Fairfield Detective Stole Heroin from Evidence Room: PD

FAIRFIELD, CT — The lead detective of Fairfield Police Department's narcotics unit was charged with stealing heroin that was seized during police raids.

Stephen Rilling, 40, a 19-year veteran, turned himself in Friday after learning of the Fairfield Police warrant. Police didn't disclose the amount of drugs he took and said it affected a few pending criminal cases.

Police first became aware of something amiss on April 12, and Rilling was placed on administrative leave pending the results of an internal investigation. Police then began working with the State Attorney's office for a criminal investigation.

The drugs were taken from the department's evidence room where a property officer believed they were being removed for legitimate law enforcement purposes, police said. (To sign up for Fairfield breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

The alleged thefts are believed to have happened between June 2016 and February 2017. He is charged with second-degree larceny, third-degree computer crime and possession of narcotics.

Rilling, the son of Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, was put on leave three years ago after he admitted to a drug problem and went to rehabilitation, according to the Connecticut Post. He was reassigned to narcotics unit after he returned.

Fairfield Police have since changed their evidence procedures, including supervisory approval and dual signature for any follow-up conducted in the evidence room.

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