Police: Drunk SCSU students start riot

HAMDEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- Three people were arrested after a large group of college students started a riot in Hamden and assaulted several officers.

The incident happened around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday, in the area of 190 Pine Rock Avenue.

Upon arrival, officers spoke with an on-duty private security officer who stated that a large group of Southern Connecticut State University students had gathered in the courtyard. The security officer went on to say that a majority of them were intoxicated.

Hamden Police saw approximately 500 individuals gathered in the courtyard. As officers approached the crowd, several individuals began to yell expletives about the police. Moments later, several physical altercations broke out, which led to a riot.

A police sergeant observed an altercation involving Ivan Santiago. As the sergeant attempted to arrest him, the large group intervened. Santiago then punched the sergeant in the face, fracturing his nose. Santiago was arrested and the sergeant was taken to the Hospital of Saint Raphael.

A second Hamden police sergeant observed an individual being beaten while lying defenseless on the ground. While he struggled with the person responsible, Evan Marlow, he sustained an arm injury. The sergeant was also treated at the Hospital of Saint Raphael.

Two Hamden patrol officers observed an individual, later identified as Victor Moreno, swinging a golf club towards them. Moreno was arrested and handcuffed. Due to the fact that other officers were being attacked, two patrol officers came to their aid. Moreno then escaped from the area with the handcuffs intact. He was arrested at his fraternity house a short time later.

Hamden Police was assisted by New Haven Police and SCSU Police in the incident. Officers reported that bottles were thrown at them. A total of four officers were injured during the riot.

Victor Moreno, 22, of 15 Botsford St., Meriden, was charged with attempted assault on a police officer, interfering with a police officer, inciting a riot, escape from custody, and breach of peace. He was held on a $50,000 bond.

Evan Marlow, 23, of 207 Santa Fe Avenue, Hamden, was charged with assault on a police officer, inciting a riot, third-degree assault, interfering with a police officer, and breach of peace. He was held on a $50,000 bond.

Ivan Santiago, 20, of 114 Farnham Dr., Apt. 308, New Haven, was charged with assault on a police officer, inciting a riot, interfering with a police officer, and breach of peace. He was also held on a $50,000 bond.