OFFICIAL GPD Press Release on Human Trafficking Story

Physical Altercation at Shopping Plaza

On Sunday, August 2, 2009 at approximately 11:30 A.M., members of the Uniformed Services Division responded to the parking lot of the Riverside Commons, a small shopping mall, located at 1233 East Putnam Avenue on a report of a large group of individuals involved in a physical altercation where baseball bats were possibly being used as weapons.

On arrival of police personnel it was determined that a large group of Hispanic males had dispersed from the area in several different vehicles. Further inquires revealed that the individuals left in four vehicles and a subsequent description of the vehicles was disseminated to local police units.

The four vehicles were subsequently observed and detained by uniformed officers throughout the eastern section of town. During the detention of the individuals information was developed that this matter might be connected to illegal activity involving a blue van located in the Riverside Commons. A blue van was located in the aforementioned parking lot and the driver was subsequently located within the parking lot by uniformed police personnel.

ICE in Connecticut has arrested four people for immigration violations. They are currently detained by ICE pending further investigation. This case is currently under investigation and discussing any further details about this case will be inappropriate.