Bridgeport Firefighter Accused of Taking Drugs at Incident Scene

A Bridgeport, Connecticut firefighter is facing charges that he took drugs from the scene of a suspected drug overdose last month. Harold Clarke Jr. has been charged with tampering with evidence and interfering with a police officer.

The incident occurred on March 2, 2024 when firefighters were dispatched to a reported person unresponsive. Small bags containing cocaine and fentanyl were discovered. Police claim Clarke, 28, was observed taking a plastic bag from a bed in a basement bedroom and walk out of the basement. This was reportedly captured on the officer’s bodycam. The officer also reported that Clarke indicated the victim was a family member of his. The victim did not survive.

When confronted, Clarke denied taking the bag and later refused to submit to an interview with detectives. He has been suspended without pay from the Bridgeport Fire Department. More on the story, including news video coverage.