A Connecticut man who authorities say punched a pregnant woman in an attempt to steal her car Tuesday night has been arrested on multiple charges, officials said.
William Rodriguez, 28, of New Haven, is accused of assaulting the victim at the drive-thru window of a Dunkin’ Donuts store in East Haven just before 8 p.m., Capt. Joseph Murgo said in a news release Wednesday.
According to investigators, Rodriguez pulled into the parking lot and parked his vehicle “directly in front of the victim’s car” while she waited for her order.
He then exited his vehicle — later identified as a stolen 2016 Hyundai Elantra — entered the victim’s car through the passenger door and allegedly demanded her keys.
The victim, who hasn’t been named, refused to comply. That’s when Rodriguez “began punching her,” Murgo said.
She eventually managed to escape and ran into the restaurant to seek help.
Two employees ran outside and were able to confront Rodriguez, who “was struggling to operate” the victim’s car.
They restrained the suspect and held him on the ground, as they waited for police to arrive.
When responding officers arrived, Rodriguez got into a “brief struggle” with police but was ultimately taken into custody.
While receiving medical attention, Rodriguez reportedly bit the hand of the medic, Murgo said.
He was ultimately transported to the East Haven Police Department and charged with assault on a pregnant person, assault on emergency medical personnel, robbery, reckless endangerment and other offenses. He is being held on a $250,000 bond.
According to Murgo, Rodriguez also has multiple outstanding arrest warrants totaling $475,000 and two outstanding warrants from state police.