Traffic Stop Leads to Firearm Arrest on Route 15 in North Haven

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On 10/11/2026, at approximately 10:02 a.m., a Trooper assigned to Troop I in Bethany was patrolling Route 15 southbound in the North Haven area.

While parked, observing traffic between the southbound Exit 53 ramps, the Trooper observed a green Jeep Gladiator towing a camping trailer traveling in the right lane. Due to state laws prohibiting camping trailers from traveling on the Parkway, the Trooper maneuvered their cruiser into traffic and followed the Jeep Gladiator.

Upon locating a safe area, the Trooper initiated a motor vehicle stop, using their vehicle’s emergency lights and sirens. In response, the Jeep Gladiator pulled over in the area of Exit 51 in Hamden.

Upon approaching the vehicle, the Trooper spoke with the operator, who was positively identified by her Louisianna Driver’s License as Kathleen J. Elliott-Guillory, DOB 03/20/1973, of Vile Platte, Louisiana. When advised of the reason for the traffic stop, the accused operator explained that was unaware of Connecticut’s parkway restrictions.

During their interactions, the Trooper observed an object consistent in appearance with a handgun in plain view near the vehicle’s center console which was identified as a Ruger Max-9 9mm and later seized as evidence.

During the investigation it was learned that Elliot-Guillory did not possess a valid Connecticut Pistol Permit. Elliot-Guillory was apologetic and further explained that she was not aware of state laws in Connecticut regarding the transport of firearms.

Based upon the information obtained during the investigation, Elliott-Guillory was advised that she was being placed under arrest. A search of the vehicle incident to the arrest yielded no additional items of evidentiary value.

Elliot-Guillory was subsequently transported to Troop I in Bethany where she was processed and charged with the following violations:

C.G.S. 29-38, Illegal Possession of a Weapon in a Motor Vehicle

C.G.S. 29-35(a)(1), Carrying a Pistol Without a Permit

C.G.S. 14-298, Failure to Comply with State Traffic Regulations

Elliott-Guillory posted a $5,000 cash/surety bond and was released from State Police custody, pending her arraignment on 10/13/2026, at Meriden Superior Court.