Apprehending the Auto Theft Suspect: A Tense Encounter Leaves Officers Injured

In a dramatic turn of events, two police officers in Waterbury, Connecticut, suffered minor injuries while taking an auto theft suspect into custody on Thursday. The incident unfolded as the officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the suspect's arrest and the officers' hospitalization.

Uncovering the Stolen Vehicle and a Combative Suspect

The incident began when the owner of a stolen motor vehicle, a 52-year-old woman, reported the theft to the authorities. The woman later located her stolen vehicle in a parking lot, where she confronted the suspect, 44-year-old Jose Bellido-Rosado of Waterbury. Bellido-Rosado exited the vehicle, and the woman was able to regain possession of her car before contacting the police.

Apprehending the Suspect

When the officers arrived on the scene, the woman pointed out Bellido-Rosado as he was walking away from the parking lot. The officers made contact with Bellido-Rosado and attempted to place him in handcuffs, but he allegedly pulled away and became combative. During the struggle, Bellido-Rosado is said to have bitten one of the officers and attempted to access another officer's firearm, causing the protective cover of the holster to break off.

Injuries and Charges

The two officers involved in the incident were transported to a local hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries and released. Bellido-Rosado was also taken to a hospital and received treatment for his own minor injuries. Upon further investigation, the officers learned that Bellido-Rosado was a convicted felon with an outstanding felony violation of probation warrant for an unrelated incident.

Charges and Legal Review

Bellido-Rosado has been charged with theft of a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer, two counts of assault on a police officer, and possession of drug paraphernalia. At the time of reporting, his bond had not been set. The incident was reviewed by the Waterbury State's Attorney's office, which determined that the officers' use of force was reasonable and justified during the arrest of Bellido-Rosado.

Securing the Scene and Preventing Further Incidents

The apprehension of the auto theft suspect, despite the injuries sustained by the officers, highlights the dedication and professionalism of the Waterbury Police Department. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement personnel in their efforts to maintain public safety and uphold the law. As the investigation continues, the authorities will likely review the incident to identify any areas for improvement and ensure the safety of both officers and the community they serve.