SOUTHINGTON, Conn. — Connecticut State Police said they have suspended the police powers of a trooper after he was arrested on several charges including assault and risk of injury to a minor.
Southington police said they were called to a home on Rethal Street around 8:40 p.m. Saturday. There was a reported verbal argument between 46-year-old Christopher Russell dnd his girlfriend.
According to police, the reported argument began while the couple was at a wedding. Once back at their home, the argument escalated and became physical when Russell took a mirror off the wall break breaking it, police said.
At the time of the argument, the victim’s child was inside the house. Russell was placed under arrest by Southington officers.
Police said they learned during the investigation that Russell was employed by the CT State Police. A representative of the CT State Police went to the home and made arrangements for Russell's police vehicle and contents to be removed from the scene.
Russell was charged with Assault 3rd degree, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Mischief 3rd degree and Risk of Injury to a Minor. He was processed and released on a $5,000.00 non-surety bond pending a court appearance on Monday in New Britain.
"As a result of the arrest, a State Police supervisor has seized Russell's department firearms, badge, identification, and police cruiser. Russell's police powers have been suspended, and an internal affairs investigation is underway. Russell has been employed by the State Police since 2008. Any questions related to the arrest should be directed to the Southington Police Department," said State Police in a statement.
