New Haven to Develop New Confidential Informant Policy After Former Police Chief Scandal

City officials announce temporary order to restart program with increased oversight and supervision

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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New Haven officials are announcing an initiative to restart the city's police department's confidential informant program with increased supervision and accountability measures, following a scandal involving the alleged theft of $10,000 from the program's fund by the former police chief.

Why it matters

The confidential informant program is a controversial law enforcement tool that has faced scrutiny over issues of transparency, oversight, and potential for abuse. The alleged theft by the former police chief has further eroded public trust in the program, prompting the city to overhaul its policies and procedures.

The details

Under a temporary special order, New Haven will restart its confidential informant program with "new accountability measures, increased supervision and enhanced procedures." Officials will also hire the Police Executive Research Forum to consult on developing a new confidential informant policy for the department. The changes come after former Police Chief Karl Jacobson allegedly stole $10,000 from the program's fund, leading to his abrupt retirement.

  • On January 5, 2026, Jacobson filed for retirement the same day he was to be placed on paid administrative leave over the alleged theft.
  • New Haven officials will announce the temporary special order and plans for a new confidential informant policy at a press event on February 19, 2026.

The players

Justin Elicker

The mayor of New Haven.

David Zannelli

The acting police chief of the New Haven Police Department.

Karl Jacobson

The former police chief of the New Haven Police Department, who allegedly stole $10,000 from the confidential informant program's fund.

Police Executive Research Forum

A nonprofit organization that provides management consulting services to law enforcement agencies, which New Haven will hire to help develop a new confidential informant policy.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.