Former IT Worker Charged with Stealing from Federal Public Defenders Office

Authorities say the suspect exchanged electronic devices for cash at pawn shops.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:05pm

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An extreme close-up of a shattered computer screen, the jagged edges reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the theft of government technology.The theft of government technology from a federal public defender's office raises concerns about security and trust.New Haven Today

A former computer systems administrator for the Office of the Federal Public Defender in Connecticut has been indicted for stealing various electronic devices, including iPads, computers, a drone, and a camera, and exchanging them for cash at pawn shops. The suspect, Peterson Bernadel, is accused of using his access and ability to edit records to cover up the thefts.

Why it matters

The theft of government property from an organization that provides legal aid to those who cannot afford representation raises concerns about security and trust within the federal public defender's office. The case highlights the potential risks when employees with access to sensitive equipment abuse their positions.

The details

Authorities say Bernadel, 39, of Meriden, Connecticut, was charged with eight counts of theft of government property and one count of falsifying records. As a computer systems administrator, he had access to an inventory of electronic devices, which he allegedly stole and exchanged for cash at local pawn shops. The stolen items included iPads, Apple and Dell computers, a Mavic drone, and a Canon digital camera. Bernadel also used his ability to edit the office's digital records to cover up the theft of an Apple laptop computer.

  • Bernadel was arrested on April 2, 2026.
  • The indictment was returned by a New Haven grand jury on March 24, 2026.

The players

Peterson Bernadel

A 39-year-old former computer systems administrator for the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Connecticut, who is accused of stealing various electronic devices and exchanging them for cash at pawn shops.

Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Connecticut

A government organization that provides legal advocacy for federal criminal defendants who cannot afford a lawyer, operating offices in New Haven and Hartford, Connecticut.

David X. Sullivan

The U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, who announced the charges against Bernadel.

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What they’re saying

“The theft of government property from an organization that provides legal aid to those who cannot afford representation raises concerns about security and trust within the federal public defender's office.”

— David X. Sullivan, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut

What’s next

Bernadel was released on a $50,000 bond and faces up to 85 years in federal prison if convicted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of robust security measures and oversight within government agencies, especially those entrusted with sensitive equipment and resources. It underscores the need for thorough background checks and continuous monitoring of employees with access to valuable assets.