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Windsor Locks, Connecticut, police have apprehended a suspected thief believed to be responsible for stripping copper parts from commercial air-conditioning units, largely thanks to advanced DNA testing technology.
The arrest comes after a thorough investigation that utilized forensics technology to test genetic material found on a drinking straw left at the scene, ultimately leading to the identification and arrest of Jason Myslenski, 37, who has a criminal history spanning across Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Windsor Locks police charged Myslenski with first-degree larceny and first-degree criminal mischief following the incident reported on January 9 at a commercial building on Concorde Way.
Officials say that the theft resulted in approximately $20,000 in damage, including torn-up condenser units, missing copper piping and other parts.
Detective Heriberto Resto, in an arrest warrant affidavit, highlighted crucial evidence that aided in Myslenski’s identification.
Among the key findings was a 7-Eleven coffee cup discovered next to the damaged condensers. Resto noted that despite recent snowfall in the area, the cup bore no traces of snow, indicating that it had been left at the scene recently.
Further investigation led to the discovery of a red straw inside the cup, which was swabbed for DNA along with a multi-tool found nearby.
Both items were promptly taken to the Rapid DNA Lab at the Hartford Police Department for testing on January 10.
The results revealed a genetic match between the DNA from the straw and Myslenski, a known individual from a previous narcotics investigation.
Rapid DNA technology played a pivotal role in expediting the investigation. According to Detective Sergeant Jeff Lampson, the time-saving capabilities of the Rapid DNA system significantly aids law enforcement efforts compared to traditional testing methods. This innovative technology, which provides results within 90 minutes, has been instrumental in resolving cases efficiently.
The deployment of Rapid DNA units in Connecticut is a result of collaborative efforts among law enforcement agencies.
Hartford police spokesperson Lieutenant Aaron Boisvert discussed the accessibility of their Rapid DNA machine to other police departments, which has proven useful to multiple investigations.
In addition to DNA evidence, further corroborating information linked Myslenski to the crime scene.
For example, January 8 surveillance footage from a nearby 7-Eleven store showed Myslenski wearing attire similar to the individual observed in the theft footage and holding a coffee cup resembling the one found outside the commercial building.
Investigators also uncovered Myslenski’s visit to a South Windsor scrapyard on January 9, where he sold approximately 52 pounds of copper for $70.90.
During police interviews, Myslenski admitted to struggling with drug addiction and claimed to collect scrap metal from his landscaping job to support his habit. However, he denied involvement in stealing copper from the condensing units.
Subsequent police action led to Myslenski’s arrest on January 11 at a Motel 6 on National Drive, following a tip regarding alleged prostitution activity.
While not charged with prostitution-related offenses, Myslenski was found in possession of drug paraphernalia, including three glass pipes testing positive for cocaine.
As the case progresses, Myslenski remains in custody pending his appearance in Superior Court in Hartford on February 23.
The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, coupled with advancements in DNA technology, have been instrumental in swiftly apprehending the suspect and advancing the investigation.
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