Former Dumont Mayor Charged with Sexually Assaulting Bergen County Boy

Andrew LaBruno allegedly identified himself as a cop to hinder the investigation

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Andrew LaBruno, a former mayor of Dumont, New Jersey and a Jersey City police sergeant, has been charged with sexually assaulting a minor in Englewood, New Jersey. Prosecutors say LaBruno met the victim on the social media app Grindr, went to the victim's home, and then sexually assaulted the child. LaBruno allegedly identified himself as a police officer during the incident in an attempt to hinder the investigation.

Why it matters

This case highlights the abuse of power and public trust when elected officials and law enforcement engage in criminal behavior. It raises concerns about the vetting process for public officials and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures.

The details

According to the complaint, LaBruno met the victim on Grindr and went to the victim's home in Englewood while the minor was alone. LaBruno allegedly sprayed a substance on his hand, covered the victim's mouth and nose, which made the victim "dizzy" and "incapacitated", and then forced the victim to perform oral sex. Police later recovered a controlled dangerous substance in connection with the incident. When Englewood police responded to a 911 call about the assault, LaBruno allegedly identified himself as a police officer in an attempt to hinder the investigation.

  • In November, LaBruno was charged with aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, and endangering the welfare of a child.
  • On Friday, prosecutors announced details from LaBruno's unsealed indictment, including charges of official misconduct for identifying himself as a police officer during the incident.

The players

Andrew LaBruno

A former mayor of Dumont, New Jersey and a Jersey City police sergeant who has been charged with sexually assaulting a minor and using his position as a police officer to hinder the investigation.

Bergen County Prosecutor's Office

The prosecutors who charged LaBruno and announced details of his indictment.

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What they’re saying

“As the investigation continued, it was subsequently determined that Andrew LaBruno identified himself as a police officer during the incident for the purpose of hindering his own apprehension.”

— Bergen County Prosecutor's Office (Patch.com)

What’s next

LaBruno remains incarcerated in the Bergen County jail as the case continues to progress through the legal system.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for rigorous background checks and ongoing monitoring of public officials, especially those in positions of power and trust, to prevent abuse and hold them accountable for criminal actions.