21-year-old ring leader of crime spree arrested in Southington

SOUTHINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) — A 21-year-old alleged ring leader of statewide criminal activity is facing 10 charges after committing various crimes in Southington and across the state, police said.

Police arrested Ethan, Nieves, 21, of Newington, on Monday at his New Britain court appearance, after a nine-month-long investigation.

According to police, Nieves was using a stolen 2023 Honda Odyssey from Farmington to commit crimes such as catalytic converter thefts, wheel thefts, ATV thefts and commercial burglaries, starting in 2023.

Police agencies executed search warrants on March 12 at Nieves’ residence in New Britain. Officers saw several people return to the residence in a vehicle that was stolen earlier that morning.

The car was stolen during a burglary at CarMax in East Haven, police said.

Officers arrested two of three suspects and later determined that Nieves was the outstanding third suspect. Several other agencies have arrested and charged Nieves for his involvement.

The 21-year-old was charged with the following: first-degree larceny, three counts of third-degree larceny, two counts of third-degree conspiracy to commit larceny, third-degree burglary, third-degree conspiracy to commit burglary, two counts f first-degree criminal mischief, first-degree conspiracy to commit criminal mischief, second-degree criminal mischief, second-degree conspiracy to commit criminal mischief and use of a motor vehicle without permission.

Nieves was released after posting $85,000 court-set bond.

Police said more arrests are expected.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.