attempted to stop a motor vehicle on Rt. 9 for failure to have a valid inspection sticker.    The officer activated his overhead blue lights and the vehicle initially pulled over to the side of the road.   As Sgt. Dyson was notifying the communications center that he would be out with the vehicle for a traffic violation on Rt. 9 in the Cherry Valley section of Leicester the vehicle accelerated and fled the scene.   Sgt. Dyson pursued the vehicle which continued to flee west bound on Rt. 9.   As the Sgt. Dyson was pursuing the vehicle the passenger was observed discarding items, believed to be contraband, out the window of the motor vehicle.   Sgt. Dyson pursued the vehicle through various streets in Leicester at speeds between 40-55 mph.   Officers Ronald Tarentino and Frank Bulman assisted Sgt. Dyson at various point throughout the pursuit.   The vehicle being pursued eventually went on to the lower end of Henshaw Street in Leicester which is a dead end.   At the end of the road a large pile of snow had been plowed and piled up and the vehicle rammed into the snow pile and stopped.    The driver and passenger were taken into custody after a brief follow up investigation. 

Leicester Police have identified the operator of the motor vehicle as Borkay Baygboe, 23, of 39 Westminster Street #1, Worcester, MA and he has been charged with the following offenses: 

  1. Operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license;
  2. Possession of a class B substance (cocaine);
  3. Conspiracy to violate the controlled substance act;
  4. Inspection sticker violation;
  5. Failure to stop for a police officer;
  6. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle;
  7. Speeding;
  8. Failure to stop for a stop sign;
  9. Marked lanes violation;

Mr. Baygboe was also held on an outstanding warrant for his arrest. 

The passenger in the motor vehicle who was throwing items out the window has been identified by Leicester Police as Augustus Bobo Kormah, 19, of 17 Blanche Street #2, Worcester, MA has been charged with the following offenses: 

  1. Possession of class B substance (cocaine);
  2. Conspiracy to violate controlled substance;

Both suspects were brought to the Leicester Police Department for booking and they were held on $3,500 cash bail.  Both were transported to the East Brookfield District Court by Leicester Police this morning for arraignment.   Chief Hurley also stated that Leicester Officers checked two locations where items believed to be contraband were thrown out of the suspect’s vehicle during the pursuit.  The officers who checked these areas were unable to locate the contraband, which if it was a powered narcotic such as cocaine would likely have been destroyed by the weather conditions.
The Auburn and Oxford Police Department’s also provided the Leicester Police with assistance during the incident.

1-8-10
Arrests Made After Police Find Marijuana Being Grown in Car During Traffic Stop 

Leicester - Two adults and one juvenile were under arrest after a routine traffic stop found marijuana being grown in the back seat of the vehicle which they were in.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began on Thursday night just before midnight when Officer Ronald Tarentino stopped a 2000 Ford Taurus  traveling west on Route 9 (Main Street) in Leicester for having an expired inspection sticker.   While the officer was ascertaining the operator’s license and registration he made a number of observations including the odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the vehicle and several large objects covered up in the back seat of the vehicle next to the passenger riding in the back.   All of the occupants of the vehicle were not of legal age to possess or consume alcohol.  The operator of the vehicle later identified as Jacob Balter, of Wayland indicated he had been drinking previously and spilled a drink in the motor vehicle and on him.  Officer Tarentino conducted a brief investigation and located on the back seat of the motor vehicle covered by a blanket were two large boxes which each contained a marijuana plant being grown.   The boxes that the plants were located in were equipped with florescent lighting and the cords for the lights ran to a power strip which was connected to a power inverter that was plugged into the cigarette lighter in the vehicle.   The set up converted the power from the cigarette lighter to electricity capable of running the florescent lights.  The cord from the lights had been disconnected from the inverter when it was discovered by officers however it appears that the lights had been set up and functioning while the plants were being transported.     In addition to the two marijuana plants, florescent lights and electrical set up the officers also seized an electronic scale with marijuana residue on it, plant fertilizer, water, a timer and a large marijuana smoking pipe. 

Leicester Police arrested and charged the following individuals: 

  1. Jacob A.  Balter (age 18), 214 Old Connecticut Path, Wayland, MA
  1. Zachary K. Smith  (age 20), 17 West Pine Drive, Walpole, MA
  1. 16 year old juvenile male

All three were charged with: 

  1. Cultivation of class D marijuana;
  1. Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute;
  1. Possession of more than an ounce of marijuana;
  1. Conspiracy to violate the controlled substance act;

Jacob A. Balter was also charged with failing to have the motor vehicle he was operating inspected.  

       Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing and that police have not ruled out the possibility that other individuals might be charged in connection with the case.   Chief Hurley stated that “it appears that they were bringing the plants out to this area to deliver them to someone and we will be focusing in on that portion of the investigation.”

      Chief Hurley indicated that Officer Tarentino was assisted in the arrest, investigation and processing of the three suspects by Sgt. Daniel Dyson, Officer Scot Brooks, Frank Bulman and Trooper Christopher D’Avolio of the Brookfield State Police barrack’s.    All three suspects were booked at the Leicester Police Department.   The two adults were held and are scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court this morning.  The juvenile will appear in Worcester Juvenile Court at a later date. 


1-1-10
Mother and 6 Year Old Escape Injury In Leicester Roll Over 

Leicester – A Southbridge mother and her six year old escaped injury Friday morning after being involved in a one car rollover accident.  Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 8:00 AM this (Friday) morning on Stafford Street in Leicester when Anna M. Fuentes, 22, of 164 Hamilton Street, Southbridge was operating a 1998 Nissan east on Stafford Street in Leicester and she lost control of the vehicle while rounding a slight curve in the roadway.  The vehicle went off the roadway flipped over and struck a tree and a large rock.  The mother was wearing her seatbelt and the child was restrained in a booster seat both of which likely prevented them from sustaining any injuries.   A passing motorist assisted the two crash victims until police arrived.

      Chief Hurley stated that the investigation into the accident was conducted by Officer John Caforio of the Leicester Police Department and as a result of his investigation Anna M. Fuentes was issued a citation for speeding and operating with a suspended license.   The vehicle suffered extensive damage and hand to be towed from the scene.


12-31-09
Police Seek Vehicle that Struck House & Fled Scene 

Leicester – Police are asking for the publics help in finding a pick up truck that struck a home on Masssasoit Drive in Leicester and then fled the scene of the accident.  Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident occurred at approximately 5:06 PM on Wednesday when the Leicester Police Department Communication Center received a call from a Masssasoit Drive resident who reported hearing a loud bang and felt their home shake.   The resident went outside and observed a male standing outside of a pick up truck in the road examining the front end of his vehicle.  When the resident yelled to the man asking him what happened, the man jumped into the pick-up truck and fled the scene.  The resident then observed tire marks across the lawn of their home and damage to the house including a hole in the exterior wall of the home.

      Police officers responding to the accident scene found vehicle parts indicating that the vehicle is possibly a Ford pick up truck which should be maroon in color.   The vehicle should have front end damage including a broken or missing head light.  Officers were also given a partial registration plate for the suspect vehicle.

     Leicester Police are asking anyone with information about the accident to call Officer Alexander Samia or Derrick Ruth who are investigating the accident at (508) 892-7010 or a message can be left on the confidential crime tip hotline using the same number.

The photo shows the tire impressions leading up to the house which was struck and a small hole that was pierced through the external wall by a pick up truck which then fled the scene of the   accident.

 

 

 

 

 

12-28-2009
Man Arrested after Being Dragged and Injured by Own Motor Vehicle 

Leicester – A Portland Maine man was arrested after being dragged and injured by his own motor vehicle on Rt. 9 in Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident occurred on December 26, 2009 at approximately 03:04 AM when Ernest A. Orodi, 28,  509 St. John Street, #1, Portland, Maine was observed Leicester Police Officer Frank Bulman with his legs hanging out of his vehicle while it was traveling in reverse on Rt. 9 in Leicester center.   The vehicle travelled across the opposite lane of traffic and eventually came to a stop after striking a snow bank.  He was arrested at the scene and charged with:

 

  1. Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol
  2. Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
  3. Operating with a Suspended License

 

Mr. Orodi suffered non life threatening injuries a result of being dragged by the motor vehicle and he was transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester, while in police custody where he was treated and released.  He was held over the weekend at the Leicester Police Department on $500 cash bail and was transported to East Brookfield District Court for arraignment on Monday morning.  Officers investigating the incident believe that Mr. Orodi stopped his motor vehicle and attempted to get out but left the motor vehicle but accidently left the vehicle in reverse.  He was subsequently dragged by the open door suffering a head laceration and numerous abrasions.  The report of the investigating officers indicates that tire tracks in the snow indicate that Mr. Orodi narrowly missed being run over by his own motor vehicle.  Officer Bulman was assisted in the investigation and arrest by Officer Ronald Tarentino and Sgt. Daniel Dyson.

March 9, 2009
Leicester – A motor vehicle accident that occurred on Auburn Street in Leicester brought local police and fire fighters to the scene to standby while the vehicle was up righted as it spilled gasoline.  The accident occurred at approximately 4 PM when a 1997 Jeep Cherokee being operated by Matthew James, 22 of Jacksonville Florida went off the roadway and rolled partially over.   The rollover closed the road for approximately ½ hour.   The operator and two passengers will be receiving citations for possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle.   The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Derrick Ruth.

March 9, 2009
Leicester – A two car motor vehicle accident on Stafford Street sent two area residents to the hospital late this afternoon.  The accident which occurred at approximately 3:30 PM when 2002 Ford Taurus traveling east on Stafford Street operated by Jessica M. Stanley, 20, of 6 Minots Street in Worcester crossed into the westbound lane and collided with a 2005 Toyota Tacoma being operated Sean Giles, 39, of Clark Street in Rochdale.   Both operators were transported by Leicester Fire Department ambulances to the hospital.  Mr. Giles U-Mass Hospital – University Campus and Ms. Stanley was transported to Medical City / St. Vincent’s Hospital .   None of the injuries appeared to be life threatening.   The accident is under investigation by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Derrick Ruth.

January 16, 2009
 Leicester – Police are seeking the public’s help to identify the operator and passenger of a stolen motor vehicle that hit and snapped a utility pole on Sargent Street in Leicester at approximately 7:15 AM Friday morning.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department dispatch center received a call reporting a vehicle had struck a pole on Sargent Street and two men were outside the vehicle.   As officers were responding they learned that two males had gotten out of the vehicle observed the damage to the pole and the car they then got back into the car and fled the scene.   Officers arriving at the scene found the pole snapped and the vehicle was gone.    Police were able to identify the vehicle immediately as the front plate was knocked off by the impact of the vehicle hitting the pole and it was lying in the snow at the scene.  As Leicester officers began checking side streets for the vehicle they heard the Worcester Police Department broadcasting that they had just taken a stolen motor vehicle report from the owner of the car.    A search of the area did not locate the vehicle.   Later in the day the Worcester Police Department notified the Leicester Police Department that the vehicle had been recovered in the City of Worcester.  The vehicle involved in the incident was identified by police as a 2000 Toyota Camry color green and was registered to a Worcester resident.   Leicester Police are asking for the public help in identifying the operator and passenger of the motor vehicle.   Anyone with information as to who was operating the stolen vehicle can contact the Leicester Police Departments’ confidential Crime Tip Hotline at (508) 892-7010 ext. #7.   A reward is being offer for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspects.

January 10, 2009
 Leicester - It started off as a call reporting that the an alarm had been activated at a local youth camp facility which is closed for the season, but ended with Sgt. Joseph Fontaine issuing the Police Department’s first citation under the new De-criminalized marijuana citation after officers arrived they found two cars with local youths inside the vehicle in the immediate area of the camp.   When the officers approached the vehicles Officer Scot Brooks observed a marijuana roach inside the motor vehicle.   A subsequent search led to the recovery of a small amount of marijuana from a 17 year old local youth.   The youth was issued a citation under the new state law by mail and a notice to his parents which is required under the new law was also sent out through the mail.   

       Chief Hurley indicated that the citation issued to the 17 year old carries a fine of $100 and the youth must attend a drug awareness class within a year and file a certificate of completion with the East Brookfield District Court.   This will occur provided the youth does not appeal the citation.   Should the youth not attend the drug awareness class, and/or fails to file the certificate the offender faces the potential that the fine may increase to $1,000.

      Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department implemented a policy on how to hand the violations at the same time the new law was going into effect.   The voters of the state have spoken and this is how they want the police to enforce the possession of less than an ounce of marijuana or less, so that is what we are going to do.   Leicester Police Officers have citations available to be issued and we will enforce the new law.   Officer Derrick Ruth assisted Sgt. Fontaine and Officer Brooks in the investigation.  Chief Hurley declined to release the name of the individual cited for the marijuana possession as it is unclear under the new law if the identity of the offender can be released.    

January 10, 2009
 Leicester – Four law enforcement agencies teamed up Friday night to apprehend two individuals believed to be connected to an attempted house break in the Town of Charlton.   The incident according to Leicester Police Chief James Hurley began at approximately 6:35 PM Friday night when the Charlton Police Department asked the Leicester Police Department to be on the look out for a dark Chevrolet Trailblazer that just fled the scene of an attempted housebreak in that community headed eastbound on Stafford Street.   Officers Derrick Ruth and Scot Brooks took up observation points on Stafford Street and the Trailblazer drove by them a short time later.   As the vehicle went by Officer Ruth illuminated the vehicle with his spotlight to get a look at the driver and as soon as he did this the vehicle sped up.   Officers caught up to the vehicle and when they activated their emergency lights the vehicle fled.   The officers followed the vehicle a short distance and eventually the suspects bailed out of the vehicle and fled on foot on Delewanda Drive.   Officers from Worcester, Leicester, Charlton and the State Police converged on the scene.   A short while later the Worcester Police detained two suspects in the vicinity of Mill Street and State Trooper Patrick Robinson and his K-9 Max tracked right to the suspects from the abandon vehicle.   Leicester Police took those two suspects into custody and they were eventually transferred over to the custody of the Charlton Police Department.

The two suspects were identified as: Andre Dupont, 28, or 10 Rodick Ave., Worcester he was transferred to Charlton Police with no Leicester charges pending. 

Justin E. Murphy, 18, 39 First Street, Worcester, MA he was arrested on an outstanding warrant and was also transferred to the Charlton Police.  The Leicester Police Department issued Mr. Murphy citations for multiple traffic violations which occurred during the pursuit.   He will appear in the East Brookfield District Court in the near future.  Chief Hurley indicated that the investigation is still on-going at this point in time.   Sgt. Joseph Fontaine assisted in the arrests and investigation.

Friday November 28th 2008
Leicester – A two car motor vehicle accident at approximately 1:10 pm Friday afternoon left two Worcester residents injured.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the crash occurred on Rt. 9 at Gerald Court which is near the Worcester Leicester line.    Chief Hurley stated the accident began when a 2005 Chevrolet Impala operated by Joan Alipour, 47, of 28 Ledge Crest Drive in Worcester was traveling west on Rt. 9 and attempted to make a left hand turn onto Gerald Court.    While making the turn onto Gerald Court the vehicle being operated by Ms. Alipour collided with a 1992 Toyota Paseo which was traveling eastbound on Rt. 9.  Neither Ms. Alipour nor the two minors in the motor vehicle she was operating required any medical treatment. The operator of the Toyota has been identified as Joel Perez, 23, of 24 Addison Street, Worcester.    Mr. Perez was transported to U-Mass Medical Center for treatment of non life threatening injuries.   A passenger in the Toyota being operated by Mr. Perez was trapped in the motor vehicle and the Leicester Fire Department had to use hydraulic cutting tools to free him from the vehicle.   The passenger has been identified as Alfredo Benitez, 30, of 267 Mill Street in Worcester.   He was also transported to U-Mass Medical Center for treatment of non life threatening injuries.    Rt. 9 was temporarily closed while Mr. Benitez was being extricated from the vehicle.   Traffic was reduced to one lane on Rt. 9 for approximately 45 minutes which resulted in a traffic back up of approximately ½ mile on Rt. 9.   The accident is currently under investigation by Officer Thomas Moughan and Julie Berry of the Leicester Police Department

Leicester Police to Participate in Click It or Ticket Traffic Enforcement Initiative 

Tuesday November 25th 2008
 The Leicester Police Department announced that it will be participating in the Governor’s Highway Safety Bureau Enforcement Program over the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend.  Chief Jim Hurley stated that the department has received funding for approximately 10 extra patrols which will take place from now until the end of the month.  These patrols will focus on traffic violations including, but not limited to, speeding, seatbelt violations, and operating under the influence of alcohol.   The “Click It or Ticket” enforcement mobilization is one of six Governor’s Highway Safety initiatives which the Leicester Police Department will participate in over the coming year.

Monday November 17th 2008
A Leicester man was injured in an ATV accident Friday night when his ATV struck a tree.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident occurred at approximately 10:20 PM when police received a call of a man laying unconscious in the middle of Bond Street in Leicester.   Officers responding to the scene found Paul H. Mackie, 39, of 9 Bond Street, Leicester, MA lying in the road suffering from multiple injuries.   He was transported to the University of Massachusetts Medical Center – University Campus.  Investigators were able to determine that Mr. Mackie was enroute to a friend’s house and was riding the ATV on Bond Street when he went off the road and struck a tree.   Leicester Police have issued a citation to Mr. Mackie charging him with:

  1. Operating with a suspended license
  2. Operating a recreational vehicle on a public way
  3. Operating an unregistered recreational vehicle
  4. Recreational vehicle helmet violation

He will be summonsed to court at a later date.  The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine, Officer

Saturday November 15th 2008
A Worcester woman was arrested on cocaine possession charges early Friday morning after she was observed stopped at the stop sign for an extended period of time.  Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident occurred at approximately 12:27 AM when Sgt. Daniel Dyson was parked on Stafford Street conducting traffic enforcement.   As he was sitting on the side of the road he observed a 1986 Mazda stopped at the stop sign at Auburn Street and Stafford Street for approximately 3-4 minutes.  During that time period only 2-3 vehicles had passed through the intersection giving the Mazda adequate time to pass through the intersection.   Sgt. Dyson drove over to see if the vehicle had become disabled or the operator was ill.   When he pulled up next to the vehicle and illuminated it with his spot light he observed the female operator hid an object next to her side.    After a brief investigation Sgt. Dyson recovered a crack pipe with was still warm and a small amount of cocaine.   The operator of the motor vehicle whom police identified as Michele K. Linder, 46, of 11 Winthrop Street  #2, Worcester, MA was taken into custody and charged with possession of cocaine.   She was released on personal recognizance and was scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Friday morning

 

Tuesday October 28th 2008
woman being transported to the hospital for treatment of a bite wound to her hand.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the incident occurred on Monday night at approximately 9:50 PM when police received a complaint of a possible domestic disturbance in progress at 507 Stafford Street in Leicester.    Officers arriving at the scene were able to control the situation.   As the officers conducted an investigation into the incident they learned that a 35 year old female had been bitten on the hand by another female.   Officer Derrick Ruth observed a fresh bite mark on the woman’s had which was bleeding and swollen.   The victim who was bitten was transported to U-Mass Hospital by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance.   The officers who were investigating the incident arrested Sheila Peralta, 42 who listed her address during booking as 116 Malvern Road, Worcester.   She was charged with domestic assault and battery and was held overnight at the Leicester Police Department on $1,000 cash bail.   She was transported to the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday morning by Leicester Police for her arraignment.   Officer Scot Brooks, Matthew Brady and Michael Gardner assisted in the investigation and arrest.

Tuesday October 28th 2008
 Leicester – Police are asking for the public’s assistance in helping to identify a vehicle involved in a road rage incident that resulted in a motor vehicle accident on Paxton Street in Leicester Monday night.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 5:30 PM when a 2002 Nissan being operated by Katherine Crossley, 21 of 35 Wampanog Lane, Tiverton Rhode Island was traveling south on Rt. 56 in Leicester.   In the vicinity of the intersection of Marshall Street a gold colored compact vehicle passed the Nissan and ran the vehicle off the road.   The Nissan struck a tree and sustained extensive damage.   The operator Ms. Crossley and a passenger Allyssa Boykin, 18, or 12 Brigham Road, Worcester were both transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital/Worcester Medical Center by the Leicester Fire Department Ambulance for non life threatening injuries.  Police indicated that the second vehicle which may have struck the Crossley vehicle did not stop and fled the scene.   It was a small gold compact vehicle and it may have sustained passenger side damage.  Leicester Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information on the vehicle that fled the scene to call Officer Michael Gardner at the Leicester Police Department at (508) 892-7010.    Officer Scott Brooks, Derrick Ruth and Matthew Brady assisted in the accident investigation and the search for the vehicle which caused the accident.

Sunday October 26th 2008
 Leicester – Two area residents were injured at approximately 6:13 PM Saturday night as the result of a motor vehicle accident which occurred at the intersection of Rt. 9 and Collier Ave in Leicester.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the accident occurred when a 1997 Chevrolet which was traveling east on Rt. 9 stopped to make a left turn into Collier Avenue in Leicester.   While the vehicle was stopped waiting to turn into Collier Avenue it was rear ended by a 2002 Ford SUV also traveling east.   The impact of the crash sent the Chevrolet partially off the roadway.   Police identified the operator of the Chevrolet which was rear ended as Leah Ann Drapeau, 17, of Collier Ave., Leicester, MA she was transported to the U-Mass Medical Center with non life threatening injuries.   The operator of the Ford SUV was identified by police as Leonard Olsen, 34 of 61 Wall Street Apt #2 Spencer, MA.   A passenger in the Ford identified as Douglas Olsen, 30 or Chapman Ave., West Brookfield was transported to the U-Mass Medical Center with non life threatening injuries.   Both vehicles suffered extensive damage and had to be towed from the scene.  The accident remains under investigation.

Sunday October 26th 2008
 Leicester – A crash early Sunday morning injured a North Brookfield resident and resulted in the arrest of a Hubbardston man on numerous charges.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began at approximately 2:25 AM on Sunday morning when the Leicester Police dispatch center received a report of a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Baldwin and River Streets in Leicester.   Officers who responded to the accident were able to determine that a 2005 Nissan being operated by Kyle Daniel Duggan, 23, of 124 New Westminster Road, Hubbardston was heading east on Baldwin Street and failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection of River Street.   When the vehicle ran the stop sign it collided with a 2007 Chevrolet traveling southbound on River Street.   That vehicle was operated by Brett B. Cavanaugh, 38 of 39 Spring Street, North Brookfield.  He was transported by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance to St. Vincent’s Hospital/Medical City.  Chief Hurley indicated that while Mr. Cavanaugh’s injuries were not life threatening he appeared to have suffered at least one possible broken bone and other injuries.  Four passengers in the Duggan vehicle were not injured.   Both the vehicles involved in the accident suffered extensive damage and had to be towed from the scene.  Mr. Duggan was arrested at the scene and charged with:

  1. Operating under the influence while operating negligently and causing serious injury;
  2. Failure to stop at a stop sign
  3. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle

He was booked at the Leicester Police Department and released.   He is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield Court on Monday morning.   The accident was investigated by Officers Ronald Tarentino and Frank Bulman.

 

Police Seek Public’s Help In Locating Stolen Sign
Friday October 17th 2008
 Leicester – The Leicester Police Department is seeking the publics help in locating a pedestrian crossing warning sign that was stolen from the intersection of Paxton Street and Winslow Ave., in Leicester sometime last weekend.  Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that two pedestrian warning signs were placed at the intersection at the start of the school year to help make the intersection safer for students walking to the three schools that are in the immediate area of the intersection.  Chief Hurley stated that both area parents and police were concerned about safety at the intersection and that the pedestrian crossing signs had made an impact on drivers approaching the intersection.   Hurley said that with the signs in place there has been is more awareness of the crosswalk’s location and that pedestrians may be in the road crossing the street.  It is unfortunate that someone chose to steal the sign and jeopardize the safety of school students walking to school along with everyone else who uses the crosswalk.   Chief Hurley indicated that the department had already ordered additional signs, for deployment in other areas of town based on the success they experienced with the initial signs placed at the intersection on Paxton Street.   The signs which cost approximately $250 each were purchased by the police department so ultimately they are paid for by the taxpayers of the community and we are hoping someone may have seen or heard something about the theft.    Chief Hurley stated that what concerns him more than the value of the sign is the fact that whoever stole the sign obviously did not care that the signs are there to enhance the safety of the area students who walk to school and other pedestrians.   What type of person steals a sign that is being used for that purpose?  If you ask me it someone who doesn’t care if a student/pedestrian gets hurt because they wanted to steal a sign, that’s pretty cold and selfish.   The theft of the sign is being investigated as larceny and the Leicester Police will prosecute the individual(s) responsible for the theft if they are identified.    Chief Hurley has a suggestion to the person(s) who took the sign.  They should return the sign immediately.     During the course of the investigation if we identify who is responsible for the theft they will be criminally charged and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.  Anyone with information pertaining to the theft of the sign can contact the Leicester Police Department at (508) 892-7010.   Officer Scot Brooks is handling the investigation.

Thursday October 16th 2008
 Leicester – A Spencer resident escaped injury Thursday morning when his car struck a utility pole on Rt. 9 in Leicester near Bottomly Ave.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 9:30 AM this morning when a 2004 Ford Explorer being operated by Frank Piombino, 34 of 204 ½ Main Street Spencer, was traveling west on rt. 9 when it struck the curb causing a tire to blow out.   The vehicle then began to swerve back and forth in the roadway and eventually went off the road and struck the utility pole.   The force of the crash damage the pole so much that it had to be replaced.   Crews from National Grid and Verizon were working on replacing the pole and swapping equipment over to the new pole.  The vehicle which Mr. Piombino was driving had extensive damage.   Traffic on Rt. 9 east bound had to be detoured off of Rt. 9 so that police, fire and EMS crews could secure the scene.   The road was also closed for approximately 15 minutes so the vehicle could be removed by a tow truck.   Mr. Piombino declined medical attention at the scene.  The accident was investigated by Officer Julie Berry and Officer Steven Zecco.   Mr. Piombino was cited for failing to drive within the marked lanes.

Monday October 13th 2008
 Leicester – A Leicester resident was in custody early this morning after a domestic disturbance at his residence led to the deployment of a tactical response team.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the incident began at approximately 2 AM when police received a call of a domestic disturbance which was occurring at 59 Lake Sargent Drive in Leicester.   The initial report indicated that a resident at that address had been threatening a female at the residence with a large sword and also displayed an assault rifle with a scope and had pointed it the direction of the victim indicating that he was going to hurt her.    The officers were also informed that a child was present in the home. The two on duty Leicester Police officers along with two Massachusetts State Police Officers from the Brookfield Barracks responded to the call.   The four officers evaluated the information which had been relayed to them and found it to be credible.   The four initial responding officers were then deployed covertly around the residence to secure it and keep the neighborhood around the residence safe.

      Chief Hurley stated that based on the information police had received, the seriousness of the situation, and potential for violence a decision was made to deploy the Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council’s SWAT team.   The team and its negotiators arrived at the scene and deployed in a tactical manner to contain the situation and to handle any potential escalation of the incident.   Once the team was in position negotiators made contact with an individual inside the home and were able to convince that person to have the suspect come out side and turn himself into the police outside the home.

      A short time later Jason Caplette, 28, of 59 Lake Sargent Drive, Leicester came outside and turned himself into police officers on the tactical team.   He was taken into custody and charged with:

  1. Assault and Battery Domestic Abuse
  2. Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon
  3. Intimidation of a Witness

Mr. Caplette was being held on $25,000 cash bail at the Leicester Police Department and his is scheduled to be transported for arraignment to the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday morning.

       Police seized several swords from the home amongst them the one which used in the incident.   Investigators also recovered a Rail Adapter System MP-5 replica which shoots plastic BB’s, the replica closely resembles a real MP-5 weapon.   Police also recovered several rounds of ammunition from the house.   Chief Hurley indicated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing and that Mr. Caplette could be facing additional charges in connection with the incident.   The chief stated that he was pleased that the disturbance was resolved without incident, but he continues to remain extremely concerned over the replica weapons that are available to the public that so closely resemble a real firearm that it is virtually impossible to tell them apart.   The chief stated he is concerned that the misuse of these replica weapons will lead to a shooting.   I don’t believe at this point it is a matter of if a shooting involving these replicas will occur but a matter of when it will occur.   Police officers are coming across these replica weapons much more frequently and something is going to happen.   The replica weapons have an red tip on the end of the weapons barrel to identify them as replica’s, but as was the case in this incident in Leicester the red tip had been removed to make the gun look real, and this a trend that is becoming more popular with these replica weapons.

Thursday October 9th 2008
Update on Saturday’s Accident On Rt. 9 in Leicester
Leicester - A Spencer resident who was seriously injured when his bike collided with a car on Rt. 9 in Leicester on Saturday afternoon has died.  Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the Bruce Wilcox, 63 of 282 Main Street (2R), Spencer, MA died overnight at the U-Mass Medical Center University Campus.   Chief Hurley indicated that the accident remains under investigation by the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, Leicester Police and the Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council’s (CEMLEC) Accident Reconstruction Unit.   Chief Hurley declined to comment on the investigation and has refered all questions to District Attorney Joseph Early’s office.

Wednesday October 8th 2008
 Leicester – An Auburn man suffered non life threatening injuries when his motorcycle was struck on Rt. 9 in Leicester Tuesday evening.  Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 9:03 PM in the vicinity of Leicester center.   The collision occurred when a 2000 Suzuki motorcycle operated by Shayne G. Black, 19, of 19 Sunrise Ave., Auburn was traveling east on Rt. 9.  The motorcycle was passing the Cumberland Farms on Rt. 9 when in collided with a 2005 Jeep being operated by Danielle Bartlett, 21 of 1050 Whittemore Street in Leicester.   The force of the collision knocked Mr. Black off the motorcycle.   He was transported to the University of Massachusetts Medical Center with non life threatening injuries.   The operator of the Jeep, Danielle Bartlett was issued a citation for failing to yield.  The accident was investigated by Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica, and Officers Michael Fontaine and Craig Guertin of the Leicester Police Department.

Friday October 3rd 2008
Mother and Daughter Arrested on
Outstanding Warrants and Drug Charges

Leicester – A routine traffic stop for defective equipment ended with a mother and daughter under arrest for outstanding warrants along with them faces new charges for drug violations.   Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began at approximately 6:51 PM on Wednesday night when Officer Scot D. Brooks stopped 1997 Dodge Caravan on Stafford Street for a defective brake light.   Upon stopping the vehicle for the defective brake light Officer Brooks observed that none of the passengers in the vehicle were wearing seatbelts.   The officer requested identification from the passengers who were not wearing their seatbelts in order to issue them seatbelt violations.  One passenger identified herself as Michelle Giraird and provided a date of birth to the officer.    When the officer asked the female how old she was she indicated 30, however the date of birth she provide the officer only made her 29 years old.   The officer asked her to spell her name again for him and she misspelled it.  As a result of further investigation Officer Brooks was able to determine that the woman was actually Melissa M. Tarallo, 29, of 60 Lake Street in Webster, MA.   A check of her true name and date of birth indicated that she had two outstanding warrants for her arrest.   Those warrants were for:

  1. Shoplifting over $100 by concealing merchandise – straight warrant out of Uxbridge District Court
  2. Larceny by check under $250 – straight warrant out of Westborough District Court

During a search of Melissa Tarallo’s purse officers located numerous pills which were preliminarily identified as Suboxone and Percocet.   Melissa Tarallo could not produce a prescription for the pills and was subsequently charged with two counts of illegal possession of a class B substance.

      The officers then had the opportunity to run a routine check on the second passenger in the motor vehicle while they were preparing to write her for a seatbelt violation.   That passenger has been identified as Joanne Tarallo, 46, of 20 Village Drive #5, Southbridge.   That routine check identified an outstanding shoplifting warrant for her arrest.   She was taken into custody and transported to the Leicester Police Department for booking.   During the booking procedure police located small amount of crack cocaine in with her property.  She has been additionally charged with illegal possession of a class B substance.

      Both suspects were released on bail and are scheduled to appear in court on Friday.   Officer Ron Tarentino assisted Officer Brooks with the investigation and the arrests.

 

Saturday September 20, 2008
16:56:08

Leicester – A Rochdale man and his passenger escaped injury when their vehicle struck a telephone pole on Stafford Street in Leicester snapping the pole in half. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 3 PM on Friday afternoon in the vicinity of 688 Stafford Street in Leicester. The accident occurred when a 1988 Chevrolet Blazer being operated by Edwin L. Murphy, 17, of 695 Pleasant Street in Rochdale, MA was traveling west on Stafford Street. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a utility pole snapping it completely in half resulting in a portion of the pole coming to rest blocking the westbound lane of Stafford Street. The vehicle continued a short distance down the road before coming to a stop on a grassy area of the roadway shoulder. Both Mr. Murphy and a 14 year old passenger in his vehicle declined medical treatment at the accident scene. Traffic on Stafford Street was restricted to one lane for several hours while the pole was replaced and utility companies made repairs. Power was interrupted in the area as a result of the accident. The accident is being investigated by Officer Matthew T. Brady of the Leicester Police Department.

Friday August 29, 2008
10:25:46

Wanted Man Arrested After Foot Chase Female Companion Faces Drug Charges Leicester – A man wanted on numerous outstanding warrants was arrested after a foot chase involving Leicester Police Officers and a state police canine unit. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident began at approximately 6:30 PM Thursday night when officers from the Leicester Police Department learned that Earl J. Smith II, 31, whose last known address was Cherry Street in Spencer was at a residence on Mill Street in Leicester. Mr. Smith was wanted on three outstanding arrest warrants including a warrant charging him with his possession of at stolen motor vehicle and using a motor vehicle without authority in Leicester on 7/20/08. During that incident Leicester Police received information that a stolen motorcycle was stopped at the gas pumps at the Cumberland Farms on Rt. 9 in Leicester. Prior to police arriving at the Cumberland Farms the motorcycle operator, Adam Lacroix, 30 of Spencer who was wanted for an armed robbery in Spencer at the time, fled with the motorcycle, and Mr. Smith fled into the woods. Police observed the motorcycle a short distance down Rt. 9 and attempted to stop the vehicle. Mr. Lacroix fled from police who broke off a short pursuit of the motorcycle based upon the high speeds and erratic operation of the motorcycle. Both Mr. Smith and Lacroix eluded police on the day of the incident. The operator of the motorcycle was arrested several days later by Spencer Police on the armed robbery warrant. Mr. Smith had remained wanted until police went to Mill Street yesterday. Chief Hurley stated that four Leicester officers and the state police canine unit went to the house to attempt to arrest Mr. Smith. The canine unit was brought to the scene based upon Mr. Smith’s record of fleeing from the police. As the officers moved in on the house Mr. Smith became aware of their presence and attempted to flee the area crossing over into an adjoining neighborhood. Officers tracked Mr. Smith to a friend’s home where he was located hiding inside the bedroom of the home. Mr. Smith has been charged with: Resisting arrest Disorderly conduct He was also taken into custody on the following three arrest warrants: Straight warrant from East Brookfield Court on Spencer PD charge – Failure to register as sex offender Straight warrant from East Brookfield Court on Spencer PD charge – Failure to register as sex offender Straight warrant from East Brookfield Court on Leicester PD charges – Using a motor vehicle without authority and possession of a stolen motor vehicle Offices also had the opportunity to speak with home owner at the residence that Mr. Smith fled from as police approached. They also located a companion of Mr. Smith’s who was taken into custody after a brief investigation at the house. Police have identified her as Katrina L. Howe, 32. of 54 Quabbog Street, Brookfield, MA. She has been charged with possession of a class B controlled substance. Chief Hurley indicated police seized five hypodermic needles, several spoons and a pipe along with a small amount of cocaine. Both subjects were booked at the Leicester Police Department and were transported to the East Brookfield District Court to be arraigned this morning (Friday). Sgt. Joseph Fontaine, Detective Timothy Fontaine, Officer Derrick Ruth, Matthew Brady, Daniel Dyson handled the arrests and investigation along with Trooper Jones and his canine Dakar.

Friday August 29, 2008
06:21:10

Second party (Russell Mosman age 83) from Leicester Motor vehicle accident yesterday has died

Thursday August 28, 2008
21:07:05

One Killed in Leicester Accident Rt. 9 Closed for 2 Hours Leicester – A two car motor vehicle accident yesterday afternoon left a North Brookfield woman dead and two other injured. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 3:30 PM on Rt. 9 near the intersection of Town Beach Road. The accident occurred when a 2001 Hyundai traveling east and being operated by Adwoa A. Gyamfi 41, of 101 Whipple Street, Worcester crossed over into the westbound lane and struck a 1994 Buick being operated by Russell Mosman , 83 of North Brookfield. Mr. Mosman was trapped in the motor vehicle and members of the Leicester Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services had to use the Jaws of Life in order to get him out of the vehicle. He was airlifted by Life Flight to U-Mass Medical Center University Campus for what Chief Hurley stated were extensive injuries. His passenger Dorothy Mosman, 89 of North Brookfield was taken by ambulance to St. Vincent’s/Medical City where she was pronounced dead. Ms. Gyamfi was taken to U-Mass hospital with non life threatening injuries. Chief Hurley stated that the accident is in the preliminary stages of an investigation and it is too early to comment on what might have caused the accident. The accident is being investigated by Officer Thomas Moughan of the Leicester Police Department and the State Police Accident reconstruction team. The Crime Scene Service Unit of the State Police were also on scene assisting. Rt. 9 in Leicester was closed for more than two hours while the extrication and treatment of victims took place. The accident required the use of three separate ambulances along with the U-Mass Life Flight to transport the patients. The Life Flight helicopter landed near the Spencer Country Inn. Traffic was backed up for several miles while officers investigated and cleared the scene. The Leicester Police Department was assisted at the accident scene by the Spencer Police and the State Police who both sent officers to assist with handling traffic and to answer calls in Leicester while Leicester officers were tied up at the accident scene.

Sunday August 24, 2008
18:18:38

Leicester – A Worcester resident was taken into custody early Sunday morning by Leicester Police and will be arraigned Monday in East Brookfield District Court on narcotics charges. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began shortly after midnight when Sgt. Paul Doray was on routine patrol in the Willow Hill Road area of Leicester. As the Sergeant was patrolling the area he observed two males in the area who fled on foot when they spotted the police cruiser. Sgt. Doray called for assistance and he and Officer Daniel Dyson who arrived in the area were able to locate the two males on Auburn Street. The men indicated that they were at a local residence visiting a female and when the home owner discovered the men in the house he told them to leave. The officers also located two juvenile females in the area who were turned over to their parents. The officers conducted a brief investigation and as a result of the investigation Max W. Bombard, 18, of 9 Franconia Street, Worcester, MA was arrested and charged with: Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute Possession of marijuana (subsequent offense) Chief Hurley indicated that the officers seized seven individually packaged bags of marijuana from Mr. Bombard along with $120 in cash. The chief stated that the individual packaging and the money seized, which were all ten & twenty dollar bills, indicated to the investigating officers that the marijuana seized was specifically packaged for sale/distribution. The chief credited Sgt. Doray for his alert observations while on patrol and both officers for their work in locating the suspects. Chief Hurley stated that this is another case where the alert observation of Sgt. Paul Doray and the assistance of Officer Dyson led to the seizure of marijuana which was ready for distribution onto the streets of the community. This was excellent police work. Mr. Bombard was being held at the Leicester Police Department on $1,000 cash bail. He is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning. The second male who was accompanying Mr. Bombard was not charg

Tuesday August 05, 2008
08:56:48

Man Escapes Injury in Crash Excessive Speed Cited as Cause of Accident Leicester – A local resident escaped injury in a motor vehicle accident early Sunday morning on Rt. 56. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the department received a call at approximately 2:30 AM reporting that the caller could hear two cars racing and then heard a loud crash. Officers responding to the scene found a 2003 Nissan has struck the guardrail near the intersection of Rt. 56 and Pleasant Street in Leicester. The operator of the motor vehicle was identified as Keith C. Berard, 23 of 245 Clark Street, Rochdale. He was not injured in the accident. Mr. Berard has been issued a citation for the following motor vehicle violations: Negligent operation of a motor vehicle; Speed greater than reasonable and proper; Marked lanes violation; Investigators from the Leicester Police Department and Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council’s Accident reconstruction team were called to the scene to conduct an investigation. Chief Hurley said the accident Reconstructionist was called to investigate based upon the initial responding officers belief that speed played a role in the accident. A preliminary report from the accident Reconstructionist indicates that the speed of the Berard vehicle was excessive. We will have the final speed calculations within a short period of time. The Chief indicated that there were no signs of a second vehicle at the accident scene when officers arrived at the scene. The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Paul Doray, Officer Michael Fontaine and Ron Tarentino from the Leicester Police Department.

Tuesday August 05, 2008
07:50:25

Barking Dog Complaint Leads to Search Warrant and Drug Arrests Leicester – An early morning noise complaint led to the issuance of a search warrant and two arrest on Friday July 31, 2008. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 1:24 AM on Friday when Officers Ronald Tarentino and Michael Kemp responded to a noise complaint at the corner of Peter Salem Road and Pleasant Street in Leicester. The caller reported that the dogs located at 355 Pleasant Street had been barking non stop. The caller reported that when he went residence where the dogs were barking that the house was wide open and that the residents had not been seen for some time. The responding officers checked on both the dogs and then the residence to make sure that the residents were safe and that the house had not been broken into. As the officers were checking the inside of the home they observed marijuana in plain view. The officers left the residence and contacted police investigators. Later on Friday investigators from the Leicester Police Department applied for and received a search warrant for the home. The officers executed the search warrant and were in the process of collecting evidence when the residents arrived home. Based on what the initial responding officers observed and the evidence collected at the home by investigators during the search warrant they took the following two suspects into custody: David M. Lomax, 36 of 355 Pleasant Street, Leicester, MA 01524 Dawn Fitzgerald, 31 of 355 Pleasant Street, Leicester, MA 01524 Both were charged with: Possession of a class D controlled substance; Possession of a class D controlled substance with intent to distribute; Drug violation near a school/park; Conspiracy to violate the controlled substance act; Cultivation/manufacturing of marijuana; Both were released from police custody and were scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday. Chief Hurley also stated that two juveniles will also be charged in connection with this incident. The 15 and 16 year old juveniles will face the same charges and will be summonsed into the Worcester Juvenile Court in the near future. In addition to the initial responding officers Sgt. Joseph Fontaine, Officer Derrick Ruth and Officer Daniel Dyson assisted in the investigation. The Leicester Police also was assisted by Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early’s office and the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force.

Tuesday July 29, 2008
14:09:15

Two Injured In Motorcycle Accident Leicester – Two local residents were injured after a motorcycle accident on Rt. 56 in Leicester at approximately 5:45 PM Monday. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the accident occurred when a vehicle being operated by a 16 year old female attempted to pull out onto Rt. 56 from Clark Street. The operator of the vehicle indicated that her view was partially obstructed and when she pulled out she did not see a motorcycle which was traveling south on Rt. 56. The motorcycle skidded and avoided a collision with the vehicle but eventually the operator of the motorcycle lost control and the 2007 Honda motorcycle crashed. The operator of the motorcycle Philip J. Metcalf Jr., 55 and his passenger Iris Metcalf, 52 both of Hyland Ave in Leicester were thrown from the motorcycle and sustained non life threatening injuries. Both of the injured parties were treated at the scene by Leicester EMS personnel and were transported by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance to U-Mass Hospital. The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Ronald Tarentino. Chief Hurley indicated that the accident investigation is on going at this time and will take several days to complete. Police have spoken with an independent witness who saw the accident occur. The chief indicated that it is too early at this time to comment if any charges while be filed in connection with the accident

Saturday July 26, 2008
16:10:54

Burglar Alarm at Home Leads to Marijuana Seizure Leicester – Local police responding to burglar alarm activation found a stash of marijuana inside a Leicester home on Friday night. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that on Friday night at approximately 9 PM the Leicester Police Department’s communication system received a call from a security company reporting that there was burglar alarm activation at 52 Waite Street in Leicester. Sgt. Joseph Fontaine along with Officer Derrick Ruth and Alexander Samia responded to the residence and found it was unsecured. The officers entered the home and began a sweep of the residence for intruders. While conducting the sweep of the house the officers observed marijuana in the home. Upon completing the sweep of the home officers secured the residence and contacted investigators. Early Saturday morning officers from the Leicester Police Department re-entered the home with a search warrant and conducted a search of the dwelling. Chief James Hurley stated that police located and seized marijuana, packaging material, a small amount of cash and other items all of which are consistent with the sale and/or distribution of marijuana. Chief Hurley indicated that he estimated that approximately a pound of marijuana was seized. Chief Hurley stated that this was clearly a location which was involved in the distribution of marijuana. We found numerous bags ready for sale and all the equipment need to break larger quantities of marijuana down to a size which can be sold on the street. This is an excellent seizure as it takes the marijuana off the streets and out of our community. The chief indicated that the owners of the residence were not home at the time of the incident and that no arrests have been made at this point in time. This is an active investigation and we are still in the preliminary stages of the investigation. We will be working on preparing some forensic evidence for submission to the crime lab over the next several days and consulting with District Attorney Joseph Early’s office on the matter. Chief Hurley stated that he expects that criminal charges will be filed by the investigating officers at the conclusion of the investigation. Sgt. Paul Doray and Officers Ron Tarentino and James Murphy assisted in the execution of the search warrant.

Saturday July 26, 2008
08:31:21

Two Local Men Arrested for Mailbox Damage Leicester – Local police were kept busy early Friday morning responding to reports of mailboxes being smashed in several different sections of town. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that officers from the department began responding to reports from area residents that mailboxes were being smashed around 4 AM. The responding Officers were unable to locate the suspects but did find more than a dozen mailboxes that had been smashed in several areas of town. Rawson Street, Burncoat Street, Mannville Street, Greenville Street and Maple Lane all had mailboxes that were damaged. The initial responding officers even notified surrounding communities but were unable to locate any suspects At approximately 7:20 AM officers responded to a report that a vehicle had just smashed two mailboxes on Burncoat Street. Police received a description of the motor vehicle and a partial plate. Approximately 5-10 minutes after the call Officer Thomas Moughan located the vehicle with two suspects just getting out of the vehicle. After a short investigation Officer Moughan and Detective Timothy Fontaine took both suspects into custody. They have been identified as: Shane R. Malvey, 17, of 77 Charles Street, Leicester, MA Sean R. Morton, 17, 14 Wasilla Drive, Rochdale, MA Both men were charged with two counts of vandalism of property and disorderly conduct. Both were arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court this morning and released. Chief Hurley indicated that while the men are charged only in connection with the two mailbox vandalisms which occurred at around 7 AM that police were continuing to investigate if the men were connected to the earlier vandalism incident. Leicester Police were also coordinating the investigation with Spencer Police who also had a number of mailbox vandalisms reported in their community. Chief Hurley asked that anyone who witnessed any of the vandalism occurring or had their mailbox damaged to call the Leicester Police Department at (508) 892-7010. Officer Julie Berry assisted in the investigation and arrests.

Monday June 30, 2008
12:40:50

Police Release Composite of Suspect in Sexual Assault Leicester – Local police release a composite of a suspect wanted in connection with a sexual assault which occurred Friday night at the Leicester Drive Inn. According to Leicester Police Chief James Hurley the incident occurred at approximately 9:30 PM when a young teenage male was approached by the male shown in the composite and lured into the woods near the Drive Inn. Once in the woods the teenager was sexually assaulted by the suspect. The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 30 years of age, slender build and medium height. The suspect indicated to the victim that he was at the Drive Inn with his “boss”. Anyone with information is asked to call the Leicester Police Department Detective Bureau at (508) 892-7010 or the Leicester Police Department Crime Tip Hotline which can be accessed using the same phone number. The case is being investigated by Detective Timothy Fontaine.

Wednesday June 25, 2008
14:21:31

Leicester Officer Completes Full Time Police Academy Leicester - The Leicester Police Department is pleased to announce that Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. graduated from the full time police academy today. Officer Tarentino began his career with the Leicester Police Department as a part time officer in September of 2006 and was hired as a full time officer in June of 2007. Officer Tarentino began the full time academy in January of this year with the graduation ceremony on Wednesday June 25th marking the conclusion of his 21 weeks of training. While attending the police academy student officers undergo physical training as well as receiving training and instruction in defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operation, firearms training, criminal law, motor vehicle law, first aid, CPR and numerous other classes. As a member of the 18th Municipal Police Officers Class (MPOC) at the Boylston Regional Academy Officer Tarentino trained with 35 other student officers from communities across the Commonwealth and was elected Vice President of his class and a squad leader. Officer Tarentino had his badge pinned on by his father who is a veteran police officer with the Medford Police Department. Officer Tarentino is married with three children. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department stated that he was very impressed with Officer Tarentino’s performance while he attended the police academy. Officer Tarentino has clearly demonstrated that he has the ability, knowledge and leadership skills to be an excellent police officer. The Leicester Police Department and the community are fortunate to have a newly trained officer of Officer Tarentino’s caliber as a member of the department. Courtesy Photo Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. (right) stands with his father Ronald Tarentino a veteran Medford Police Officer after graduating from the Boylston Police Academy.

Friday June 20, 2008
16:04:05

Bear Sighted in Leicester Leicester – A LaFlash Lane resident arrived home last night to find an unusual guest at his home, a black bear was emptying out the residents bird feeder. After emptying out the bird feeder the bear walked down LaFlash Lane and onto Sanfred Road and then disappeared. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the Leicester Police Department receives numerous calls every year reporting black bear sightings in the community. The majority of the reports the department receives are that the bear is emptying the bird feeder or eating some other type of pet food that has been placed outside. Chief Hurley encourages residents to secure any food left outside for pets along with bird feeders filled with seed so as not to attract the bears. If a bear is seen residents should leave the bear alone, stay clear of it, and contact police. Chief Hurley sated that anyone who would like additional information on what they can do to keep black bears away from their home’s can find the information on the following Massachusetts Wildlife state website: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/wildlife/facts/mammals/bear/black_bear_problem_faq.htm#prob11 . North Brookfield Men Face Stolen Motor Vehicle Charges Investigation Still On-Going Leicester – An early morning traffic stop of a motor vehicle which failed to dim its high beams netted two North Brookfield men on drug and stolen vehicle charges. Leicester Police Chief stated that the incident began at approximately 2:17 PM when Officer Daniel Dyson stopped a 1999 Honda Civic on Rt. 56 near Stafford Street in Leicester. When the officer approached the vehicle he detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The subsequent investigation led to the determination that the operator of the vehicle had a suspended license and the subsequent search lead to the discovery of a small amount of marijuana and a pipe to smoke the marijuana in the vehicle. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Scot Brooks arrived to assist officer Dyson. As the officer continued their investigation they became concerned that the motor vehicle might have been stolen. The operator of the motor vehicle who police identified as Robert R. Prunier III, 21 of 81 Bell Street, North Brookfield indicated to the officers that the motor vehicle he was operating was owned by his grandmother. The officers contacted the owner of the motor vehicle who indicated that the vehicle should be in her driveway and that she did not know anyone by the name of Robert Prunier. As a result of the phone call from the Leicester Police the owner reported the motor vehicle as stolen to the North Brookfield Police Department. Both the operator and the passenger were transported to the Leicester Police Department where they went through the normal booking procedure. They were charged with the following offenses: Robert Richard Prunier III (operator) Possession of class D substance marijuana Using a motor vehicle without authority Receiving a stolen motor vehicle Operating with a suspended license (subsequent offense) Failure to dim headlights Cameron James Collaro, 19, or 61 Gilbert St. North Brookfield (passenger) Possession of class D substance marijuana Using a motor vehicle without authority Receiving a stolen motor vehicle Officer also found an additional item in the vehicle which may be evidence in an investigation being conducted by the North Brookfield Police Department. Inquiries on that investigation should be made to the North Brookfield Police. Both suspects were held overnight at the Leicester Police Department and they were transported to the East Brookfield District Court in the morning for arraignment. Both me were being held on bail after their arraignments. Chief Hurley stated this was excellent police work. This case went from a routine traffic stop to the recovery of a stolen motor vehicle. It was excellent work by the officers.

Friday June 20, 2008
14:32:37

Shoplifting Incident Ends with Assault and Arrest One Suspect Still Being Sought Leicester – A shoplifting incident kept Leicester Police busy Monday night after one suspect attacked the loss prevention office while the other suspect fled the area on foot. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 7:15 PM when loss prevention at the Wal-Mart Store located on Rt. 9 in Leicester followed a shoplifter out the door of the store and asked the man to step back inside the store with the stolen merchandise. The male refused, dropped the merchandise he had stolen and used physical force to evade the asset protection officer. As the male was fighting with asset protection a vehicle pulled up and a female jumped out of the vehicle and began to participate in the assault on the Wal-Mart asset protection officer. The male who had stolen the merchandise then fled on foot leaving the female behind as she actively assault the asset protection officer. The male ran across the parking lot into a wooded area. Responding officers from the Leicester Police Department were able to locate the female and took here into custody. She has been charged with: Shoplifting by Asportation Conspiracy Assault and Battery She has been identified by police as Victoria Matheney, 23 of 5 Lincoln Drive, Millbury. She was held overnight at the Leicester Police Department on $500 bail and was transported to the East Brookfield District Court for here arraignment on Tuesday morning. A State Police K-9 was brought to the scene and officers searched the wooded area next to the store and along both sides of Rt. 9 but were unable to locate the second suspect. Police were hampered in the search efforts by heavy rain and lightning. After approximately 90 minutes of searching the area the search was called. Chief Hurley indicated that police have identified the second suspect and will be seeking an arrest warrant for the man within the next several days. The vehicle which was used in the incident was towed to the Leicester Police Department where police recovered several hundred dollars of merchandise including digital video cameras, digital picture frames, and computer memory cards were recovered in addition to the property the male dropped when confronted by asset protection. In addition to the stolen merchandise police also found hypodermic needles and a substance which appears to be heroin in the motor vehicle. Chief Hurley stated that from the information that officers have been able to gather during the course of the investigation it appears that these two individuals made multiple trips into the store prior to being caught. The chief further stated that investigators believe that these individuals are tied to numerous other thefts from the store over the past several weeks, and that investigators will be following up on that portion of the investigation over the next several days. It is likely that more charges will be followed in connection with this case in the days ahead. The asset protection officer suffered minor injuries and was treated by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance at the scene and declined being transported to the hospital.

Friday June 20, 2008
14:28:22

Three Worcester Residents Arrested During Break – In at Leicester Gas Station Leicester – A local officer on routine patrol early Thursday morning interrupted a break in progress at the Irving Gas Station located on Rt. 9 in the Cherry Valley section of Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 12:05 AM when Officer Daniel Dyson who was on routine patrol observed two individuals emerge from the rear of the gas station and approach the door of the business and open it and enter into the business. The officer was aware that thegas station is closed for business at this time of the night. As the officer approached the gas station one of the subjects who was now completely inside the building discarded several cartons of cigarettes. The officers asked the two suspects what they were doing and one suspect later identified as Benjamin Cooney, 18, of 100 Pine Street, Grafton, MA answered the office by stating “something stupid.” Once additional assistance arrived the Officer Dyson was able to determine that the female with Mr. Cooney had a key to the gas station. The female suspect was identified as Therese McNamara, 18 of 5 Brookline St. #1, Worcester, MA. Ms. McNamara did infact have a key to the gas station on her which she indicated she got from friend at a party in Worcester. While locating the key officers also found a glove in her front pocket which she indicated to police she was going to wear during the incident but forgot to put it on. The suspects were taken into custody and both were charged with: 1. Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime with intent to commit a felony 2. Possession of Burglarious Tools 3. Conspiracy A short while later a man came walking by the scene of the break in and police spoke with him as he passed by the gas station. That individual was asked if he had any involvement in the break-in and he denied any involvement. He also denied knowing either of the suspects that were involved in the incident. He indicated he was out walking to his grandmother’s house and he was allowed to continue on his walk. A short while later the man walked back by the gas station and officers noted that he was back far to quickly to have completed the walk to his grandmother’s home which was a considerable distance away. Both Mr. Cooney and Ms. McNamara were transported back to the Leicester Police Department where they underwent the normal booking process. After the booking and follow-up investigation it was learned by the officers that the key used to enter the store had been given to the two above suspects by an employee of the Irving Gas Station. That employee had informed the station’s management that he lost his key several days earlier. It was also learned the reason for reporting the key missing was to allow the two suspects in custody and the employee to break into the gas station and steal cigarettes and other items. All three had worked together planning the crime out in advance but were foiled by the Officer Dyson who interrupted the break in. Additionally officers were able to determine the employee who had provided the key was none other than the man who had walked by and scene of the crime and stated that he was going to his grandmother’s house. At approximately 5:45 AM Officer Daniel Dyson met with officers from the Worcester Police Department at 1556 Main Street #1, Worcester where they took Michael R. Nuttall, 18, of that address into custody for breaking and entering. He is an employee of the gas station and the male who claimed to be walking to his grandmother’s house. He was transported back to the Leicester Police Department where he was booked on the same charges as Mr. Cooney and Ms. McNamara. All three were held on $2,500 bail and were transported to the East Brookfield District Court for arraignment Thursday morning. Officer Michael Fontaine assisted in the arrests and investigation.

Saturday June 14, 2008
14:23:16

Technology Keeps Spencer Resident Locked Up Leicester - A Spencer resident almost slipped away from Leicester Police but thanks to modern technology he didn’t quiet make it. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley state that the incident began at approximately 1:30 AM when Officer Scott Brooks a man identifying himself as Dritan Manaj, 25 42R Jones Road, Spencer, MA for speeding on Rt. 9. Mr. Manaj provided the officer with an Albanian passport and an international driver’s license. Officer Brooks was able to determine that the use of the international driver’s license was not permitted based upon the length of time which Mr. Manaj has been residing in Massachusetts. Officer Brooks took Mr. Dritan Manaj into custody for speeding and operating without a license. He was transported to the Leicester Police Department and underwent the normal booking procedure. While at the Leicester Police Department Mr. Manaj’s fingerprints were taken using the departments live scan fingerprinting system. The system sends the prints electronically to state and federal databases for comparison. Shortly before Dritan Manaj was to be bailed the fingerprint comparison results were transmitted back to the Leicester Police Department electronically. The results of the comparison indicated that they matched the prints belonging to Tritan Mane with a date of birth the same as Dritan Manaj but off by one year. The officers then ran this information through state and national warrant databases and found that Tritan Mane had two outstanding warrants for his arrest and there was also an outstanding Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency warrant/detainer in affect for him. Mr. Tritan Mane was then held without bail pending his appearance in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning. He will face the following charges as a result of police learning of his true name: Speeding Marked lanes Operating after suspension of license Operator of motor vehicle refusing to identify self False name to avoid prosecution Arrestee furnishing a false name/SSN Default warrant Westborough District Court for; leaving the scene of a property damage accident, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and a marked lanes violation Default warrant Worcester Central District Court for; unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration. The Immigration and Custom Enforcement Agency (ICE) detainer will be lodged with the court. Chief Hurley credited Officer Brooks and Officer Daniel Dyson who assisted in the investigation for their attention to detail when booking Mr. Manaj. Their attention to detail kept him from slipping through the cracks. He almost made it but no quite Hurley stated.

Monday June 02, 2008
06:38:33

The Leicester Police Department is investigating the discovery of a 26 year old man found seriously injured under a railroad bridge in Leicester. The man has been transported to the hospital by Leicester Fire Department ambulance after being removed from the rugged area by fire personnel. No further information is available at this time.

Monday May 26, 2008
08:47:57

Leicester - A sixteen year old Cherry Valley resident escaped a serious motor vehicle accident with only minor injuries yesterday. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident happened on Sunday afternoon at approximately 4:40 PM when a 1996 Buick being operated by Arielle M. Eagan of Chesnar Drive in Cherry Valley was turning off of Rt. 9 onto Auburn Street. After making the turn onto Auburn Street the vehicle veered off the roadway striking the guardrail. The vehicle continued along the guard rail and flipped over going off a bridge on Auburn Street. The vehicle landed upside down in a small stream. The operator was treated for minor injuries at the scene. The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Paul Doray and Officer Derrick Ruth.

Saturday May 24, 2008
16:32:54

Leicester Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Unarmed Robbery Suspect Leicester - Local police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect who committed an unarmed robbery at the Cumberland Farms on Saturday morning. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the incident took place at the approximately 6:50 AM at the Cumberland Farms located at 10 Main Street, Leicester. The chief indicated that a black male approximately 35-45 years of age, tall with a heavy build wearing a black do-rag entered the store when there were no other customers in the store and physically forced the clerk away from the cash register and stole an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect fled on foot heading east on Rt. 9 towards Worcester. The clerk was able to flag down Officer Michael Fontaine who was on patrol and reported to him that the robbery had just occurred. Members of the Leicester Police Department set up a perimeter in the area where the suspect had fled towards and a State Police canine was brought to the scene within minutes. The subsequent search indicated that the suspect appears to have exited the wooded area police thought he ran into and crossed Rt. 9 where a vehicle may have been waiting. Leicester Police were processing evidence at the scene, reviewing video surveillance footage and interviewing witness. They were also conferring with detectives from the Worcester Police Department to see if the Leicester incident matched similar incidents in the city. Police did release the attached composite and are asking anyone with information pertaining to the robbery or the composite to contact the Leicester Police Department crime tip hotline at (508) 892-7010.

Saturday May 10, 2008
11:43:02

Hit and Run Accident in Worcester Ends with Brimfield Man in Leicester Police Custody Leicester – A hit and run accident in Webster Square in Worcester early Friday morning ended with a Brimfield man being arrested by Leicester Police on several motor vehicle violations. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began on Friday morning at approximately 1:50 AM when Leicester Police Officer Daniel Dyson overheard a Worcester Police Department broadcast for a motor vehicle wanted in connection with a hit and run accident several minutes earlier in Webster Square. The broadcast indicated that the vehicle left the scene traveling west on Rt. 9. As officer Dyson patrolled Rt. 9 he observed a vehicle matching the description of the hit and run vehicle attempting to leave the Cumberland Farms parking lot in the center of Leicester. The vehicle had fresh damage consistent with it being involved in the accident and the operator was trying to drive with one of the tires being flat. After a brief investigation the operator of the vehicle who police have identified as Joseph P. Contois, 24, of 30 Seventh Street in Brimfield, MA was taken into custody and charged with the following offenses: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol Operating a motor negligently Open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle He was transported to the Leicester Police Department where he underwent the normal booking procedures. Officers from the Worcester Police Department responded to the scene of the arrest and gathered the information needed to assist them in their hit and run investigation. Chief Hurley indicated that Mr. Contois was held on $5,000 cash bail and was transported to the East Brookfield District Court for arraignment Friday morning.

Saturday May 10, 2008
11:26:52

Armed Robbery Report a Hoax Victim Now a Defendant Leicester – A Worcester resident who report that he was robbed at gun point on Stafford Street in Leicester on April 23, 2008 has been summonsed into East Brookfield District court by Leicester Police who are alleging the whole incident was a hoax. Leicester Police Chief James J. Hurley stated that police revieved a report from a motorist that he was operating on Stafford Street in Leicester heading back towards Worcester just before midnight. The motorist indicated that as he approached the intersection of Stafford and Auburn Street there was a man in the intersection point a gun at the motorist. When he stopped the gun man was joined by two other men who pulled the victim from his motor vehicle and robbed him. During the robbery the victim’s cash and all of his clothing except for his underwear were stolen. The victim indicated that during the robbery the men made a racially derogatory comment to him. The report of the robbery and the victim’s statement that no vehicle was seen led police to believe that the suspects may have fled on foot. This set off a search by Leicester, Auburn, Oxford, and State Police which lasted approximately 2-3 hours. From midnight to approximately 3 am we had state police K-9’s and officers from various departments combing the neighborhoods and wooded areas around the robbery scene looking for the suspects. All with negative results the chief said. Investigators recovered the victims clothing along Rt. 56 near the Leicester / Oxford town line. The victim was interviewed by police and even completed a composite of the suspect who was armed with the handgun. The sketch was released to the media and generated several leads for police none of which proved viable. As the investigation continued Leicester and Oxford Police interviewed several employees at a local adult entertainment establishment and were able to determine that the victim had infact patronized the establishment shortly before the robbery was reported. The interviews at the establishment provided clear evidence that when the victim let the establishment he had spent all of his money. Leicester Police investigators re-interviewed the victim and confronted him with their findings and the victim admitted to fabricating the story so that he would have a reason for returning home to his family without any money. The victim who in now the defendant has been identified by police as Wiltson Junior, 25, of 63 Russell Street #4, Worcester, MA. He has been summonsed into court on the following charges: False report of a crime Obstruction of Justice He is scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court in the coming weeks. Chief Hurley indicated that the follow up investigation into the incident took several weeks and involved investigators from the Leicester and Oxford Police Departments. Chief Hurley indicated that this is the second false report of a serous crime received by his department during the past 6-8 months. When you tally up the cost of the response to the incident and the manpower hours during the follow up investigation this false report of a crime cost the police department a significant amount of money. That money ultimately belonged to the tax payers and their needs to be a mechanism in place to recoup the loss of this money. The case was investigated by Det. Timothy Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department. Chief Hurley also credited Officers Frank Bulman and Michael Fontaine with conducting a thorough and complete initial investigation which greatly assisted in bringing the matter to its resolution. Last fall Leicester Police investigated a report from a woman who indicated that she had been abducted and physically assaulted in Leicester after she was picked up hitch hiking in Leicester. That report ultimately turned out to be fabricated also.

Tuesday May 06, 2008
21:09:45

Motor Vehicle Accident Ends with Charlton Man’s Arrest Leicester - A Charlton resident was arrested following an accident on Rt. 9 in Leicester Center early yesterday (Monday) evening. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the accident occurred at approximately 6 PM when a Dodge Pick up truck traveling east rear ended a Ford Escort which was also traveling east. The collision occurred when the operator of the escort whom police identified as Lindsay Censabella of 44 Elm Street, Worcester slowed for another vehicle in the roadway. Ms Censabella’s vehicle was struck from behind by the pick up truck which was being operated by James T. Elliott, 45, of 169 Old Worcester Road, Charlton, MA. Ms. Censabella was transported by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance to a local area hospital. Mr. Elliott was taken into custody and charged with: Operating Under the Influence Alcohol Operating Under the Influence Causing Serious bodily injury Marked Lanes Possession of an open alcoholic beverage He was held on bail and was scheduled to be arranged in the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday Morning.

Monday May 05, 2008
12:00:21

Spencer Resident Injured in Crash into Woods 911 GPS and Old Fashion Police Work Used to Locate Accident Leicester – A Spencer resident was recovering at St. Vincent’s Hospital/Medical City after an accident this morning that left police searching for his vehicle which was well off the roadway into the woods. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began at approximately 7:20 this morning (Monday) when the Leicester Police Department’s dispatch center had a 911 cell phone call transferred to them by the State Police. The caller reported he was suffering from a medical problem and that his vehicle was in the woods and he could not see anything around him. The 911 system’s GPS system placed the vehicle off the roadway into the woods in the vicinity of 90 Huntoon Memorial Highway (Rt. 56). Police, fire and EMS personnel responded to the scene but were unable to locate the vehicle. Leicester Police Dispatcher Lori Facteau lost verbal communication with the operator of the vehicle but was able to hear him breathing and listen for emergency vehicle sirens in an attempt to assist the officers in finding the vehicle, but was unable to hear any. After several minutes Dispatcher Facteau was able to re-establish verbal communication with the operator and the dispatcher instructed the operator to honk the vehicles horn to assist officers in locating him. At approximately 7:35 AM police and fire personnel heard the horn and were able to locate a 2005 Toyota in the woods. The vehicle had been traveling on Rt. 56 when it entered the parking lot at Millbrook Distributors. It traveled into the parking lot then went up and over the curb at the edge of the parking lot and substantially into the woods. Police, Fire, and EMS personnel had to cut away brush and tree branches to the operator out of the motor vehicle. The operator who has been identified William J. Bluyus, 59, of 89 Pleasant Street; Spencer was transported by the Leicester Fire Department Ambulance to St. Vincent’s hospital/Medical City, where his condition was improving. Chief Hurley stated that the accident was being investigated by Officer Thomas Moughan the department’s accident reconstructionist. The preliminary report indicates that the accident occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to police receiving the call. Mr. Bluyus suffered some type of medical emergency at approximately 7:10 AM and went off the roadway. No one witness the accident occur and Mr. Bluyus my have lost consciousness. All of the above combined made it difficult to locate the accident. Chief Hurley credited the work of Dispatcher Facteau of the Leicester Police as being crucial to locating the accident. Her ingenuity in using the cell phone even though the operator was non responsive along with getting the operator to use the vehicle’s horn when he was conscious was very resourceful and crucial to finding the vehicle. This is a classic case where the GPS technology could only take us so far, and it took good old fashioned police work to actually find the vehicle. Chief Hurley also credited the assistance of the State Police Dispatcher who rapidly provided the information which they received to the Leicester Police Dispatch Center. Officers John Caforio and Julie Berry assisted at the scene and are assisting in the accident investigation.

Saturday May 03, 2008
09:31:54

Leicester Resident Faces Multiple Drug Charges After Search of Home Leicester – Armed with a search warrant Leicester Police working in conjunction with the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force search a local resident’s home. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that officers search the residence of Eugene J. Mikkila, 33, of 10 Park Lane, Leicester, MA at approximately 4:15 PM Friday afternoon. The search of that home led to the seizure of marijuana, cocaine and pills which have preliminarily been identified as oral steroids. Mr. Mikkila was arrested and charged with: Possession of a class D substance (marijuana) with intent to distribute; Possession of a class D substance (marijuana) Possession of a class B substance (cocaine) Possession of a class E substance (steroids) with intent to distribute; Possession of a class E substance (steroids). Chief Hurley stated that Mr. Mikkila was released after posting $500 cash bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday. The search was the result of an ongoing investigation which culminated with Leicester Police Detective Timothy Fontaine being issued a search warrant for Mr. Mikkila’s residence. Chief Hurley stated that as a result of the search warrant being served marijuana with an estimated street value of $500 was seized, along with a small amount of cocaine and a large number of pills which have been preliminarily identified as an oral steroid. Leicester Police along with officers from Auburn, Millbury, and Spencer who are assigned to the task force served the search warrant. Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early’s Office also provided assistance throughout the investigation. The Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force is a multi-agency law enforcement collaborative which is funded through a grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety. Chief Hurley indicated that if it were not for the assistance of the Task Force and the grant the investigation would have been much more difficult. The task force provided the Leicester Police Department with the necessary manpower to conduct this type of investigation and the grant provides a reimbursement on some of the expenses incurred by the participating agencies. Spencer Woman Arrested after Traffic Stop Police Seize Cocaine and Oxycodone Leicester – A routine check of a license plate by Leicester Police Officer Daniel Dyson ended with a Spencer woman under arrest for illegal drug possession. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that Officer Daniel Dyson using his cruisers onboard Mobile Data Terminal initiated the stop of a motor vehicle based upon his knowledge that the owner who was the operator of the vehicle was unlicensed. The operator of the motor vehicle who police identified as April J. DeLauro, 48, of 7 Birch Drive in Spencer was unlicensed and as officers prepared to tow her motor vehicle they discovered drug paraphernalia both inside and outside the motor vehicle. Mrs. DeLauro initially indicated that the drug paraphernalia likely belonged to a relative who had recently borrowed her motor vehicle. Mrs. DeLauro was arrested and transported to the Leicester Police Department. Upon arrival at the station Officer Dyson found additional drug paraphernalia which Mrs. DeLauro had attempted to conceal in the back of the Leicester Police cruiser. Mrs. DeLauro has been charges with: Possession of a class B Substance; Operating without a license. Chief Hurley indicated that police seized a small amount of cocaine, several crack pipes, tablets of Oxycodone in a prescription bottle that did not belong to the defendant, and paraphernalia used to construct a crack pipe. She was released on personal recognizance and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Alexander Samia assisted in the arrest.

Thursday April 24, 2008
18:43:50

Police Seek Public’s Help in Identifying Armed Robbery Suspect Leicester - The Leicester Police Department released a composite today of a man wanted in connection with an armed robbery on Stafford Street in Leicester late Wednesday night. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident occurred at approximately 11 PM on Wednesday night at the intersection of Auburn Street and Stafford Street in Leicester. The victim told police that he was driving on Stafford Street headed towards Worcester and as he approached the intersection of Stafford Street he saw a man in the roadway with a gun. The victim stopped his vehicle and the man with the gun along with two other men who joined him removed the victim from his vehicle at gun point. Once outside the vehicle the victim was stripped of most of his clothing and robbed. The suspects then fled on foot. The man with the gun is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 20 years of age, medium height, brown eyes, 175 – 200 lbs, with a small patch of facial hair on his chin and medium length hair with a phony tail After receiving the report of the robbery police from Leicester, Oxford, Auburn and the State Police all responded to the area of the incident and set up a perimeter. A state police K-9 was brought to the scene and a search of the area was conducted with negative results. The search of the area was called off at approximately 2:20 PM. Officers did locate clothing belonging to the victim strewn along Rt. 56 at the Oxford line. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that investigators were working to establish a time line of the victim’s activities leading up to the armed robbery. This type of criminal activity is rare in Leicester and highly unusual. The fact pattern dictates that we must look at this as not being a random act but that the victim was targeted for the robbery, possibly by someone at one of the victim’s stops prior to being robbed. Chief Hurley is asking anyone who may have information pertaining to the robbery, or who may have seen the clothes being thrown on the side of Rt. 56 to please contact the Leicester Police Department. The Chief also asked that anyone who may have been traveling on Stafford Street around the time of the incident and saw anything unusual to contact the Leicester Police Department’s crime tip hotline or Detective Timothy Fontaine (508) 892-7010.

Monday April 21, 2008
20:40:59

Police Warn Residents to Lock Vehicles 17 Vehicles Entered Overnight in Leicester Leicester – Police Chief Jim Hurley of the Leicester Police Department is warning residents of the community to lock their vehicles after local police were kept busy Monday morning responding to reports that more than 17 vehicles had been entered and rummaged through overnight. Chief Hurley stated that the Waite Street, Rural Drive and Massasoit Drive area of Leicester were the hardest hit. Police believe the incidents began around 2 AM and may have been perpetrated by an individual on foot walking through the neighborhood. They only hit vehicles which were unlocked. An unlocked vehicle provides then easy access to the contents of the vehicle without having to worry about any alarm. Chief Hurley stated that while officers were still compiling reports it appears that the preliminary list of stolen items is comprised of cash and tools. None of the vehicles appeared to have sustained any damage. Chief Hurley indicated that Leicester and other communities experience this type of criminal activity where a suspect will enter a large number of cars and then leave the area. More than likely whoever is responsible for this crime will be in another town tonight. Last year Leicester had three separate incidents where multiple car breaks occurred. Anyone with any information pertaining to these thefts is asked to call the Leicester Police Department Crime tip hotline at (508) 892-7010.

Saturday April 19, 2008
09:29:15

oops

Monday March 24, 2008
20:04:58

Routine Computer Check Nabs Man Wanted On Narcotics Charges in New York (incident took place on 3/23/08 at 12:39 PM) Leicester - A routine check of a license plate using the on board computer netted Leicester Police a Worcester resident wanted on an outstanding drug warrant in New York. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident began at approximately 12:30 pm when Officer John Caforio was patrolling Rt. 9 in the vicinity of Soojians Drive. The officer conducted a routine check of a license plate on a Volks wagon Jetta. The check of the registration indicated that the owner was wanted on an outstanding warrant for a traffic violation in Massachusetts. The officer stopped the vehicle and arrested the owner/operator on the outstanding warrant. The operator who police identified as Vincent Hodge, 30, of 6 Henry Terrace, Worcester was also found to be wanted by New York City Police on an outstanding warrant for narcotics violations. Mr. Hodge was additionally charged with being a fugitive from justice. He was scheduled to be arraigned Monday in the East Brookfield District Court. Traffic Stop Nets Unregistered Sex Offender (incident took place on 3/22/08 at 1:15 AM) Leicester – A routine traffic stop ended with a sex offender in custody for failing to be properly registered. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 1:15 AM on 3/22/08 when Officer Daniel Dyson stopped a motor vehicle on Marshall Street in Leicester for having its plate light out. As the officer approached the motor vehicle he noticed the occupants were not wearing their seat belts. While following up on the seat belt violations the Officer Dyson learned that one of the males in the vehicle identified himself as Jose Torres. Mr. Torres had difficulty remembering his social security number and the officer was able to determine that Mr. Torres was actually Rene Sierra, age 45 who listed his address as homeless. Once his true identity was learned it was determined that Mr. Sierra was wanted on an outstanding warrant for Failure to register as a sex offender. Mr. Sierra was additionally charged by Leicester Police with: Providing a false name to avoid prosecution Failing to register as a sex offender (subsequent offense) The second failure to register charge stems from Mr. Sierra’s continued failure to register even after failing to appear on the previous offense. He was scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday. Officer James Murphy assisted in the arrest.

Tuesday March 11, 2008
20:00:25

Leicester – A morning accident on Rt. 9 in Leicester sent a Spencer woman to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred shortly after 7 AM on Rt. 9 near the intersection of Sargent Street in Leicester, which is just west of the Worcester line. The accident happened when a 2006 Chevrolet pick up being traveling west operated by Ryan P. Vartanian, 19, of 102 Lake Street, Shrewsbury struck a patch of ice causing the operator to lose control. The pick up truck crossed over into the east bound lane where it struck a 2004 Mercury being operated by Jennifer B. Ferguson, 36, of 21 Paxton Road in Spencer. Ms. Ferguson was transported to the U-Mass Medical Center for treatment of non life threatening injuries sustained during the crash. The accident is being investigated by Officer Thomas Moughan of the Leicester Police Department. He was assisted by Officer Steven Zecco and John Caforio at the scene. Rt. 9 was restricted to one lane for approximately 30 minutes while officers investigated the accident and removed the vehicles.

Tuesday February 26, 2008
16:36:13

Three Leicester Officers Receive MADD Awards Recognized with Drive for Life Awards Leicester - Three local officers were recognized today (Tuesday) by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Officer Daniel Dyson, Derrick Ruth, and Ronald Tarentino were recipients of “Drive For Life Awards”at a ceremony at the Devens Conference Center. The three Leicester officers were among 110 state and local police officers to receive the award. The award recognizes the three officers for their commitment to enforcing drunk driving laws and keeping our roads safe. Chief Hurley stated that he along with the entire department are proud of the officers who received the awards. These awards are testimony to their professional commitment hard work and their commitment to the Leicester community. Officer Ruth and Tarentino are first time recipients of the award. It is the second year in a row that Officer Dyson has been recognized.

Tuesday February 26, 2008
16:32:45

Tuesday February 26, 2008
14:45:47

Leicester Man Injured When Vehicle Strikes Pole Text Messaging Played a Role in Accident Leicester - A local resident sustained minor injuries after his car left the roadway, stuck a telephone pole and rolled over. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 10:45 AM when a 2006 Mazda being operated by Craig Higgins, 18 of 14 Birchwood Drive in Leicester was traveling north on Rt. 56. The vehicle began to go off the road, narrowly missing a vehicle on the side of the road and struck a utility pole. The impact of the crash broke the pole in half and caused the vehicle to roll over. The vehicle came to rest on its roof off the roadway and into the woods. Mr. Higgins was transported from the scene by Leicester Fire Department ambulance to U-Mass hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Chief Hurley stated that while the accident remains under investigation one of the factors which contributed to the accident was that the operator was text messaging while driving. Chief Hurley stated that “this is becoming a common and dangerous practice and it should be restricted by law.”

Monday February 25, 2008
13:18:04

Alert Officer and Mobile Data Terminal Combine to Net Pair in Stolen Car Worcester Woman Wanted on Outstanding Warrants Leicester - It was just after midnight Monday morning when officer Dyson finished his patrol of Stafford Street in Leicester and cut back across Ludlow Street in Worcester to head out and patrol the Rt. 9 section of Leicester. As the officer prepared to make a left hand turn off of Ludlow Street onto Rt. 9 he observed a 2007 Pontiac G6 traveling at an excessively low rate of speed, and as the vehicle approached the officer it stopped. Officer Dyson made the left hand turn onto Rt. 9 and headed back into Leicester, and as he did he noticed in his rear view mirror that the Pontiac also began to head west on Rt. 9 behind him. After Officer Dyson crossed over into Leicester he pulled off to the side of the roadway and let the Pontiac pass by. As the vehicle passed by the officer he entered the Pontiac’s license plate into the mobile data terminal in his cruiser. The computer response came back within seconds showing that the vehicle was reported stolen. Officer Dyson notified the Leicester Police Department dispatch center that he was following a stolen vehicle and asked the dispatcher confirm the stolen report and to send him additional help before stopping the vehicle. Leicester Officer Michael Fontaine and Trooper Nickles from the State Police who was in the area and had heard the request for assistance both assisted Officer Dyson in stopping the motor vehicle. The two subjects who were in the motor vehicle were taken into custody without incident. They have been identified as follows: Jennifer Leigh Ippolito, 25, of 4 Gates Street #3, Worcester, MA Moises P. Nazario, 18, of 358 Main Street 1st, Leicester, MA Both suspects were arrested and charged with using a motor vehicle without authority. Ms. Ippolito was also taken into custody on two outstanding warrants for her arrest. Those warrants were for: Default warrant out of the Uxbridge District Court on the following charges: Larceny over $250.00 (2 counts) Receiving stolen property over $250.00 Receiving stolen property under $250.00 Check Forgery (2 counts) Uttering a false check (2 counts) Default warrant out of the Milford District Court on the following charges: · Identity Fraud · Furnishing a false name during arrest · Using a motor vehicle without authority · Possession of a class B substance Both suspects were brought to the Leicester Police Department where they were booked. Ms. Ippolito was held without bail pending her appearance Monday morning in the East Brookfield District Court. Mr. Nazario was held on $15,000 bail and he was also transported to court Monday morning for his arraignment. Sgt. Paul Doray of the Leicester Police Department assisted in the arrests and supervised the investigation of the incident.

Sunday February 24, 2008
13:36:11

Truck Rolls Over Onto Ice Covered Pond Operator Arrested After Foot Chase Leicester - A local resident was arrested late Saturday night after his pickup truck went off of Chapel Street in Leicester and rolled over coming to rest on the ice covering Waite Pond. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began at 9:26 PM when the Leicester Police Department received a call reporting that a vehicle had just gone off the road and rolled over into the pond. The call led to the dispatching of police units, Leicester EMS, and the fire department including the rescue squad. Officer Daniel Dyson and Derrick Ruth arrived at the scene and found a 2006 Dodge Ram Pickup truck color red right side up on the pond. The officers checked the passenger compartment and found the driver had fled, the vehicles keys were missing, and there was blood inside the truck. The officers were also able to locate footprints leading from the truck which they followed out to the roadway. Trooper Shea of the Massachusetts State Police Barracks in Brookfield who was in the area also responded along with Leicester Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and the officers began to investigate the crash and set up a perimeter for a search. Short time later officers were notified that residents could hear someone crashing through the woods behind their homes on Chapel Street. Officers at the scene were able to identify who they believed might be operating the pick up truck. The truck has passed by officers on a traffic stop moments earlier and revved its engine and honked its horn. A relative who had come to the accident scene contacted the suspect by cell phone and asked him to come out of the woods but the suspect refused. A short time later Trooper Robinson of the State Police arrived with his K-9 and he and Officer Dyson began to track the suspect who had by now fled back into the woods. After approximately 10-15 minutes of tracking the suspect in the woods the State Police K-9 alerted and officers could see the suspect ahead of them. The officers ordered the suspect to stop and he proceeded to run away from the officers. The suspect was warned a second time to stop or the dog would be released and at this point the suspect stopped fleeing. He was taken into custody by Officer Dyson and Trooper Robinson. He has been identified as Paul M. Carter, 20, of 204 Chapel Street in Cherry Valley. He has been charged with the following offenses: 1. Operating under the influence of alcohol 2. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle 3. Leaving the scene of a property damage accident 4. Failure to keep right 5. Operating outside of license restriction 6. Seatbelt violation 7. Resisting arrest 8. Failing to stop for police Mr. Cater was treated by the Leicester Fire Department Ambulance for injuries sustained in the accident. He was booked at the Leicester Police Department and was released on recognizance. He is scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday.

Thursday February 21, 2008
17:10:56

Fingerprint Check Catches Shrewsbury Man Using a False Identity Leicester – It was late Wednesday night (approximately 10 PM) when Officer Scot Brooks observed a vehicle tailgating another car on Rt. 9. The vehicle traveled down Rt. 9 and both vehicles turned onto Manville St with Officer Brooks not far behind. It was a simple traffic stop for Officer Scot Brooks. The 2000 Dodge Neon had illegally passed another vehicle on Manville Street in Leicester as he was following them. Officer Brooks asked the operator for his license and registration. As the officer reviewed the driver’s paperwork he recognized the man as Jucelio Coutinho, 21, of Yorkshire Terrace in Shrewsbury. As luck would have it Officer Brooks has stopped Mr. Coutinho several weeks ago for motor vehicle violations, issued him a criminal complaint for operating a motor vehicle without a licenses. This time the officer took a different approach, he arrested Mr. Coutinho who was transported to the Leicester Police Department were he was booked for the motor vehicle violations. Part of the booking at the Leicester Police Department includes fingerprint the taking of a suspects fingerprints using a digital scanner. This “live scan” fingerprinting system then electronically transmits the fingerprints to be compared to fingerprints already on file in state and federal law enforcement databases. About ten minutes after the finger prints were transmitted to these databases things began to unravel for Jucelio Coutinho. The Leicester Police Department received a response from the FBI’s fingerprint data base that the prints which the Leicester Police had submitted match a set of prints already in the system but they did not belong to Jucelio Coutinho they belonged to Leandro Pereira-Coutinho a man with at least four aliases and several dates of birth. That information was entered into the computer back at the Leicester Police Department where police discovered that Leandro Pereira-Coutinho was wanted by the Bureau of Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) on an outstanding administrative warrant. Leicester officers notified ICE who faxed over a detainer for Leandro Pereira-Coutinho. Officers then corrected his booking information and the criminal charges he was facing included the following: 1. Unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 2. Passing violation 3. Operating refusing to identify themselves 4. Uttering a false document 5. Furnishing a false name during arrest Mr. Leandro Pereira-Coutinho was held without bail at the Leicester Police Department overnight and was arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court Thursday morning. He was being held for immigration officials as of late Thursday afternoon. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department stated “this man would never have been caught if it were not for the live scan fingerprinting system. In ten minutes the officers knew that they had been given false information. The live scan fingerprinting system kept this man from getting back out on the streets.” Sgt Joseph Fontaine and Officer Daniel Dyson assisted in the arrest and investigation.

Thursday February 14, 2008
14:34:20

Leicester Police Add On-Line Crime Reporting to Webpage Goal of System is Free Up Officers Leicester – Like many other departments across the state, the Leicester Police Department is feeling the impact of tight fiscal times and is faced with questions on how to continue to provide the current level of services on a tighter budget. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department indicated that manpower is at a premium at his agency and that the department needs to use its officers as wisely and efficiently as possible. That’s why the Leicester Police Department has turned to the internet in the hopes of reducing the amount of manpower which is designated to taking non emergency police reports. The department has recently added an on-line reporting component to its webpage www.leicesterpd.org . The new on-line reporting system allows the public to submit non emergency reports via the webpage. The reports are then reviewed by the department and entered into the agency’s records management system and assigned to officers for a follow up investigation if one is required. It is just simple time management; it is more efficient to have the reports come to us, than for us to send an officer out to the reporting party’s home, take the report, and then return to the station to type the report. There is a lot of expense and manpower associated with this type of traditional response that can be reduced by the on-line submission of non emergency reports. If you look at the private sector most businesses are turning to the internet to increase productivity and efficiency so why shouldn’t the police do the same? It is also good customer service. You can submit your report anytime and from any place you have internet access. There are many instances where you could use the system to report a crime. For example if your go out to go to work in the morning and find that your car was vandalized overnight, most people don’t want to wait for a cruiser to respond to take a report. If they do, now not only do they have to deal with the damage to their vehicle but, they are also late for work. Using the on-line system they can go to work and send in the report during their lunch break. They can even tell us when they will be home so that we can respond and take pictures if necessary. The system has significant potential for the reporting of financial crimes, past larcenies, and other property crimes. Within the past week, the department received a call from a man wanting to report an incident that occurred in Leicester. He lived more than 30 miles away. The traditional response would be to have him return to the station to file a report, but in this case, we were able to direct him to the on-line reporting system. It worked out well for both parties. He submitted his report from home and we received it at the station without tying up an officer. Chief Hurley indicates that the system does have its limitations. “Nothing I have seen to date replaces the need in some instances for good old fashion police work. Officers need to still get out and interact and communicate with the public to be effective. This system is not meant to replace that component of police work, it is meant to streamline the non emergency reporting process so that officers can continue to focus on emergency responses such as crimes in progress, medical emergencies, and motor vehicle accidents and traffic enforcement.” The Leicester Police Department checked out several on-line reporting systems used by local and federal agencies. Several agencies had experience in using on-line reporting and that guided us in the right direction. Chief Hurley stated “that the on-line system would not have become a reality if it were not for the efforts of the town’s webmaster Mr. William Griffin. Bill has been a driving force behind making the police department accessible to the public as simple as clicking your computer’s mouse. I called him up and asked him what he thought about on-line crime reporting and he made it happen. We are lucky to have him.”

Wednesday February 13, 2008
17:25:47

Driver Snaps Pole then Flees Scene Police Ask for Help Locating Vehicle Leicester - Local police were searching for a hit-and-run driver who struck a utility pole snapping it in half and causing at least one home to lose power in the 400 block of Marshall Street in Leicester Tuesday night. The incident began at approximately 9:45 p.m. when a witness reported seeing an old green four-wheel-drive pickup truck, possibly a Ford strike a utility pole on Marshall Street and then flee the scene. Officers responded to the scene found a utility pole snapped off leaving at least one home on the street without power during the snowstorm. The accident completely closed Marshall Street for approximately 4 ½ hours after which is was restricted to one lane for an additional two hours. The vehicle according to investigating officers will have extensive front end damage including missing an orange directional light on the vehicle. Anyone with information pertaining to this accident is asked to contact Officer Derrick Ruth at the Leicester Police Department at (508) 892-7010.

Saturday February 09, 2008
14:54:18

Leicester Motor Vehicle Accident Results in Worcester Juvenile Being Arrested Leicester – A motor vehicle accident on Marshall Street in Leicester resulted in the arrest of a 16 year old Worcester juvenile being arrested for numerous motor vehicle violations. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated the incident occurred at approximately 9:15 PM Friday night at the intersection of Marshall and Mulberry Street in Leicester. The Leicester Police Department received notification from the Worcester Police Department of a motor vehicle accident at the intersection involving a car which may have rolled over. Worcester officers responding to the scene found the vehicle a 2007 Pontiac SE G6 over the guard rail on its roof over the line in Leicester. Leicester Officers Alexander Samia and Scot Brooks responded to the scene and located the operator and passenger who were already outside the vehicle. After a brief investigation the operator a 16 year old juvenile from the City of Worcester was taken into custody and charged with: 1. Operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor 2. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle 3. Junior operator with a passenger under 21 years of age Chief Hurley thanked the Worcester officers for their response and assistance at the accident scene. The chief also indicated that the accident could easily have resulted in far more serious injuries or even a fatality. These two people were very lucky tonight. The chief also commented on his continued frustration with individuals who do not comply with the junior operator’s license requirements. Once again we have a junior operator in an accident with a passenger in the vehicle who should not be there.

Saturday February 09, 2008
14:53:14

Warren Man Arrested After Fleeing Accident Scene Local & State Police Make Arrest Leicester – A Warren man was under arrest early this morning after fleeing a motor vehicle accident scene on Stafford Street in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 12:23 A.M. when Officer Daniel Dyson of the Leicester Police Department and Trooper Nickles of the Massachusetts State Police came across a pick up truck that had gone off of Stafford Street in Leicester and struck several trees. The two officers checked the area and could not locate an operator, but did observe fresh blood at the scene indicating that the operator was likely injured. The officers called for additional assistance from both departments and set up a perimeter around the area. Trooper Brian Frechette and his K-9 Nanuk arrived at the scene and began to track the suspect. A short while later Officer Dyson, Trooper Nickles and Frechette with the assistance of Nanuk located the operator in the woods off Stafford Street. The operator, who was bleeding heavily from his hands, was also stuck in the snow and brush, had sustained an ankle injury making it difficult for him to walk, and appeared to be suffering from hypothermia. The operator initially resisted the officers who located him in the woods. The Leicester Fired Department’s Rescue Squad and EMS personnel were called to the scene to assist in treating and removing the operator from the woods. The operator who was placed under arrest in the woods has been identified as Jason F. McKusick, 22, 778 Bemis Road Warren was removed from the woods and transported by ambulance to U-mass Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries and eventually released. Mr. McKusick was then transported to the Leicester Police Department where he was booked on the following charges: 1. Operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor 2. Leaving the scene of a property damage accident 3. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle 4. Resisting arrest 5. Disorderly conduct He was awaiting release on personal recognizance on Saturday afternoon and will be scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning. Chief Hurley praised the work of Leicester and State Police Officers in locating both the accident and the suspect. If the officers on patrol had not located this accident and then conducted a thorough search of the area, we might have had a much different out come to this incident. In my opinion the actions of the local and state officers saved this young man from succumbing to the elements and freezing to death. Chief Hurley also indicated that Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Frank Bulman from the Leicester Police Department assisted in the search, arrest and accident investigation.

Saturday January 19, 2008
15:55:23

Southbridge Man Arrested after Hit & Run Leicester – A Southbridge man was arrested Friday after fleeing the scene of a motor vehicle accident that sent a five year old and the operator of the vehicle he was riding in to the hospital. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 5:15 PM on Stafford Street in Leicester when a 2003 Toyota Forerunner operated by Kevin C. Benson, 25 of Southbridge crossed the center line and struck an oncoming vehicle. The vehicle which was struck was a 1996 VW Jetta which traveling west on Stafford St, and was being operated by John Lowe, 58 of East Central Street, Worcester. The Forerunner fled the scene after the accident. A private ambulance stopped at the scene and assisted in treating Mr. Lowe and a 5 year old who was also in the vehicle until the Leicester Fire Department ambulance arrived on the scene. Both Mr. Lowe and the child were transported to the hospital for treatment of non life threatening injuries. Chief Hurley stated that the five year old was in the proper restraint seat in the back seat of the vehicle, which likely made a significant difference in the injuries being minor. Approximately an hour after the accident the Leicester Police communications center received a call reporting a damaged motor vehicle was traveling down Stafford Street smoking and smelled of burning oil. Officers responding to that report found the Toyota Forerunner disabled on the side of the road with Mr. Benson behind the wheel. After a short investigation by Leicester Officers Derrick Ruth and Scot Brooks the operator of the vehicle, Mr. Benson, was taken into custody and charged with the following offenses: Leaving the scene of a personnel injury accident Leaving the scene of a property damage accident (2nd offense) Using a motor vehicle without authority Operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license (subsequent offense) Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor Negligent operation of a motor vehicle Marked lanes violation Mr. Benson was also arrested on an outstanding default warrant for a prior leaving the scene of a property damage accident. He was transported to the Leicester Police Department where he was booked and was being held pending his appearance in the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday morning. Investigators learned during their investigation that Mr. Benson fled the scene in the motor vehicle and then hid in the rear of the Family Mini Mart until he thought it was clear for him to leave

Friday December 21, 2007
16:01:42

Worcester Man Faces Phony Prescription Charges Third Attempt Ends in Arrest Leicester – A Worcester resident who attempted to pass a phony prescription was taken into custody by Leicester Police early last night. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident occurred at approximately 5:15 PM when James Black, 39 or 141 Providence Street (1L), Worcester attempted to pass a prescription at the pharmacy at the Wal Mart located on Rt. 9 in Leicester. The prescription was confirmed to be phony and Officer Daniel Dyson was able to locate Mr. Black and take him into custody. Mr. Black also had two other prescriptions on his person when he was arrested that were also phony. The suspect indicated that he stolen them from his place of employment. Police have declined to identify the location which the prescriptions were stolen from or where Mr. Black worked. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police have confirmed that Mr. Black tried twice earlier in the day to pass the prescriptions in Worcester without success, so he jumped onto the bus, and came out to Leicester where he attempted to pass one of them. Chief Hurley indicated that Mr. Black last attempt turned out to be his third strike after officers were able to locate and arrest him. He was charged with: Uttering a false prescription Receiving stolen property (2 counts) Mr. Black was released on personal recognizance and was scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court Friday morning. Oxford Man Faces Drug & Alcohol Charges Man Arrested During GHSB Enforcement Patrol Leicester – An Oxford resident was arrested on an outstanding warrant Thursday night by officers assigned to an crime patrol funded through the Governor’s Highway Safety Bureau. Chief Jim Hurley stated the incident began at approximately 6:45 PM on Thursday night when Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Ron Tarentino observed David Souza, 35, of 620 Main Street (2L) in Oxford operating a motor vehicle on Stafford Street in Leicester. Officers confirmed using the cruisers mobile data terminal that the operator was Mr. Souza and that he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest for motor vehicle violations. Mr. Souza was stopped by the officers and taken into custody. During the arrest officers observed numerous open cans of beer in Mr. Souza’s vehicle. Back at the station during booking officers found a torn baggie corner of a white powdery substance believed to cocaine on Mr. Souza’s. Mr. Souza has been charge with the following offenses in addition to the outstanding traffic warrant: Possession of a class B substance Possession of an open container of alcohol Chief Hurley indicated that the arrest is part of a state and national enforcement initiative to reduce drinking and driving, and underage alcohol possession. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department will conduct several more of these patrols during the holiday season. This arrest is specifically what the funding from the Governor’s Highway Safety Bureau is focusing on. Here is an individual with open alcoholic beverages in his vehicle, he is wanted on an outstanding warrant and is carrying cocaine. He should not be on the road, and thanks to the funding of the extra patrols we were able to take him off the road. The arrest was made by Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Ron Tarentino. They were assisted by Officer Daniel Dyson.

Tuesday December 18, 2007
20:18:12

Worcester Man Faces Drug & Alcohol Charges Leicester – A Worcester man was arrested Monday night after a concerned citizen called Leicester Police to report the suspect’s motor vehicle being operated erratically. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident began at approximately 7 PM when the Leicester Police Department dispatch center received a report of a motor vehicle traveling west on Rt. 9 being operated erratically. Police were unable to locate the vehicle. Approximately a half and hour later Leicester Police received another call reporting the same vehicle was now traveling east on Rt. 9 and was still being operated erratically. Officer Daniel Dyson located the motor vehicle and observed the vehicle strike the snow bank on the side of the road on several occasions. The vehicle was stopped and the operator was identified as Robert L. Thayer, 54 of 184 Vernon Street #3, Worcester, MA. Mr. Thayer indicated that his erratic operation was due to the roadway being bumpy. A passenger in the motor vehicle responded to Mr. Thayer’s comment to Officer Dyson about the roadway being bumpy by stating “it wouldn’t be if you stayed out of the snow bank.” Mr. Thayer was taken into custody on the following changes: Unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle Negligent operation of a motor vehicle Mark lanes violation Possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle Possession of a class A controlled substance (heroin) Possession of a class B controlled substance (cocaine) Possession of a class B controlled substance (Suboxone) Possession of a class E controlled substance (Xanax) The narcotics charges stem for a small amount substances found on Mr. Thayer which police believe to be cocaine, heroin and prescription narcotics. Police also recovered and open container of beer from the vehicle. Mr. Thayer was held overnight at the Leicester Police Department and transported to the East Brookfield District Court for arraignment. He was held on bail by the court.

Thursday December 06, 2007
20:33:09

Woman Arrested After Ramming Vehicle In Police Station Parking Lot Leicester – A domestic dispute landed a Rutland woman in jail Wednesday night after she rammed the motor vehicle she was driving into another vehicle which her ex-boyfriend was a passenger in the parking lot at the Leicester Police Department. The incident began Wednesday night at approximately 9:10 PM with a domestic disturbance at a private residence. During the disturbance Angela Marie Marzo, 20 of Rutland is alleged to have bitten her ex-boyfriend during a physical confrontation. Both parties later separately came to the Leicester Police Department to file police reports on the incident. When Ms. Marso’s ex-boyfriend was leaving the station Ms. Marzo drove a 2001 Nissan Altima into the rear of the Volkswagen which he was a passenger. Officers who witnessed the incident indicated that it was a deliberate act targeting her ex-boyfriend. She was taken into custody and charged with: Assault and Battery (Domestic) Assault and Battery w/ a Dangerous Weapon (motor vehicle) – 2 counts Vandalizing Property (2 counts) Failure to Use Care While Starting Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle She was held overnight at the Leicester Police Department on $2,500 cash bail. She was arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Thursday morning. Leicester Police declined to identify the male involved in the domestic or the operator of the motor vehicle which was struck. Chief James Hurley stated that the investigation is ongoing and that other individuals may face charges as a result of the incident. The arrest was made Officer Daniel Dyson, Alexander Samia, and Sgt. Joseph Fontaine

Friday November 30, 2007
11:03:50

Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force Receives $50K Grant Award Leicester – Leicester Police Chief James Hurley announced today on behalf of Regional Drug & Counter Task Force of Eastern Worcester County that the 15 agency law enforcement collaborative has received a $50,000 Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety. The grant will fund the task force through September 2008. The task force is a law enforcement collaborative which focuses on investigating multi-jurisdictional crimes. Originally founded to combat illegal narcotic distribution the task force now investigates prostitution, gambling, housebreaks, financial crimes and computer crimes. The task force concept is based on the principal that criminals do not stop at or worry about jurisdictional boundaries when committing their crimes so law enforcement must be prepared to deal with criminals and crimes that cross local boundaries. Task force officers are authorized to work in all the communities that are members of the task force and routinely share personnel to help control the cost of investigations. Chief Hurley indicated that the task force found that it can easily accomplish what one agency alone might find difficult both financially and personnel wise to accomplish. The task force also purchases equipment collaboratively to share amongst member agencies which also controls cost to the participating communities. Recently the task force purchased a “total station” mapping system which is use to map crime and accident scenes. Chief Hurley indicated that this piece of equipment would have been cost prohibitive for most of the task force agencies to purchase individually but to purchase it collaboratively and use grant funds to offset some of the cost makes it affordable. The task force is currently headquartered at the Auburn Police Department with Sgt. Jeffrey Lourie of the Auburn Police Department assigned as the Task Force Operations Officer who oversees the day to day operation of the unit. Chief Hurley who oversees the Task Force handles its finances. The other agencies in addition to Auburn and Leicester Police which comprise the task force are the following police departments: Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Boylston, West Boylston, Sterling, Millbury, Holden, Rutland, Spencer, Shrewsbury, Charlton and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. Over the past year the task force has worked on a wide variety of cases which resulted in criminal prosecutions for heroin, cocaine and marijuana distribution, numerous financial crimes, multiple prostitution stings using the internet, and several computer crimes including child pornography cases. During these investigations the task force has worked with a number of federal and state law enforcement agencies along with Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early’s Office all of whom have provided excellent support. Chief Hurley stated that while he is pleased with the grant the real credit for the success of the task force goes to the Chief’s of Police and Sheriff Glodis who have support and utilized the task force to help make their communities a safer place to live, work and raise a family. Hurley also credited the unit’s success to the hard work of the investigators who are assigned to the task force. These officers work hard every day to keep crime in check in the task force communities, and they are doing a great job at it!

Thursday November 29, 2007
14:56:32

Leicester Man Arrested after Vehicle and Foot Pursuit Leicester – A local man was arrested early Thursday morning after he led Leicester Police on a short motor vehicle chase and an extended foot pursuit. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began at approximately 1:34 AM Thursday morning when Officer Scot D. Brooks attempted to stop a van for an expired inspection sticker. The van which was traveling west on Rt. 9 stopped for Officer Brooks in the vicinity of Cross in Leicester but as the officer approached the van the suspect sped off. The van traveled a short distance along Rt. 9 and made a left hand turn onto Colonial Drive which is a dead end street. The vehicle pulled into the driveway of one of the residences on the street and the operator jumped out of the van and fled into the woods on foot. Officer Brooks along with Officer Ron Tarentino and Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica were able to set up a perimeter in the area where the suspect ran into the woods. Several Spencer Police Officers responded to the scene to assist along with a police K-9 from the Massachusetts State Police. Officers searched the area for several hours without locating the suspect. At approximately 5:09 AM Officer Brooks observed the suspect walking west on Rt. ( n the vicinity of Pine Street and took him into custody without incident. The suspect has been identified as David A. Defusco, 37, of 71 Burncoat Street, Leicester. He has been charged with: Operating after suspension of license (5th & subsequent offense) Unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle Failure to stop for a police officer Inspection sticker violation Vandalize Property He was held without bail at the Leicester Police Department and transported to the East Brookfield Court for arraignment

Monday November 19, 2007
17:03:46

Kidnapping and Assault Investigation Concluded Leicester – Chief Jim Hurley of the Leicester Police Department announced today that his department has concluded its investigation into the October 10, 2007 reported kidnapping and assault of a female hitch hiker on Rt. 9 in Leicester. Chief Hurley stated that all of the evidence in this case substantiates that this incident did not occur. The Leicester Police Department has submitted an application to the East Brookfield District court seeking a criminal charge against the reporting party for “False Report of a Crime.” The chief also thanked the numerous law enforcement agencies, Worcester County District Joseph Early’s Office and a number of private citizens who assisted in the investigation.

Monday November 19, 2007
14:17:48

Two Worcester Men Arrested After Dropping Off Solicitor Permit Applications at Leicester Police Department Leicester – Two Worcester residents were scheduled to be arraigned in East Brookfield District Court today after they were arrested Friday at the Leicester Police Department where they driven to drop off solicitor permit applications. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 4:05 PM when Garrett R. St. Cyr, 18 of 72 Wall Street #3, Worcester came into the lobby of the Leicester Police Department to drop off two applications for solicitor permits. Officers detected the odor or burnt marijuana on Mr. St. Cyr and began to investigate. As the officers spoke with Mr. St. Cyr they learned that he had been driven to the Leicester Police Department by a second male who was outside in a vehicle in the parking lot waiting. A routine check of the registration on the vehicle waiting outside to pick up Mr. St. Cyr indicated that the registered owner had a suspended driver’s license. Offices went out to speak with the operator and could smell the odor of burnt marijuana coming form inside the motor vehicle. The also confirmed the individual sitting behind the wheel was the owner whose driver’s license was suspended. A review of the Leicester Police Department’s video surveillance cameras confirmed he drove the motor vehicle into the police station lot. Police recovered a small amount of marijuana and several cans of beer from the motor vehicle. Both suspects were placed under arrest and charged as follows: Joshua R. Kephart, 18, of 205 Canterbury Street #3, Worcester, MA Operating after suspension of drivers license Possession of a class D controlled substance (marijuana) Minor in possession of alcohol Garrett R. St. Cyr, 18 of 72 Wall Street #3, Worcester, MA Possession of a class D controlled substance (marijuana) Both suspects were released on personal recognizance and are scheduled to appear Monday in the East Brookfield District Court. The arrests were made by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Daniel Dyson who were assisted by Officer Alexander Samia.

Tuesday November 06, 2007
20:05:16

On November 6, 2007 at approximately 3:30pm the Leicester Police Department along with Leicester Fire and EMS responded to a head on motor vehicle accident in the area of the Castle restaurant. Upon arrival Officers found this to be a 3 vehicle accident, with three injured parties and one uninjured operator. Initial investigation indicated that Mr. Luis Martinez of 53 Clinton St Worc. Ma was operating a red 2000 Ford Focus westbound on Rt. 9, this vehicle is owned by Abdon Skerrett of 38 Birch St Worc. Ma. Witness indicated that the Ford Focus crossed the double solid lines into the eastbound lane and hit a 1994 Plymouth Acclaim head on while the Acclaim was eastbound in the eastbound lane. The Acclaim was owned and operated by Mr. Richard W. Powers of 7 Lancaster St Worc. Mr. Martinez, his passenger Davie Skerrett of 148 Mechanic St, Southbridge were transported by Leicester EMS to U-Mass hospital in Worcester. Mr. Richard Power was transported by a second Leicester EMS team to St Vincent hospital in Worcester, all with non-life threatening injuries. Both the Focus and the Acclaim are totaled from the collision. There was a 3rd vehicle involved in the accident, a 2004 Toyota 4- Runner owned and operated by Carrielee Burbank of High St in Uxbridge. Ms. Burbank was not injured but her vehicle sustained damage to the right front when Mr. Powers’ vehicle was pushed back by the collision into Ms. Burbanks’ vehicle. Leicester Fire Department was on scene for fluid spills, and Spencer Police assisted with traffic control, this section of Rt. 9 was closed to all traffic for about 1 hour. Neither speed nor alcohol appear to be factors in this collision but solar glare appears to have played a part in the collision. Officers Brooks and Tarentino are investigating; Chief Hurley Sgt Tebo and Sgt Antanavica were on scene assisting in the investigation.

Friday November 02, 2007
10:48:59

There are no new updates on the Leicester trick or treat candy incident. At the current time there is still only one confirmed incident. We will keep you updated on any changes as/if they develop.

Thursday November 01, 2007
19:53:02

Metal Found in Candy in Leicester Leicester – A fourth grade student at the Leicester Memorial School found a piece of metal in a candy bar which she received while trick or treating last night. The student was trick or treating in the Henshaw St., Virginia Drive, and Lillian Ave area of Leicester. Police have also been notified by school officials that two other parents have telephoned in and reported to the school that they found items in their children’s candy, but police have not spoken directly with the parents. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley is asking all parents to check their children’s candy and if they have any concerns to discard the candy. Anyone who finds an item in their candy or who feels their candy has been tampered with is asked to call the Leicester Police immediately. The Police Department and the Leicester Board of Selectmen are offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for putting the metal in the candy. Chief Hurley stated that the hole in the wrapper indicates that the item was placed in the candy after it was wrapped so we are looking at this as a criminal investigation until we determine otherwise.

Wednesday October 31, 2007
20:02:29

Traffic Stop Nets House Break Suspect Loaded Stolen Handgun Recovered Leicester – A routine traffic stop Wednesday on Rt. 9 in Leicester netted local police a load of stolen property including a loaded stolen handgun. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began around 9:30 a.m. when Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo was patrolling Route 9 near the Worcester line. Sgt. Tebo observed a 1995 Nissan Maxima tailgating another vehicle on Route 9. The Sergeant stopped a motor vehicle and identified the operator as Daniel J. Knight, 26, 21 Coes Street, Worcester, MA. A routine check of Mr. Knight’s operator’s license indicated that it was suspended. Sgt. Tebo with assistance from Officer John Caforio and Officer Steven Zecco took Mr. Knight into custody for the traffic violations. As the officers were inventorying Mr. Knight’s vehicle prior to it being towed they observed what appeared to be stolen property in the vehicle. The officers contacted the Spencer Police Department and asked them to check an address in their community to see if the residence had been broken into. The Spencer Police were able to confirm that the house had been broken into, and subsequently the Spencer Police learned of a second home in that community which had also been broken into. During the second housebreak a loaded .357 Magnum handgun was taken Investigators in Leicester located and recovered stolen property from both House breaks in the Town of Spencer in Mr. Knight’s vehicle including the stolen handgun. Mr. Knight has been charged by the Leicester Police Department with the following offenses: Operating with a suspended motor vehicle license Following too close/tailgating Possession of a firearm without a license Receiving stolen property over $250 Possession of a classic E controlled substance Unsecured firearm Possession of burglarious tools Carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle Mr. Knight was booked at the Leicester Police Department and transported to the East Brookfield District Court where he was arraigned on the aforementioned charges. Mr. Knight was being held on $25,000 cash bail as of late Wednesday afternoon. Chief Hurley indicated that officers from the Leicester Police Department were working with investigators from the Spencer Police Department on tying Mr. Knight to the House breaks in that community. Chief Hurley referred all questions pertaining to the Spencer house breaks to the Spencer Police Department. Members of the Worcester County Breaking & Entering Task Force and the Regional Drug & Counter Crime Task Force were reviewing reports, information, evidence and leads throughout the area pertaining to other criminal activity in an effort to see if Mr. Knight was responsible for any other criminal offenses in the area. Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early's Office was also assisting in the investigation. Chief Hurley credited the work of Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo which led to the solving of two House breaks in the recovery of the stolen property, most importantly the firearm. Sgt. Tebo's attention to traffic enforcement led to this arrest and made this case possible. Most importantly his actions prevented a stolen firearm from making it onto the streets of our community where it would most likely have been used in a violent crime. Sergeant Tebo is a credit to law-enforcement community Hurley stated. This arrest also highlights the dangers faced by police officers on patrol. Chief Hurley indicated that police officers routinely face dangerous situations and that there are no such things as “routine traffic stops” only higher and lower risk stops.

Saturday October 27, 2007
20:25:16

Leicester Police Release Composite Of Kidnapping and Assault Suspect Leicester – Local police released a composite of the suspect wanted in connection with a kidnapping and assault which occurred on October 10, 2007. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the incident occurred on Wednesday October 10, 2007 at approximately 5:30 PM when the female victim was thumbing for a ride in the City of Worcester. She was picked up in Worcester and driven into Leicester. While driving through Leicester the operator of the vehicle, which picked up the victim, reached over and put a rope around her neck and brought her to a secluded area of town. The victim indicated that after a brief struggle she was able to escape and flee into a wooded area where she hid out until she was certain the suspect had left the area. Chief Hurley indicated that investigators are looking for a white male, in his late 40’s to early 50’s, graying salt and pepper hair, mustache, 150 -170 lbs, pot belly, approximately 5’ – 8” to 5’ -10” tall. The suspect was operating a dark blue or black pick-up truck with an extended cab. Chief Hurley indicated that investigators collected potential evidence when the incident was reported and have been conducting interviews over the past several weeks. Chief Hurley indicated that investigators have been looking to speak with a male who is a person of interest to investigators in connection with the investigation but have not been able to locate the individual. The police are hoping that the release of the composite will generate new leads or information in connection with the investigation. Leicester Police Remind Residents and Businesses To Register There Alarms Leicester - Police Chief James Hurley is reminding all residents and business in the Town of Leicester to register there burglar and fire alarms in accordance with the towns new by-law. The by-law which was passed by the town meeting earlier this year, was approved by the Attorney General’s Office, and is now being implemented. The Police and Fire Departments along with the Board of Selectmen jointly agreed to waive the registration fee for alarms for the month of October. If you register your alarm in November you will have to pay the $25.00 registration fee. Chief Hurley indicated that his department is handling the administration of the alarm by-law and that registration has been brisk. It is an easy way to save the fee. We have publicized the registration requirements in the media, on cable T.V., on our webpage and the message board in Leicester center so that the information has definitely gotten out to the public. The chief indicated that anyone who needs a registration form or a copy of the by-law can pick them up in the lobby of the police station or they are available on-line at www.leicesterpd.org . Low Flying Hot Air Balloon Sparks Calls to Police Leicester - Local Police received a number of calls and inquiries about a low flying hot air balloon on Friday evening. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the calls started coming in around 6;15 PM when residents in the Winslow Ave area of Leicester reported a low flying hot air balloon in the area hat was scraping against the tops trees as it passed overhead and that it may be trying to land. Officers who responded to the area could see the balloon in the area of Whittemore Street and it eventually landed behind the Leicester Country Club. There were several passengers in the balloon and no one was injured. The operator of the balloon was from Maine.

Saturday October 20, 2007
11:33:39

Woman Injured When Car Hits Pole A North Brookfield woman sustained injuries yesterday when she lost control of her motor vehicle on Rt. 9 in Leicester and struck a utility pole. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 2:00 PM on Rt. 9 near the Leicester Drive Inn. The vehicle involved was a 1998 Ford Escort that was being operated by Haley Gosselin, 18, of Bigelow Street, North Brookfield went off the roadway and struck a utility pole heavily damaging the front end of the vehicle. Ms. Gosselin was transported by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance to St. Vincent’s Hospital at Medical City for treatment of what appeared to be a broken arm. The vehicle was towed from the scene. The accident is being investigated by Officer John Caforio of the Leicester Police Department.

Saturday October 20, 2007
11:32:39

Truck Hits Bridge Closing Road A tractor trailer truck traveling on Mill Street in Leicester struck the railroad bridge in Leicester and became wedged underneath. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 7:50 AM closed the roadway for several hours. The tractor trailer which is owned by Jevic Transportation of Delanco, New Jersey sustained damage to both the tractor and the trailer. Towing company crews were preparing to off load the trailer and then release air out of the tires in an attempt to free the vehicle. Police have identified the operator of the truck as Benjamin Hollifield of Morgantown, NC. The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo and Officer John Caforio.

Sunday September 09, 2007
17:02:17

11 Minors Arrested After Police Stakeout Party Posted on the Internet Leicester – An invitation circulating around the internet inviting people to attend a party at the end of Redfield Road found its way into the hands of Leicester Police and definitely caught their attention. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the invitation indicated that there would be five kegs of beer, jell-o shots and three slip and slides available at the party which was to take place after a local College football team’s home game. One individual chatting on-line even indicated that he would be selling “roofies” which is Rohypnol a well known date rape drug at the party. Based on the information which we had received Chief Hurley stated that members of the Leicester Police Department and the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force set up surveillance in the vicinity of the party. At approximately 11:10 PM a large number of underage individuals showed up all who had possession or control of alcohol. They were all taken into custody and were charged with being a minor in possession/control of alcohol. They have been identified by police as follows: Tara Cortright, 19 of 29 Ravine Road, New Braintree Julie K. Likas, 19, of 323 Mt. Vernon Street, Dedham, MA Anthony T. Lusardi, 19 of 45 Montauk Drive, Vernon, CT Daniel J. Briand Jr., 20, 51 Redfield Road, Worcester, MA Geoffrey Sinnott, 20, 38 May Street, Worcester, MA Brittany L. Weinsoff, 18, 273 Wilton Road, Westport, CT Megan E. Marshall, 18, 106 Stephen ST., Dartmouth, MA Sholeah A. Hector, 20, of 19 Cedar Street #1, Roxbury, MA Elise T. Valois, 18, 24 Gulf Hill Drive, Dartmouth, MA Ahminchie Estime, 18, 364 Rindge Ave. #11K, Cambridge, MA Ashley Defigueiredo, 20, 10 West Rockland Farm Road, Dartmouth, MA All eleven suspects were released on personal recognizance and are scheduled to appear Wednesday in the East Brookfield District Court. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department became concerned upon hearing about the party and seeing how openly it was being advertised. The fact that one individual indicated that they would be selling a date rape drug for $5.00 indicated that we had to take action immediately. While no “roofies” were seized Chief Hurley indicated that this may have been do to the fact that the party was just getting started and they may not have arrived yet. Officers monitored the home and made the arrests as the first big group of party attendees arrived. The arrests and the subsequent police presence on the street quickly ended the potential party. This is a case where if we did not act immediately people could be in danger. Chief Hurley further stated that as police officer and a parent he is very concerned about the current trends in underage drinking. Many people see underage drinking as a right of passage into adulthood, however at the Leicester Police Department we still see it as a crime, and when you get stopped on the roadways in Leicester by the police its only our opinion that counts. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department will continue to actively enforce the underage drinking statute and that any caught underage in possession of alcohol in Leicester will find themselves in court facing criminal charges. The minors also need to be aware that the Registry of Motor Vehicles may also take action pertaining to offender’s driver’s license status. Chief Hurley credited the success of the operation to the assistance of the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force which provided surveillance vehicles and personnel to assist in the operation along with the work of Sgt. Paul Doray, Officer Dan Dyson and Detective Timothy Fontaine along with the many other officers who assisted.

Saturday September 08, 2007
23:00:57

Domestic Dispute Ends with Vehicle Assault And Arrests Leicester – Two brothers were under arrest after a domestic incident which ended with another relative being struck by a motor vehicle the brothers were in. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began around 8 PM Friday night when two brothers attempted to take a motor vehicle from another relative’s home. The relative stood in front of the vehicle blocking the brothers from taking the car and was eventually struck by the vehicle and knocked to the ground. Once on the ground he was held down by one brother while the other drove the vehicle out of the driveway. The two brothers then left the area leaving the victim on the ground. The victim who police are not identifying declined medical treatment at the scene. Officers were able to contact the two brothers involved and had them come to the Leicester Police Department where they were taken into custody by Officers Ron Tarentino and Scot Brooks. The suspects have been identified and charged as follows: Mark A. Imbody, 34, of 58 Cady Street, Ludlow, MA was arrested and charged with assault with a dangerous weapon (domestic). His brother James L. Imbody, 36, of 121 Park Hill Ave., Millbury, MA was arrested and charged with domestic assault and battery. Both were processed at the Leicester Police Department and released. They are scheduled to appear Monday in the East Brookfield District Court. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica assisted in the investigation.

Wednesday September 05, 2007
12:36:32

Shoplifting Ends with Arrest of Worcester Man Second Suspect Sought After Fleeing Police Leicester – A Worcester man was arrested late Tuesday night after leading Leicester Police on a brief chase after a shoplifting in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the incident began at approximately 11 PM on Tuesday night when the Leicester Police Department dispatch center received a report that a man had just shoplifted from the Wal Mart located on Rt. 9 in Leicester. Police were informed that the suspect had fled from the store to an awaiting vehicle and that the vehicle was traveling east on Rt. 9 towards Worcester. Officer Daniel Dyson observed the motor vehicle in the center of Leicester and attempted to stop the vehicle. The vehicle fled from the officer and traveled into Worcester. The pursuit ended when the vehicle struck a stone wall on Bancroft Street in Worcester and the two suspects bailed out of the vehicle and fled on foot. Officer Dyson was able to apprehend the operator after a foot chase. Police have identified the operator of the motor vehicle who was arrested as Danh V. Nguyen, 34, of 61 Harrison Street, Worcester, MA. He was charged with: Shoplifting Failing to Stop for a police officer Negiligent operation of a motor vehicle Operating with a suspended license Speeding Marked Lanes Resisting arrest He was also taken into custody on an outstanding default warrant issued out of the Worcester District Court charging him with assault and battery. Mr. Nguyen was booked at the Leicester Police Department and was held on bail pending his appearance Wednesday morning in the East Brookfield District Court. The vehicle which Mr. Nguyen was operating was a 1996 Honda Accord sedan which was heavily damaged when it struck a stonewall and had to be towed from the scene. Mr. Nguyen was not the owner of the motor vehicle he was operating. Chief Hurley stated that the second suspect involved in the shoplifting who actually ran from the store and jumped in the vehicle eluded police. Chief Hurley indicated that the investigation is ongoing and that police are attempting to identify the second suspect. Men’s cologne which was taken during the shoplifting was recovered from the vehicle at the accident scene. Sgt Paul Doray and Officer Derrick Ruth assisted in the arrest and investigation along with Worcester Police. Police are asking anyone with information on who the second suspect may be to contact Leicester Police at (508) 892-7010. A photo of the suspect is posted on the Leicester Police Departments website www.leicesterpd.org .

Monday September 03, 2007
17:13:36

Boat Ride Brawl Ends with Arrest Leicester – A Friday night boat ride on Cedar Meadow Lake ended with a North Brookfield man under arrest and a local man facing a summons to appear in court. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley state that the Leicester Police dispatch center received a call reporting two men fighting in a boat on Friday night at approximately 8:24 pm. The boat which was on Cedar Meadow Lake ended up against a dock on Fairview Ave in Leicester. When Officer Michael Kemp arrived there were two men on the boat engaged in a physical altercation with one man repeatedly throwing punches. Officer Kemp with the assistance of Officer Daniel Dyson was able to arrest the first subject who has been identified as: John P. Branscombe, 41 of 35 Spring Street, North Brookfield. He has been charged with: Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol Possession of a class E substance Assault and battery Disorderly conduct Disturbing the peace He was booked at the Leicester Police Department and later released. He is scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court. The second male in the boat was identified by police as Philip Iannazzo, 55 of Lake View Drive, Leicester. He suffered minor injuries. He will be summonsed into court in at a later date to face charges of assault and batter, disorderly and disturbing the peace. The incident began on the opposite side of the lake when the two men began to argue. The got into the boat and decided to go for a ride when the incident escalated. The boat shut of during the fight and drifted into a cove where neighbors called the police after seeing the fight.

Wednesday August 29, 2007
21:49:01

Town Hall and Church Broken Into Leicester – The Leicester Town Hall and a neighboring church were both broken into overnight. The town hall suffered extensive damage including broken interior windows, damage to safes and the ransacking of five offices. These breaks were the latest in a rash of breaks of a similar nature in the western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut. The Leicester Police Department in connection with the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s) responsible for these break in’s. The Leicester Police will be releasing composites of two persons of interest in the break in’s in the near future.

Tuesday August 21, 2007
21:35:32

Leicester Police Join Statewide DWI Enforcement Initiative Leicester Police Chief James Hurley announced today that the Leicester Police Department will be joining more than 250 other law enforcement agencies across the state in an effort to combat drunken driving during the final weeks of the summer and the Labor Day weekend. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department will add approximately 12 additional four-hour patrols specifically seeking to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. The additional patrols will take place between August 17th through September 3rd , 2007. The extra patrols will also focus on speeding, seatbelt, and alcohol violations. The patrols which are funded by the Governors Highway Safety Bureau are part of a statewide program entitled “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit Under Arrest.” Chief Hurley and all the members of the Leicester Police Department would like to wish all the members of their community a safe and happy end of the summer and Labor Day season. Chief Hurley reminds area motorists if they going to be attending a function where alcohol is served in and plan on consuming alcohol they should have a designated driver picked out in advance for the ride home. The Leicester Police Department is committed to making the roadways safe for all to enjoy over the holiday week.

Friday August 17, 2007
13:34:54

Leicester Resident Killed in Motorcycle Accident Leicester – A local resident was killed in a motorcycle accident in Leicester overnight. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that members of the police department responded to a call from a newspaper delivery person reporting that there was a man and a motorcycle lying on the ground on Chapel Street in Leicester at approximately 6 AM this morning. Leicester Police Officers Derrick Ruth and Michael Fontaine responded to the call and found the man and his motorcycle off the roadway into an area of brush and woods. The operator who police have identified as Scott Gustafson, 36 of 240 Clark Street, Rochdale was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from the Leicester Fire/EMS Service. Chapel Street was closed for approximately 3 hours while the accident was being investigated. Chief Hurley stated that the preliminary investigation indicates that the motorcycle was traveling north on Chapel Street when the motorcycle went across the roadway and struck a utility pole. The collision caused the motorcycle off the roadway into an area of thick brush and wood. The operator was also thrown off the roadway a short distance into an area of brush on the shoulder of the roadway. Police have not located anyone who witnessed the accident but believe based upon statements from area residents that it may have occurred at approximately 10 PM on Thursday night and was not discovered until Friday morning. The chief indicated that the time line was base on statements made to investigators this morning by area residents who told police that there was a loud bang outside around 10 PM but when the resident looked outside they did not see anything. Another area resident reported see some debris in the roadway which came from the crash at approximately the same time. Investigators from the Leicester Police Department and a State Police Accident Reconstructionist are continuing to work on the investigation. Chief Hurley stated that it was to early to into the investigation to determine if speed or alcohol played a role in the crash and that investigators would be reviewing information they received from the medical examiners office as part of the investigation.

Wednesday August 08, 2007
22:05:32

On August 8, 2007 the Leicester Police department responded to three separate motor vehicle accidents along Rt 9 in Leicester. The first was at 1511 hours and was in front of Zimmy’s Kitchen located at 865 Main St. The operators in this accident 1) Alexander Stachan of Paxton and Jessica LaFrance of Westford were uninjured. Both Parties were wearing their seat belts and this accident is under investigation by Officer Ronald Tarentino, Sgt Antanavica is assisting. Both vehicles were able to be driven away with minor damage and traffic was only interrupted for a short period of time. The second accident occurred at 1613 hours in front of the Leicester Country Bank for Savings located at 1084 Main St in Leicester. The operators 1) Derek Stephens of Leicester and 2) Cathleen Iankealy of Uxbridge were uninjured and occupants were wearing their seat belts. This accident is under investigation by Sgt Antanavica. Both vehicles were driven away with minor damage. The third accident was a single car m/v/a which occurred at 1615 hours when dispatch received multiple calls for a serious m/v/a with injuries. This accident was also on Rt. 9 in front of the Cherry Valley Legion located at 151 Main St in Leicester. Witnesses indicated that the motor vehicle involved was traveling westbound when it veered left, crossing the center line. A telephone pole was hit and broken off at the base as the power lines hung over the east bound lane of Rt. 9. The sign at the VFW was also badly damaged in the collision. Leicester EMS responded and transported the operator of vehicle to U-Mass in Worcester with non life threatening injuries. The operator has been identified as Kristyn Boudreau of East Brookfield. Traffic had to be rerouted over Sargeant St and Ludlow Sts for almost and hour. Traffic was severely backed up in both east and west directions of Rt. 9. The power for the region was out for about ½ hour and National Grid emergency crews will be working well into the night to replace the damaged pole. Cherry Valley Water Co was called to the scene to inspect for possible damage. Chief Hurley, Officer Tarentino and Sgt Antanavica responded to the scene, the accident is still under investigation.

Monday August 06, 2007
16:44:08

Leicester Police Investigate More Car Breaks Unlocked Cars the Targeted By Thieves Leicester – local police are continuing to investigate a weekend rash of car breaks which occurred early Sunday and early Monday morning. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department indicated that during the incidents approximately 45 vehicles where entered and numerous items were stolen including sunglasses, digital camera, cash and other items capable of being carried away were also taken. One resident reported two mountain bikes were stolen from their yard leading police to theorize that the bikes may have been used to move around the neighborhoods. Chief Hurley stated that police became aware of the break ins on Sunday morning at approximately 5:15 AM when they received a call from the West Boylston Police Department pertaining to a motor vehicle which was located in their town. When police contacted the owner they were informed that the vehicle was in the driveway of his home. When the owner checked he realized the vehicle had been stolen. West Boylston Police recovered the unoccupied vehicle. Chief Hurley indicated that officers began checking the Towtaid Street area of Cherry Valley where the vehicle was stolen from and found numerous vehicles with their doors open and the inside of the vehicles disturbed. All of the vehicles that were entered were unlocked and were primarily located in the Towtaid Street and Upton Street areas of Leicester. Again early Monday morning at approximately 5:15 AM a resident of the Carleton Street section of Rochdale called and reported that his vehicle had been gone through over night and a cell phone was stolen. Police checked the Carleton, river Street and Lillian Ave areas of Rochdale and found that as many as twenty five vehicles may have been entered. As with the previous breaking and entering on Sunday and another incident back on July 25th when 23 vehicles were entered all of the vehicles were unlocked. Chief Hurley indicated that Leicester Police are working with the West Boylston Police on the investigation along with numerous other communities which have also experienced similar break in’s and car thefts. The Leicester Police Department in conjunction with the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force and the Governor’s Auto Theft Task Force are offering a reward for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s) responsible for the recent vehicle thefts associated with these car break ins. Anyone with information can call the Leicester Police Department Detective Bureau at (508) 892-7010 all calls are confidential. Chief Hurley continues to urge area residents to lock their vehicles. These thefts are strictly crimes of opportunity, and if we remove the opportunity we can decrease the thefts.

Thursday August 02, 2007
20:48:06

Oxford Man Injured in Leicester Motorcycle Accident Leicester – An Oxford man was injured when he was involved in a single vehicle motorcycle accident last evening in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 7:15 pm on Lexington Ave. in Leicester. The accident occurred when Drew J. Daigneault, 26 of 27 Rawson Street, Oxford was traveling up Lexington Ave., and lost control of his motorcycle. The motorcycle went off the roadway into a yard coming to rest in a wooded area at the top of a driveway in the residential neighborhood. Mr. Daigneault was thrown off the motorcycle and went through a wooden fence. He landed on the lawn of the home near the house. Mr. Daigneault was transported to U-Mass Medical Center University Campus by the Leicester Fire Department Ambulance with what were described as non life threatening injuries. Officers Derrick Ruth and Scot Brooks of the Leicester Police Department are investigating the accident. The preliminary investigation indicates that the motorcycle had its front wheel raised up in the air just prior to the crash. Lexington Ave is a dead cul-de-sac.

Wednesday July 25, 2007
21:02:36

Leicester Police Investigate Car Breaks and Theft of Motor Vehicle Leicester – Local police were kept busy most of day following up on more than 20 car breaks which occurred in Leicester. Police indicated that the breaks occurred in several areas of town and that they will be releasing more information later in evening or tommorrow

Wednesday July 25, 2007
16:26:58

Two Men Charged in Gas Station Break In Officer Interrupts Theft Leicester – The timing could not have been any better for Officer Michael Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department. While on routing patrol Wednesday morning he was traveling east on Main Street in Leicester when he observed a vehicle parked in the parking lot of the Valero Gas Station located at 154 Main Street which was closed. As the officer approached the building he notice a male on the side of the building. As he got closer he observed a male inside the closed business. The officer called for back up and as he approached the building the male outside fled on foot. The man who was inside the store was wearing a t-shirt as a mask and gloves jumped back over the counter and fled out of the store with a trash bag containing cigarettes. Officer Fontaine was able to take the suspect into custody after a brief foot chase. Police have identified that suspect as Robert I Smith III, 35, of 15 Beaver Drive, Shrewsbury, MA he has been charged with: Breaking and entering in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony Vandalism of property Larceny over $250 Resisting arrest Possession burglarious instrument Breaking glass in a building Mr. Smith was held without bail and was transported to the East Brookfield District Court for his arraignment Wednesday morning. Police officers from Leicester, Paxton, Spencer and the Massachusetts State Police then conducted a search of the area for the second suspect. A short time the second suspect was located. He has been identified as Stephen Corson, 27, of 26 Central Street, Everett, MA. He has been charged with: Breaking and entering in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony Vandalism of property Larceny over $250 Resisting arrest Possession burglarious instrument Breaking glass in a building He was also held without bail and was transported to the District Court for arraignment on Wednesday morning. Leicester have impounded the vehicle which was being used by the suspects preparing an application for a search warrant authorizing them to search a motor vehicle. Seized at the scene were more than 125 packs of cigarettes, gloves, a t-shirt used as a mask. Police indicated that entry into the business was gained by the suspects breaking a window. Chief Hurley commended the work of Officer Fontaine who interrupted the break in. “He was at the scene before the alarm activation was reported to the police, and had the 1st suspect in custody when the department received the alarm. That’s great police work. The second suspect was arrested by Leicester Police Sgt. Paul Doray who responded to assist Officer Fontaine.

Tuesday July 24, 2007
13:44:06

Attempt to Ask Directions Leads to Worcester Man’s Second Arrest Leicester – A Worcester man found himself in the custody of the Leicester Police Department for a second time this month after he pulled up next to a police cruiser allegedly to ask for directions. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley indicated that the Worcester man was first arrested on July 4, 2007 when Officer Scot Brooks attempted to stop him for speeding on Rt. 56 in Leicester. The man who was operating a stolen van at the time fled from the officer and eventually abandon the stolen van on the front lawn of a home in a nearby neighborhood. Leicester Police Officer Derrick Ruth arrested the fleeing suspect as he was being chased by other officers and a state police dog. The suspect whom police identified as Manuel Sanabria, 19 of 30 Everett Gaylord Street, Worcester was arrested and charged with: Receiving a stolen motor vehicle Using a motor vehicle without authority Speeding Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle Failure to stop for a police officer Mr. Sanabria was booked at the Leicester Police Department and he was released on personal recognizance for his appearance the following Monday in the East Brookfield District Court. On Saturday night just before midnight Officer Ronald Tarentino who had been involved in the arrest of Mr. Sanabria on July 4, 2007 was sitting in a parking lot in a marked Leicester Police Department cruiser monitoring traffic on Rt. 9. While in the parking lot a vehicle pulled up next to his cruiser and when the officer went over to the vehicle he thought was asking for directions he observed Mr. Sanabria behind the wheel. The officer recognized Mr. Sanabria despite the fact he had shaved off his mustache. Officer Tarentino, knowing that Mr. Sanabria was not licensed when he was arrested in connection with the stolen vehicle on the 4th checked Mr. Sanabria’s license status and confirmed that is was suspended. Mr. Sanabria was arrested and charged with: Operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license He was booked again at the Leicester Police Department and released on personal recognizance for his appearance last Monday in the East Brookfield District Court. A passenger in the vehicle whom police identified as Rebecca Yess, 18, of Palisades Street, Worcester was also taken into custody by the officers at the scene and charged with: Possession of an open container of alcohol in public Minor in possession of an alcoholic beverage She was also booked at the Leicester Police Department and released on personal recognizance for her appearance last Monday in the East Brookfield District Court. Chief Hurley stated that the only appropriate comment he could make on this type of situation was “stopping to ask police for directions when you license is suspended….priceless”.

Monday July 09, 2007
21:30:29

Wanted by the Leicester PD for Larceny – On June 27, 2007 two males showed up at the Getty station located on Rt. 9 in Leicester. Vehicle pulled in on the side and operator asked attendant for assistance. Second subject walked about talking on cell phone. When suspect left clerk noticed second mail came from area of office. He checked the cash box and found it had been empties. Attendant gave the following descriptions of the suspects: The driver is described as 5-feet 6-inches tall, 30 to 40 years old and weighing about 190 pounds. He has a large tattoo on the inside of his left arm that may have some blue coloring on it. He was unshaven and has short, dark curly hair. Police said he was dark-skinned and possibly Hispanic. The passenger was also about 5-feet 6-inches tall with a thin build, weighing 150 to 160 pounds. Police said he was in his early to mid 20s, with short black hair and a few days growth of a moustache. Both suspects were wearing jeans and t-shirts. The vehicle that they were operating is described as older model Dodge Intrepid dark in color with a fading roof. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Timothy Fontaine or Sgt. Joseph Fontaine at the Leicester Police Department (508) 892-7010.

Friday July 06, 2007
16:41:40

Worcester Man Faces Stolen Motor Vehicle Charge Leicester – A Worcester man was arrested late in the evening on July 4, 2007 after he attempted to flee from a Leicester police officer who was attempting to stop the vehicle he was operating for a traffic violation. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that officer Scot Brooks was traveling north on Pleasant Street in Leicester at approximately 6:30 p.m. on July 4, 2007. As the officer was traveling north he passed a van which was traveling south on Pleasant Street. The officer clocked the van on radar at 58 mph in a posted 40 mph zone. When the officer reversed direction in an attempt to stop the motor vehicle the vehicle fled down and Mayflower Road and turned into a driveway on Mayflower Circle where the vehicle drove across the lawn of the home. The operator then jumped from the motor vehicle and fled from the scene on foot. Officer Derek Ruth who was responding to assist Officer Brooks located the suspect on Pine Street and took him into custody. The suspect has been identified by police as Manuel Sanabria, (19) of 30 Everett Gaylord Street in Worcester. He was charged with: Using a motor vehicle without authority (3rd offense) Receiving a stolen motor vehicle Operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license Reckless operation of a motor vehicle Failure to stop for a police officer Speeding The suspect was booked at the Leicester Police Department headquarters and released on personal recognizance pending his arraignment Thursday morning in the East Brookfield District Court.

Friday July 06, 2007
16:39:50

Two Face Charges in Connection with Thefts From Vending/Coin Machines Leicester – An Oxford man and a Worcester woman were arrested early this morning in connection with a string of thefts from area vending machines. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that officers from the Leicester Police Department were alerted at approximately 3:30 AM this morning by Spencer Police that several vending machines in that community had recently been broken into and the money inside stolen. The Spencer Police provided a description of a motor vehicle which was believed to be involved in the thefts. After receiving the alert from Spencer PD officers from Leicester began to check locations in the community which have outdoor vending machines. As Sgt. Paul Doray approached the Valero Gas Station at 154 Main Street in Leicester he observed a vehicle matching the description provided by the Spencer Police Department parked next building and immediately adjacent to several Coca – Cola vending machines. As Sgt. Doray approached the vehicle he located a man standing directly in front of the vending machines with a large metal prybar in his hands. Officer Michael T. Fontaine who was also out checking area vending machines arrived at the scene to assist Sgt. Paul Doray. The man was detained by police and when the officers were able to check the vending machines closely they heard one of them making a loud grinding noise and observed to the bill/money slot area of the machine to have been damaged. The officers also observed several one dollar bills strewn throughout t the front passenger compartment of the suspect’s vehicle. A Spencer officer responding to assist the Leicester police officers also located a vending machine at Greenwood Auto, which is located on Route 9 in Leicester, which had also been broken into. Both the male and a female located inside the suspect vehicle were taken into custody. Police have identified the two suspects as: 1. Amber D. Silva (31), of 36 Derby St. #2, Worcester, MA 2. Shawn T. Johnson (35), of 36 Ennis Road, Oxford, MA The two suspects were transported to the Leicester Police Department where they underwent the normal booking procedure and were held pending their arraignment today in the East Brookfield District Court. They will face the following charges: 1. Amber D. Silva · Larceny Under $250 (2 counts) · Wanton Destruction of Property (2 counts) · Possession of Burglarious Instruments · Possession of a Class E Controlled Substance 2. Shawn T. Johnson · Larceny Under $250 (2 counts) · Wanton Destruction of Property (2 counts) · Possession of Burglarious Instrument The vehicles which she suspects were operating as been identified as a 1999 Dodge Durango which is registered to Mr. Johnson. That vehicle has been impounded by the Leicester Police Department and officers were preparing to execute a search warrant on the motor vehicle later today. Chief Hurley indicated that there had been a rash of a vending machine break-ins in the area over the past several days and that these arrests are the result of excellent interagency communication. If you were not for the Spencer Police Department sending out the alert and providing a vehicle description these individuals might have gotten away. Chief Hurley credited the quick response of the two Leicester officers who were on duty to the information they had received as being key in leading to the arrests. It was a real team effort. Chief Hurley also singled the work of Leicester Police Dispatcher Matt Brady who was able to get the Spencer information out to the Leicester cruisers rapidly and also assisted officers in making a list of locations believed to have outside vending machines. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department has sent out information to area departments on the arrest of the suspects and anticipates that they will be linked to other thefts in several area communities. A preliminary review of criminal activity in the area indicates that there have been vending or coin machine break-ins in a number of communities recently including; Spencer, Auburn, Worcester, and other Metro West communities.

Sunday July 01, 2007
08:52:08

Leicester Crash Leaves Man Injured Speed and Alcohol a Factor in Crash Leicester – An early morning single car accident left a Barre man injured after the car he was driving hit a tree on Stafford in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred in the vicinity of 661 Stafford Street when a 2006 Toyota Corolla traveling south on Stafford Street at a high rate of speed, crossed over the lane of oncoming traffic, left the roadway and struck a large Oak tree. Police were notified of the accident at approximately 2:44 AM when a neighbor heard the crash and called police. Initial reports from witnesses indicated that the single occupant in the motor was seriously injured and unresponsive. The force of the impact caused the vehicle to rotate 180 degrees around the tree and crushed in the passenger side of the motor vehicle. Police have identified the operator of the motor vehicle as Rain Wilber, 26 whose last known address was 1596 South Street in Barre. He was transported from the scene by the Leicester Fire Department Ambulance to UMass Medical Center – University Campus for treatment of injuries sustained in the accident. Chief Hurley indicated that the injuries appeared serious but not life threatening to the officers at the accident scene. Stafford Street had to be closed periodically so that the accident could be investigated and the vehicle removed from the scene. The Toyota Corolla appears to be at total loss. The vehicle was not owned by the operator but is registered to a Sturbridge resident. Chief Hurley indicated that investigators have determined that speed and alcohol both appear to be a factor in this accident. Chief Hurley indicated that Leicester Police Officers are continuing their investigation but it is clear that this accident is the result of criminal misconduct and that the operator will be charged in connection with the crash. The crash is being investigated by Officer Ronald Tarentino and Detective Timothy Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department. They were assisted at the scene by Officer Michael Fontaine and Sgt Paul Doray. The accident scene was cleared by 4:45 AM and the road was reopened.

Saturday June 30, 2007
15:53:40

Leicester Police Join Statewide DWI Enforcement Initiative Leicester Police Chief James Hurley announced today that the Leicester Police Department will be joining more than 250 other law enforcement agencies across the state in an effort to combat drunken driving during the July 4th holiday. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department will add approximately 10 additional four-hour patrols specifically seeking to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. The additional patrols will take place between July 2nd – 15th, 2007. The extra patrols will also will focus on speeding, seatbelt, and road rage violations. The patrols which are funded by the Governors Highway Safety Bureau are part of a statewide program entitled “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit Under Arrest.” Chief Hurley and all the members of the Leicester Police Department would like to wish all the members of their community a safe and happy July 4th holiday. Chief Hurley reminds area motorists if they going to be attending a function where alcohol is served in and plan on consuming alcohol they should have a designated driver picked out in advance for the ride home. The Leicester Police Department is committed to making the roadways safe for all to enjoy over the holiday week.

Friday June 22, 2007
21:36:54

Please Continue with Attempts to Locate Missing 14 Year Old Leicester - Police are continuing in their attempts to locate a 14-year-old Leicester female who has been missing for approximately 3 weeks. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley indicated that 14-year-old Ashley Goldson has been missing since June 1st. The chief indicated that the information uncovered in the Leicester Police Department’s investigation indicates that Ashley voluntarily left her grandmother’s home in Leicester in the early morning hours on June 1st. Police do to not suspect foul play in her disappearance however they have become concerned after Ashley called home on June 8th and indicated to her grandmother that she wanted to come home. The grandmother heard a male voice in the background telling Ashley to get off the phone and the male made reference to a gun and a knife if she did not get off the phone. A police investigation into that phone call indicates that the telephone call originated from the Dorchester section of Boston. Ashley has not been heard from since the telephone call. Leicester Police immediately notified the Boston Police Department of the phone call and the Boston Police Department has been participating in the investigation since the phone call which was when it was first learned that Ashley was in the City of Boston. Chief Hurley indicated that members of the Boston Police Departments Human Trafficking Task Force have been assigned to the case and remain in touch with Leicester police pertaining to the investigation. Chief Hurley state “that the Boston Police Department has been actively pursuing leads in the case and that the Leicester Police Department is most appreciative of the assistance that the Boston Police Department has provided. Obviously the investigation could not move forward if it were not for the assistance we've received from the Boston Police Department. They have been a catalyst in moving several portions of the investigation forward.” Ashley also has friends in Florida and Georgia and could at some point be headed to either state. At the current time the latest and best information that investigators have in their possession is that she remains somewhere in the City of Boston. Chief Hurley indicated that his department has entered Ashley as missing in a national database used by law enforcement, has used the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Locator Program to assist in circulating fliers on Ashley, and has posted fliers on the Leicester Police Department's homepage (www.leicesterpd.org) along with the Massachusetts State Police’s Missing Persons home page. Chief Hurley stated that recent media attention to Ashley's case has generated a number of telephone leads in connection with the investigation. He asks anyone with information pertaining to the whereabouts of 14-year-old Ashley Goldson to contact the Leicester Police Department at (508) 892-7010 or Det./Sgt. Kelley O’Connell of the Boston Police Department at (617) 343-5783.

Friday June 22, 2007
21:38:30

Three Injured in Leicester Crash Leicester - Three people were injured on Monday during a motor vehicle accident which occurred at the intersection of River Street and Baldwin Street in Leicester. The accident which occurred at 9:52 a.m. heavily damaged both motor vehicles and required the response of four Leicester police officers, two ambulances, and approximately 5 Leicester firefighters. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley indicated that the accident occurred when a 2002 Ford which was being driven by Jessica Miller, 29 of Casselberry Florida failed to yield at the intersection and struck a 1996 Ford being operated by Aaron J. Newton, 21, of Spencer. A passenger in the vehicle being driven by Jessica Miller who police identified as Jennifer Smith, 21, of Worcester was also injured and transported to the hospital. None of the injuries according to Chief Hurley appear to be life-threatening. The force of the collision caused both vehicles to leave the roadway with one vehicle coming to rest on top of a large rock. The accident was investigated by Officer Comments Moughan who has issued Jessica Miller a citation in connection with the accident.

Friday June 22, 2007
21:37:49

Worcester Man Charged in Exposing Incident Leicester - A Worcester man is under arrest facing numerous charges after allegedly exposing himself on Chapel Street in Leicester on Wednesday night. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley indicated the incident occurred at about 5:50 p.m. after a local resident called it reported that two men had pulled over to the side of Chapel Street and gone onto private property where one began to urinate. The resident yelled at the two men and the male who was urinating turned around further exposed himself and waved at the resident and then consumed the rest of a beer and tossed the can on the ground. The two men then return to their vehicle and drove from the area. The resident contacted police with a description of the motor vehicle in the occupants. Sergeant Paul Doray who was on a patrol located the motor vehicle heading Route 9 West just before Leicester center. After brief investigation a passenger of the motor vehicle José L. Palau, 25, of 47 Easter Ave. #2R, Worcester was arrested and charged with: Open and Grows Lewdness Disturbing the Peace Disorderly Person He was arraigned Thursday in the East Brookfield District Court and was released on personal recognizance. The case is continued to August 20, 2007 for a pretrial hearing.

Thursday June 07, 2007
18:42:24

Parking Lot Incident Lands Two in Court Father and Son Face Charges Leicester – An altercation between a customer and a crew painting the parking lot markings at the Wal Mart in Leicester ended with a father and son facing charges and the father being transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries he sustained during the incident. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley indicated that the incident occurred Wednesday evening at approximately 5 p.m. when a Leicester resident and his passenger were attempting to leave the parking lot of the Wal-Mart Superstore located off of Route 9 in Leicester. As the Leicester resident was leaving the parking lot the resident found one entrance to the parking lot was closed because it had fresh traffic control markings painted on the asphalt and barriers posted to keep it from being used. As the resident attempted to use an alternate exit he came upon a crew painting and marking the parking lot and access road area leading from that exit. As the resident attempted to pass by the marketing/painting crew, words were exchanged because the crew was apparently unhappy with the way the vehicle passed. Two members of the crew approached the vehicle and according to the victim's statement began to throw objects at the car, and at a passenger in the vehicle with him, and they also began throwing punches at the operator. The operator indicated that he became concerned for his safety and attempted to drive off, and as he did so both men who had approached the vehicle jumped on the vehicle as he attempted to drive off. Seeing them on the vehicle the operator stopped the vehicle and one male fell, jumped or was thrown off the vehicle suffering lacerations to his head and face. The second man allegedly jump off the vehicle and was uninjured. The operator of the motor vehicle called and reported the incident to police. Officers Daniel Dyson, Ronald Tarentino, and John Caforio responded to the scene and conducted an investigation. After completing their investigation the officers arrested Mr. Joseph Kelley, 29, 4094 Albany Street, Schenectady, New York who was a member of the parking lot painting crew. He was charged with the following offenses: Disorderly conduct; Disturbing the peace; Assault and battery with a dangerous weapon; Wanton description of property; He was held on $2500 cash bail and was transported to the East Brookfield District Court on Thursday morning for his arraignment. A second member of the parking lot painting crew whom police identified as Mr. Joseph Kelley, 61, 4094 Albany Street, Schenectady, New York who is the father of the man who was arrested has been summoned to court to face the following charges in connection with the incident: Disorderly conduct; Disturbing the peace; Assault; Mr. Joseph Kelley Sr. was transported from the scene of the incident by the Leicester Fire Department/EMS ambulance to the Worcester Medical Center for treatment of injuries he sustained when he fell, jumped or was thrown from the motor vehicle. Chief Jim Hurley indicated that while officers were investigating the incident they located several items which were allegedly thrown at the victims and/or their motor vehicle, including a large piece of marking chaulk which was found inside the victim’s motor vehicle. The vehicle sustained several scratches and at least one dent. The officers from the Leicester Police Department who worked on the investigation have also spoken with an independent witness who saw part of the incident. Offices are also reviewing videotape from surveillance cameras in the area. Chief Hurley indicated that the parking lot painting/marking crew were not employees of Wal-Mart and the investigating officer’s report indicates that Wal-Mart does not own and/or control the parking lot at this time. Chief Hurley indicated that the line painting crew works for a general contractor who apparently owns and/or controls the parking lot. Chief Hurley declined to identify the victims in the incident. He further stated that the investigation into the incident is still ongoing, but it is unlikely that anyone will face additional charges based upon the information currently in the possession of police investigators. Sgt. Joseph Fontaine from the Leicester Police Department supervised the investigation.

Tuesday June 05, 2007
18:06:56

Leicester Accident Sends Three to Hospital Leicester – A rush hour accident on Paxton Street (Rt. 56) in Leicester at approximately 7:30 AM sent three people to the hospital and closed Paxton St. (Rt. 56) for approximately an hour. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the accident occurred at Paxton Street and Winslow Ave., in Leicester when a 2001 Chrysler Town Van being operated by Jean M. Chreim, 37, of Cricklewood Drive. Leicester enter into the intersection and collided with a 1989 Buick sedan being operated south on Paxton Street (Rt. 56) by Anthony Norkaitis, 48, of Browning Pond Road in Spencer. The impact of the collision caused both vehicles to go off the road, both ending up on the front lawn of a nearby home. Both of the operators where transported to U-Mass Medical Center along with Lisa Norkaitis, 42 a passenger in the Buick who also was transported to the hospital. Chief Hurley indicated that none of injuries appeared to be life threatening. Chief Hurley indicated that Paxton Street was closed for approximately one hour as the Leicester Fire Department had to use the Jaws of Life to extricate Mr. Norkaitis from his vehicle. While he was being freed from the scene the Leicester Fire Department EMS personnel brought two ambulances to the scene to transport the injured parties. Once the ambulances and fire apparatus cleared the scene the roadway remained closed as it had to be cleared of debris, the vehicles towed and the officer had to conduct their investigation. Both vehicles suffered extensive damage and had to be towed from the scene. The roadway was reopened at approximately 8:30 AM. The accident is being investigated by Officer Thomas Moughan who was assisted at the scene by Detective Timothy Fontaine. Chief Hurley indicated that a citation for failure to yield at an intersection had been issued to Jean Chreim.

Monday June 04, 2007
08:55:15

The Media is Welcome to provide coverage of this event. This is a school function open to Memorial school students and staff. The Leicester Police Department DARE Program under the supervision and direction of Sgt Kenneth Antanavica Announce it will be hosting the following event on Tuesday June 5, 2007. The media is welcome and photography will be permitted at the event provided photographers must check in with the school/police liaison for photography guidelines. The DARE Discovery Day (DDD) is scheduled to begin on Tuesday June 5, 2007 starting at 9 am and will last until about noon time. This project is an extension of the DARE program which is being offered in the Leicester Memorial School (located at 10 Memorial School Drive). The demonstrations are set up in such a way that students are able to learn a little about the many facets of Police Fire and EMS services in their community. The events include but are not limited to: 1) Life flight helicopter landing in the ball field, students will tour the air ambulance and how it works 2) Mass. State Fire Marshals office demonstrating the use of K-9’s in fire/ explosives investigation and speaking about the dangers of fireworks 3) Mass. State Police Commercial Enforcement unit will demonstrate the roll they play in keeping our highway safe. 4) Boston Transit Police (MBTA) will have their crime scene mobilization center on display to demonstrate safety in public transportation. 5) Worcester County Sheriffs department will have their new crime scene command post, (operations center) on display. 6) CEMLEC (Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council) who provide SWAT services for Central Massachusetts Towns will have their emergency response team available for Q&A with one of the response vehicles available on site 7) The Leicester Police Department will have there Motorcycle patrol unit along with the all terrain 4x4 on site for students to view. 8) Leicester Fire services will have Rescue One and other fire apparatus on site for students to learn how rescue and fire services operate 9) Leicester EMS will have a front line ambulance available on site for students’ tour and learn about the emergency medical services operations and how they work with lifeflight. The 425 students will have approximately 2 hours to view all of the equipment. On the following Friday the Leicester DARE program will sponsor end of the school year ice cream party with officers from the Leicester Police Department along with other volunteers service up the Ice Cream desserts. Funding for the DARE program is provided by contributions from The Leicester Savings Bank grant program, Private contributions from the Provost family funds raising campaign, funding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts grant programs. REMEMBER : “JUST SAY NO” TO DRUGS!!

Friday June 01, 2007
07:41:44

Leicester Police Department Receives Bicycle Helmet Award 50 Helmets Available to Leicester Residents Leicester -- The Leicester Police Department has been awarded 50 bicycle helmets as part of the 2007 statewide bicycle safety program of the Executive Office of Public Safety. The program provided more than 13,000 helmets to 253 communities and organizations for distribution in the spring and summer. There are no additional helmets available from the Executive Office of the Public Safety for distribution in 2007. "We are pleased to receive these helmets to enhance our bicycle safety efforts in the Town of Leicester", said Leicester Police Chief James J. Hurley. “We have seen an increase in the number of bicyclists in our community and this program offers the police department an opportunity to provide safety helmets at no cost to residents of Leicester.” Bicycle safety pledge cards and bicycle safety cards will also be available as part of the program. Massachusetts law requires children 16 years of age or younger who operate a bicycle, or ride as a passenger on a bicycle, on a public way or bike path to wear a properly fitted in fastened helmet. A bicycle helmet can reduce the risk of serious head and brain injury by as much as 90%. Unfortunately, 89% of people killed in bicycle crashes with motor vehicles were not wearing a helmet. For additional information on the bicycle helmet law and bicycle safety tips, residents can go to www.mass.gov/highwaysafety . There were five bicycle related fatalities and 74 incapacitating injuries in Massachusetts in 2005. Also in 2005, bicycle incapacitating injuries were highest in the months of May, June and August. The days of the week with the highest number of bicycle incapacitating injuries were Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The 10 to 14-year-old age group experience the highest number of incapacitating injuries. Nearly 4 times as many males as female bicyclists suffered incapacitating injuries. Over 50% of the bicycle incapacitating injuries occurred between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.. Leicester residents interested in acquiring a helmet under this program should contact Sgt. Ken Antanavica at the Leicester Police Department at (508) 892-7010. The supply is limited to the 50 helmets provided by the Executive Office of Public Safety.

Thursday May 31, 2007
21:16:49

Rhode Island Man Charge In Domestic Assault Suspect Face Multiple Charges Leicester - A Rhode Island man was arrested on multiple charges after a domestic disturbance in the Town of Leicester yesterday afternoon. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley indicated that the incident began on May 30, 2007 at approximately 4 p.m. when the Leicester Police Department Communications Center received an anonymous phone call reporting that a female had just been thrown out of a motor vehicle on Craig Street in Leicester. Officers responding to the scene located the female and subsequently located the male involved in the incident nearby operating a motor vehicle. The officers conducted an investigation and were able to determine that the man and woman had been involved in a dating relationship for approximately a year and a half and had broken the relationship off several days earlier. The man whom police identified as Shane Hamlin, 21, 64 Regent Ave, Providence, Rhode Island had contacted his former girlfriend and requested to meet with her to talk. The woman agreed to meet with Mr. Hamlin and as they drove around talking Mr. Hamlin became upset and broke a pair of the woman’s sunglasses. At one point the female victim attempted to get out of the motor vehicle but Mr. Hamlin grabbed her arm and kept her from getting out of the vehicle. The victim also told police that during the dispute while Mr. Hamlin was driving on Pleasant Street in Leicester Mr. Hamlin threatened to either drive into a tree or another car. The victim indicated that Mr. Hamlin swerved into the path of an SUV and that she had to grab the steering wheel and jerk it back to get the car back into the correct lane. At one point during the incident the female victim was able to use the defendant’s cell phone to call a friend for help. When Mr. Hamlin heard that the victim had called her friend for help he retrieved a claw hammer from his trunk and placed it in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle with him. The hammer and broken sunglasses were both recovered by the investigating officers and were being held as evidence. After conducting a brief investigation at the scene of the incident Officers Alexander Samia and Daniel Dyson took Mr. Hamlin into custody and he was charged with: Disturbing the peace Disorderly conduct Domestic assault and battery Destruction of personal property (sunglasses) Assault with a dangerous weapon (motor vehicle) Investigators believe at this point in the investigation that the woman was attempting to flee from the vehicle and was not thrown out of the vehicle as was originally reported. Mr. Hamlin was transported to the Leicester Police Department where he underwent the normal booking procedure. He was released on personal recognizance and was scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court this morning (Thursday). Chief Hurley declined to t identify the victim.

Wednesday May 30, 2007
07:34:56

Traffic Alert Rt. 9 in Leicester (Cherry Valley Section) at the intersection with Sargent Street will be down to one lane today and tomorrow (8 AM - 4PM) do to road construction

Saturday May 26, 2007
12:49:39

Leicester - Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department announced that the Leicester Police Department will be participating in the “Click It or Ticket “ traffic enforcement program funded through the Governors Highway Safety Bureau. Extra patrols are being added from now until June 3, 2007 in Leicester to specifically target speeding, seatbelt, and operating under the influence of alcohol violations. The extra patrols will be at various time intervals and will target various locations throughout the Town of Leicester hoping to apprehend individuals who are speeding, failing to use their seatbelt, and/or operating under the influence of alcohol. By participating in this program in the Leicester Police Department joins more than 270 other local and state law-enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth who will also be targeting these specific violations to help make the long holiday weekend and the start of the summer season a safe time period on the roadways. Chief Hurley indicated that approximately 10 extra patrols totaling 40 additional hours of enforcement will be added between now and June 3, 2007. A previously funded Governors Highway Safety Bureau initiative from March 23 – April 8, 2007 which targeted road rage and aggressive driving resulted in the issuance of approximately 50 motor vehicle citations along with numerous criminal summonses being issued for criminal traffic violations.

Saturday May 26, 2007
12:48:40

Using Same Receipt Twice Lands Maine Woman in Jail Professional Shoplifter Nabbed in Leicester Leicester - A woman from Maine who police indicated has been the target of shoplifting investigations from Maine to Pennsylvania was arrested Friday night in Leicester shoplifting at the Super Wal-Mart on Route 9 in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James J. Hurley indicated the incident began at approximately 7:45 p.m. when the Leicester Police Department was contacted by Wal-Mart loss prevention who indicated that the female was in the store and that loss prevention had received previous information pertaining to her ongoing criminal activity in the area. Wal-Mart loss prevention monitored the woman inside the store and was able to determine that she left the store after making a purchase. A short while later she re-entered the store, pickup the same identical items, as previously purchased and left the store using the receipt from the previous purchase. Once outside the store she was taken into custody by Leicester police officers who had responded to the scene and were waiting for the suspect to exit the store with the stolen merchandise. The suspect has been identified by police as Violet J. Greeley, 35, of 14 Sunrise Drive, Skowhegan, Maine. She was arrested and has been charged with; larceny over $250, receiving stolen property over $250 She was being held at the Leicester Police Department on $5,000 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday morning. During an inventory search of the suspect’s motor vehicle investigators located a wig and road atlas. Police also recovered paperwork which included a budget of the suspect’s expenses including how much money she needed to make over the weekend, a list of items that were under a category entitled “I want”, and a shopping list which included a category entitled “to steal”. The lists indicated that the suspect was looking for: 2 computers, a camcorder, a camera, 3 - DVD recorders, 6 - 250 GB hard drives, 3 sets of speakers with sub woofers, monitors and Seinfeld Season 3 videos. The road atlas recovered from the suspects motor vehicle also had the routes to other retail stores highlighted. Police also recovered a quantity of other merchandise from the suspect’s motor vehicle which they believe to be stolen. Chief Hurley indicated that the Leicester Police Department investigation is ongoing and that additional charges may be filed once the investigation is complete. He sated that “obviously the evidence we currently have in our possession indicates that this suspect has been very active in the area and possibly throughout New England and beyond. The officers and investigators assigned to this case still have a tremendous amount of work ahead of them as they seek to tie this suspect to other criminal acts.” He credited the arrest of this “professional shoplifter” to an excellent team effort by an alert and well informed Wal-Mart loss prevention officer and the response of Officers John Caforio and Officer Ronald Tarentino were able to position themselves in the parking lot without being seen while waiting for crime to be completed. These officers were assisted by Sergeant Joseph Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department. This is a great arrest the chief stated. Every time the public goes shopping we pay for the loss of merchandise that has been stolen. This professional shoplifter costs all of us so it is good to get her off the streets.

Tuesday May 22, 2007
16:34:19

Leicester Police Warn of Sweepstake Scam in Area Leicester – The Leicester Police Department is warning area residents to be alert to another sweepstakes scam operating in the area. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department indicated that the latest sweepstake scam is operating under the name of Hallmark Sweepstakes Prize Inc. of London. Chief Hurley indicated that a resident of Leicester received a letter from Hallmark Sweepstakes Prize Inc. of London on May 4, 2007 indicating that the resident was the winner of a quarterly $50,000 prize. The prize letter then goes on to explain how a “clearance fee” must be paid in order for the prize to be claimed. The resident was then sent a cashier’s check for$2,850.00 which was to be cashed in the money was sent to be wire transferred back to the company as payment for the “clearance fee”. The resident reported the incident to the Leicester Police Department after a local check-cashing establishment informed the resident that the check appears to be fraudulent. Follow up by the Leicester Police Department and the resident confirmed that the check which was written on Florida Bank was infact counterfeit. Chief Hurley indicated that residents need to cautious when they receive any unsolicited notices that they have won a cash prize. Residents should also be aware that any type of sweepstakes or prize award that requires payment of advance fees in order to claim the prize should be considered a fraud until they learn otherwise. Chief Hurley indicated that Officer Derrick Ruth will be handling the investigation which will likely be forwarded to the attention of federal law enforcement as the scam is originating outside of the country.

Monday May 21, 2007
20:40:36

Mr. William Forsberg who was injured in a motor cycle accident on Saturday May 12th in Leicester has passed away. The Leicester Police Department will not be making any further comment on the case. The department is referring any inquiries on this matter to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.

Tuesday May 15, 2007
21:02:20

Leicester -- A Leicester man was under arrest facing numerous chargers stemming from an ongoing domestic situation which culminated at approximately 3:15 PM today when a Leicester Police responded to a call for a man with a gun and possible shots fired at 154 Boyd Street in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the Leicester Dispatch Center received a report of a man walking around with a gun and then shots being fired at the single family residence located in the Cherry Valley section of town. Leicester Police responded to the home and surrounded the dwelling. Officers from Paxton, Spencer, Auburn and the State Police also responded and assisted in controlling the perimeter around the home. Police used a loudspeaker in the telephone to make contact with the man and woman who were inside the home. Both were asked to exit the dwelling, the woman complied, the male refused to come out of the home. Investigators quickly learned that the man inside the home was distraught and intoxicated and may be in possession of a firearm. Leicester Police requested that the Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council tactical team be activated and brought to the scene. Over the course of the next 45 minutes police were able to talk to the male inside the home over the phone and he eventually came out onto a deck and talked with an officer who was on the permiter. The male would not leave the immediate vicinity of his home it would not let officers near him to speak to him about the incident. While the man whom police have identified as Paul Joseph Richard, 55, of 154 Boyd St, Leicester had stepped out of the sliding door onto a deck and was speak with an officer he still refused to voluntarily leave the home to speak with police. While he was on the deck members of the Leicester Police and State Police were able to enter the dwelling through another door and apprehend the Mr. Richard as he was attempting to retreat back into the house. He was immediately arrested and transported to the Leicester Police Department for booking. Police did seize a number of weapons from a nearby home of one of Mr. Richard’s relatives. Chief Hurley indicated that today's incident appeared to be the result of an ongoing domestic dispute at the residence. While no weapons were located at 154 Boyd Street the investigation has led to the following charges being filed in connection with Mr. Richard’s arrest: disorderly conduct; disturbing the peace; assault with a dangerous weapon (a rifle); assault and battery with a dangerous weapon a shod foot: domestic assault and battery; intoxicated person in possession of a firearm; The disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace charges are result of the incident which occurred this afternoon in Leicester. The other additional charges are the result of a domestic incident which occurred at the same residence on Sunday has been ongoing leading up to today's incident. Chief Hurley indicated that no one was injured during the incident. Approximately 20 police officers cordoned off the area while police were attempting to talk Mr. Richard into coming out of this house voluntarily. Several houses in the immediate area were checked for residents and several were evacuated from one home during the incident. The scene was declared secure at approximately 5: 30 PM. Mr. Richard was being held at the Leicester Police Department on $1000 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Wednesday morning. The investigation remains ongoing and Chief Hurley would not rule out that additional charges might result from the ongoing investigation. Chief Hurley stated that this call is exactly the type of incident which frequently has tragic results. All of the officers who responded did so in a highly professional manner which resulted in a favorable outcome to this call. I will like to thank the Auburn, Paxton, Spencer Police Departments and the Massachusetts State Police for their rapid response to the Leicester Police Department’s call seeking additional manpower. The response of these agencies allowed the situation to be contained rapidly and brought to a safe conclusion.

Saturday May 12, 2007
07:55:19

Leicester – An early morning accident at the intersection of Pine Street and Charles Street left a motorcyclist in serious condition and his girlfriend was under arrest facing numerous motor vehicle charges. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident occurred at approximately 12:40 AM when the Leicester police communications center received a call for a motor vehicle accident with injuries. Officers responding to the scene found a 2004 Harley-Davidson motorcycle off the road at the intersection laying on its side. The motorcycle had been struck from behind by a 2007 Saturn. The operator of the motorcycle was been identified as William R. Forsberg Jr., 54 who is believed to be residing in Leicester was transported to the U-Mass Medical Center – University Campus in serious condition by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance. The operator of the motor vehicle which struck the motorcycle has been identified as Kathleen R. Golden, 52, of 252 Leetes Island Lt., Branford, Connecticut. She was taken into custody and charged with: Operating under the influence of liquor causing serious bodily injury; Negligent operation of a motor vehicle She was being held overnight on $100,000 cash bail at the Leicester Police Department and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning. Chief Hurley stated that the preliminary investigation indicates that alcohol played a role in the accident. Additionally police have learned that Miss Golden is the girlfriend of Mr. Forsberg and was following him at the time the accident occurred. The investigation has preliminarily shown that Miss Golden was attempting to catch up to Mr. Forsberg's motorcycle when she came upon it on the roadway preparing to make a left hand turn from Pine Street onto Charles Street. Based upon several factors Miss Golden was unable to stop and struck the motorcycle from the rear causing it to go off the roadway and knocking the operator from the motorcycle. Both the Saturn and Harley Davidson motorcycle had to be towed from the scene of the accident. The roadway at the intersection of Pine and Charles Street was closed for approximately 3 hours while the accident was being investigated. The accident was investigated by Sergeant Paul Doray, Officer Derrick Ruth, and Detective Timothy Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department. They were assisted at the scene by members of the Massachusetts State Police Accident Reconstruction Unit. The investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be filed in connection with the accident.

Monday May 07, 2007
14:29:56

Leicester Police Investigate 16 Car Breaks Two Juveniles to be Charged Leicester - Local police were putting the finishing touches on their investigation into a string of car breaks early Saturday morning. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began early Saturday morning at approximately 1:11 AM when a local resident arrived home and saw two suspects fleeing from his driveway. The resident alerted the Leicester Police Department and Officers Derrick Ruth and Michael Kemp responded to the area. A short time later the officers located a juvenile male in the immediate area. The officers were able to link him to several of the car breaks. A search of the area which was conducted by the officers to locate the second male was unsuccessful. Officers Ruth and Kemp continued their investigation and were able to determine that the identity of the second male. He has subsequently been interviewed by detectives and will also be charged in connection with the car breaks. All of the motor vehicles that were entered appear to have been unlocked. Officers were able to locate several cell phones, change and other items taken from motor vehicles. Chief Hurley indicated that residents need to use extra precautions now that the warm weather has arrived. Motor vehicles need to be locked when left parked outside. Wallets, i-Pods, and other valuables should never be left in an unattended motor vehicle. The break ins occurred in the area of Brook St., Brown St., and North Ct., police are asking anyone who had items stolen from their vehicle and did not report it to the Leicester Police to please contact the police department to see if any of the property has been recovered. At the current time police have taken reports indicating that more than 16 cars were entered. Chief Hurley credited the quick response of Officers Ruth and Kemp as being instrumental in identifying the suspects and recovering some of the property. Both juveniles will be summonsed into court later this month

Monday May 07, 2007
14:28:39

Man Wanted for Fleeing from State Police Arrested by Leicester Police Leicester – A local resident was arrested by Leicester Police early Sunday evening after they were notified to be on the look out for the suspect by State Police. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department stated that the incident began around 5:50 PM when State Police contacted Leicester Police asking them to be on the lookout for a yellow cab which was enroute to Salminen Drive in Leicester. State Police further informed Leicester Police that in the cab should be a male identified as Dennis M. Corey Jr. 44, of Leicester and that Mr. Corey was wanted for fleeing from the State Police a short time earlier. Leicester police indicated that the state police had requested if Mr. Corey was located that he be arrested and held for the State Police. Officer Alexander Samia and Daniel Dyson responded to area of Salminen Drive where they believed Mr. Corey was headed. As they were headed to the area they observed a taxi cab leaving the area. Once in the area Officer Dyson observed Mr. Corey leave a residence in the area of Salminen Drive and get into a van and drive away from the house. Officer Daniel Dyson attempted to stop the vehicle which began to accelerate and ran a stop sign in the area. As the vehicle attempted to elude Officer Dyson, Officer Samia was approaching from the opposite direction. When the vehicle saw the second cruiser approaching from the other direction the operator pulled over and stopped. After a brief investigation by the officers, which included the officers discovering that a restraining order was in effect against Mr. Corey, he was arrested by Leicester Police and charged with the following offenses: Operating Under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquor (3rd offense); Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign Violation of an Abuse Prevention Order Mr. Corey was held without bail at the Leicester Police Department and was scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court. Chief Hurley further indicated that the charges Mr. Corey was arrested on by Leicester Police are separate from any charges that the State Police wanted Mr. Corey on. Chief Hurley indicated that the trooper involved in the State Police investigation did respond to the Leicester Police Department last night to follow up on his investigation. Chief Hurley would not comment on the specifics of the State Police investigation and would only state that it involved Mr. Corey fleeing from the State Police shortly before his arrest in Leicester. The chief indicated any additional information would have to come from the State Police Headquarters in Holden.

Saturday April 28, 2007
13:01:13

From: Antanavica, Kenneth Leicester Police responded to a single car accident at 1656 Main St on Saturday morning at 1:30am. The operator Mr. Kevin Mero of East Brookfield was not injured. Mr. Mero lost control of his vehicle in the heavy fog when he sneezed and hit a telephone pole which snapped off and the vehicle came to rest against a second telephone pole. Mr. Mero was wearing his seat belt at the time and his air bags did deploy. Spencer and State Police were called to the scene to assist with traffic control while Main St was down to one lane for over an hour. Power from Leicester Hill through Spencer in the area of Greenville St was out for several hours, crews from National Grid, Verizon, Charter Communications and Leicester Police worked late into the morning to replace the damaged pole. Officer Michael Fontaine is investigating the accident.

Monday April 23, 2007
16:30:05

There is a candle light vigil at the Greenville Baptist Church at 7 PM tonight in memory of the Leicester crash victims. A media staging area has been set up for the media. You should check in with Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo at the church or contact the police department in advance. The Greenville Baptist Church will allow media inside as far as the inner doors to the church. They are requesting that the media leave the church during the ceremony. They will make arrangements for the media to take a pool photo of the candle light ceremony if it is inside. It is currently scheduled to be outside immediately in front of the staging area. Thank you in advance, Chief Jim Hurley

Saturday April 21, 2007
12:50:55

4 Teenagers Killed in Motor Vehicle Accident At approximately 11:45 PM a single car motor vehicle accident occurred on River Street in Leicester. The information being provided is the result of the preliminary investigation. Officer John Caforio who was off duty heard the crash and located the crash site and called for assistance. Officer Caforio who was off duty but happened to be in the area along with the Leicester Highway Superintendent James Coughlin who lives near the accident scene were the first to locate the accident. Both remained at the scene and assisted during the entire incident. The accident occurred when a 2007 Toyota was traveling north on River St when the operator lost control of the vehicle and struck a tree in front of # 168 River Street. The force of the crash extensively damaged the vehicle. Four passengers in the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene. They have been identified as: · Nathan Plaza of Leicester (age 17) · Brian Rossik of Leicester (age 17) · Julianne Caron of North Brookfield(age 18)· Courtney Butcher of Worcester (age 18) A fifth passenger in the vehicle was seriously injured and was transported to U-Mass Memorial Medical Center (University Campus) by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance. She has been identified as: · Lauren Bennett of North Brookfield The Leicester Fire Department responded to the scene with the jaws of life to help extricate the victims. River Street was closed for approximately three hours while emergency crews worked the scene and investigators worked to reconstruct the accident. The Leicester Police were assisted by the Massachusetts State Police who sent a Recon Team to the scene, along with officers to assist with traffic control.

Saturday April 21, 2007
08:10:00

Four area teenagers were killed in a single car motor vehicle accident in the Town of Leicester Overnight. The department will be holding a press conference at 10 AM at the Leicester Police Station this morning. For directions or inquiries contact the LPD at (508) 892-7010 Chief Jim Hurley

Friday April 20, 2007
09:20:02

Spencer Man Escapes Injury When Truck Flips Leicester
 – A Spencer man escaped injury after his truck flipped over on Rawson Street in Leicester Thursday evening. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that Kyle J. Soboleski 27, of 1 Richland Ave., Spencer lost control while of his vehicle while answering his cell phone and went off the roadway and struck a rock causing the 1998 Ford pick up truck to flip over. Mr. Soboleski was not injured in the accident, but the truck suffered heavy damage and had to be towed from the scene. The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer John Caforio.

Tuesday April 17, 2007
08:26:08

Road Flooding in Leicester PD The first photo (IMG 0735.JPG) shows a van operating through the flooded intersection of Rt. 56 and Marshall Street in Leicester. Water traveling from Kettle Brook Reservoir # 3 overflowed flooding the intersection as it traveled to Kettle Brook Reservoir #2. The second photo (IMG 0733.JPG) shows water traveling from Lynde Brook Reservoir overflowing and flooding Rt. 9 in Cherry Valley.

Tuesday April 17, 2007
08:24:32

Two Suspects Arrested in Leicester Break In Suspects May Face Additional Charges Leicester
 Two local men were under arrest last night after they were apprehended during an attempted break in at the Brookside Package Store located at 875 Pleasant Street in Rochdale. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 10:30 PM Saturday night when police responded to a call reporting suspicious suspects in the area of the package store. Officers John Caforio and Alexander Samia responded to the call. The officers located two suspects, a 17 year old male and a juvenile leaving the area of the package store and detained them. After a brief investigation both suspects were arrested and charged with: Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime with intent to commit a felony Possession of Burglarious Instruments Wanton Destruction of property The seventeen year old male was identified as William J. Fournier 17, whose last known address was 5 East Ave., Spencer, MA. He was booked and released on personal recognizance. He is scheduled to appear in the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday morning. The juvenile who police declined to identify was released to the custody of his parents and will appear at a later date in the Worcester Juvenile Court. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica and Officer Michael Fontaine assisted in the arrest along with Oxford and State Police who responded and assisted in transporting the prisoners to the station. Chief Hurley stated that while the suspects are currently only charged with the breaking and entering at the Brookside Package Store there has been a rash of break and enterings to businesses in Rochdale over the past 2 weeks. The chief indicated that police are investigating break ins and or attempted break ins at approximately 8 business. Based upon the burglarious tool which was recovered and addition information developed by police, Chief Hurley sated it is likely that these two young men will face additional charges when the investigation is completed by Leicester Detective Timothy Fontaine. We are very pleased that the Leicester Police Department was able to put a quick end to this crime wave in Rochdale. While Chief Hurley credited the officers with an excellent job, he stated the success of this arrest was based upon the highly profession work of the Leicester Police Department Dispatcher Trina Deary. Dispatcher Deary was able to continually update the responding officer with information she was receiving which guided them right to the suspects. She did all of this while at the same time getting additional back up for the officers. There is no doubt in my mind she made the case the Chief commented.

Sunday April 15, 2007
21:23:29

Leicester Man Arrested In Scrap Metal Theft Leicester
 An alert off duty Auburn Detective driving through Leicester Friday night saw a suspicious man in the parking lot at Deerpond Auto, 14 Huntoon Memorial Highway in Leicester and called Leicester Police. Leicester Officers John Caforio and Derrick Ruth responded to the scene. The officers arrived on the scene and located a local resident loading his vehicle up with scrap metal. The officers arrested Richard Curren, 50, of 2 Chestnut Street (apt # 2), Leicester, MA and charged him with: Larceny of property over $250.00 Trespassing He was being held on $500 bail at the Leicester Police Department. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley indicated that the theft of scrap metal, especially copper has become a growing problem for law enforcement recently. Over the past several months we have had a number of thefts of copper, some from construction sites where serious damage has occurred costing the victims thousands of dollars to repair. Hurley credited the Auburn Detective for his keen observation and Officers Caforio and Ruth for their quick response leading to the apprehension. It is nice when you get to apprehend someone in the act. This guy was loading up his SUV and would have been gone in matter of minutes. Curren is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Tuesday morning.

Wednesday April 11, 2007
21:09:28

Pellet Gun Incident Leads to Arrest Leicester
A Worcester man was under arrest facing several charges after Leicester Police responded to a report of a man waiving a rifle around in the parking lot of the U.S. Post Office on Rt. 9 in Leicester. A second witness informed police that the rifle might be a BB gun. Officers responding to the scene found that the vehicle involved in the incident had left the scene, but the officers were provided with a license plate number and a short time later Officers Daniel Dyson and Alexander Samia located the green Chevrolet Blazer on Rt. 56 near Stafford Street in Leicester. After a brief investigation by Officers Dyson and Samia they recovered a pellet gun which resembled an assault rifle from inside the vehicle. The investigation also revealed that the pellet gun had been fired in the lot of the Post Office. Additionally while the officers were examining the weapon they observed that the tip of the barrel of the pellet gun which was bright red had been blackened to make it resemble a real assault rifle. As a result of the investigation Eddie A. Martinez, 28, of Country Club Blvd, Worcester was taken into custody and charged with: Carrying a Dangerous Weapon Disturbing the Peace Disorderly Person Mr. Martinez was booked at the Leicester Police Department and was scheduled to be released on personal recognizance for his appearance in the East Brookfield District Court on Thursday morning. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department stated that he was thankful that the incident ended up without anyone getting hurt. It defies logic why anyone would bring a pellet gun (which shoots plastic BB’s) modified to look like a real assault rifle into a post office parking lot and begin to fire it. This is how people get hurt and tragedies happen. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica assisted in the investigation.

Monday April 01, 2007
11:51:04

Claiming Lost Wallet Lands Women in Jail Owner Held on Numerous Warrants Leicester – It was a routine found wallet call on Sunday for Officer Thomas Moughan of the Leicester Police Department. He picked up the found wallet and returned to the station and the dispatcher left a message for the owner to pick up the wallet at the Leicester Police Department. While waiting for the owner to show up the dispatcher conducted a routine warrant check on the owner of the wallet. That routine check indicated that the wallet’s owner had numerous warrants out for her arrest under a previous name. A short while later Angela M. Husson a.k.a. Angela Peterson, 22 l.k.a.146 Commonwealth Ave., Worcester arrived at the Leicester Police Department to claim her wallet, complete with her money still inside. After claiming her purse she was taken into custody by Officer Thomas Moughan and Sgt. Paul Doray on the following outstanding warrants: Default Warrant from Westborough District Court /Shrewsbury Police (5 counts - larceny under $250.00) Straight Warrant from Dudley District Court/ Oxford PD (2 counts - improper use of Credit Card under $250.00) Straight Warrant form Central District Court / Worcester PD (assault and battery and disorderly conduct) Ms. Peterson was being held without bail at the Leicester Police Department. She is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning

Monday April 01, 2007
11:50:41

Leicester Hit and Run Lands Spencer Resident in Jail Suspect Leaves License Plate Stuck to Utility Pole Leicester
A Spencer man was under arrest after he was captured early Sunday morning after a search by Leicester Police, Worcester County Sheriff’s Department K-9 teams and the State Police ended initially without his apprehension. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 12:33 AM when the Leicester Police Department’s communications center received a call that a pick up truck had just struck a pole on Main Street in Leicester Center. The caller further indicated that the suspect vehicle was attempting to leave the scene. As the truck was leaving the scene the operator backed up and struck a stonewall near the pole that had been struck. The vehicle then fled the scene. Officers heading to the scene were advised by the Leicester Dispatcher to be on the lookout for a black pick-up truck with both front end and rear end damage. A short while later a State Police Officer located a black pick up truck matching the description abandon on Franklin Street in Leicester. Police matched the registration plate of the pick up truck on Franklin Street with a front license plate that had been torn off the hit & run vehicle and left imbedded in the pole which had been struck. Officers on Franklin Street with the abandon vehicle also observed damage to the vehicles windshield which appeared to be consistent with the operators head striking the windshield. Leicester and State Police Officer began a search of the area for the operator with the assistance of police tracking dogs and Deputy Sheriff’s from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. The officers and police dogs search the area without success and eventually cleared the area. Officers continued to monitor the area throughout the night with additional patrols in the neighborhoods. At approximately 7:05 AM police received a call from a resident on Grove Street in Leicester who told police that a man was in the shed attached to the caller’s home and that he was now leaving the shed on foot. Officers responding to Grove Street located Paul A Duplessis Jr., 40, 35 High Street #2, Spencer, MA and arrested him on the following charges: Breaking & Entering in the Nighttime Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident Disturbing the Peace Malicious Destruction of Property Over $250 Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle Marked Lanes Violation He was transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the motor vehicle accident. Mr. Duplessis was being held on $25,000 bail at the Leicester Police Department. He is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning. The hit and run accident left the utility pole damaged and it will likely have to be replaced. The accident was investigated by Officers Derrick Ruth and Craig Guertin. They were assisted in the arrest of Mr. Duplessis by Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo, Sgt Paul Doray and Officer Thomas Moughan.

Monday March31, 2007
11:49:56

Charlton Man Faces Multiple Charges after Domestic Incident Leicester
A Charlton man was in police custody early Saturday morning after a violent domestic ended with his arrest on multiple charges by Leicester Police. Leicester Police Chief James J. Hurley stated that the incident began after police received a 911 call from the female victim on her cell phone. The caller was in her motor vehicle and reporting that she had been assaulted and held at her residence. The woman indicated that she was able to escape and that she was trying to make it to the Leicester Police Department. Leicester officers working with the State Police Communications Center that had transferred the call to Leicester Police Department communications center were able to track the cell phone and locate the woman in her vehicle on Henshaw near Rt. 9 in Leicester. Sgt. Paul Doray and Officer Daniel Dyson found the woman very distraught and suffering from a severe head laceration and other cuts. The Leicester Fire Department ambulance responded to the scene and transported the woman to St. Vincent’s hospital for treatment of her injuries. Chief Hurley described the injuries as non life threatening, but obviously the result of a violent attack. Officers and investigators learned from the victim that the incident has occurred at her residence in Leicester and involved a male she indicated was a former boy friend. Leicester officers along with officers from Spencer, Auburn and the State Police proceeded to the woman’s residence and located the man in an unconscious state in the home. Officers where able to wake the male who immediately became combative and resisted the officers attempt to take him into custody. The male was subdued and arrested. He has been identified as Derrick J. Hume, 27, of Smith Lane, Charlton, MA. He has been charged with: Domestic Assault and Battery Kidnapping Intimidation of a Witness Resisting Arrest Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon (frying pan) He was being held on $1,000,000 cash bail at the Leicester Police Department and is scheduled to be arraigned in the East Brookfield District Court on Monday morning. Chief Hurley stated that the preliminary investigation indicates that the victim was held against her will for several hours at her home after she voluntarily allowed her ex-boyfriend, Mr. Hume into the home. During the time she was held she was repeatedly beaten by Mr. Hume resulting in multiple injuries. Investigators have processed the crime scene and have also recovered the frying pan which was allegedly used as a weapon. This was a very violent incident and we are pleased that we were able to make a quick arrest. Chief Hurley stated that the arrest was made by Sgt. Paul Doray and Officer Daniel Dyson. He also expressed his thanks to the Auburn, Spencer and State Police Departments for sending officers to Leicester in response to the departments request for additional manpower to assist the two Leicester officers who were on duty at the time. The Chief also thanked the Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early’s Office for their assistance in preparing the matter for court on Monday.

Monday March29, 2007
11:49:06

Pedestrian Injured in Parking Lot Mishap Leicester ?
A Worcester woman was injured this morning after she was struck by a motor vehicle while walking in the parking lot of the Super Wal Mart on Rt. 9 in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident occurred at 11:45 AM this morning when Evelyn Coggans 82, of Worcester was struck by a motor vehicle operated by Arline Barrett 79, of Spencer as she was walking across the parking. Evelyn Coggans was transported by the Leicester Fire ambulance to St. Vincent?s Hospital /Med City for treatment. Chief Hurley indicated that the injuries did not appear to be life threatening. The vehicle being operated by Arline Barrett was a 1994 Ford Taurus sedan which sustained minor damage and was able to be driven from the scene. The accident is being investigated by Officer Julie Berry who was assisted at the scene by Officer Steven Zecco and Joseph Hamm. No charges have been filed at this point.

Monday March 26, 2007
11:48:41

Bomb Threat Lands Spencer Man in Jail Leicester ?
A Spencer resident was being held on $10,000 cash bail at the Leicester Police Department after he was taken into custody on a number of charges last night after he indicated he had a bomb. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 7:50 PM when a man identified as Joseph L. Simonson, 42, of 23 Pearl Street (apt. #3), approached a clerk at the Super Wal Mart located on Rt. 9 in Leicester and stated ?I have a bomb. Give me all your money?. He then walked into the store. Store employees called the police. Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Alexander Samia of the Leicester Police Department to call and were provided with a description of the suspect while they were enroute to the call. The officers located Mr. Simonson in the parking lot of the store and after an investigation into the incident he was taken into custody and charged with: Attempting to Commit a Crime (armed robbery) Making a False Bomb Threat Disorderly Person Disturbing the Peace Mr. Simonson was held overnight at the Leicester Police Department on $10,000 bail. He is scheduled to be arraigned this morning in the East Brookfield District Court. Chief Hurley indicated that ?Mr. Simonson told police he thought that he was being funny, obviously we felt differently.? The chief further elaborated that ?I cannot believe that in today?s society some would walk into a busy shopping center and think that this type of comment was funny.? The store and its employees did an excellent job at handling the situation. Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer Alexander Samia who responded to the call also did an excellent job by taking the suspect into custody outside the store away from building.

Monday March 16, 2007
11:48:14

Leicester Resident Injured in Accident Police File Charges Leicester ?
 A local resident was injured Tuesday evening in a single car motor vehicle accident on Pine Street in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the accident occurred at 5:51 PM when a GMC pick up truck operated by Daniel B. Brousseau, 22, of 7 Lakeview Drive, Leicester left the roadway and struck a tree. Mr. Brousseau was treated at the scene by Leicester EMS personnel and was transported to UMass Hospital for treatment. His injuries were not life threatening. As a result of an investigation conduct by Officer Daniel Dyson of the Leicester Police Department Mr. Brousseau has been issued citations charging him with: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol; Speeding; Failure to drive in the right lane; Negligent operation of a motor vehicle; Seatbelt violation; He has also been charged with possession of a class D controlled substance (marijuana). Chief Hurley stated that Mr. Brousseau will be summonsed into court at a later date for arraignment. Officer John Caforio and Sgt. Joseph Fontaine assisted at the accident scene and with the investigation. The GMC pick up truck suffered extensive damage and had to be towed from the accident scene. Traffic was diverted around the scene of the accident for approximately 1 hour while emergency personnel worked the accident scene and police conducted their investigation.

Monday March 20, 2007
11:47:36

Two accidents an hour apart left two motor vehicles dangling into a stream this morning. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accidents occurred in the vicinity of 450 Auburn Street in Leicester. Officers responded to the first accident at approximately 7:25 AM and found a vehicle operated by Stephen E. Colangelo 36, of Pommogussett Road, Rutland has slide off the road and over an embankment into a stream. The front end of the vehicle was in the stream. Mr. Colangelo was not hurt and his vehicle was pulled from the stream by a local tow company. At approximately 8:30 AM a second vehicle went off the roadway in the same location. The second vehicle a 2003 Mazda operated by Donna R. Burritt of Parker Street in Rochdale also came to rest with its front end in the water. The operator was unhurt and her vehicle was also removed by a local tow company. The first accident is being investigated by Officer Steven Zecco and Sgt. Jeffrey Tebo. The second accident is being investigated by Officer Joseph Hamm. Chief Hurley indicated that both accidents appeared to be weather related. Melting snow and fluctuating temperatures made some road conditions unpredictable. The accidents on Auburn Street were an isolated incident. We did not have any other accidents during the morning commute except for the two on Auburn Street. Accident Investigation Ends with Arrest Leicester ? A late afternoon accident on Marshall Street in Leicester end with the arrest of a Spencer resident for several motor vehicle violations. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the 1 car accident occurred at approximately 3:30 in the area of 300 Marshall Street. Officers responding to the accident found a 1990 Ford Sedan being driven east on Marshall Street and operated by Michael P. Bastien 49, of 195 Paxton Road in Spencer had struck a utility pole. As a result of the investigation into the accident and their interaction with Mr. Bastien the officers believed that he was intoxicated. He was taken into custody and charged with: Operating Under the Influence of Liquor (3rd Offense)Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle Marked Lanes Violation There were no injuries as a result of the accident but the Ford Crown Victoria that Mr. Bastien was operating sustained heavy damage and had to be towed from the scene. Mr. Bastien was being held on $2,500 bail at the Leicester Police Department. The accident was investigated by Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Officer John Caforio.

Monday March 16, 2007
11:45:49

Car Snaps Pole Accident Shuts Street for Most of the Day Leicester ?
An accident at 6 AM this morning closed a portion of Pleasant Street for most of the day while crews from Mass Electric and Verizon untangled wires and reset a telephone pole. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the accident occurred when a 2002 Chevrolet Trail Blazer being operated by Jeffrey A. Dejong Jr., 23 or 5 Cottage Street, Spencer left the roadway and struck a telephone pole. The force of the crash snapped the pole in half and causing it to partially topple over. Mr. Dejong was checked at the scene by Leicester Fire Department EMS personnel and declined further medical treatment. Officers responding to the scene had to close the roadway and wait until crews from Verizon and Mass Electric arrived to stabilize the pole and remove wires resting on the vehicle so that the vehicle could be towed from the scene. Crews from both utilities remained on scene working at fixing the pole and wiring. Pleasant Street remained closed from Stafford Street to River Street until approximately 2:45 PM when officers were able to reopen the road to through traffic. The local school bus company and the schools were notified of the closure and possible delays in buses getting to schools. Police officers were assigned to direct traffic around the accident scene. The accident is being investigated by Sgt. Paul Doray and Officer Michael Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department who both responded to the initial call for the accident.

Monday March 16, 2007
11:45:17

Three Injured in Marshall Street Leicester Accident Leicester ?
 Three people were injured in a two vehicle accident late this afternoon on Marshall Street in Leicester. Chief James Hurley of the Leicester Police Department indicated that the accident occurred when a 1998 Ford Taurus station wagon traveling east on Marshall Street spun out and struck a 2006 Ford van traveling west on Marshall Street. The operator of the station wagon Amber R. Lavallee 17, of 23 Brookline Street, Worcester, MA and her passenger Zachary Brackett, 17of 444 Marshall Street Paxton where both transported to U-Mass Medical Center for treatment of non life threatening injuries. The operator of the Ford van Judson C. Cardoso, 37 of Worcester Road in Framingham was not injured, but a passenger in the van was transported to the U-Mass Medical Center for non life threatening injuries. The Ford van which is registered to Royal Care Transportation Inc of Framingham was transporting several handicapped passengers. A second van had to be dispatched to the scene to transport a passenger in the van who was not injured in the accident. Both vehicles involved in the accident sustained heavy damage and had to be towed from the scene. The accident caused a traffic delay on Marshall Street for more than an hour. The investigation of the accident is being conduct by Officer Alexander Samia and Daniel Dyson.

Monday March 16, 2007
11:43:24

Truck Mishap and Weather Cause Delays on Rt. 56 in Leicester This Morning Leicester ?
 The weather is being blamed for a truck mishap on Rt. 56 in Leicester this morning that left the roadway restricted to one lane and closed periodically for more than an hour. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated the incident occurred at approximately 7:30 AM when a truck owned by Central Mass Waste Disposal slide of the side of Rt. 56 and partially over an embankment. The driver was not hurt and there was no spillage of vehicle fluids or cargo. The incident is being investigated by officer Joseph Hamm of the Leicester Police Department.

Monday March 16, 2007
11:42:23

Leicester Officer Recognized by MADD Dyson Receives ?Drive for Life? Award Leicester ?
Officer Daniel Dyson of the Leicester Police Department was recognized today at the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) ?Drive For Life Award Ceremony? which was held at the Devens Common Center in Devens, MA. Officer Dyson was one of 47 local police officers and 17 state police officer recognized for their efforts in enforcing the operating a motor vehicle while under the influence alcohol laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Officer Daniel Dyson was recognized for having made 19 O.U.I. arrests last year along with being the assisting officer in another 10 O.U.I. arrests by other members of the Leicester Police Department. He additionally seized one motor vehicle under Melanie?s law as a result of his arresting and convicting a fourth time offender. Officer Dyson was also involved in the arrest of a woman for O.U.I. child endangerment, which involved a motor vehicle accident where the operator was arrested for O.U.I. and had her small child in the car. He is also the officer who maintains the department?s breathalyzer machine. Chief Jim Hurley of the Leicester Police Department praised the work of Officer Dyson who he described as a truly dedicated police officer who works hard to make the community a safe place. Chief Hurley further credited all the men and woman of the department who all work as a team to make the roads of the community safe.

Monday March 12, 2007
11:37:44

Leicester Resident Injured in Accident Police File Charges Leicester –
 A local resident was injured Tuesday evening in a single car motor vehicle accident on Pine Street in Leicester. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the accident occurred at 5:51 PM when a GMC pick up truck operated by Daniel B. Brousseau, 22, of 7 Lakeview Drive, Leicester left the roadway and struck a tree. Mr. Brousseau was treated at the scene by Leicester EMS personnel and was transported to UMass Hospital for treatment. His injuries were not life threatening. As a result of an investigation conduct by Officer Daniel Dyson of the Leicester Police Department Mr. Brousseau has been issued citations charging him with: 1. Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol; 2. Speeding; 3. Failure to drive in the right lane; 4. Negligent operation of a motor vehicle; 5. Seatbelt violation; He has also been charged with possession of a class D controlled substance (marijuana). Chief Hurley stated that Mr. Brousseau will be summonsed into court at a later date for arraignment. Officer John Caforio and Sgt. Joseph Fontaine assisted at the accident scene and with the investigation. The GMC pick up truck suffered extensive damage and had to be towed from the accident scene. Traffic was diverted around the scene of the accident for approximately 1 hour while emergency personnel worked the accident scene and police conducted their investigation. Leicester on 02/06/07 at 5:51 PM

Monday March 10, 2007
11:36:59

A mishap involving a coach bus snarled traffic on Rt. 9 in Leicester last night for more than an hour. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began at approximately 7 PM when a bus attempting to turn around on Rt. 9 entered a parking lot and became stuck at the entrance to the parking lot when the bus grounded out on the asphalt because of the pitch in roadway. The bus which had just dropped off an athletic team at Becker College for a game did not have any passengers onboard at the time. Police officers directed traffic around the bus while they waited for a heavy duty tow truck to respond to the scene as the bus was blocking half of Rt. 9 when it became stuck. During the removal process all of Rt. 9 had to be closed so that cables from the tow truck could be put across Rt. 9 to pull the bus back onto the roadway. Rt. 9 was either closed or restricted to one lane for approximately 1 ¼ hours. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica, Officer Alexander Samia and Daniel Dyson handled the traffic control and investigation into the incident. The coach bus which is owned by Crystal Transport of Boston did not appear to be damaged by the mishap and was scheduled to continue on to pick up the athletic team that it had dropped off before the incident.

Monday March 10, 2007
11:36:24

Officer Michael Fontaine of Leicester Completes Police Academy Leicester –
 When the 16th Municipal Police Officers Class from the Boylston Police Academy walked down the aisles for graduation Friday morning in the auditorium at Quinsigamond Community College the class included Officer Michael P. Fontaine the newest full time member of the Leicester Police Department. Officer Fontaine along with 43 of his classmates received their diplomas which marked the completion of more than 800 hours of police academy training. Officer Fontaine has been a part time police officer with the Leicester Police Department since August of 2004 and was appointed as a full time officer in July of 2006. He entered the Municipal Police Training Council’s Boylston Police Academy in August of 2006 and Friday’s ceremony marked the completion of Officer Fontaine’s academy training. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that he is absolutely thrilled about Officer Fontaine completing the police academy. “Officer Fontaine has been an asset to the department as a part time officer and he will be an even bigger asset to the department as a full time officer. Officer Michael Fontaine is as solid of a police officer as you can get, and the department and the community are fortunate to have him serving on the Leicester Police Department.” Chief Hurley stated that when the opportunity presented itself to hire Officer Fontaine full time it was an easy decision. He is a smart and talent police officer who was raised in the community and is well respected by his fellow officers. We were fortunate to get him on board. The Fontaine family is well known for their public service in Leicester and Officer Michael Fontaine is following in those footsteps. After he was presented with his diploma Officer Michael Fontaine had his badge presented to him and pinned on him by his uncles Sgt. Joseph Fontaine and Detective Timothy Fontaine both veteran officers with the Leicester Police Department. Also attending the graduation to show their support where Officer Michael Fontaine’s parents Paul and Karen Fontaine along with his grandmother Kathleen Fontaine all of Leicester. Officer Fontaine was also presented with the Firearms Achievement Award during the graduation ceremony. The Firearms Achievement Award is presented to the training academy officer who showed the greatest firearms proficiency during the academy’s firearms training. Officer Fontaine holds a bachelors degree from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY and will be assigned to the 11 PM to 7 AM shift at the Leicester Police Department.

Monday March 9, 2007
11:35:48

Charlton Man Injured in Leicester Accident Leicester –
 A Charlton man was injured in a motor vehicle accident early yesterday afternoon after he lost control of his motor vehicle on Marshall Street in Leicester and struck a utility pole. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated the accident occurred at approximately 3:50 PM when a 1993 Geo Prism being operated by Brian D. Clark II, 17, of City Depot Road, Charlton, MA was traveling on Marshall Street towards Paxton. In the vicinity of Mulberry Street the vehicle left the roadway and hit the utility pole. Mr. Clark was transported by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance to St. Vincent’s/Medial City Hospital where he was treated and later released. Chief Hurley stated that the accident is being investigated by Officers John Caforio and Thomas Moughan and remains under investigation

Monday March, 2007
11:34:51

Leicester Woman Escapes Serious Injury In Leicester Car Accident Leicester –
A local resident escaped serious injury after a motor vehicle accident on Charles Street early yesterday evening. Leicester Police Chief Jim Hurley stated that the accident occurred at approximately 4:30 PM when a 1997 Ford Taurus Sedan being operated by Maureen A. Carroll, 18, of Rawson Street in Leicester went off the roadway and struck at tree. The accident pinned Ms. Carroll in the motor vehicle. It took members of the Leicester Fire Department using the Jaws of Life approximately 15 minutes to free her from the motor vehicle. Ms. Carroll was transported by the Leicester Fire Department ambulance to St. Vincent’s Hospital for treatment of non life threatening injuries. The accident closed Charles Street for approximately an hour. The vehicle which Chief Hurley described as a total loss had to be winched out of the woods and towed from the scene. The accident is being investigated by Officers Thomas Moughan and John Caforio.

Monday March, 2007
11:33:29

Suspect Faces Drug & Motor Vehicle Charges Crack Cocaine Found in Vehicle Leicester –
 A routine traffic stop ended with a North Brookfield man under arrest and facing a variety of charges. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that the incident began on Friday January 12, 2007 at approximately 1:55 AM when Leicester Police Officer Daniel Dyson observed a motor vehicle traveling 10 M.P.H. in a posted 35 m.p.h zone. The vehicle also had damage which Officer Dyson believed indicated that it may have recently been involved in a motor vehicle accident. The operator of the motor vehicle also committed several traffic violations while the officer was following the motor vehicle. Officer Dyson was stopping the vehicle he observed the operator to be moving around inside the vehicle as if he was trying to hide something. Officer Dyson stopped the motor vehicle on Manville Street. As the officer approached the vehicle he observed the operator still moving around inside the vehicle. While the officer was speaking with the operator of the motor vehicle he observed symptoms indicating that the operator was under the influence of a narcotic. Additionally while speaking with the operator Officer Dyson was able to observe what appeared to be cocaine on the passenger seat of the motor vehicle. A small amount of cocaine was seized by the officer from the vehicle. The operator was asked to step out of the vehicle where he further manifested signs of being under the influence of cocaine. The operator who was identified as Brian D. Thunberg, 33, of 97 Summer Street (1F) North Brookfield was charged with: Operating under the influence of drugs (subsequent offense); Marked lanes violation; Operating a motor vehicle with a suspended drivers license; Negligent Operation of a motor vehicle; Possession of a class B substance (cocaine); Officer Derrick Ruth assisted Officer Dyson in this investigation. Police also seized a Michelob beer can from inside the car which had been fashioned into a pipe to smoke crack cocaine.

Monday March, 2007
11:32:55

Cumberland Farms Construction Site Vandalized Copper Pipe and Wire Stolen Leicester –
 The Cumberland Farms store under construction on Rt. 9 in Leicester was the victim of vandalism and theft early last week. Officer Joseph Hamm responded to a call that some copper wiring had been stolen from outside the building last Monday morning. Further investigation found that not only had cable outside the building been stolen, but copper plumbing inside the building had also been taken, along with additional rolls of copper wire. Chief Jim Hurley state the while the theft of the copper wire was bad enough, the suspects caused thousands of dollars worth of damage when they ripped out the copper plumbing. Chief Hurley indicated that some of the pipes which came out the concrete slab had been broken off below the level of the slab and would require extensive work to fix. Detective Timothy Fontaine of the Leicester Police Department processed the crime scene and police have sent evidence to the crime lab for processing, including blood stains which were found at the scene. Chief Hurley stated that the theft of copper and other scrap metals is a growing problem in the area. The chief encourage contractors or any person who is involve in a construction project to lock up all copper products and other metals that have a value if scraped. Anyone with information on this theft/vandalism is asked to contact the Leicester Police Department. All calls are confidential.

Monday March, 2007
11:32:26

Another BB Gun Incident in Leicester Reward Stands at $500 Leicester –
After several weeks of not having any BB gun related vandalism in Leicester the silence was broken on Saturday morning when an employee reported that a window at the Leicester School Department had be broken by a shot from a BB gun. Leicester Police Chief James Hurley stated that a window on the east side of the school administration building located at 1078 Main Street was broken by a single BB shot. The BB was recovered at the scene, but unlike some of the other incidents which copper colored BBs were found at the scene, the BB found at this scene was a steel color.

Monday March, 2007
11:31:42

Regional Drug & Counter Crime Task Force Receives Grant $50,000 Awarded to Combat Drugs & Other Crime Leicester – Chief Jim Hurley of the Leicester Police Department, on behalf of all of the 14 agencies that participate in the Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force announced today that the Task Force has received a $50,000 grant award from the Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program which is administered through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety. The Regional Drug and Counter Crime Task Force is a law enforcement collaborative which focuses its resources on the illegal distribution of narcotics and other multi-jurisdictional crimes including firearms violations, gangs, and housebreaks. Area police departments which participate in the task force are: Auburn Police Department Boylston Police Department Charlton Police Department Holden Police Department Leicester Police Department Millbury Police Department Northborough Police Department Southborough Police Department Spencer Police Department Shrewsbury Police Department Sterling Police Department Westborough Police Department West Boylston Police Department Worcester County Sheriff’s Office The task force also works in partnership with numerous other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. The task force also works closely with the Worcester County District Attorneys. Chief Hurley stated that the funding received under the grant will be utilized by the task force to off set the cost incurred by departments who have officers assigned to the task force for investigation. The funding is also used for the purchase equipment needed by the task force and to train officers who are assigned to the task force. This year the lead agency role in the task force has shifted from the Shrewsbury Police Department to the Leicester and Auburn Police Departments. The Auburn Police Department will become the leading agency in the day to day operations of the task force. Sgt. Jeffrey Lourie of the Auburn Police Department will be the task force supervisor overseeing all of the task force investigations. Chief Hurley and the Leicester Police Department will be the lead agency for the financial component of the task force. This means we will be paying the bill and overseeing the financial and reporting requirements of the of the grant, asset forfeitures and other fiduciary responsibilities. Hurley stated that it is the commitment of each of the local police chief’s and the Sheriff who participate in the task force that have made it so successful. If it were not for the support of the local police chiefs and the officers that they have assigned to the unit we would not be where we are today. As testimony to the task forces success Chief Hurley cited the following recent (since late November) task force successes: Seizure of the approximately 30 Lbs of marijuana and arrest of suspects in West Boylston just this week. Seizure of marijuana plants and arrest of suspect during joint Task Force and Rutland Police Investigation Seizure of heroin and filing of heroin distribution charges after a raid in Leicester Anyone with information pertaining to illegal activity within the task forces jurisdictions is asked to contact one of the above participating agencies. All calls are confidential.

Monday March 1, 2007
11:30:31

Leicester – An alert motorist traveling on Bond Street in Leicester observed a suspicious truck in a wooded area of the street. The motorist called police and while on the phone was able to provide police with a description of the truck, plate number and the direction of travel when it pulled out of the woods. Sgt. Kenneth Antanavica spotted the vehicle passing him in the opposite direction on Whittemore Street in Leicester. Sgt. Antanavica was able to radio ahead and have Officer Brooks and Samia stop the motor vehicle. Sgt Antanavica was able to proceed and locate a pile of illegally dumped trash in the woods off of Bond Street in Leicester. The trash consisted of furniture, rugs, wood and appliances including a microwave. As a result of the investigation Truong Cao, 25, of Humes Street, Worcester and Minh T. Huynh, 26 of # Henderson Ave #2, Worcester will be summonsed into court at a later date for illegal dumping. Chief James Hurley stated that illegal dumping of trash continues to be a problem. We find that it is individuals from out of town who come to secluded areas and dump trash to avoid paying for the removal of debris. Chief Hurley stated the identification of these two suspects is a direct result of the alert citizen whom he declined to identify. The citizen gave us all the information we needed to locate and identify these suspect. You cannot ask for any more than that. These are the types of crimes we like to solve. If the citizen had not called the police the Town of Leicester would likely have had to pay to pick up and dispose of the trash. We are very appreciative of the phone call.