On March 4, 2025, at approximately 12:26 AM, Troopers from Trook K - Colchester were conducting speed enforcement on Route 2 eastbound near exit 22 in the town of Colchester. At that time, a blue Chevrolet Cruze sedan was observed traveling at 81 MPH in a posted 65 mph zone. While observing the vehicle, the Trooper noticed that the vehicle was unable to maintain the established travel lane and was swerving between the two lanes of the highway.
Troopers initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle, and the operator was identified as Thomas O'Shaughnessy (DOB 03/15/2000) of Salem. While speaking with O'Shaughnessy, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was detected emanating from both the vehicle, and O'Shaughnessy's breath. Furthermore, Troopers observed that O'Shaughnessy's eyes were also red and glossy.
Based on the Troopers suspicion that O'Shaughnessy was under the influence, he was requested to perform the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests to which he did not perform to standard. O'Shaughnessy was subsequently arrested and a search of the vehicle incident to the arrest was conducted while he was on scene. The search revealed a 12-inch katana style blade on the floorboard of the vehicle.
O'Shaughnessy was transported without incident to Troop K for processing. O'Shaughnessy was charged with the following:
C.G.S. 14-227a - Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or drugs
C.G.S. 14-230(a) - Failure to Drive Right
C.G.S. 14-236 - Failure to Maintain Lane
C.G.S. 14-219(b) - Speeding
C.G.S. 53-206 - Weapon in a Motor Vehicle
O'Shaughnessy was later released on a $5,000 bond and is scheduled to appear at Norwich Superior Court on 03/25/2025.
Please see attached criminal information summary.
