Jury Selection Begins in Trial of Former Windsor Locks Police Sergeant

Jury selection began today in Hartford Superior Court for a former Windsor Locks police sergeant who is charged with hindering prosecution in a fatal accident involving a teenage boy in 2010.

Robert Koistinen, 55, is accused of interfering with the investigation of the accident in which his son, Michael, an off-duty Windsor Locks police officer at the time, was convicted of striking 15-year-old Henry Dang with his car as the teen rode his bicycle at the intersection of Spring and West streets on Oct. 29, 2010.

Michael Koistinen pleaded no contest to second-degree manslaughter and tampering with physical evidence on June 12. He was sentenced on August 27 to five years and four months in prison.

Robert Koistinen is charged with third-degree hindering prosecution.

Judge Julia Dewey said the evidence part of the trial will begin on October 1 and should be completed by October 14. The selection process is to choose 6 jurors plus two alternates for the trial.

The case is being prosecuted by State’s Attorney Gail Hardy and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney John Fahey. Koistinen is being represented by Hartford attorney Elliot B. Spector.

From a pool of 30 potential jurors, several were excused for various reasons including scheduling conflicts or knowing people involved with the trial. During the morning session, one juror was chosen.

Robert Koistinen, of Suffield, was a longtime sergeant with the department at the time of the accident. He in January. He is trying to get his job back, according to officials.

The Dang family , but in September 2011 reached settlements totaling $420,000 with the Koistinens, and the former owners of the tavern that served the Michael Koistinen alcohol.