(Hartford) - Detectives of the Hartford Police Department's Major Crimes Division have captured a suspect whom they believe to be responsible for five or more street robberies in the city's Southend.

 

Since November of 2011, Major Crimes Division Detectives have been investigating a series of street robberies that occurred on Park Street, Allen Place, Morris Street, Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue.  A knife was used In two of the robberies.  The investigation, led by Major Crimes Detective Sherwood and Richter, uncovered a detailed suspect description and surveillance photos below, which were recovered from the vicinity of one of the robberies.  The suspect has been identified as Juan Betancourt, DOB 7/26/84, of Hartford.

 

On Friday, March 23, 2012, Hartford Police Officers Antuna and Marfella, were in the Park Street area when they observed the suspect attempting to commit another robbery.  They immediately intervened and, following a brief foot pursuit, he was apprehended by Officers Antuna and Marfella.   Betancourt remains in police custody on attempted robbery, breach of peace, trespassing and interfering with police charges, as well as four outstanding PRAWN warrants.   Police anticipate further charges in connection with numerous other street robberies that had been occurring throughout the Southend over the past several months. 

 

Chief Rovella praised the work of all those involved in the investigation, saying "The capture of this menace to our streets is a major accomplishment.  I commend the detectives for their diligence and perseverance, and our community partners for their help in identifying the suspect."

 

Southend Robbery Suspect Juan Betancourt, DOB 7/26/84

 

Contact:   Nancy M Mulroy, Public Information Officer, 860-757-4021
City of Hartford Office of Communications and New Media
Andrea Comer, Director, 860-757-9731
Visit police.hartford.gov  for more Hartford Police News