Jersey City, NJ - Jersey City Police Sgt. Andrew LaBruno appeared virtually in court Wednesday to face charges of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy. A judge ruled that LaBruno will remain in custody, citing concerns for the victim’s safety and the officer’s well-being.
LaBruno, 44, has pleaded not guilty. He is scheduled to return to court on January 8. Prosecutors allege that LaBruno met the teen on a dating app and visited the boy’s Englewood home, where the assault allegedly took place.
Prosecutors Detail Alleged Use of Chemical Substance
According to Assistant Prosecutor Sara Wilson, LaBruno brought a small bottle containing a nitrite popper to the victim’s residence. “At that time, the defendant took out a little bottle from his pants,” Wilson said during the hearing. “[The victim] stated that he immediately felt dizzy and felt like the room was spinning.”
Prosecutors claim LaBruno was aware, or should have been aware, that the victim was “physically helpless” or “mentally incapacitated” when the assault occurred.
Defense Questions Case Foundation
Defense attorney Kevin Corriston disputed the prosecution’s narrative, arguing that the 911 call from that night made no mention of drugging or sexual assault. “There is nothing said in that 911 call about any sort of sexual assault, any sort of sexual activity, any kind of drugging, nothing of that nature,” Corriston told the court.
Officer Suspended, Internal Probe Underway
LaBruno, a 20-year veteran of the Jersey City Police Department, has been suspended without pay. The department’s Internal Affairs Unit has opened an investigation into the allegations.
In addition to his police service, LaBruno held public office as the mayor of Dumont from 2020 to 2023. He ran unsuccessfully for a state Assembly seat earlier this year and was a volunteer youth softball coach in 2024.
What Can Victims Do? Legal Options After Sexual Assault by a Police Sergeant
When a police sergeant is accused of sexual assault, survivors often face not only deep trauma but also fear about reporting someone in uniform and confusion about where to turn for help. Experienced New Jersey sexual abuse lawyer Eric Weitz discusses the paths survivors can take, including reporting options, potential civil claims against both the officer and the agency, and protections available under New Jersey law for those harmed by law enforcement.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When the accused is a police sergeant, what civil options might a survivor in New Jersey have?
Eric Weitz, Esq.: In cases like this, survivors often have the right to file a civil lawsuit not only against the individual officer, but in some situations also against the city or police department if there is evidence of negligent hiring, supervision, or failure to respond to prior complaints. Civil claims can seek compensation for therapy, medical care, lost income, and the profound emotional harm that follows sexual abuse.
Banville: How does the power imbalance with law enforcement impact these cases?
Weitz: Courts and juries tend to recognize that when an officer is accused, the victim may feel intimidated or afraid to report what happened, especially if the officer used their position of authority to gain access or silence the victim. That dynamic often factors into how damages are assessed and why these cases can lead to significant policy reviews inside police departments.
Banville: What steps should someone take if they believe they were abused by a police officer?
Weitz: The most important steps are to get to safety, report the incident to an agency that can investigate—such as a county prosecutor’s office or an outside law enforcement body—and speak with a lawyer who regularly handles sexual abuse cases in New Jersey. A civil attorney can explain filing deadlines, help preserve evidence such as messages or app records, and guide the survivor through confidential consultations before any public filing is made.
Free, Confidential Help Is One Call Away
No one should have to stand alone after sexual abuse by a police sergeant, and you and your family do not have to navigate the legal system by yourselves. Our team offers free, confidential consultations to explain your options, answer your questions, and help you understand what a civil claim or other legal action could look like in your situation. If you or someone you love has been harmed, contact us today to speak with an experienced sexual abuse lawyer and take the first step toward protection, accountability, and the support you deserve.
