Manchester Police Sergeant Ryan Moan Found Dead from Apparent Suicide Near Middle Bolton Lake Boat Launch Hours After Arrest on Child-Enticement and Evidence-Tampering Charges; Investigation Reveals Troubling Allegations
A Shocking Day for Manchester and Vernon Communities
The law enforcement community in Manchester, Connecticut, is reeling after the tragic death of Sergeant Ryan Moan, 33, who was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Friday afternoon, December 6, 2024. Moan’s body was discovered at approximately 1:45 p.m. in the parking lot of the Middle Bolton Lake Boat Launch on Hatch Hill Road in Vernon. This somber discovery came just hours after Moan had been arrested on multiple charges, including child-enticement offenses and tampering with evidence.
Vernon police have confirmed that the case is being treated as an untimely death, with no ongoing threat to public safety. Investigators believe Moan took his own life in the hours following his release from custody.
“This is a deeply tragic situation for everyone involved,” said Vernon Police Chief James Kenny during a brief press conference. “Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues who are grappling with this unexpected loss.”
The Arrest: Allegations That Sparked a Downfall
Earlier on Friday, Moan was taken into custody and charged with a range of offenses:
- Risk of Injury to a Minor/Impairing the Morals of a Child
- Enticing a Minor by Computer
- Misrepresentation of Age to Entice a Minor
- Tampering with Physical Evidence
The charges stemmed from allegations first reported on November 18, which triggered an investigation by local authorities and led to Moan being placed on unpaid administrative leave by the Manchester Police Department. According to sources familiar with the case, the allegations involved inappropriate online communications with a minor. Investigators reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting Moan misrepresented his age to entice the victim and later attempted to destroy evidence of the communications.
“These charges are deeply disturbing, especially considering the trusted role Sergeant Moan held in the community,” said Connecticut State Attorney Linda Stark.
A Career in Law Enforcement and School Safety
Ryan Moan joined the Manchester Police Department in February 2017, quickly rising through the ranks to become a sergeant. Most recently, he served as the supervisor of school resource officers, a critical role that placed him in charge of school safety operations for Manchester Public Schools, including oversight at Manchester High School.
Moan’s position required close collaboration with students, parents, and school officials to ensure a safe learning environment. His arrest and subsequent death have left many questioning how such troubling allegations could emerge from someone in a position of authority and trust.
Reaction from Manchester Public Schools
School officials confirmed that they were notified of the allegations on November 18. Moan was immediately removed from his position and placed on unpaid administrative leave while the investigation unfolded.
“We were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the allegations against Sergeant Moan,” said Superintendent Janet Kane in a written statement. “Our priority has always been the safety and well-being of our students. We acted swiftly to address the situation and continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement.”
The Discovery at Middle Bolton Lake
The events of December 6 culminated in Moan’s death at the Middle Bolton Lake Boat Launch, a serene spot often frequented by locals for boating and fishing. Police were called to the scene after a passerby noticed Moan’s unresponsive body near his vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers secured the area and initiated a preliminary investigation. A firearm was recovered at the scene, and authorities quickly determined the death to be a suicide. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is conducting an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death.
Community Reactions: Grief, Shock, and Questions
The dual shock of Moan’s arrest and subsequent death has left the Manchester and Vernon communities grappling with a mix of grief and confusion. For many, the allegations stand in stark contrast to the officer they thought they knew.
“Ryan was someone we looked up to,” said a former colleague who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “It’s hard to reconcile these charges with the person we worked with every day. He was always professional and seemed genuinely dedicated to helping the community.”
Parents and students who interacted with Moan during his tenure as a school resource officer expressed similar sentiments. “He seemed so approachable and invested in the kids’ safety,” said one parent whose child attends Manchester High School. “This whole situation feels surreal.”
The Investigation Continues
While Moan’s death may mark the end of his criminal proceedings, authorities have indicated that the investigation into the underlying allegations will continue. Law enforcement officials are working to identify potential victims and ensure that all evidence related to the case is thoroughly examined.
“Although the suspect is deceased, we owe it to any potential victims to continue this investigation,” said Chief Kenny. “Justice doesn’t end here.”
A Broader Discussion on Mental Health in Law Enforcement
The tragic conclusion of Moan’s case has also reignited conversations about the mental health challenges faced by law enforcement officers. Experts note that police officers often endure high levels of stress and scrutiny, which can exacerbate existing mental health struggles.
“This case underscores the need for greater support systems within police departments,” said Dr. Emily Hart, a psychologist specializing in first responder mental health. “We need to create environments where officers feel comfortable seeking help before situations spiral out of control.”
A Tragic Reminder of Accountability and Transparency
Moan’s arrest and subsequent death serve as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in law enforcement. While the allegations against him remain deeply troubling, his untimely death has also highlighted the complexities of addressing misconduct within a trusted institution.
“As a community, we must balance our pursuit of justice with compassion and an understanding of the broader issues at play,” said State Attorney Stark.
What’s Next?
As Vernon police conclude their investigation into Moan’s death, attention will shift to the ongoing probe into the allegations that led to his arrest. Community leaders are urging transparency as the case unfolds and are calling for measures to ensure the safety and trust of students and residents moving forward.
Contact Information
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to this case or the events leading to Moan’s death to contact Vernon police at 860-872-9126. Counseling resources are being made available for students, parents, and law enforcement personnel affected by these developments.
