On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at approximately 3:37 PM, a Trooper assigned to Troop H in Hartford was on-duty conducting proactive speed enforcement on Route 5/15 southbound in Meriden when they observed a white Nissan Versa traveling at a high rate of speed, exceeding speeds over 109 MPH in a 65 MPH zone.
Upon observing the erratic driving behavior, the Trooper activated their emergency lights and siren to initiate a traffic stop near Exit 67S in Meriden. The driver initially slowed down and signaled a right turn, indicating they were pulling into the right shoulder. However, the driver then abruptly crossed all four lanes of travel, exited the highway via the exit 67S off-ramp, and merged onto I-91 southbound. The vehicle then began to weave in and out of heavy traffic, nearly colliding with other motorists, before accelerating to speeds exceeding 120 MPH. In the interest of public safety, the Trooper deactivated their emergency lights and siren and terminated efforts to pursue the vehicle.
After retrieving the registration details from the vehicle's license plate, the Trooper discovered that the vehicle was a rental and obtained the renter's contact information. During a phone conversation with the investigating Trooper, the renter identified Jose Luis Medero (DOB: 08/27/1969) of New Britain as the individual operating the vehicle at the time. The renter also stated they would bring Medero to Troop H later so he could turn himself in. Further investigation revealed that Medero’s driver's license was suspended.
At approximately 8:05 PM, Medero arrived at Troop H to turn himself in. Medero was placed in handcuffs and escorted to the Troop H processing area where he was ultimately charged with the following violations:
C.G.S. 14-215 - Illegal Operation of a Motor Vehicle while Under Suspension
C.G.S. 14-222 - Reckless Driving
C.G.S. 14-223(a) - Disobeying a Signal of an Officer
C.G.S. 14-223(b)** - Engaging Police in Pursuit
C.G.S. 14-232(a)(1) - Improper Passing-Unsafe Distance
C.G.S. 14-236 - Failure to Drive in Proper Lane
C.G.S. 53a-64 - Reckless Endangerment 2nd Degree
C.G.S. 53a-167a - Interfering with an Officer/Resisting
During arrest processing, Medero told Troopers that he did not stop because he believed he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
Following arrest processing, Medero was held on a $5,000 cash/surety bond and is scheduled for arraignment at Meriden Superior Court on 12/04/2024. Please see the attached criminal information summary.
