At 2:45 a.m. on December 13, Rye Police responded to a call from a Johnson Place resident about suspicious persons walking down a neighbor’s driveway. The call turned out to be prelude to a wild and dangerous car chase and manhunt for the officers involved.
As responding units entered Johnson Place, a Lexus SUV and a black Infiniti with headlights on drove directly at them. The Lexus struck the front end of an RPD SUV, with Sgt. Jason Washco at the wheel, causing the Lexus to roll over, after which the suspect was placed in custody. The driver of the Infiniti stopped, observed the officers, and quickly fled eastbound toward Boston Post Road, striking a second RPD vehicle, driven by Officer Keith Parker. Washco was injured and required assistance due to injury from Officer Angie Cyr who was also on the scene.
The Infiniti, reportedly stolen in New Jersey, was driven around police units, over a lawn, then eastbound on Barlow Lane as it was pursued by police to Trails End. There, the suspects fled on foot from the vehicle over a fence to Long Island Sound.
Officer Parker was joined by Officer James Foti and they pursued on foot, joined by Port Chester Police. One suspect was captured and officers found a pack containing a fully-loaded Springfield Armor .40 calibre Semi-automatic handgun. Two other suspects fled the scene and remain at large at press time. A Code Red message was sent to Rye and Rye Neck school districts and area residents.
The suspects in custody were later charged with the following felonies: Grand Larceny and Reckless Endangerment, and Fleeing an Officer in the 2nd Degree; Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 2nd Degree; Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree, as well as felony weapons and motor vehicle violations. Individuals who will get arrested or facing similar criminal charges may hire a criminal defense lawyer for their defense. They may also seek the assistance of a bail bonds agent to post bail. Once the bail bondsman has done their part, the individuals involved in this case can use the time to work with their lawyer to prepare for their trial and establish a defense.
Public Safety Commissioner Michael Corcoran stated that he was “extremely proud of our officers for their bravery and professionalism in engaging these dangerous individuals.” He reminded residents to lock vehicles overnight and not to leave keys or valuables in vehicles.
