Bridgeport schools continue requiring masks in buses, buildings

On Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it would no longer enforce its federal mask mandate on school buses.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-schools-continue-requiring-masks-in-16964540.php

First day of mask choice in Stratford goes well, superintendent says

District principals observed that over 50 percent of students and around 70 percent of staff are still wearing masks by choice.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/First-day-of-mask-choice-in-Stratford-goes-well-16963948.php

City: Another Bridgeport firefighter on leave while facing charges

“The Department takes matters such as this very serious,” the city’s public safety spokesman said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Another-Bridgeport-firefighter-on-leave-while-16962194.php

Spanish Gastrobar De Tapas opens in downtown Westport: ‘Make you feel like you’re in Spain’

Carlos Pia has fulfilled a lifelong dream with the opening of his new restaurant at 180 Post Road E.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Spanish-Gastrobar-De-Tapas-opens-in-downtown-16957395.php

Bridgeport man shot in the face, police say

Detectives continue to investigate a shooting that sent a 29-year-old man in the hospital with a gunshot wound to the face, police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-man-shot-in-the-face-police-say-16952874.php

Police: Ghost gun seized during Bridgeport traffic stop

A Bridgeport man faces multiple charges after police said officers found him with a ghost gun, another gun and drugs during a vehicle stop.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Ghost-gun-seized-during-Bridgeport-16952873.php

Ansonia tow operator alleges mistreatment by police — again

A lawyer representing the city denied the allegations in the lawsuit.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-tow-operator-alleges-mistreatment-by-16948656.php

Officials: ‘Serious’ injuries after car crashes through Fairfield building

Fairfield officials responded to a report of a car crashing through a building early Sunday morning.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Officials-Serious-injuries-after-car-16950904.php

Bridgeport may fine gas stations where ATVs, dirt bikes fuel up

It is already illegal to ride those vehicles in the city on public streets and property.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-may-fine-gas-stations-where-ATVs-dirt-16948457.php

Black population grows in greater Bridgeport region

While the Hispanic population boom is significant in most communities, the number of Black or African American residents flowing into greater Bridgeport communities is more of a trickle than a river.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Black-population-grows-in-greater-Bridgeport-16949856.php

Stratford school officials update mask and quarantine policies

Masks will be optional for Stratford students in schools and on school transport, and more general COVID-19 updates.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-school-officials-update-mask-and-16950340.php

Police: Wrong-way driver in Seymour charged with driving under the influence

The arrest came around the same time that police reported two fatal crashes, also involving wrong-way drivers, in Meriden and Hartford.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Wrong-way-driver-in-Seymour-charged-with-16949497.php

Bridgeport offers urban farm new lease, but library project looms

The sides hope the urban farm and a new library building will be able to co-exist on the lot.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-offers-urban-farm-new-lease-but-16948439.php

Popular red panda dies at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport

Rochan, a 7-year-old male red panda, was euthanized after developing a condition that impacted his mobility, the zoo said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Popular-red-panda-dies-at-Connecticut-s-16947961.php

Trial continued again for state Sen. Dennis Bradley, former school board member Jessica Martinez

Federal prosecutors requested a continuance for the election fraud trial of state Sen. Dennis Bradley and former Board of Education member Jessica Martinez.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Trial-continued-again-for-state-Sen-Dennis-16947906.php

Kellogg unveils $96.1 million 2022-23 budget for Monroe

Funding the budget proposal will require a mill rate increase from 36.36 to 37.03, about 1.84 percent.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Kellogg-unveils-96-1-million-2022-23-budget-for-16947837.php

Stratford residents speak out against Longbrook Park tree removal

For over an hour, residents spoke in three-minute intervals addressing town representatives and a hearing officer.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-residents-speak-out-against-Longbrook-16947829.php

New financial backer saves Black Rock restaurant from eviction

Mark Turocy opened his establishment during the pandemic and had fallen behind on his rent.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/New-financial-backer-saves-Black-Rock-restaurant-16947817.php

Police: Bridgeport felon caught with loaded gun

A Bridgeport man who authorities said was previously convicted of a felony offense was found with a gun Thursday night, police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Bridgeport-felon-caught-with-loaded-gun-16947185.php

How Connecticut can help Ukraine

As Ukrainians flee their homes after an attack from Russia, organizations are ready to provide aid.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/How-Connecticut-can-help-Ukraine-16945859.php

In churches and at college, CT residents with ties to Ukraine react to Russian invasion

Connecticut residents have said they are shocked and saddened over the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/CT-residents-with-ties-to-Ukraine-react-to-16945836.php

Monroe man, whose case went international, found not guilty of violating protective order

If convicted, Robert Somley could have faced five years in prison. He is still facing a voyeurism charge.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Monroe-man-whose-case-went-international-found-16945497.php

Connecticut State could begin accepting students this fall

Connecticut State Colleges and Universities will meet with its regional accreditor on Mar. 3 about the renewed proposal.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Connecticut-State-could-begin-accepting-students-16945333.php

Bridgeport man sentenced to 40 years for killing 14-year-old boy

Diante Willoughby pleaded guilty to murder in the death of 14-year-old Jose Nunez, of Bridgeport, whose body was found in a wooded area of Oxford on July 29, 2020.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-man-sentenced-to-40-years-for-killing-16944560.php

Ganim criticized over abrupt lift of Bridgeport’s mask mandate

The mayor late Tuesday announced the mask requirement would end early Wednesday morning.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ganim-criticized-over-abrupt-lift-of-16943851.php

Ansonia’s Crave to close for renovations before April relaunch

Crave owner Libby Meissner said that the restaurant is going to relaunch in April with a completely new menu and new name.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-s-Crave-to-close-for-renovations-before-16942904.php

Original musical based off Mark Twain story to premiere in Westport

The Westport Library will present “My Millionaire: The Million Pound Bank Note,” at 11 a.m. Sunday and will include the original performance, followed by a conversation.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Original-musical-based-off-Mark-Twain-story-to-16942138.php

CT university system seeks budget help as enrollment falls

The proposed budget adjustments also earmark financial support for specific initiatives, from financial aid for students to workforce development programs.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/CT-university-system-seeks-budget-help-as-16941983.php

Westport police officer helps ‘distraught’ individual on Merritt Parkway overpass, police say

A Westport police officer is being praised by his chief for helping an individual having a moment of crisis Wednesday morning.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Westport-police-officer-helps-distraught-16941114.php

Twins among the baby boom seen at St. Vincent’s in Bridgeport on ‘Twosday’

On Tuesday, the hospital saw seven deliveries — including one set of twins. That day also happened to be Feb. 22, 2022, also known as 2-22-22 or Twosday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Twins-among-the-baby-boom-seen-at-St-Vincent-s-16940924.php

Derby OKs 105 downtown apartments, construction to start in spring

The city recently approved the developer plan for a 105-unit building. The project will be within a few hundred feet of the Derby-Shelton train station.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Derby-OKs-Trolley-Pointe-Apartments-construction-16940776.php

Easton second graders learn empathy and sign language

Hannah Haydu’s second grade class learned how to narrate the book “All are Welcome” in sign language as part of a lesson on empathy.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Easton-second-graders-learn-empathy-and-sign-16939014.php

Criminal charges dismissed against restaurateur John Vazzano

The charges were dismissed by a judge after Vazzano completed the requirements for a pretrial probation program.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Criminal-charges-dismissed-against-restaurateur-16939074.php

Bridgeport mask mandate lifts Wednesday, city officials say

The mayor stressed that this doesn’t mean the virus is over, but the latest statistics have shown fewer cases in recent weeks.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-mask-mandate-lifts-Wednesday-city-16939094.php

Bridgeport police release cause of death for Brenda Lee Rawls

Rawls’ sister said Tuesday her family intends to sue the city.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-police-release-cause-of-death-for-16938935.php

Masks to be optional in Ansonia schools starting Feb. 28

The school district sent a letter to parents Feb. 22 announcing masks will be optional for students and faculty but still mandated on buses.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Masks-to-be-optional-in-Ansonia-schools-starting-16938557.php

DOT: Lanes reopen after vehicle fire on Route 8 in Bridgeport

The three right lanes of Route 8 north between exits 4 and 5 were briefly closed Tuesday for a vehicle fire, officials said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/DOT-Vehicle-fire-closes-lanes-of-Route-8-in-16937664.php

Is Bridgeport’s media policy reasonable or too strict?

Bridgeport’s mayor says department heads are free to speak to the press, but an internal policy states that requests for comment go through mayor’s office.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Is-Bridgeport-s-media-policy-reasonable-or-too-16936679.php

Police: Crash closes stretch of Route 53 in Redding

Police reported the incident around 4:45 p.m. Monday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Crash-closes-stretch-of-Route-53-in-16936392.php

CT teacher charged with leaving children home alone while on vacation arrested again

Kerry Caviasaca, 36, of Watertown, was charged by Waterbury police with second-degree breach of peace, second-degree harassment and third-degree attempt to commit larceny, police said in a statement.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/CT-teacher-charged-with-leaving-children-home-16936163.php

Warrants: Cops discussed evacuating raucous school meeting where board member was punched

The altercation ocurred during a hearing to discuss changing the high school mascot back to its historical name, which some found offensive to Native Americans.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Warrants-Cops-discussed-evacuating-raucous-16936066.php

Police searching for three people after car break-ins in Southington, Fairfield

Southington police said officers were dispatched to a home on Belleview Avenue around 7:15 a.m. Sunday after a report of a stolen vehicle.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-searching-for-three-people-after-car-16935600.php

State police identify Bethel man killed in Trumbull crash

State police said 44-year-old Domingo K Gutierrez was killed Sunday night after the car he was driving struck a tree in the highway median on Route 25.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/State-police-identify-Bethel-man-killed-in-16935543.php

NWS: Warm, rainy start to the week, snow possible Friday

Wednesday will see temperatures climb into the 60’s, with some rain possible early in the day followed by partly-sunny skies, according to the National Weather Service.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/NWS-Warm-rainy-start-to-the-week-snow-possible-16935482.php

Stratford African American History Museum captivates visitors

Since it opened in October, more than 4,300 people have visited the museum.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-African-American-History-Museum-16933835.php

Ansonia-based nonprofit expands beyond original mission

The organization was founded in 2012 and provides afterschool programs in the same building previously occupied by Ansonia Community Action.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-based-nonprofit-expands-beyond-original-16931072.php

Plainfield police investigate Friday crash

Plainfield police responded to a two-car crash on Friday that left both vehicles with disabling damage and one driver with possible injuries.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Plainfield-police-investigate-Friday-crash-16933739.php

Vehicle fire on I-95 near Westport blocks traffic

One vehicle reportedly caught fire, blocking several lanes of traffic on Interstate 95 near Westport.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Vehicle-fire-on-I-95-near-Westport-blocks-traffic-16933758.php

Stratford works to address housing affordability problem

Nearly two-thirds of renters in Stratford are paying 30 percent or more of their monthly income on housing.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-works-to-address-housing-affordability-16933631.php

Rotary Ski Shop & Snowboard settles into new location

The ski shop has recently moved from its former location due to the U.S. Army reappropriating the space. According to owner Mark Quiriconi, the shop is still going strong at its new location but still undecided on what will become of it when he retires.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Rotary-Ski-Shop-Snowboard-settles-into-new-16931343.php

St. Vincent’s first chief medical officer ‘paved a path’

John Lawrence’s daughter remembers that her father was a pioneer not just in the medical field, but in many areas of life.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/St-Vincent-s-first-chief-medical-officer-16930841.php

Carbon monoxide calls down in Westport, but danger remains

Westport Fire Department responded to 137 carbon monoxide incidents from Jan. 1, 2021 to Feb. 7, 2022, down from the 234 incidents in 2020.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Carbon-monoxide-calls-down-in-Westport-but-16931356.php

Former Stratford town council member fined for election violation

The commission concluded that former 4th District representative David Harden “more likely than not” violated Connecticut General Statutes 9-410, requiring petition circulators to view and properly identify each collected signature.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Former-Stratford-town-council-member-fined-for-16931291.php

Fairfield Holocaust survivor reflects on life on 100th birthday: ‘Never give up’

Even with his century worth of memories, his experience surviving the genocide, when most of his family did not, is still at the forefront of his mind.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Fairfield-Holocaust-survivor-reflects-on-life-on-16931338.php

How a tombstone unlocked a mystery to Westport’s early Black residents

Adair was an enslaved man, who bought land in Westport after he was liberated. Records show his family kept it for decades before the town systemically took it.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/How-a-tombstone-unlocked-a-mystery-to-16931349.php

Trumbull hosts talk on youth mental health: ‘You have to be an advocate’

“Let’s Talk Mental Health, Trumbull” is a monthly speaker series, featuring experts from the field of mental health.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Trumbull-hosts-talk-on-youth-mental-health-16931212.php

Lauren Smith-Fields, Brenda Lee Rawls cases highlight community concerns with Bridgeport police

Mayor Joe Ganim promised to make “appropriate changes” at the police department in the wake of the public outcry following the families’ criticism.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Lauren-Smith-Fields-Brenda-Lee-Rawls-cases-16931083.php

Bridgeport firefighter charged with sexually assaulting teen

A Bridgeport firefighter has been charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl at a Monroe restaurant.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-firefighter-charged-with-sexually-16930811.php

Ansonia Mayor David Cassetti’s recent outburst finds detractors and defenders

According to John Marini, the chair of the Ansonia RTC, the mayor was defending himself while the Democratic DTC chair says this fits a pattern of attacks hurled at residents and opponents.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-Mayor-David-Cassetti-s-recent-outburst-16930767.php

Police: Bridgeport woman ran over worker after robbing liquor store

Police say a 24-year-old woman hit the store’s manager with her car while fleeing the robbery in November.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Bridgeport-woman-ran-over-worker-after-16930062.php

Bridgeport public defender, who once successfully defended a cannibal, to retire

Joseph Bruckmann retires after more than 35 years as a public defender.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-s-chief-public-defender-retires-16929421.php

Police: Stabbing victim shows up at hospital in Bridgeport

An individual showed up at a hospital in Bridgeport after a stabbing on East Main Street, police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Stabbing-victim-shows-up-at-hospital-in-16929246.php

Diamantis, other state officials met with unions and industry to solve issues in 2020

Diamantis denies wrongdoing, saying that the concerns raised about his office amounted to ‘misinterpretation and process errors’ or simple disagreements over contract awards

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Diamantis-other-state-officials-met-with-unions-16927941.php

Sound On Sound music festival tickets go on sale Friday starting at $219

Tickets for the Sound On Sound music festival will be made available to the general public Friday starting at 12 p.m.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/entertainment/article/Tickets-on-sale-Sound-On-Sound-16923927.php

Bridgeport, New Haven legislators want end to billing of former inmates

State legislators announce support of a bill to repeal billing of former inmates for their incarceration.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-New-Haven-legislators-want-end-to-16927632.php

‘High ranking’ Bridgeport fire department member on leave amid sexual assault investigation, officials say

The department member was not immediately identified Thursday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/High-ranking-Bridgeport-fire-member-on-16927362.php

Former exchange students reflect on time in CT during Civil Rights movement

CT families hosted 14 Black teens during the 1960s as part of a national program. Some of them are sharing their experiences in a new exhibit at the Westport Library.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Former-exchange-students-reflect-on-time-in-CT-16925364.php

Police: Stratford man seriously hurt after Route 8 in Seymour

Connecticut State Police said the man veered into the median and hit the metal beam guardrail before he hit another vehicle driving the other way.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Stratford-man-seriously-hurt-after-Route-16926013.php

Ansonia alderman Josh Shuart set to challenge state Rep. Kara Rochelle

Josh Shuart is a sports management professor at Sacred Heart University and president of the Ansonia Board of Aldermen.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-alderman-Josh-Shuart-set-to-challenge-16924753.php

Route 8 crash in Seymour sends one to hospital, state police say

Both north and south sides of Route 8 have been shut down in the area, state police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Route-8-crash-in-Seymour-sends-one-to-hospital-16924406.php

Bridgeport schools keep mask mandate until March 31

The school district will form a committee to develop recommendations by mid-March.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-schools-keep-mask-mandate-until-March-16924342.php

Bridgeport's new Sound On Sound festival making waves in CT music community

Sound On Sound, Bridgeport's newest music festival, aims to put the Park City on the map as the music capital of Connecticut.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/entertainment/article/Sound-On-Sound-festival-Bridgeport-feature-16921455.php

Southport man saves neighbors’ house by moving it to his property

A crew spent two days moving the five-bedroom home using a 48-wheeled dollie to its new spot next door.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Southport-man-saves-neighbors-house-by-moving-16923360.php

Police: Gun, crack cocaine found during Bridgeport traffic stop

A Bridgeport man was charged after police said a gun and drugs were found in an unregistered vehicle he was driving.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Gun-crack-cocaine-found-during-16923179.php

Police: Woman, daughter rescued from Ansonia house fire

Two police sergeants and a fire chief helped evacuate a woman and her daughter from their Spring Street home during a fire Tuesday night.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Woman-daughter-rescued-from-Ansonia-16922815.php

Bridgeport woman dies at N.Y. hospital after found with injection wounds on buttocks, police say

Police said the woman was dropped off at the hospital by two unknown women.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-woman-dies-at-N-Y-hospital-after-16922176.php

Smith-Fields, Rawls families face Bridgeport Acting Police Chief Rebeca Garcia

Acting Chief Rebeca Garcia, Police Commission Chairman Danny Roach and his colleagues listened quietly during the online video conference as several speakers delivered a blistering critique of Garcia and of the police department.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Smith-Fields-Rawls-families-face-Bridgeport-16922125.php

Police: Man stabbed in Derby High School parking lot Monday night

Police said the man was intervening in a fight among juveniles when he was stabbed.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Man-stabbed-in-Derby-High-School-parking-16922102.php

Westport firefighters battle roof fire at three-story building on Post Road Tuesday

One firefighter was treated on the scene for minor injuries, a fire official said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Westport-firefighters-battle-roof-fire-at-16921940.php

Westport residents’ requests for help quadruple during pandemic

United Way said calls from Westport residents seeking aid has increased over the last couple years, rising 400 percent since 2019.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Westport-residents-requests-for-help-quadruple-16921727.php

With positivity rates falling, Stratford lifts mask mandate

Stratford has lifted its mask mandate in town buildings, but unvaccinated or partially vaccinated residents are still ‘strongly encouraged to wear them indoors.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/With-positivity-rates-falling-Stratford-lifts-16921449.php

The Lumineers, Brandi Carlile, The National lead inaugural Sound On Sound lineup

Sound On Sound, Bridgeport's newest music festival, has announced its full lineup.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/entertainment/article/sound-on-sound-lineup-reveal-bridgeport-16918300.php

Questions arise after release of Bridgeport police chief’s letter on Smith-Fields, Rawls cases

Late Friday Mayor Joe Ganim’s administration, in response to a Freedom of Information Act request, released to Hearst Connecticut Media the four-page letter.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Questions-arise-after-release-of-Bridgeport-16919688.php

CT nears finalizing permanent remote learning options

The state also has plans to look into the feasibility of a statewide online K-12 school.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/CT-nears-finalizing-permanent-remote-learning-16918598.php

Celebrate Stratford series brings back birding festival, live music

A number of dates for community events known as Celebrate Stratford have been released by the town, including some new additions.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Celebrate-Stratford-series-brings-back-birding-16918276.php

Suspect in Seymour hit-and-run that killed Shelton couple remains behind bars

More than a dozen of the victims’ friends and family were in court Monday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Suspect-in-Seymour-hit-and-run-that-killed-16918244.php

Officials: Report of possible child in water a false alarm in Bridgeport

Bridgeport officials said they searched Ash Creek Monday after a woman was seen putting something, possibly a child, in the water. However, nothing was found.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Officials-Woman-s-activity-prompts-search-of-16918107.php

Police: Gunshot wound victim shows up at Bridgeport Hospital

Bridgeport police are responding to one of the city’s hospitals Monday afternoon on a report of a gunshot wound victim.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Gunshot-wound-victim-shows-up-at-16917991.php

Police: Victim ‘uncooperative’ after Bridgeport shooting

A male victim showed up to be treated for a gunshot wound at a city hospital on Sunday night, police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Victim-uncooperative-after-16917161.php

Police: Teen, 14, shot at Bridgeport’s P.T. Barnum apartments

Bridgeport police officials said the 14-year-old was shot in the foot at the P.T. Barnum housing complex on Friday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Teen-14-shot-at-Bridgeport-s-P-T-16917036.php

Officials: Portions of Westfield Trumbull mall parking lot evacuated Sunday due to collapsing foundation, ‘There’s a big hole’

Many people who parked at the Westfield Trumbull mall Sunday are being asked to move their cars due to the upper parking area “collapsing.”

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Officials-Portions-of-West-Trumbull-mall-parking-16915397.php

Emergency responders: Structure fire on Beechmont Avenue in Bridgeport

Bridgeport fire officials are headed to a full structure fire Sunday around 4 p.m. on the block of Beechmont Avenue.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Emergency-responders-Structure-fire-on-Beechmont-16915240.php

Fired Bridgeport cop claims discrimination in federal lawsuit

Steven Figueroa was fired in August 2019 by then-Police Chief Armando Perez following an investigation by the city’s Office of Internal Affairs.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Fired-Bridgeport-cop-claims-discrimination-in-16914724.php

Officials: Fire extinguished at Aquarion building in Monroe

A fire broke out overnight at an Aquarion Water Company building in Monroe, officials said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Officials-Fire-extinguished-at-Aquarion-building-16914662.php

Monroe’s next police chief rose through the department ranks

Capt. Keith White has spent the last 27 years in nearly every rank in the Monroe Police Department. And later this month, he’ll be sworn in as chief.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Monroe-s-next-police-chief-rose-through-the-16913493.php

Downtown Bridgeport boasts new sports bar, other attractions post-COVID

Michael White, who just opened Bank Sports Bar, and other business owners feeling optimistic about the neighborhood.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Downtown-Bridgeport-boasts-new-sports-bar-other-16911661.php

Bridgeport releases Police Chief Rebeca Garcia’s letter on Smith-Fields, Rawls cases

Garcia, who resumed command Feb. 3 after a weeklong vacation, drafted the four-page letter at the request of Police Commission Chairman Danny Roach.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-releases-Police-Chief-Rebeca-16911964.php

‘Racist and sexual’ graffiti found at Fairfield middle school, principal says

The Fairfield Woods Middle School’s principal said the “offensive and disgusting” message was found Friday in a boys bathroom.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Racist-and-sexual-graffiti-found-at-16911913.php

Second beluga whale dies at Mystic Aquarium

Another beluga whale remains in intensive care, the aquarium said Friday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Second-beluga-whale-dies-at-Mystic-Aquarium-16911739.php

Catholic school parents rally in Bridgeport against mask mandate

The diocese had intended to go mask-optional at its schools Valentine’s Day.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Catholic-school-parents-rally-in-Bridgeport-16911383.php

Fairfield detective sues police department, claims retaliation

The head of the Fairfield Police Department’s domestic violence unit claims in a lawsuit she was retaliated against after questioning an investigation.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Fairfield-detective-sues-police-department-16911319.php

Police: Bridgeport man accused of stealing woman’s backpack at hospital

Police said this was the man’s second arrest in less than 24 hours.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Bridgeport-man-accused-of-stealing-16911470.php

Federal grant allows Bridgeport to reopen tenant services office

The Bridgeport Housing Authority will use the money to reopen a long-shuttered tenant services program.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Federal-grant-allows-Bridgeport-to-reopen-tenant-16849238.php

Stratford school mask rule depends on ‘a host of variables’

Stratford Public Schools will maintain its mask mandate through this month and then the district BOE will make a decision on how to proceed.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-school-mask-rule-depends-on-a-host-16848689.php

Police: Trumbull man, 59, killed after car hits tree

Police said 59-year-old Scott Polke was killed in the single-car crash Wednesday afternoon.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Trumbull-man-59-killed-after-car-hits-16847425.php

Bridgeport landlord agrees to pay $10,000 COVID fine

The penalty was levied for a packed December 2020 party where two men were fatally shot.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-landlord-agrees-to-pay-10-000-COVID-16846138.php

Bridgeport: Police chief’s response to criticism of Smith-Fields, Rawls cases won’t be released

The chief, who recently went on vacation, has written a four-page letter to the city’s police commissioners detailing her and her department’s handling of the probes into the untimely deaths of the two women.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-Police-chief-s-response-to-16845945.php

Police: Crash closes part of Daniels Farm Road in Trumbull

Police reported the crash around 4 p.m. Wednesday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Crash-closes-part-of-Daniels-Farm-Road-in-16845885.php

Stratford superintendent seeks $125.7 million budget for 2022-23

Contractual obligations, which are spending requirements like staff salaries and fringe benefit costs, account for more than 75.5 percent of the proposed budget

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-superintendent-seeks-125-7-million-16845935.php

Fairfield woman found not guilty of killing 5 dogs

Heidi Lueders, the former president of a dog rescue, was found not guilty of animal cruelty charges in the death of five dogs in her Fairfield home.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Fairfield-woman-found-not-guilty-of-killing-5-dogs-16845787.php

Ansonia and Derby school regionalization committee ends with no plan

The two cities were at odds since last year over the make up of a unified school board.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-and-Derby-school-regionalization-16844973.php

Stratford schedules public hearing on Longbrook Park tree removal

The tree removal is part of a plan to update the tennis courts at the park. But some town officials and residents are voicing opposition.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-schedules-public-hearing-on-Longbrook-16842845.php

Diocese of Bridgeport can’t lift school mask mandate early, state says

The Diocese of Bridgeport intended to lift the mask mandate for its schools next week.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Diocese-of-Bridgeport-can-t-lift-school-mask-16843015.php

Schools in Bridgeport diocese to end mask mandate Feb. 14

Superintendent Steven Cheeseman said diocesan schools would make masks optional on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Schools-in-Bridgeport-diocese-to-end-mask-mandate-16839981.php

Gov. Lamont proposes $18m to address domestic violence in CT

The pitch unveiled this week would send an infusion of cash aimed at a range of issues highlighted in a recent investigative series by Hearst Connecticut Media Group.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Gov-Lamont-proposes-18m-to-address-domestic-16842826.php

Former Bridgeport councilwoman seeks probation

A former Bridgeport councilwoman, charged with violating pandemic restrictions at a social club she ran, is seeking probation.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Former-Bridgeport-councilwoman-seeks-probation-16842619.php

Testimony over, trial of accused Fairfield dog killer heads to judge

Testimony ended Tuesday in the trial of accused dog killer Heidi Lueders. The judge is expected to announce his verdict Wednesday afternoon.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Trial-of-accused-Fairfield-dog-killer-heads-to-16842495.php

Man charged with choking, attempted sexual assault of woman at Bridgeport train station

A local man, with a history of criminal convictions, has been charged with choking and attempting to rape a woman at the Bridgeport train station.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Man-charged-with-choking-attempted-sexual-16841784.php

FD: Woman shows up at Bridgeport fire HQ with nitrous acid

Fire officials said the person showed up at fire headquarters with contained nitrous acid around 9 a.m.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/FD-Woman-shows-up-at-Bridgeport-fire-HQ-with-16841003.php

Bridgeport criticized for hiring non-bilingual victim advocate

Bridgeport’s emergency management chief who also fields media inquiries related to the police department, told Hearst Connecticut Media “she doesn’t speak Spanish.”

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-criticized-for-hiring-non-bilingual-16840904.php

FD: ‘Explosion’ reported at Bridgeport scrap yard

Fire units responded to Island Brook Avenue around 7:40 a.m. for a report of a possible explosion and fire involving a vehicle at the scrap yard.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/FD-Explosion-reported-at-Bridgeport-scrap-16840861.php

State rests case in trial of alleged Fairfield dog killer

If convicted of all the charges she could be sentenced to more than 10 years in prison. She requested a trial by judge.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/State-rests-case-in-trial-of-alleged-Fairfield-16839467.php

Derby woman gets probation for fatal 2019 crash on Route 34 in Orange

The victim’s family lives “with anger, hurt, loss, hopelessness and an endless sadness,” his mother said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Derby-woman-gets-probation-for-fatal-2019-crash-16839380.php

Rochelle seeks third term representing Ansonia and Derby

Rochelle represents the 104th District, which includes Ansonia and Derby.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Rochelle-seeks-third-term-representing-Ansonia-16839312.php

Fairfield man charged in viral smoothie dispute ordered to stay away from shop

A Fairfield man, accused of creating a scene at a local smoothie shop, was ordered by a judge to stay away from the shop.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Fairfield-man-charged-in-viral-smoothie-dispute-16838617.php

Ansonia firefighters freed two people trapped in car after crash

Ansonia firefighters extricated two individuals from a vehicle on Beaver Street early Sunday morning, officials said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-firefighters-freed-two-people-trapped-in-16837790.php

Police: Body of deceased male found in Shelton woods

Police said they have found a body in a wooded Shelton area, indicating the discovery may be linked to an ongoing missing person case.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Body-of-deceased-male-found-in-Shelton-16835561.php

‘Masks and hand-washing are really good’: CT hospitals see dip in strep, ear infections

Even as COVID-19 restrictions have loosened and businesses, including doctor’s offices, have reopened, some local health professionals continue to see lower-than-normal strep numbers.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Masks-and-hand-washing-are-really-good-CT-16833235.php

Vacant Monroe land becomes parking for Trumbull Amazon facility

Once complete, the 24.75-acre property will feature 668 van spaces, 43 car spaces, a 10,000 square foot building with a locker room and break room.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Vacant-Monroe-land-becomes-parking-for-Trumbull-16833232.php

Bridgeport names victim advocate, social services unit in limbo

On Thursday the city announced that Shanda Scott was the new victim services advocate.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-names-victim-advocate-social-services-16833208.php

CT airport authority aims to buy Bridgeport’s Sikorsky for $10M

A lease option had also been on the table, but the authority this week voted to authorize a purchase instead.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/CT-airport-authority-aims-to-buy-Bridgeport-s-16833113.php

Support for community center grows in Ansonia

According to residents, teenagers don’t have much to do in the Valley and need a safe space for their outlets.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Support-for-community-center-grows-in-Ansonia-16833192.php

Stratford state rep. to run again in 120th

Democrat Phil Young announced his re-election campaign Wednesday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Stratford-state-rep-to-run-again-in-120th-16833052.php

Connecticut college enrollment dropped by 10,000 during pandemic

A recent report showed the Nutmeg State saw more than a 5 percent decrease in enrollment from fall 2019 to 2021.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Connecticut-college-enrollment-dropped-by-10-000-16833031.php

Former Milford strip club owner in bankruptcy explains $87K check from reputed mobster

“We’ll see what happens,” a bankruptcy judge said after continuing the case Tuesday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Former-Milford-strip-club-owner-in-bankruptcy-16833146.php

Florida man gets five years for sexually assaulting Bridgeport teen

A Florida man was sentenced Friday to five years in prison after he pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a Bridgeport teenager.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Florida-man-gets-five-years-for-sexually-16832755.php

Appeals court upholds promotion of Shelton cops

The state Appellate Court upheld a lower court ruling supporting the promotion of three Shelton cops.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Appeals-court-upholds-promotion-of-Shelton-cops-16832710.php

Developer buys 14-acre property in Stratford for $10.6 million

The developer is still in the planning phase with the property, but expects to bring development proposals to the town within 60 days.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Developer-buys-14-acre-property-in-Stratford-for-16831377.php

Security guard shot in face with BB gun at Bridgeport YMCA, official says

Police said they responded to the YMCA on State Street for a report of a person assaulted with a weapon on Thursday night.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-Person-assaulted-near-Bridgeport-YMCA-16831291.php

Police warn of new scam call posing as Fairfield police

To make the call more believable, the call looks like it is coming from the police department’s non-emergency number, police said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-warn-of-new-scam-call-posing-as-Fairfield-16830481.php

After cop suspensions, questions abound as Bridgeport Police Chief Rebeca Garcia back on the job

Acting Police Chief Rebeca Garcia resumed command Thursday after a week away during which the mayor suspended two detectives at the center of a national controversy and criticized her leadership.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/After-cop-suspensions-questions-abound-as-16830123.php

Demolition begins on the University of Bridgeport’s Bodine Hall

The former dormitory will be torn down to pave way for the new Bassick High School.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Demolition-begins-on-the-University-of-16830052.php

Welander will seek second term representing CT’s 114th District

The 114th District representative made the announcement over social media on Feb. 2. She represents Derby, Orange, Woodbridge and now after redistricting, Hamden.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Welander-will-seek-second-term-representing-16829627.php

Investigation of Bridgeport police puts spotlight on department’s death notification policy

The families of two women found dead that day in east Bridgeport say cops never reached out to them about their loved ones.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Investigation-of-Bridgeport-police-puts-spotlight-16826920.php

Police find fentanyl, crack cocaine in New London home

Law enforcement conducted a search warrant at the home Tuesday morning.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-find-fentanyl-crack-cocaine-in-New-London-16826991.php

Bridgeport Holiday Inn closes ahead of sale

Days before developer John Guedes hopes to finalize his purchase, the hotel locked its doors.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-Holiday-Inn-closes-ahead-of-sale-16826796.php

Bridgeport man sentenced to eight years in prison for gang activity

Jacquon “Blick” Benejan pleaded guilty to one count conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity in September of last year.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-man-sentenced-to-eight-years-in-prison-16827020.php

Bridgeport NAACP asks feds to investigate police department

The request comes as the department is facing scrutiny concerning its handling of investigations into the untimely deaths of two Black women.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-NAACP-asks-feds-to-investigate-police-16826636.php

Police union to challenge Ganim's decision to suspend Bridgeport officers

Bridgeport police union has filed a grievance to get detectives restored to full active duty status.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Police-union-to-challenge-Ganim-s-decision-to-16826430.php

Official: Car owner fired gun as thief drove off in Bridgeport

A city official said a man fired a shot as a thief stole his car Wednesday morning near Truman Street and Madison Avenue.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Official-Driver-fired-gun-after-running-car-was-16825667.php

Exotic car specialist sets up shop in Stratford

James Repasi, a well regarded mechanic who specializes in the discontinued Porsche Carrera GT, has customers come from all over the country.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Exotic-car-specialist-sets-up-shop-in-Stratford-16825007.php

Groundhog Day 2022: Beardsley Zoo’s prairie dog predicts early spring

“Beardsley Bart is a very early riser and when he came out this morning, he confirmed that he did not see his shadow,” Zoo Director Gregg Dancho said.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Groundhog-Day-2022-Beardsley-Zoo-s-prairie-dog-16824808.php

Suspended detective investigating Brenda Lee Rawls case did not retire, Bridgeport now says

White on Monday attempted to clarify the identity of the retired officer by stating that it was one of the suspended detectives. That turned out not to be true.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Suspended-detective-investigating-Brenda-Lee-16823582.php

Photos: Bridgeport Rescue Mission building renovations nearly complete

The organization unveiled the new kitchen on Tuesday.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-Rescue-Mission-building-renovations-16823570.php

Some question Ganim’s role in suspension of Bridgeport cops

Critics saw the development as political, while others challenged the mayor’s authority to personally intervene in disciplinary matters within the unionized police department.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Some-question-Ganim-s-role-in-suspension-of-16823530.php

Feds: Easton man sentenced to 30 years in prison for repeated sexual abuse of child

The man is also facing state charges, which he pleaded not guilty to, according to state records.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Feds-Easton-man-sentenced-to-30-years-in-prison-16823327.php

Bridgeport school board restarts diversity committee

Committee members reviewed student and staff demographic data and found that teachers don’t represent the students they serve.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Back-to-work-Bridgeport-school-board-16823280.php

Driver gets five years in DUI crash that killed Stratford minister

A Bridgeport woman, who police said was driving drunk and killed a Stratford minister, has been sentenced to five years.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Driver-gets-five-years-in-DUI-crash-that-killed-16823143.php

‘Zoom bombing’ shuts down Ansonia P&Z meeting

A person or group of people managed to enter the meeting and disrupted it by playing music and soundbites, forcing the meeting to adjourn.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Zoom-bombing-shuts-down-Ansonia-P-Z-meeting-16822668.php

Ansonia to receive six electric school buses from VW settlement

The school district is one of the municipalities to receive electric school buses as a result of Volkswagen’s diesel emissions settlement.

from News https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Ansonia-to-receive-six-electric-school-buses-from-16821598.php