Bridgeport father faces new charges in connection with death of his young daughter

A 31-year-old Bridgeport man pleaded not guilty in Milford Superior Court Wednesday morning in connection with the death of his little daughter.

Dale Kirkland's daughter Leilani was found dead in a motel room in Milford on August 22.

“He was a nice guy – warm and caring towards his little daughter,” said Ehma Ndi, who lives a few houses away 27 Bell St. in Bridgeport. CAccording to our records, this location was Kirkland's home address at the time of his arrest.

“It is heartbreaking how his baby was found dead – but I think it is important to wait to judge until all the facts are in,” Ndi said.

Kirkland has been charged with endangering minors and intentional cruelty to animals, but authorities said he could face additional charges once the infant's autopsy is completed.

State police joined with Milford and Bridgeport police departments to locate and arrest Kirkland without incident on East Main Street in Bridgeport.

Kirkland's arrest came about eight hours after a Mayflower Motel employee discovered the child dead in a bathtub in a room that Kirkland had rented and then vacated on August 22.