New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson abruptly retired Monday after admitting to taking money from a city fund meant to compensate confidential informants, Mayor Justin Elicker announced.

Jacobson reportedly confessed when confronted by three deputies about financial irregularities, though it is unclear how much was taken or for how long.

Mayor Elicker called the theft “shocking” and a “betrayal of public trust” and said city officials are cooperating with state investigators.

Assistant Police Chief David Zannelli, one of the deputies who confronted Jacobson, has been named interim chief, ABC News has reported.

Jacobson had led the department since July 2022 and previously served 15 years with New Haven police and nine years with East Providence, Rhode Island.