Tony Barr, a member of the Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee (DTC), was arrested early Saturday morning following an altercation with first responders after his SUV crashed into rocks and a chain-link fence on Chopsey Hill Road around 4 a.m.
According to police reports, Barr was found “passed out and slumped over” in his vehicle when first responders arrived at the scene of the single-vehicle accident. Authorities allege that Barr became combative when asked to exit his vehicle, culminating in an alleged assault on a firefighter attempting to assist him.
Barr has denied the allegations and criticized the actions of the first responders. “He had no reason to be going through my glove compartment and asking me to get out of the car when I told him twice I was fine and didn’t need any help,” Barr told News 12.
His attorney, Dennis Bradley, echoed Barr’s concerns, accusing emergency personnel of conducting an unauthorized search. “We’re going to be seeking civil remedies in a lawsuit against the Bridgeport Fire Department for violation of [Barr’s] constitutional rights,” Bradley stated.
Barr, who has a lengthy criminal history including a 21-year prison sentence for drug trafficking and other felonies, has faced legal troubles in the past. In 2016, he was convicted of threatening to harm Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, receiving a six-month suspended sentence. In 2020, Barr was arrested on DUI charges and served a one-year suspended sentence.
Despite his past, Barr has gained recognition in Bridgeport for his community advocacy, with Mayor Ganim previously praising his “tireless efforts” to assist those in need.
Barr was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on January 20, 2025. If convicted, the charges could lead to severe penalties, including fines and jail time, as well as repercussions within the Democratic Town Committee.
The incident has sparked community debate about accountability and the responsibilities of public officials. Some residents have voiced concerns about Barr’s behavior, while others are calling for a full investigation into the actions of both Barr and emergency personnel.
