Police arrest city man at drive-through window

TORRINGTON >> A city man was recently arrested after throwing items at Burger King’s drive-through window, yelling at employees, and passing out behind the wheel of his vehicle, according to Torrington Police.

Nicholas Votino, 42, of 690 Goshen Road, Torrington, was arrested March 12, according to Torrington police, after officers responded to the Burger King at 451 East Main Street.

A dispatcher reported that callers said “the motorist was throwing things at the drive-(through) window, yelling at employees, revving the vehicles engine, and... giving employees the middle finger,” the report states. “It was then reported that the vehicle exited the drive-thru, came to a stop and the operator passed out behind the wheel.” A Torrington officer located the vehicle, which was running and in drive, after arriving on the scene. The operator was in the drivers sleep and appeared to be asleep. After getting the driver’s attention, the operator was ordered to put the car in park, but reversed first and rolled backwards.

Police identified the driver as Votino after asking for his license.

“Votino was unsteady on his feet, his eyes were glassy and blood shot, his speech was slurred and I could smell the distinct odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath as he spoke,” wrote an officer in the report. “Votino stated he had drank 3 beers just prior to driving.”

Votino failed field sobriety tests, according to police, and arrested. He later refused to submit to a breathalyzer test.

He was charged with second-degree breach of peace and operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs. He was released on $2,500 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in court March 20.