K-9 plays major role in Old Lyme stolen vehicle arrest

OLD LYME, Conn. (WTNH) — A K-9 police dog was a key player in arresting a man on Wednesday who stole a car in Old Lyme, according to police.

Police said that the suspect, 36-year-old Manuel Aviles, was traveling in a Jeep Grand Cherokee that was stolen from West Haven. Police were unable to track him down as he traveled across multiple town lines.

Aviles allegedly was laying on the ground near a ramp on Interstate 95 when someone pulled over in attempts to help him. While pulled over, they said that Aviles tried unsuccessfully to steal their car before running into the woods.

Officers were speaking to Aviles through the wooded area, telling him to exit, to which Aviles refused. When the officer said that they would bring out their K-9, Rocco, the suspect agreed to surrender.

Aviles was arrested and charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer and breach of peace in the 2nd degree.

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