Former New Haven Police Chief Pleads Not Guilty to Embezzlement

Jacobson accused of stealing over $85,000 from his own department

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:22pm

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An extreme close-up of a police badge or handcuffs, the metal surface reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The embezzlement case against a former police chief raises concerns about financial oversight and accountability within law enforcement.New Haven Today

Former New Haven police chief Karl Jacobson has pleaded not guilty to charges that he embezzled more than $85,000 from his own department. Jacobson, who has been elected for a jury trial with his next court date on June 2, allegedly admitted to stealing money from a New Haven Police fund before retiring in January and later turning himself in to Connecticut State Police.

Why it matters

The case raises concerns about public trust in law enforcement and the need for robust financial oversight within police departments, especially when it comes to sensitive funds like those used for confidential informants.

The details

According to the arrest warrant, the bulk of the money Jacobson is accused of stealing came from the confidential informant fund as well as the New Haven Police Activity League over the past two years. Jacobson allegedly told investigators he had a gambling problem and was seeking help, intending to replace the misused funds.

  • Jacobson pleaded not guilty on April 17, 2026.
  • His next court date is scheduled for June 2, 2026.
  • The investigation that led to his arrest began in January 2026.

The players

Karl Jacobson

The former police chief of New Haven, Connecticut who is accused of embezzling over $85,000 from his own department.

Gregory Cerritelli

Jacobson's attorney, who has asked the public to withhold judgment until all the facts are known.

New Haven Police Department

The department from which Jacobson is accused of stealing funds, including from the confidential informant fund and the New Haven Police Activity League.

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What they’re saying

“For those who would condemn him based on his arrest, I ask you for grace. Please withhold judgment until you have all the facts.”

— Gregory Cerritelli, Jacobson's attorney

“No online gambling, stay out of Connecticut casinos.”

— The Judge

What’s next

Jacobson's jury trial is scheduled to begin on June 2, 2026, where a judge will decide whether he is guilty of the embezzlement charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for robust financial oversight and accountability within police departments, especially when it comes to sensitive funds, in order to maintain public trust in law enforcement.