UPDATED: New London police officer arrested in domestic violence incident

Nov. 17—NEW LONDON — A city police officer has been placed on paid administrative leave after being arrested Saturday and charged in connection with a domestic violence incident.

Julio Gil-Martinez, 29, was charged with third-degree assault, second-degree threatening, second-degree strangulation, interfering with an emergency call and first-degree unlawful restraint. A $75,000 bond was set for him. It was unclear if Gil-Martinez was able to post bond or is being held in custody.

Gil-Martinez, a Waterford High School graduate, was hired by the department in September of 2023. Previously he was a police officer in West Haven.

Police Chief Brian Wright said in a press release that on Thursday at 5 p.m. Waterford Police informed his department that a domestic violence victim had come to their department to report a domestic violence incident.

Wright said that concurrently, a member of his department had come to the department to report a domestic violence incident that occurred at a residence in the city. He did not say if that person was Gil-Martinez of another officer.

The incident was determined to have occurred at a home in New London. Police then obtained a warrant for Gil-Martinez's arrest.

Police, who are continuing to investigate the incident, were assisted by the New London State's Attorney's Office.

Wright did not release any other details about the arrest. It is unknown if the victim is injured or if Gil-Martinez has surrendered any firearms he has. The Day requested Sunday that Wright release Gil-Martinez's arrest warrant.

On Sunday afternoon, Wright released a statement saying "please be assured that we take matters like this very seriously, and we are committed to addressing this matter with the highest level of diligence."

He added, "Our department is deeply committed to supporting victims of domestic violence. We want to emphasize that we are here to provide assistance and resources to anyone affected by such incidents. We encourage victims to come forward and seek help, knowing that their safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Furthermore, we want to assure the public that this matter is being investigated thoroughly and impartially. The New London Police Department along with the Office of the State's Attorney New London Judicial District is conducting a comprehensive review to ensure that all aspects of the case are examined properly. We are dedicated to maintaining the integrity of our department and upholding the highest standards of conduct,."