SHARE

State Police Investigating Potential 'Use Of Force' By Officers

Connecticut State Polie is investigating alleged excessive use of force by several officers during a traffic stop that ended with one person in the hospital after jumping off a 70-foot landing. 

Connecticut State Police are investigating the potential use of force by West Hartford police officers.

Connecticut State Police are investigating the potential use of force by West Hartford police officers.

Photo Credit: Connecticut State Police

According to the state police, on Wednesday, Jan. 20, detectives from the Connecticut State Police were requested by the Hartford State’s Attorney’s Office to assume the investigation into the potential use of force incident in West Hartford.

The investigation stems from an incident that occurred on I- 84 eastbound, Exit 46 ramp in the city of Hartford at approximately 9:30 p.m., Wednesday, involving West Hartford Police Officers. 

During the stop, West Hartford officers spotted a vehicle wanted in connection with past criminal activity, state police said.

While following the vehicle, officers deployed stop sticks in an attempt to make contact with the occupants of the vehicle. The vehicle continued to travel through the town of West Hartford and onto I- 84 eastbound where it eventually stopped on the Exit 46 ramp in the city of Hartford.

Both occupants then exited the vehicle. The female driver, who was later identified as Maia Marieliz, 33, was immediately taken into custody on an outstanding robbery warrant. 

A male passenger fled on foot in an attempt to elude officers. The man jumped over a jersey barrier, landing approximately 70 feet below, state police said.

The suspect, who was also wanted on an outstanding robbery warrant, was transported to an area hospital for injuries sustained during the course of the incident.

In addition to the CDMCS detectives, the Hartford State’s Attorney’s Office also requested that the State Police – Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Squad (C.A.R.S) respond to the scene to assist in the investigation. 

State Police are asking anyone who has any information pertaining to the incident to contact detectives at 860-706-5656. 

All information will remain confidential. 

This case remains under investigation.

to follow Daily Voice Westport and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE