NEWINGTON — The Newington Police Department was dispatched to an undisclosed location for a reported domestic disturbance on Sept. 21 at approximately 12:10 p.m.
Upon investigation, it was alleged that John Lacen-Romero, 36, of Newington, assaulted an adult female at their residence.
During the assault, Lacen-Romero grabbed the adult female by the neck, restricting her ability to breathe.
Lacen-Romero also made threats to harm two involved juveniles.
Following the incident, Lacen-Romero removed two juveniles from the home, placing them in a vehicle, and left the area.
This was an instance of domestic violence between known parties and not a random act of violence.
The Newington Police Department immediately coordinated with various law enforcement partners in an effort to locate the vehicle and ensure the safety of the children.
The Stamford Police Department ultimately located the vehicle.
After a short pursuit, the suspect vehicle crashed and became disabled.
Lacen-Romero was taken into police custody after an extended standoff.
The children were taken to an area hospital for evaluation.
Lacen-Romero was charged with two counts of kidnapping in the first degree, one count of strangulation in the second degree, three counts of unlawful restraint in the first degree, three counts of reckless endangerment in the first degree, two counts of risk of injury to a child, one count of assault in the third degree, and one count of criminal mischief in the second degree.
He remains in custody being held on a $1,000,000 bond.
He is scheduled to appear at New Britain Superior Court on Sept. 22.
This incident remains under active investigation.
