New Haven Reviews Police Informant Fund After Former Chief’s Theft

New Haven officials are reviewing how the Police Department manages money used to pay confidential informants, after former Police Chief Karl Jacobson pleaded no contest to stealing $178,000 from city funds.

The city announced the results of an independent review on Tuesday. The 57-page report, prepared by the Police Executive Research Forum, makes 33 recommendations covering 11 areas, including audits, department policies, electronic payment systems, training, and employee wellness.

What the Informant Fund Is

Confidential informant funds are used to pay people who provide information to police investigations. In February, Connecticut prosecutors charged Jacobson with first-degree larceny in connection with money taken from two city funds. He later pleaded no contest to stealing $178,000. The theft began before he became police chief in 2022, according to the independent review.

Changes Already Underway

New Haven says it has already strengthened oversight of the fund. The department has added cameras and access controls, increased auditing, and created additional checks on how funds are handled. Police Chief David Zannelli said some recommendations were put in place before the report was released. The department and Police Commission are reviewing the remaining proposals, including their staffing and labor agreement implications.

What Comes Next

The review follows a case that raised serious questions about financial controls and public trust. City officials say the report will help shape a permanent policy for the informant program. The recommendations are under review; the city has not said that it will adopt all 33.

Jacobson is scheduled to be sentenced in January 2027. A separate hearing will determine restitution to the city.

Sources

• New Haven Register: Independent review makes 33 recommendations
• WSHU: New Haven police update policies after former chief’s financial scandal
• Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice: Jacobson charged in connection with embezzled funds