Milford Police Connect June 13 Shooting to Cannabis Robbery, Charge Two Men

Milford police have linked a shooting incident that occurred on June 13 at a Gulf Street residence to a suspected cannabis robbery. The incident has led to the arrest of two men, Sean Cleary and Jacques Schapira, on various charges.

Evidence Found at the Scene

According to an arrest warrant affidavit filed by Milford Police Detective Zachary Milslagle, officers responding to the shooting discovered 138 bags of cannabis, totaling approximately 75 pounds, at the residence. The quantity and packaging of the cannabis suggested it was not intended for personal use. Additionally, police found drug paraphernalia, including a scale, a money counter, rubber bands, and a heat sealer.

Bloodstained Gun and Other Findings

A Glock .40 caliber handgun, stained with blood, was also found hidden between couch cushions. The gun had its serial number obliterated, but police managed to trace its origin through manufacturing numbers. The gun had not been reported as lost or stolen.

Details of the Shooting Incident

Sean Cleary, a 22-year-old resident of the home, sustained a graze wound to his head and was hospitalized. During transport, Cleary reportedly told police that he was shot by a man in a ski mask and that his roommate might have been kidnapped in a Mercedes. However, Cleary later invoked his right to legal counsel when asked about surveillance footage from the scene.

Charges Against Cleary and Schapira

Following his release from the hospital, Cleary was charged with multiple offenses, including possession of over one kilogram of cannabis, conspiracy to possess more than one kilogram of cannabis, operating a drug factory, alteration of a firearm identification mark, and illegal possession of a high-capacity magazine. Cleary has posted a $100,000 bond and is under GPS monitoring with a 6 p.m. curfew. He is scheduled to appear in court on August 21.

Jacques Schapira, a 27-year-old identified as Cleary’s roommate, was also charged with possession and conspiracy related to the cannabis. Surveillance footage obtained from the residence showed Schapira unloading large boxes and bags from his vehicle. The video also depicted masked individuals robbing Schapira and loading cannabis into the Mercedes.

Legal Proceedings and Statements

Schapira has posted a $100,000 bond and is also set to appear in court on August 21. Neither Cleary’s attorney, Michael Denison, nor Schapira’s lawyer, Gregory Cerritelli, responded to requests for comment.

The investigation continues as Milford police work to unravel the details of the cannabis robbery and shooting. The case highlights ongoing issues related to illegal drug activities and firearm use in the community.