Danbury Police Arrest Suspect in Decades-Old Kidnapping and Rape Case
DANBURY, Conn. — In a breakthrough after over 30 years of unsolved crimes, police arrested David Coffey, 53, on Tuesday, charging him with the kidnapping and rape of a woman in 1989. Authorities believe Coffey may be connected to a series of similar incidents that terrified the Danbury community during that era, specifically around Lake Avenue and Merrimac Street.
In a press release, Danbury police detailed that during the late 1980s, a series of alarming abductions and sexual assaults were reported, prompting thorough investigations. Despite extensive efforts at the time, these cases eventually went cold. The turning point arrived in November 2023 when a woman stepped forward, identifying herself as a victim of the crime spree. Her account aligned with police reports from that time, prompting detectives to reopen the cold case.
Utilizing more advanced investigative techniques unavailable three decades ago, officers reinterviewed witnesses and collaborated with the Danbury State’s Attorney and the state forensic lab. This concerted effort led to Coffey’s identification as a suspect, eventually culminating in his arrest. He faces charges of first-degree kidnapping, and his bail has been set at $750,000.
While police have not disclosed the specific evidence that led to Coffey’s apprehension, they noted that he resided in the area during the time of the offenses. Furthermore, authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to Coffey or the 1980s series of kidnappings and rapes to reach out. The Danbury Police Department confirmed that these incidents remain actively investigated, with potential for more arrests anticipated.
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