NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Former New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson, 56, was arrested Friday on larceny charges after allegations he stole $85,000 from two department accounts.
Jacobson, who abruptly retired from the department in January, turned himself in on an arrest warrant and was later released on a $150,000 court-set bond. He faces two counts of larceny related to defrauding a public community.
“An allegation of embezzlement by a police official is a serious matter and potentially undermines public confidence in the criminal justice system,” said Chief State’s Attorney Patrick J. Griffin.
Jacobson’s lawyer, Gregory Cerritelli, said the arrest is not evidence of guilt and urged the public to keep an open mind.
According to authorities, Jacobson admitted to taking money from the New Haven Police Department Narcotic Enforcement Fund, which compensates confidential informants. He reportedly used the funds for personal expenses, including sports betting on DraftKings and FanDuel, claiming he intended to replace the money. Between January 2025 and January 2026, he wagered over $4.4 million, winning more than $4.2 million but losing over $214,000.
Mayor Justin Elicker described the allegations as “shocking” and noted that Jacobson also allegedly took funds from the Police Athletic League, which supports youth programs in the city.
Investigators found $81,500 missing from the Narcotic Enforcement Fund between January 2024 and January 2026. Bank records showed checks associated with the fund and the Police Activity League were deposited into Jacobson’s personal account. Authorities said no other department employees were involved.
Jacobson served three years as New Haven Police Chief and had previously been with the department for 15 years. He also spent nine years with the East Providence Police Department in Rhode Island. The investigation into the alleged embezzlement remains ongoing.
