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New Haven Police Chief Resigns Amid Fund Theft Scandal

1/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson resigned January 5, 2026 after admitting to stealing funds from a city account for compensating confidential informants.
Mayor Justin Elicker announced the resignation during a press conference, calling it betrayal of public trust.
Jacobson was confronted by three assistant chiefs about financial irregularities prior to retirement paperwork.
Assistant Chief David Zannelli has been appointed acting chief.
Jacobson had served as police chief since 2022.

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Story summary

New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson resigned January 5, 2026 after admitting to stealing funds from a city account for compensating confidential informants.
Mayor Justin Elicker announced the resignation during a press conference, calling it betrayal of public trust.
Jacobson was confronted by three assistant chiefs about financial irregularities prior to retirement paperwork.
Assistant Chief David Zannelli has been appointed acting chief.
Jacobson had served as police chief since 2022.