UPDATE: Former state representative Victor Cuevas has been arrested and charged with second-degree breach of peace in connection with a significant hate incident that occurred on August 22, 2023. The arrest, made by Waterbury Police, follows the release of a widely circulated video showing Cuevas confronting local man Efrain Torres with homophobic remarks.
Authorities confirmed that Waterbury State’s Attorney Maureen Platt classified the incident as a hate encounter that did not escalate to a criminal violation. According to Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo, the determination was made after reviewing video evidence and hearing statements from witnesses.
The confrontation reportedly took place near the Republican Town Committee’s headquarters in Waterbury, where Cuevas approached Torres, who was previously a candidate for the Board of Aldermen, and questioned him with expletives followed by derogatory comments. Torres, who claims to have been targeted, stated, “I don’t have a comment at this moment, but everything in its due time.”
Cuevas turned himself in on a warrant on Tuesday and was released after posting $20,000 bail. Police records indicate he was nearing the end of his probation with no prior issues. The incident, initially reported by Officer Adrian Sanchez, who was off duty at the time, has raised questions about political motivations and police conduct.
In a statement, Michael Bloom, Hate Crimes Initiative coordinator, explained that a hate incident indicates bias-driven hostility but does not always constitute a criminal act. “There was no direct threat or crime directed at that person,” Bloom clarified.
The incident has sparked controversy within local political circles. Torres alleges that Cuevas has repeatedly harassed him and tarnished his reputation along with other local Republicans, including Waterbury RTC Chairwoman Dawn Maiorano. Maiorano expressed concerns about the perceived weaponization of the police against political opponents.
In a counterstatement, Spagnolo emphasized that the investigation was thorough and warranted, asserting that the actions taken against Cuevas were justified and followed due process. He added that Sanchez is not under investigation despite claims of political bias, stating, “He was scheduled to work the night of the Board of Aldermen meeting and showed up three hours late.”
Mayor Paul Pernerewski dismissed Maiorano’s comments as “nonsense,” asserting that political affiliation does not exempt individuals from legal accountability. “There is no politics involved; the law must be followed by all,” he stated.
As this developing story unfolds, the community is waiting for further updates and potential repercussions stemming from this high-profile case. The implications of this incident extend beyond individual accountability, raising broader questions about political rivalry and the role of law enforcement in local governance.
Expect to see more updates as authorities continue to investigate and respond to the community’s concerns regarding this serious matter.
