An ex-mayor and current police sergeant from New Jersey was arrested for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a child he met online.
Andrew LaBruno was charged with sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, and endangering the welfare of a child.
The Jersey City police officer and former mayor of Dumont went to the home of an Englewood, New Jersey child he had met online.
The 44-year-old allegedly made arrangements to meet up with the victim through social media and arrived at their house Monday while they were home alone.
LaBruno reportedly sprayed an ‘unknown substance into his hand’ and placed it over the victim’s mouth causing dizziness, according to police.
He then allegedly sexually assaulted the victim after leaving them ‘physically helpless’ from the drugging.
Police responded to the 911 call and found the victim was suffering from ‘cognitive impairment.’
The child was taken to the hospital to be evaluated.
Former Mayor and police officer Andrew LaBruno was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor
The public official is a married father of two and ran for assemblyman this November
He allegedly met a minor on social media and made plans to meet at their home
LaBruno is a married father of two and served as mayor of Dumont, New Jersey from 2020 to 2023.
He and his wife Meghan share a 16-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter.
Earlier in November, he ran on a Democratic ticket for an open state assemblyman seat and lost by 1,888 votes.
LaBruno was endorsed by esteemed organizations such as the New Jersey Education Association, Jersey City Police Officers’ Benevolent Association, and Garden State Equality.
His campaign website described his family values and worries over ‘what kind of future we’re leaving our children.’
LaBruno’s website also claimed that as a sergeant he has ‘worked every day to protect families, to build trust, and to make sure people feel secure in their neighborhoods.’
LaBruno allegedly put an unknown substance on his hand and put it over the child’s nose and mouth
LaBruno was arrested on charges of sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, and endangering the welfare of a child
LaBruno began his career in law enforcement in 2005 and has served on and off for the past two decades.
He spoke of his commitment to the force in a campaign video.
’20 years as a cop has taught me to build trust and keep communities safe,’ said the disgraced public official.
According to ABC7, following his arrest the sergeant has been suspended from the force without pay.
LaBruno is being held without bailed in Bergen County Jail.
