A former mayor and serving police sergeant from New Jersey has been arrested and charged with the alleged drugging and sexual assault of a child he reportedly met online.
Details of the Alleged Assault
Andrew LaBruno, 44, who is both a Jersey City police sergeant and the former mayor of Dumont, is accused of arranging to meet the Englewood, New Jersey minor through social media. The incident occurred this past Monday when LaBruno allegedly went to the child's home while they were alone.
According to police reports, LaBruno sprayed an unknown substance into his hand and placed it over the victim's mouth, causing immediate dizziness. This action allegedly left the child physically helpless, after which LaBruno is accused of sexually assaulting them.
Authorities responded to a 911 call and found the victim suffering from significant cognitive impairment. The child was subsequently taken to a local hospital for a full medical evaluation.
A Trusted Figure's Double Life
LaBruno's arrest sends shockwaves through the community, given his position of public trust. He is a married father of two – a 16-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter – and served as Dumont's mayor from 2020 until 2023.
His public persona was one of a committed family man and public servant. Earlier in November, he ran as a Democratic candidate for a state assemblyman seat, narrowly losing by 1,888 votes. His campaign was endorsed by prominent organisations including the New Jersey Education Association and the Jersey City Police Officers' Benevolent Association.
On his campaign website, LaBruno spoke of his worries about 'what kind of future we're leaving our children' and claimed that as a sergeant he had 'worked every day to protect families, to build trust, and to make sure people feel secure in their neighbourhoods.'
Fallout and Current Status
LaBruno, who began his law enforcement career in 2005, has been suspended from the force without pay following his arrest. In a campaign video that now seems deeply ironic, he stated, '20 years as a cop has taught me to build trust and keep communities safe.'
He now faces serious charges including sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. LaBruno is currently being held without bail at Bergen County Jail as the investigation continues.
