http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/local/scn-sa-nor.cops4may06,0,7206816.story?coll=stam-news-local-headlines
By Matt Breslow
Staff Writer
May 6, 2005
NORWALK -- Police are investigating an overnight vandalism incident at their former headquarters, which occurred hours after the department officially moved to its new South Norwalk home.
At least one police officer is being investigated in the incident, in which a fire extinguisher was sprayed in parts of the West Avenue building. A phone in the front desk area was reportedly damaged.
A fire extinguisher was sprayed in the former dispatch center and discharge fell on a computer that had not yet been moved to the new headquarters, authorities said. However, authorities said the computer was not ruined and whoever sprayed the extinguisher apparently did not mean to destroy equipment.
Norwalk fire Deputy Chief David Lepus said a fire department report stated a dry chemical discharged by a fire extinguisher created a fog near the front desk, tripping the alarm at about 2:55 a.m. Tuesday.
Police Chief Harry Rilling said there was no sign of a break-in, and officers found a back door ajar. A "variety of people" had access to the locked building, Rilling said.
Security cameras are operating in the former headquarters, and Rilling said he is confident the department will find out who was responsible.
Regarding the possibility a police officer took part, Rilling said the department is trying to determine who was involved and he could not say who may or may not be responsible.
Lepus said two engines, a ladder truck, a rescue vehicle and a command vehicle were dispatched to the building after the fire alarm went off.
-- Staff Writer John Nickerson contributed to this story.
Copyright © 2005, Southern Connecticut Newspapers, Inc.