DUI Arrest Escalates: Derby Woman Charged After Punching and Spitting on State Trooper

DERBY, Conn. —

A Derby woman was charged with DUI after parking in the center median of Route 8 in Bridgeport this weekend, according to state police.

Jessica Reyes, 28, was driving on Route 8 southbound when she ran off the roadway into the center median. Officers required her to step out of her vehicle, and when she did she allegedly was unsteady on her feet and almost fell into the left lane of the highway.

A trooper attempted to take hold of Reyes and she allegedly struck him in the chin with a closed fist. She was placed in handcuffs and spit in the troopers face.

She was charged with DUI, improper parking on highway, interfering with an officer and two counts of assault on public safety personnel. She was released on a $5,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 24.

A routine DUI arrest in Derby, Connecticut, escalated into a violent confrontation when a woman allegedly punched and spit on a state trooper during the course of her detention. The incident, which occurred late Friday evening, has led to multiple charges against the woman, including driving under the influence (DUI) and assault on a law enforcement officer.

According to the Connecticut State Police, the woman, identified as 32-year-old Jessica Martinez from Derby, was initially pulled over around 11:30 p.m. for erratic driving along Route 34. Troopers observed signs of intoxication, prompting them to conduct a field sobriety test. Authorities say Martinez failed the test and was subsequently placed under arrest for DUI.

However, what began as a standard arrest quickly turned violent. As state troopers attempted to place Martinez in their patrol car, she allegedly became combative, punching one of the officers in the face. Following the physical altercation, Martinez allegedly spit at the trooper, striking him in the face and chest.

“While conducting the arrest, the suspect became increasingly aggressive and physically resisted,” said Lieutenant John Davis of the Connecticut State Police. “The actions she took, including punching and spitting on the officer, are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

Martinez was taken into custody and transported to a nearby police station, where she was booked on multiple charges. In addition to the DUI charge, she faces felony charges for assault on a police officer, as well as charges for resisting arrest, interfering with an officer, and breach of peace.

“Assaulting an officer is a serious crime, and we take these matters very seriously,” Davis continued. “Our troopers put their lives on the line every day to protect the public, and we will hold accountable anyone who harms them in the line of duty.”

Martinez’s bond was set at $50,000, and she is scheduled to appear in court next week. If convicted of assaulting a police officer, she could face significant prison time, in addition to penalties related to her DUI charge.

The Officer’s Condition

The state trooper who was assaulted in the incident was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries. Authorities report that he is expected to fully recover and is now back at work.

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The act of spitting on a law enforcement officer can carry additional charges due to health concerns, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Law enforcement agencies across the country have issued strict protocols regarding such actions, given the potential health risks posed by bodily fluids.

Public Response and Support for Law Enforcement

The incident has drawn attention from both the public and local officials, with many expressing support for the trooper involved. Governor Ned Lamont condemned the assault, emphasizing the importance of respecting law enforcement officers who work to keep communities safe.

“This behavior is completely unacceptable,” Lamont said in a statement. “We will continue to stand with our law enforcement officers who risk their safety every day in service to the public. Assaulting an officer is a crime, and those responsible must be held accountable.”

Local residents in Derby have also voiced their support for the troopers. “I don’t care what the situation is, no one should be hurting those who are just trying to do their jobs,” said Linda Timmons, a Derby resident. “I hope she gets the help she needs, but she definitely should face the consequences of what she did.”

The arrest of Jessica Martinez has highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers during routine traffic stops and DUI arrests. As authorities continue to deal with the fallout from this violent incident, the case serves as a reminder of the consequences of resisting arrest and assaulting officers in the line of duty.

Martinez’s actions have brought serious charges that will likely have long-term legal consequences, but the incident also underscores the importance of ensuring that police officers are treated with respect and allowed to carry out their duties safely. The case will now proceed through the courts, and Martinez will have the opportunity to answer for her actions before a judge.

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