Connecticut Officer Fired After Domestic Arrests and Investigation

# Bridgeport Police Officer Fired Following Multiple Domestic Violence Arrests

A veteran Bridgeport police officer lost his job after multiple domestic violence arrests and a long internal affairs investigation. Officer Dani Soto, 48, was officially fired on Tuesday when an administrative hearing found he’d broken several departmental rules.

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This case really shows how seriously Connecticut takes it when law enforcement crosses the line—both legally and professionally.

Details of the Termination and Investigation

Officials described the internal affairs investigation as “lengthy.” It started after a string of troubling arrests tied to domestic violence incidents over the last year.

Chief Roderick Porter said the department found Soto’s actions in direct violation of departmental standards. That’s what led to his dismissal.

Timeline of Arrests and Charges

Soto’s troubles began on May 8, 2024, when he was placed on paid administrative leave. That’s also when the Bridgeport Police Department’s Detective Bureau launched a criminal investigation.

Things got worse in July, when Soto was arrested on several serious charges:

22 counts of second-degree harassment

5 counts of second-degree stalking with fear of physical safety

4 counts of second-degree unlawful restraint

These charges came after a woman accused Soto of stalking her and pulling her over repeatedly, abusing his authority as a police officer. That first arrest didn’t end the pattern of disturbing behavior.

Subsequent Arrests and Legal Proceedings

Soto’s legal issues kept piling up. On January 1, Derby, Connecticut police arrested him again.

This time, he faced new charges: second-degree harassment, second-degree violation of conditions of release, disorderly conduct, and second-degree unlawful restraint.

Recent Developments and Court Status

Things got even messier on July 1, when Derby police arrested Soto for a third time. This arrest brought charges of second-degree harassment and violation of a protective order.

The case has drawn attention in cities like Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Waterbury. People are asking tough questions about police conduct and accountability.

Court records show Soto is out on bonds totaling $260,000. He’s got upcoming court dates in both Bridgeport and Derby Superior Courts this month.

Some legal experts in Norwalk and Greenwich have pointed out that cases involving police officers tend to get extra scrutiny in Connecticut’s courts.

Implications for Police Department and Community Trust

Soto’s firing marks a big move by the Bridgeport Police Department to address alleged misconduct within its own ranks.

Departments throughout Connecticut, from Danbury to New London, are under growing pressure to hold officers accountable when they violate public trust.

Departmental Response and Standards

Chief Porter decided to terminate Soto’s employment after the department wrapped up a detailed investigation. They found clear evidence that Soto violated department policies.

This case shows how Connecticut police departments are trying to raise professional standards. In cities like Bridgeport, where trust between law enforcement and residents has sometimes faltered, efforts like this matter.

As the case moves through the court system, it could become a key example of how Connecticut’s justice system responds to misconduct allegations against officers. Who knows—maybe the outcome will push for stronger police accountability, not just in Fairfield County but maybe even farther out.

Here is the source article for this story: CT police officer fired following domestic arrests, internal affairs investigation

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