Hamden officer arrested for trying to illegally use a computer system

HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) – A Hamden police officer was charged with computer crime.

Hamden police identified the officer as Officer Jennifer King.

It said that on Oct. 1, Chief EP Reynolds received information that King was attempting to have Hamden dispatchers conduct a computer check on a name for improper personal reasons.

The system, the State of Connecticut’s COLLECT System, is an online law enforcement resource for sharing information.

Hamden police noted that the system is strictly regulated, so such an investigation would violate state law.

Reynolds immediately ordered an internal investigation, the department said.

King was placed on administrative leave and her law enforcement powers were suspended.

The internal investigation by the Hamden Police Department’s Ethics and Integrity Unit determined that there may have been a violation of Connecticut state law regarding the use of the COLLECT system.

On October 11, Reynolds ordered a criminal investigation by Hamden detectives.

As a result of detectives’ investigation into the case, an arrest warrant was issued on November 1.

King was arrested on November 6 and charged with two counts of attempting to commit a third-degree computer crime. She was given a Nov. 20 court date and a court-set bond of $2,500.

“This is an unfortunate incident; However, we hold our officers accountable for their actions,” Reynolds said. “No one is above the law. While we are deeply disturbed by this officer’s actions, I would personally like to commend the Hamden Police Department’s investigative team. After receiving allegations of police misconduct, our investigators responded quickly and efficiently, conducted a thorough investigation and the officer has been held accountable for their actions and will be held accountable in court.”

Reynolds said the internal investigation was ongoing.

“The officer involved remains on administrative leave until this matter is resolved,” he said.