Supporters march for Chief Porter as Bridgeport's police union calls for removal
Community leaders praised Porter's leadership and public safety record, while supporters argued criticism of the chief stems from his accountability reforms.
A community march and rally was held in Bridgeport on Saturday in support of Police Chief Roderick Porter as the local police union calls for his removal amid allegations he has denied and an ongoing independent review.
Organizers and local leaders, including Mary McBride-Lee, Jorge Cruz, and Ernie Newton, praised Porter's community-minded approach and credited his leadership with driving down violent crime and homicides.
Supporters claim the union's campaign is a backlash against the chief's accountability reforms and efforts to end special rank-and-file privileges.
While union officials accuse Porter of retaliation, discrimination, and abuse of authority, Porter has strongly denied the allegations, and the city has hired an outside law firm to conduct an independent review.
