Former New Haven Police Chief Charged with $85,000 Theft

Karl Jacobson accused of stealing from department funds, including a confidential informant account

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The former police chief in New Haven, Connecticut, Karl Jacobson, has been arrested and charged with two counts of larceny related to allegations that he stole $85,000 from two police department funds, including a fund used to pay confidential informants. Jacobson, who abruptly retired in January, turned himself in on a warrant and was released on $150,000 bond.

Why it matters

The allegations of embezzlement by a former police chief are seen as a serious breach of public trust, potentially undermining confidence in the criminal justice system. The case highlights the importance of financial oversight and accountability within law enforcement agencies.

The details

According to prosecutors, an investigation revealed that $81,500 was unaccounted for or misappropriated from the New Haven Police Department Narcotic Enforcement Fund, which is used to pay confidential informants. Bank records showed that checks associated with this fund were deposited into Jacobson’s personal checking account. Additionally, two checks totaling $4,000 were withdrawn from the New Haven Police Activity League Fund and also found in Jacobson’s personal account.

  • On January 5, 2026, the city of New Haven reported the embezzlement allegations to authorities, prompting an investigation by the Connecticut State Police.
  • Between January 1, 2024, and January 5, 2026, the $81,500 was unaccounted for or misappropriated from the Narcotic Enforcement Fund.
  • On December 23 and 24, 2025, the two $4,000 checks were withdrawn from the Police Activity League Fund.

The players

Karl Jacobson

The former police chief in New Haven, Connecticut, who is accused of stealing $85,000 from two police department funds.

Patrick J. Griffin

The Chief State’s Attorney who stated that an allegation of embezzlement by a police official is a serious matter that potentially undermines public confidence in the criminal justice system.

Justin Elicker

The mayor of New Haven, who announced Jacobson’s retirement and said the former chief admitted to taking money from a city fund that compensates confidential informants.

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What they’re saying

“An allegation of embezzlement by a police official is a serious matter and potentially undermines public confidence in the criminal justice system.”

— Patrick J. Griffin, Chief State’s Attorney

“The allegations are ‘shocking’ and a ‘betrayal of public trust.’”

— Justin Elicker, Mayor of New Haven

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Jacobson to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of financial oversight and accountability within law enforcement agencies, as allegations of embezzlement by a police chief can severely undermine public trust in the criminal justice system.