On Thursday, 01/23/25, at approximately 7:04 PM, personnel from Troop E- Montville were dispatched to the I-95 northbound exit 88 off ramp in Groton for a vehicle reportedly blocking the off-ramp. The vehicle was reported to be a gray SUV with the operator passed out at the wheel.
Upon arrival, Troopers located a gray Hyundai Santa Fe SUV blocking the off-ramp and causing traffic congestion extending the entire length of the ramp to I-95 proper. Groton Police Officers were already on scene attempting to wake the operator of the vehicle. To prevent the operator from evading the scene, the investigating Trooper positioned their cruiser ahead of the Santa Fe. As the operator awoke, the vehicle began moving forward, nearly striking the Trooper's cruiser. The operator brought the vehicle to a stop just prior to causing a collision and then exited the vehicle from the passenger side door.
As the operator exited the vehicle, he nearly fell over. It became apparent at this point that he was likely impaired, and the Trooper escorted the operator to the shoulder of the off-ramp to safely continue their investigation. The operator was positively identified as Avi Patel (DOB 06/17/99), of Waterford. While speaking with Patel, the investigating Trooper observed further signs of impairment, to include the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his person, bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and slow, labored movements. Based upon these observations, Patel was arrested and transported to Troop E. Patel's vehicle was also removed from the off ramp.
Standardized Field Sobriety Testing was later conducted at Troop E, to which Patel failed to perform to standard. Patel was processed on the following charges:
CGS 14-227a(2nd); Illegal Operation of a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs (2nd Offense)
CGS 14-251(c); Improper Parking
Chemical testing conducted at Troop E showed that Patel's blood alcohol content was more than four times the legal limit. Patel was later released from custody on a $1,000 bond and is scheduled to appear at New London Superior Court on 02/06/25. Please see the attached criminal information summary.
