Body camera video captures assault on New Haven police officer

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — Police-worn body camera video captured the moment a suspect assaulted a female New Haven police officer in recent weeks.

New Haven police released the video to News 8.

The video below first aired on July 2, 2024.

In it, police said you can see officers responding to the Fair Haven neighborhood in the early hours of Saturday, June 22 for a report of a fight in progress.  When they got there, police said the suspect, Wesley Gill, was attacking a woman – surrounded by a crowd of people, including young children.

As officers worked to stop Gill, police said he abruptly punched Officer Maribel Buccitti in the face.

“I give Officer Buccitti a lot of credit,” said Chief Karl Jacobson, of the New Haven Police Department. “She did lose consciousness, but she got back up and tried to help the other officers.”

She was hospitalized for serious facial injuries, but Jacobson said she’s doing better.

“She’s definitely doing better,” the chief said. “Myself and several other people from the police department, the peer support team, have been in contact with her.  [We have] brought food over to the house.”

Sitting down with News 8, Jacobson told us this incident showcases the dangers officers face.

“As an officer, you’re prepared for the worst every time you go to a call,” Jacobson said. “It’s been a tough road with us these last few years because we are so short. But it’s my responsibility as chief to keep hiring and make sure officers stay safe and have what they need.”

The President of the New Haven Police Union released a statement to News 8:

“Officer Buccitti showed tremendous courage and dedication in the face of personal danger, and we are grateful for her service to the people of New Haven.”

As for the suspect, Gill is facing a number of charges, including assault on a police officer. New Haven police said he has a lengthy criminal history in the city. He’s currently being held on $250,000 bond and is due in court on July 18.

Police added that all involved in the original call are okay.

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