Karl Jacobson faces embezzlement charges

Karl Jacobson faces embezzlement charges

On February 20, 2026, former New Haven, Connecticut, Police Chief Karl Jacobson was arrested on two counts of larceny in the first degree after authorities alleged he stole approximately $85,500 from two city police department funds. Jacobson, who abruptly retired in January 2026 as police chief, turned himself in to Connecticut State Police and was released on a court‑set bond of $150,000. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Prosecutors allege that approximately $81,500 was misappropriated from the New Haven Police Department’s Narcotics Enforcement Program Fund, which is used to pay confidential informants in narcotics investigations, and that an additional $4,000 was taken from the Police Activity League Fund, which supports youth programs. Investigators say bank records showed checks tied to those accounts deposited into Jacobson’s personal checking account. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

City officials reported the irregularities in January after three assistant chiefs confronted Jacobson about discrepancies in department funds, and Jacobson acknowledged taking at least $10,000 before his retirement. Authorities also allege he wagered millions on sports betting apps between January 2025 and January 2026 with large net losses. The case is ongoing and Jacobson is presumed innocent until proven guilty. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}