Authorities announced Tuesday that a Democratic Party candidate in New Jersey and a former mayor were arrested Monday on suspicion of drugging and sexually abusing a child they groomed via the internet.
Andrew LaBruno (44), a sergeant in the Jersey City Police Department, is accused of visiting the Englewood residence of a boy he had met on the internet Monday. He allegedly sprayed an “unknown substance” into his hands before spraying “it over the victim’s nose and mouth, causing dizziness,” according a criminal complaint.
LaBruno had previously been mayor of Dumont, a Bergen County community, and he most recently unsuccessfully ran for an assembly seat in New York State. He then sexually assaulted a child “physically helpless”, due to the effects of drugs. This was reported by the New York Post. According to the complaint, the victim was alone in her home at the time the attack occurred.
LaBruno faces charges for aggravated sexual abuse, sexual assault and endangering a child’s welfare.
The arrest was made after authorities had enough evidence to make the decision. This included the statements made by the suspect at the scene, captured on body-worn cameras, as well as the account of the victim and the “corroborating” physical evidence taken from the site and the “actors.”
After a 911 call was made, police were sent to the location. They found the victim showing obvious signs of impairment. According to the complaint, the victim was transported to a hospital in order to receive treatment.
LaBruno, who is being held in Bergen County Jail without bail and will be making his first appearance at the Bergen County Superior Court of Hackensack on Tuesday evening. Union City Police Department has confirmed that LaBruno was suspended from his job without pay after the charges were filed.
According to the website of his campaign, he was raised and born in Jersey City. He has also been a policeman since 2005. He is also referred to as “a family man” on the site, which lists his charitable activities.
LaBruno appeared in an NJ.com article in 2020 when he demanded that a probe be conducted into the two Dumont High School Teachers who made “homophobic remarks” about a gay gym teacher.
The mayor stated at that time, “Dumont has a very welcoming community. My administration will make continued progress in committees and board positions which recognize and honor our diverse population and our family members and friends.”
Are you tired of not receiving breaking news updates? Download the Trending Politics News App today and enjoy !
