Two CT men accused of illegally dumping 100 tires at commercial property

Two men are facing charges after they allegedly dumped tires at a commercial property in Naugatuck in December, police said.

On Dec. 29, 2023, officers learned that approximately 100 tires were dumped at a commercial property at 397 Prospect St., according to the Naugatuck Police Department.

Police said an investigation was launched after a witness reported that a U-Haul truck dumped the tires at the property on Prospect Street. According to police, investigators learned there was a series of events involving a U-Haul truck and the disposal of tires at multiple locations.

According to police, 32-year-old Andrew Gonzalez of Terryville and 22-year-old Lavon Spradley of Bridgeport were identified as suspects and charged in connection with the illegal dumping. Both men also face additional charges including conspiracy and illegal dumping of bulky/hazardous waste, police said.

Spradley was taken into custody in Bridgeport on Friday, according to police. He was released on a $5,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Waterbury Superior Court on Feb. 21, police said.

Police currently have an active arrest warrant for Gonzalez and are asking the public to contact police headquarters at 203-729-5222 or the confidential tip line at 203-720-1010 with any information about his whereabouts.

“The Naugatuck Police Department commends the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation, including U-Haul, Waterbury police and Fairfield police, which ultimately led to the successful resolution of this case,” Naugatuck police said in a release on Monday. “This arrest sends a clear message that illegal dumping will not be tolerated in our community.

“The Naugatuck Police Department remains dedicated to upholding the law and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of our neighborhoods.”