WEST HAVEN — West Haven Police responded to a residence on Prindle Hill Road for a reported robbery on May 18 at approximately 5 a.m.
The female victim told officers that she had just been dropped off at her home by a rideshare service when she was confronted in her front yard by a male wearing a ski mask.
The suspect allegedly punched the victim in the face, knocking her to the ground.
A struggle ensued as the suspect attempted to forcefully take her purse.
During the altercation, the suspect brandished a handgun and held it to the victim’s stomach.
The victim relinquished her purse, and the suspect fled the scene.
West Haven Detectives responded and assumed control of the investigation.
Within weeks, they identified 25-year-old Desmond Hamilton of Ansonia as the primary suspect.
An arrest and search warrant was obtained and executed with the assistance of the West Haven Street Crime Unit, West Haven Special Response Team, and the Ansonia Police Department.
Desmond Hamilton was taken into custody without incident.
During the search of his residence, several items of evidentiary value were located and seized.
Desmond Hamilton was formally charged with robbery in the 1st degree with a firearm and larceny in the 2nd degree by force.
Hamilton was held on bond and appeared in Milford Superior Court.
