NAUGATUCK, Conn. (WTIC Radio) - Naugatuck Police identify the officer struck and injured in a hit-and-run crash that happened during a pursuit Thursday.
The 2006 Honda Ridgeline fleeing a shoplifting incident struck Naugatuck Lieutenant Mark Pettinicchi, who was working a traffic job on Route 63 around 4 p.m. Thursday.
Police say Lt. Pettinicchi was able to call for help, despite his injuries.
Lt. Pettinicchi underwent surgery Friday and is recovering from a shattered left ankle, a fractured right ankle, and a fractured right tibia.
The Honda led police on a pursuit on Route 8 and I-84 in Wolcott and Waterbury, before ending in Middlebury on I-84 near the South Street overpass.
During the course of the pursuit, the vehicle’s occupants discarded drugs, money, and a .380 pistol, all of which was subsequently recovered and seized.
The suspects arrested are Stanton Ragar Trent, 29, of New Haven - who Police say was driving the car that hit the Lieutenant; Asia Shynise Paulin, 25, of Waterbury; and Francis Joseph Ibell, 49.
Naugatuck Police seized over $14,000 in cash, 412 bags of heroin, 11 grams of cocaine, a loaded .380 pistol. An investigation into the origins of the pistol remain ongoing. Additionally, detectives have obtained search warrants and are continuing to process evidence including the Honda.
Trent has been charged with first-degree robbery, first-degree assault, two counts of possession of drugs with intent to sell, second-degree reckless endangerment, reckless driving, and engaging police in pursuit. Bond is $1,000,000.00.

Paulin has been charged with two counts of conspiracy at possession with intent to sell and carrying a pistol without a permit. Bond is $300,000.

Ibell has been charged with first-degree robbery, sixth-degree larceny, interfering with an officer, and possession of drugs.

Naugatuck Police are releasing a still photo of a silver SUV from the incident, possibly a Mazda tribute in hopes of locating the occupant or occupant(s) as important witnesses to this incident. The photo will be released with our press packet and we ask anyone with information to contact Naugatuck Police at (203) 729-5221 or the confidential tip line at (203) 720-1010.






