Who is Richard Barrington? Connecticut teen charged after allegedly killing Hartford police veteran in car crash
HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT: Richard Barrington, a Connecticut teenager is now facing charges of manslaughter and driving under the influence in the tragic death of a Hartford police officer after causing a crash that also left another person seriously injured.
On Thursday, September 21, the 18-year-old was arraigned on new charges following the killing of Robert 'Bobby' Garten, reports Fox News.
Who was Robert 'Bobby' Garten?
Robert 'Bobby' Garten, a respected eight-year veteran of the Hartford police force died from his injuries after the high school junior hit him with his car.
Garten whose father retired as a detective on the force applied to become a detective and was posthumously promoted by Police Chief Jason Thody as he "far exceeded" the necessary qualifications.
"He was only with us for eight years, but his influence was immeasurable. He was and always will be our hero," said Thody.
The 34-year-old also worked on the North Street Crimes Unit, Crime Reduction Team, and the Marine Division through which he was able to pull three people out of the Connecticut River when the watercraft overturned in August.
How was Richard Barrington caught?
According to the authorities, Barrington who was caught following the fatal crash fled a routine traffic stop initiated by other officers on September 6, and his reckless escape led him to drive through two red lights and collide with the passenger side of a police cruiser that was responding to an unrelated emergency call.
Officer Brian Kearney was the other officer who was seriously wounded and was shifted to a hospital at the time. He was later released from the facility.
Initially, the high school junior was charged with motor vehicle-related crimes related to the traffic stop.
What are the charges against Richard Barrington?
On Thursday, September 21, he faced new charges of first-degree assault, driving under the influence, first-degree manslaughter, and other alleged crimes.
As the new charges were added, he made his court appearance in Hartford Superior Court. He currently remains in detention with a bail amount of $1 million.
According to officials, Barrington had no previous criminal record. As per the arrest warrant affidavit released by the State police, the suspect talked to officials about his motivation behind fleeing the traffic stop as he did not have a driver's license, he had marijuana in his possession, and his car was not registered.
Barrington also disclosed to them that he smoked marijuana just an hour before the fatal crash.
