Former New Haven Police Chief Arrested for Alleged Embezzlement
In a surprising turn of events, former New Haven police chief Karl Jacobson has been arrested by Connecticut State Police, facing accusations of embezzling approximately $85,000 from his former department. Jacobson, 55, of Branford, surrendered to authorities on Friday, charged with two counts of first-degree larceny for allegedly defrauding a public community. He is currently free on a $150,000 bond.
Jacobson’s attorney, Gregory Cerritelli, emphasized the importance of due process, stating, “An arrest is not evidence of guilt, and allegations are not proof.” Cerritelli urged the public to keep an open mind as the legal process unfolds.
The situation unfolded in January when Mayor Justin Elicker revealed that Jacobson had abruptly retired following the discovery of financial irregularities within the confidential informant program funds. Jacobson reportedly admitted to the misappropriation when confronted by three assistant chiefs. Elicker had planned to place Jacobson on administrative leave, but Jacobson submitted his retirement paperwork before they could meet, which took effect immediately.
Investigations by the Department of Criminal Justice (DCJ) revealed that $81,500 was unaccounted for from the Narcotic Enforcement Program Fund, which is intended to compensate confidential informants aiding in narcotics investigations. Jacobson, who had access to the fund as an assistant chief, allegedly continued to control it after his promotion to chief.
Authorities found that checks from the narcotics program had been deposited into Jacobson’s personal checking account. Additionally, two checks totaling $4,000 were reportedly embezzled from the New Haven Police Activity League Fund just before Christmas 2025, also linked to Jacobson’s account.
Mayor Elicker expressed his disappointment, stating, “Former Police Chief Jacobson was someone whom many in our city deeply respected. However, no one is above the law, and the misuse of taxpayer funds is a serious breach of public trust.”
The DCJ conducted an extensive review and concluded that no other police department members were involved. Following Jacobson’s retirement, Assistant Police Chief David Zannelli was appointed as acting chief. Jacobson had been sworn in as chief in July 2022, with his contract set to expire this year.
The city reported the allegations to New Haven Judicial District State’s Attorney John P. Doyle, who, after consulting with Chief State’s Attorney Patrick J. Griffin, decided that state police would oversee the investigation to avoid conflicts of interest.
Griffin highlighted the gravity of the allegations, noting their potential to undermine public confidence in the justice system. He thanked state police and the New Britain State’s Attorney’s office for their efficient investigation.
In response to the allegations, the city temporarily froze the confidential informant program's funds and halted its operations. However, Mayor Elicker announced a special order to resume a temporary version of the program with enhanced security measures. The city has engaged the Police Executive Research Forum to analyze the program’s policies and draft a new general order for its permanent version.
Elicker reassured the public, stating, “With new policies and protocols, our residents and officers can be confident that funds will be properly safeguarded and used to solve crimes and bring criminals to justice.” He expressed gratitude to the authorities involved in the investigation, emphasizing accountability for Jacobson’s actions.