Police: Woman Trashed PD While in Custody

A Hamden woman arrested after a complaint of loud music at her home allegedly caused thousands of dollars in damage to the booking area of the new Hamden Police Department when she was in custody, according to police.

Lonna Leak, 37, of 18 Cross Street, Hamden, was arrested Nov. 24 shortly after 12:30 a.m. after police responded to the report at her home, according to police spokesman Capt. Ronald Smith.

"While inside of the police cruiser, Leak continually kicked the interior cage. Leak, who was handcuffed behind her back, was able to bring her hands to the front of her body. She then gained access to the police radio and began interfering with police communications," Smith said. "As officers intervened, Leak kicked an officer.

"Upon arrival at Hamden Police Headquarters, Leak spit on a Hamden Fire Department member. She was promptly placed in a cell. While inside of the cell, Leak allegedly urinated on the floor, bit the padded walls and then attempted to flood it. She was then placed in a second cell.

"Leak then damaged the sprinkler system, causing flooding to the cellblock and booking area. Officers subsequently moved Leak to the adult booking area. Leak allegedly damaged an electronic control panel, biting off the rubber buttons."

Total damages to the detention area exceeded $5,000, Smith said.

Leak was charged with two counts of assault on a police officer, interfering with a police officer, first-degree criminal mischief, second-degree criminal mischief and breach of peace.

Leak was held in lieu of $50,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on Dec. 7.

Officer Gabe Garcia conducted the investigation, Smith said.