Vernon Pair Arrested in Highway Sign Theft, Connecticut State Police

An unusual case grabbed headlines across Connecticut when state police arrested two Vernon men for stealing several highway signs along Interstate 91.

This happened on a Wednesday morning near connecticutvisitorguide.com/counties/hartford/windsor/”>Windsor. The incident raises questions about roadway safety, theft of public property, and what happens when someone gets caught in the act.

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Authorities say they found the suspects with stolen signs loaded onto a damaged pickup truck. Now, both men face criminal charges and have a court date coming up in Hartford.

Highway Sign Theft Along Interstate 91

The theft took place around 9:29 a.m. on the northbound side of I‑91 near Exit 37 in Windsor. If you know the area, you’ll know it’s a busy commuter route that stretches from Meriden to Enfield.

Stealing traffic signs here isn’t just a prank—it’s a real risk to public safety. The Connecticut Department of Transportation depends on these signs to guide drivers, and taking them away can leave folks confused, especially with cars flying by at highway speeds.

A Damaged Pickup Truck and a Dangerous Situation

State troopers came across a dented, white pickup truck parked awkwardly on the highway shoulder. A big exit warning sign sat right on top of a pile of other signs in the truck bed.

Photos snapped at the scene show what looked like a collection of important roadway signs, all apparently taken from different spots along the interstate. The whole setup seemed so odd that it immediately drew the attention of law enforcement.

Who Are the Suspects?

The suspects, Jonathan Riopelle, 46, and Andrew Lampkin, 42, both live in Vernon. That’s a quiet place east of Hartford, usually not the center of crime stories like this.

When police approached, the men reportedly cooperated. Officers said the arrest went smoothly, with no drama.

Charges and Legal Consequences

Police charged both Riopelle and Lampkin with:

Third-degree larceny – for stealing state property
Reckless use of a highway by a pedestrian – because they were on foot along a busy interstate
Improper parking on a highway – since the pickup was stopped in an unsafe way

After their arrest, both men posted a $500 bond and walked out. They’ll have to return to Hartford Superior Court on November 21 to face the charges.

Impact on Connecticut Communities

Even though the theft happened in Windsor, the effects ripple out. Drivers traveling between New Haven, Middletown, and Rocky Hill count on clear highway signs to make quick choices.

If a sign goes missing, people could miss exits in places like Suffield or even Springfield, MA, just over the border. That could mean traffic jams, missed turns, or worse—accidents.

DOT Concerns and Public Safety

The Connecticut Department of Transportation replaced the stolen signs as fast as possible. DOT officials in New Britain and Bridgeport have pointed out that these crimes aren’t just mischief—they put thousands of drivers in danger.

When someone removes an exit sign or a directional marker, it can throw drivers off, especially during rush hour. That’s a recipe for confusion or even collisions.

A Cautionary Tale for Motorists

This story is a reminder: what seems like a harmless prank or a quick score can lead to serious criminal penalties. In Connecticut towns from Danbury to Waterbury, police keep a close eye on state property along the roads.

Besides fines and possible jail time, anyone caught tampering with highway infrastructure could be held liable if their actions cause an accident. It’s just not worth the risk.

Looking Ahead

Hartford Superior Court plans to hear the case later this month. Folks all over Connecticut are curious about what will happen to Riopelle and Lampkin.

In places like Vernon and Windsor Locks, people rely on safe roads. That trust really depends on everyone following the rules and respecting the signs and signals meant to protect drivers.

Connecticut State Police acted quickly in this situation. Their fast response shows just how important it is to stay alert out there.

We all have a role in keeping our roads safe. Cases like this make you wonder—how easily can a moment of recklessness spiral into something bigger?

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Here is the source article for this story: Vernon Pair Arrested In Highway Sign-Stealing Escapade: State Police

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