A Danbury man now faces serious charges after allegedly violating a protective order and installing a hidden camera in a woman’s home. The arrest of Francisco Vazquez-Lopez followed a complaint filed earlier this month, leading to charges of voyeurism with malice, electronic stalking, violation of a protective order, and disorderly conduct. The victim reported that Vazquez-Lopez breached a full no-contact protective order by appearing at her workplace and later having someone install a hidden camera in her bedroom. Vazquez-Lopez awaits further legal proceedings now, after pleading not guilty to all charges.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has announced the recipients of the fourth round of grant funding through the Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program, with a total of $545,000 going to 13 projects to reduce impacts of aquatic invasive species on inland waters in Connecticut. Aquatic invasive species, such as Zebra mussels and Hydrilla, are a serious threat to our ecosystems. Among the recipients is the Candlewood Lake Authority, which is receiving $25,724.

New Milford Public Schools is exploring an alternative program to support struggling high school students who may face challenges within the traditional high school environment. The proposed program aims to address specific needs of students. Similar initiatives in neighboring districts, such as Region 15 and Newtown Public Schools, have demonstrated success. The program is described as a “school within a school,” offering tailored support, small class sizes, and individual attention to participating students. The program’s curriculum aligns with traditional high school requirements.

A man who was charged in the 2019 for the fatal shooting of his brother, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison. The sentence, handed down at state Superior Court in Danbury, includes an additional five years of probation. Mathew O’Dell pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter and first-degree threatening as part of a pre-trial agreement. The incident occurred at the Apollo Road home that he and his brother, Richard O’Dell, shared in Bethel. O’Dell’s initial plea of not guilty was amended after further investigation revealed details surrounding the fatal altercation. Despite the sentencing, questions remain regarding the motive and circumstances leading up to the fatal shooting.

New Milford residents can support local social services and the high school graduation party by joining the spring Sip and Stroll event tomorrow. There will be food and beverage tastings from 4 to 7, and tickets are just $30 each and limited to ages 21 and over. Funds raised will benefit the New Milford High School Grad Party and Good Samaritan Fund. Check-in is at 19 Main St. from 4 to 5pm tomorrow. All participants will get a souvenir wine glass.

A devastating three-alarm fire tore through 12 units at the Ledgewood Condominium complex in Brookfield early Thursday morning, leaving two people hospitalized, including a police officer. Affected units were rendered uninhabitable. All the residents were lucky to escape more serious consequences, with only some smoke inhalation injuries reported. The community meanwhile, has rallied together, offering support and assistance to those displaced by the blaze, while authorities continued their investigation into the fire’s cause.

Ticks are becoming a year-round concern here in Connecticut with this year’s warmer than normal winter seen as contributing to their increasing numbers. According to scientists at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, an unprecedented number of ticks were received for testing over the winter months. While the rate of disease-carrying ticks remains relatively stable, they say the sheer volume of ticks has risen significantly, and that only emphasizes the need for ongoing tick prevention measures.

Vandalism has struck Settlers Park in Southbury, leaving significant damage to its bathroom facilities. Police responded to the scene and discovered damages amounting to an estimated $800 to $1,000. Settlers Park, known for its recreational amenities, was marred according to police, by this senseless act during the overnight hours of April 16 to April 17. Southbury Police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in apprehending those responsible.

Construction is set to begin on Monday to replace the Merryall Bridge in New Milford. The contractor will begin the project on Monday by dismantling the current bridge. During the project, Merryall Road on the northern side of the bridge will be closed to traffic. Additionally, on May 7 and 8, West Meetinghouse Road will be closed while a crane is used to remove the bridge’s superstructure. Police will be stationed at key intersections from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to assist with traffic. Drivers are urged to use caution, and to plan alternate routes to avoid backups and delays.

A reminder today to all Connecticut residents following recent carbon monoxide incidents that were caused by vehicles left running in closed garages. Firefighters warn of the dangers of CO exposure and urge precautions, especially with modern vehicle technologies like remote starters and keyless fobs. To mitigate risks, drivers are advised to ensure vehicles are backed out of garages promptly after starting. Additionally, installing a CO detector inside the home near the garage entry door is recommended.