UPDATE: A Meriden man has been convicted of kidnapping, robbery, and strangulation following a disturbing incident linked to a sneaker sale that escalated into violence. A jury at the New Britain Superior Court found 24-year-old Addison Clegg guilty, according to an urgent statement from the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice.
The harrowing events unfolded during a transaction arranged on Facebook Marketplace. Clegg strangled the victim until he lost consciousness, enabling an accomplice to steal the victim’s legally registered 9mm firearm and vehicle. This shocking crime took place in Rocky Hill, where the victim, upon regaining consciousness, managed to escape from the moving vehicle on Cromwell Avenue, suffering serious injuries, including a broken foot.
Judge Chris Pelosi scheduled Clegg’s sentencing for March 25, leaving the community in shock. In a statement, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney David Clifton commended the victim’s bravery:
“The victim’s courage cannot be understated. But for his quick thinking under terrifying conditions, allowing him to escape from his abductors, who knows how this violent encounter would have ended?”
New Britain State’s Attorney Christian M. Watson also expressed gratitude to local law enforcement, especially Detectives Patrick Lehane, Thomas Ganley, and Officer Brandon Caires of the Rocky Hill and Middletown police departments, for their thorough investigative efforts. He further acknowledged the medical intervention from Hartford Hospital and the professional analysis from the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection-Division of Scientific Services.
This case highlights the potential dangers of online transactions and the urgent need for safety precautions when meeting strangers. As the community reflects on this violent episode, the focus now shifts to Clegg’s upcoming sentencing and the implications it holds for public safety in Connecticut.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
