Thomaston Man Arrested for Multiple Child Sex Offense Charges in Waterbury Investigation
WATERBURY, CT — A joint law enforcement operation has led to the arrest of 32-year-old Thomas Abbatiello of Thomaston, Connecticut, in connection with a harrowing case involving the sexual assault and exploitation of a minor female. Following a detailed investigation by the Waterbury Police Department’s Special Victims Unit (SVU), Abbatiello was taken into custody on June 20, 2025, and now faces an extensive list of felony charges.
Investigation Originated from a Report of Sexual Assault
The investigation began on May 27, 2025, when detectives from Waterbury’s SVU received a report alleging the sexual assault of a minor female. The victim, who resides in Waterbury, was known to the offender. According to investigators, the alleged assaults occurred within the home, leading detectives to swiftly launch a comprehensive investigation.
After gathering evidence and interviewing the victim, police identified Thomas Abbatiello as the suspect. Investigators moved quickly to obtain an arrest warrant for Abbatiello on multiple criminal charges related to the abuse.
Multi-Agency Arrest Operation in Thomaston
On the morning of June 20, members of the Waterbury Police Department’s Gang Task Force, Vice & Intelligence Unit, along with agents from the U.S. Marshals Service and the Connecticut State Police Violent Crimes Task Force, executed a coordinated operation to apprehend Abbatiello. Authorities located him at 19 Green Manor in Thomaston, where he was taken into custody without incident.
Abbatiello Faces Over 40 Serious Felony Charges
Following his arrest, Thomas Abbatiello was formally charged with a sweeping list of serious offenses, including sexual assault, child exploitation, and possession of child sexual abuse materials. The full list of charges includes:
- Risk of Injury to a Child (11 counts)
- Illegal Sexual Contact (10 counts)
- Sexual Assault in the First Degree (3 counts)
- Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree (7 counts)
- Kidnapping in the Second Degree
- Interfering with an Emergency Call
- Importing Child Sexual Abuse Material (4 counts)
- Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (4 counts)
- Employing a Minor in an Obscene Performance (4 counts)
- Promoting a Minor in an Obscene Performance (4 counts)
These charges reflect the severity and scope of the alleged crimes, which police say were carried out over a period of time and involved the creation, possession, and distribution of exploitative content involving the minor victim.
Bond Set at $1 Million
Following his arrest, Abbatiello was held on a $1,000,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned today in court. Given the nature of the charges, prosecutors are expected to pursue the case aggressively.
The Waterbury Police Department has emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are working to determine whether additional victims may be involved and have not ruled out the possibility of further charges.
SVU and Law Enforcement Agencies Commended
Waterbury Police praised the efforts of all involved in the investigation and arrest, highlighting the collaborative approach between local, state, and federal agencies. The swift response, coordination, and inter-agency communication were critical in securing Abbatiello’s arrest without further incident.
“This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting children and bringing those who harm them to justice,” said a Waterbury Police spokesperson. “We will continue to pursue these cases with the full weight of the law and ensure victims receive the support and justice they deserve.”
Support Services for Victims
The Waterbury Police Department and partnering agencies are encouraging anyone with information related to this case, or any individuals who may suspect child abuse, to come forward. Victims and families are urged to reach out to local child advocacy centers, counseling resources, or the SVU tip line to report abuse or receive support.
Waterbury SVU Tip Line: (203) 574-6900
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
As the judicial process moves forward, the Waterbury community is left grappling with the disturbing details of the case. The arrest of Thomas Abbatiello represents a critical step toward justice and a reminder of the ongoing fight to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation.