New Chief Nominated After Police Scandal

0:00It's March 25th. Welcome to Harvard News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. New Haven Mayor Justin Elliker has nominated Acting Police Chief David Zinelli to lead the department permanently. This comes after the sudden retirement of former Chief Rene Jacobson amid a major financial scandal. The nomination heads to the Board of Alders for approval. Zinelli uncovered irregularities and police funds during his time as Acting Chief. He confronts to Jacobson, who admitted to misusing $20,000 over two months to fuel a gambling addiction. Officials say Jacobson pleaded for time to repay the money before retiring. The scandal drew in Connecticut State Police for a deeper probe. They found $85,500 misappropriated overall, including $4,000 from a youth community events account. Jacobson had wagered millions on apps like Draft Kings and Fan Dool, racking up a net loss of nearly $215,000. City leaders moved quickly after Jacobson filed retirement papers to avoid being placed on leave.

1:04No public backlash has surfaced yet, but the theft has raised questions about oversight in the department's finances. Zinelli's confirmation could stabilize leadership as the city pushes forward with reforms. The investigation into Jacobson continues in court, where he's out on a $150,000 bond.