Alex – Page 18 – DoingItLocal

Best Youth Performance of the Year!CYP Tackles Cyberbullying with their Unforgettable Show “Without A Trace” At Warren Harding High School May 15th, 1 PM

Bridgeport, Connecticut – Creative Youth Productions is excited to announce that we will be performing at Warren Harding High School, located at 379 Bond Street in Bridgeport, CT, on May 15th, 2025. Creative Youth Productions’ staff was welcomed by Harding administrators Mr. Thompson and Mr. Jackson to view their new school built in 2018. Harding has been a staple in the Bridgeport community, having partnerships with prominent organizations such as Bridgeport Hospital, the University of Bridgeport, and Fairfield University.

Harding’s goal is to “ensure that our students graduate ready and equipped to enter the world of tertiary education, work, and beyond; with at least one college credit towards their intended major or skill certification.” Harding has a state-of-the-art theater that is manned by skilled students and staff. We at CYP are thrilled to utilize the space for our most requested and praised play, “Without A Trace.”

The show will tackle topics about cyberbullying, art education, and suicide. It is an original play written by our staff and youth. Some experiences in the play came from our youth’s personal lives. Three talented students are bullied by a troubled student from school, however, they find resolution in the arts. When one (main) character can’t receive access, it leads to an inner battle and a struggle for belonging or purpose in this world.

“Without A Trace” premiered at the Bijou Theater in downtown Bridgeport, June 2024. The show received high remarks from not only the Bijou personnel but also those in the Bridgeport community who stated, “This show should be presented in all schools.” CYP has been asked to perform this brilliant show again, but this time, touring Bridgeport schools.

On March 21st, a sample of “Without A Trace” was performed at Achievement First Middle, starring their students ranging from 5th to 7th grade. The show was a success. We have confirmed a date with Harding High School for May 15th at 1:00 PM, and we are honored to present a 45-minute show followed by a Q&A session with Harding students. CYP wants to share the importance of mental health in urban communities and how art has been proven to help young individuals conquer everyday life struggles as it has done for students in our program.

Creative Youth Productions has been performing throughout Fairfield County for over 20 years. Our nonprofit program teaches youth about art education through creative writing, public speaking, and performing. We accept youth aged 8 to 25, and we offer work to those starting at age 12.

Students can be promoted from performers to youth leaders and receive a stipend for their efforts. Responsibilities may include assisting in classes and reviewing routines and practices. Creative Youth Productions produces original plays that encourage unique creativity.

Our executive director, Donna Sue DeGuzman, emphasizes the importance of the arts, stating, “Students need the arts; without encouraging creativity, how can we expect children to cultivate the necessary skills for adulthood and effectively collaborate with others in the workforce?”

Come join us at Harding High School and support our talented youth. “Without A Trace” will have you laughing, crying, and inspired.

Six Arrested in Multi-Town Fentanyl Busts—Firearms, Cash, and an Aston Martin Seized

On March 27, 2025, Narcotics, Vice, and Intelligence Detectives observed Nicholas Chiarantano, 37, conduct a suspected drug transaction in a Stratford parking lot. After he entered a GMC Yukon, detectives stopped the vehicle and found both Chiarantano and the driver in possession of approximately 8 grams of heroin/fentanyl. Chiarantano was charged with illegal sales of a narcotic substance. He was held on a $5,000 bond and given a court date of April 4, 2025.

The driver, Chester Chambers, 74, was also arrested during the same stop. In addition to the heroin/fentanyl, detectives found Chambers was illegally carrying a firearm. He was charged with carrying a pistol without a permit, illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle, illegal transfer of a firearm, and illegal possession of a narcotic substance. He was held on a $5,000 bond and given the same April 4 court date.

On April 1, 2025, detectives executed two search warrants at 95 North Bishop Avenue in Bridgeport—one for the home and another for Dwayne Upchurch, 31. While watching the home, officers saw Upchurch approach a 2015 Aston Martin and appear to conduct a drug transaction. Detectives intervened and seized 59.2 grams of fentanyl, $1,142 in cash, two phones, and the Aston Martin. Upchurch was charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to sell over one ounce of heroin. He was held on a $50,000 bond and issued an April 11 court date.

Dean Williams, 45, was the driver of the Aston Martin and is also a convicted felon. He was charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to sell over one ounce of heroin. He was held on a $50,000 bond and given the same April 11 court date.

On April 10, 2025, detectives stopped Ricky Upchurch, 60, on Wiklund Avenue in Stratford as part of a narcotics investigation. Search warrants were executed on his person, home, and 2013 Nissan Altima. Detectives recovered 518 grams of fentanyl, 29 grams of crack cocaine, 231 grams of powder cocaine, $8,000 in cash, and the vehicle. Upchurch was charged with operating a drug factory, possession with intent to sell over one ounce of heroin, possession with intent to sell over half an ounce of cocaine, and possession with intent to sell narcotics (third offense). He was held on a $500,000 bond and given a court date of April 24, 2025.

ATTORNEY GENERAL TONG STATEMENT REGARDING TRUMP EXECUTIVE ORDER ON BEHALF OF FOSSIL FUEL INDUSTRY

Any opinions expressed are solely those of Attorney General Tong and do not necessarily reflect the views of DoingItLocal. The statement below is in its original, unedited form:

(Hartford, CT) – Attorney General William Tong released the following statement in response to a series of executive orders issued this week by President Donald Trump seeking to force the revival of dirty and dangerous energy generation and to block states from lawful efforts to combat the climate crisis.

“This is a war on our environment, waged by a reckless President on behalf of his fossil fuel industry backers who do not care if our air and water are toxic so long as they make money. Decades of scientific consensus prove that the climate threat is real and that we have a limited window now to mitigate its worst harms. Washington has failed for decades to address the climate crisis, and like just about everything else right now, it has fallen on states to protect our families. Donald Trump is happy to do Big Oil’s bidding, but I’m not about to let him stop the sovereign state of Connecticut from doing what is necessary to address this existential threat. The Department of Justice needs to do its job and enforce our nation’s environmental laws, not waste time ‘investigating’ undeniably constitutional state laws,” said Attorney General Tong.

Attorney General Tong further addressed Trump’s ill-conceived plan to revive old-fashioned, dirty and dangerous coal power plants.

“Nothing in this order would save Connecticut families one cent on our energy bills. The reality is, burning coal is expensive and dirty, and it’s been phased out because it just doesn’t make any sense. Like his idiotic trade war, Trump is wasting our money again to serve his ideological whims. The impact of his policies will undoubtably harm people’s health and the environment,” said Attorney General Tong.

Search Warrant at Norwalk Vape Shop Leads to Arrest

Norwalk Police executed a search and seizure warrant at Mohegan Smoke Shop, 84 North Main Street, on Thursday, April 10, 2025, as part of an ongoing investigation into the illegal sale of cannabis products without a state license. Inside a locked storage room, officers found pre-wrapped marijuana cigarettes, THC gummies exceeding the legal limit, and vape products—all packaged for sale—along with several hundred dollars in cash, which was seized pending asset forfeiture.

As a result of the search, 23-year-old Yassin R. Adwan of Bridgeport was arrested and charged with possession and intent to sell more than 1kg of marijuana products. He was held on a $25,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on April 24, 2025.

Bassick High School Students Build on Success with Second Plane in Bridgeport Public Schools’ Tango Flight Program

Bridgeport, CT —Students at Bassick High School are currently building their second 12-foot-long aircraft as part of the groundbreaking Tango Flight program. This marks a significant milestone in a journey that began in 2022, following the successful completion and flight of their first two-seat plane in July 2024. The students, in collaboration with Three Wing Aviation at Sikorsky Memorial Airport, tested and certified the aircraft, allowing them to experience firsthand the culmination of their hard work.

“The first plane was an extraordinary achievement, and now our students are building on that success,” said Aaron Hollander, CEO of First Aviation Services and founder of Tango Flight. “Their dedication, passion, and persistence continue to inspire.”

The new 12-foot-long aircraft, expected to be completed by 2026, is another reflection of the students’ growth, teamwork, and hands-on learning. The Tango Flight program provides students with invaluable experience in STEM fields and aviation, along with certifications in key skills such as sheet metal work, riveting, and drilling—opening doors to careers in the aviation industry.

In addition to the ongoing success of the program, Bassick High School’s new, state-of-the-art facilities, opening in 2026, will provide dedicated, expansive spaces to support the Tango Flight program’s continued growth and ensure students have the resources they need to thrive in aviation projects.

Principal Dr. Joseph Raiola expressed his pride: “Seeing our students work together to build and fly an airplane has been an incredibly rewarding experience. With the new school opening in 2026, we are confident that our students will have even more opportunities to succeed.”

Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery emphasized the program’s broader impact: “Tango Flight shows how innovative educational opportunities inspire students to pursue their dreams. We are working alongside our community to ensure students have the resources they need, and we will continue to fight for opportunities that help them succeed.”

With continued support from Three Wing Aviation and mentorship from aviation industry professionals, the second 12-foot-long aircraft is set to take flight in 2026, furthering the students’ educational and career opportunities in aviation.

Norwalk Police Arrest Suspect in April 4th Shots Fired Incident

Norwalk Police have arrested Eugene Davis, 44, following an investigation into a shots fired incident that occurred on April 4, 2025. Patrol officers responded to reports of gunfire near Connecticut Avenue around 9:10 PM and discovered several shell casings in the roadway. Detectives from the Norwalk Police Department assumed the investigation, working through the night to gather evidence and conduct interviews. Their efforts led to the identification of Davis as the suspected shooter. An arrest warrant was secured, and Davis turned himself in at police headquarters on April 10. Eugene Davis is charged with Illegal Discharge of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree, and Criminal Attempt at Assault in the First Degree. He was held on a $1,000,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on April 24, 2025.

Illegal THC Products Seized in Ongoing Investigation at Westport Smoke Shop

On March 11, 2025, Westport Police investigators executed a search and seizure warrant at Savvy Smoker on Post Road East as part of an investigation into unlicensed cannabis sales and complaints of sales to minors. The search resulted in the seizure of marijuana and THC products, and a sales associate was arrested.

Despite the initial enforcement action, Westport Police later received information that unlicensed sales were continuing at the same location. On April 8, 2025, members of the Westport Police Detective Bureau, in collaboration with the State of Connecticut Drug Control Division, executed a second search warrant. Officers seized pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes, THC flower canisters, resin products, vape cartridges, and edibles.

The investigation remains active, and additional arrests are anticipated.

Multiple Suspects Arrested in Attempted Southport Diner Burglary

Three individuals have been arrested in connection with a February 2nd burglary attempt at the Southport Diner in Fairfield, where suspects tried to steal an ATM machine but were ultimately unsuccessful. Fairfield Police responded to the scene and found signs of forced entry and significant damage. The case was turned over to the Detective Bureau for further investigation.

Through an extensive investigation, detectives identified the suspects as Edgar Crespo of Stratford, Donnie James of Bridgeport, and Francisco Ayala of Bridgeport. Investigators linked the group to multiple burglaries across various Connecticut towns. Working with regional task force officers, detectives recovered evidence tying the suspects to the Southport Diner case and obtained arrest warrants.

Crespo and James were each charged with Burglary in the 3rd Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Burglary in the 3rd Degree, Criminal Attempt at Larceny in the 3rd Degree, and Criminal Mischief in the 1st Degree. Both were held on $50,000 bonds and given court dates of April 3 and April 4. Ayala was charged with Larceny in the 3rd Degree and Criminal Attempt at Larceny in the 3rd Degree, also held on a $50,000 bond and given a court date of March 24.

Fairfield Police credited the professionalism of their Detective Bureau and thanked the Bridgeport Auto Theft Task Force and Fusion Center for their support. The case highlights the importance of regional collaboration in solving complex property crimes.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Fairfield Police Detective Bureau at (203) 254-4840 or submit an anonymous tip via the Fairfield PD mobile app, by texting “FPDCT” and your message to 847411 (Tip411), or online at fpdct.com/tips.

Kayaker Rescued at Walnut Beach

Report of one individual kayaking in the water that was rescued at Walnut Beach in Milford.

Multi-State Theft Suspect Nabbed After Violent Bloomingdale’s Robbery

A man has been arrested in connection with a robbery at the SONO Collection that took place on December 28, 2024. Just after 5:00 PM, two men and one woman stole ten handbags worth approximately $2,500 from Bloomingdale’s and fled the scene, with one of the suspects spraying a security officer in the face with what was believed to be pepper spray or mace.

Following an extensive investigation involving video surveillance and other techniques, Norwalk detectives identified two of the suspects as Jesus Rodriguez and Evelyn Marreno—both wanted in multiple states for similar retail thefts. Detectives determined Rodriguez was the one who used the irritant against the security officer.

Rodriguez was arrested by the Yonkers Police Department and extradited to Connecticut on April 3, 2025. Marreno was taken into custody weeks earlier by New Jersey authorities and remains held in Hudson County awaiting extradition for charges in both Norwalk and New York.

Jesus Rodriguez, 32, has been charged with robbery in the first degree, conspiracy to commit robbery in the second degree, organized retail theft, conspiracy to commit organized retail theft, and larceny in the third degree. His bond was set at $75,000, and he is due in court on February 17, 2025.