Hartford Police Sergeant Arrested

HARTFORD, CT — A 10-year veteran of the Hartford Police Department was arrested Monday following a self-initiated internal investigation by the department.

Sgt. Justin Torniero, who is assigned to the Patrol Division, was charged with sixth-degree larceny, fifth-degree computer crime and two counts of using a motor vehicle without permission.

Investigators learned Torniero, while out of work on accrued leave, repeatedly took a police vehicle, filled it with City of Hartford gas and drove it for extended miles without any authorization or permission. Investigators also determined a computer modem and an automatic vehicle locator were tampered with in one of the vehicles, Deputy Chief Brian Foley said.

Torniero was released on a $1,000 non-surety bond. He is currently suspended without pay pending the outcome of the criminal and administrative investigations, Foley said.

He is scheduled to appear in court Dec. 21.

Photo credit: Hartford Police Department