by Waterbury, Connecticut — A veteran sergeant with the Waterbury Police Department has been arrested following an investigation led by the Connecticut State Police, prompting an internal review and administrative action within the city’s police force.
Authorities confirmed that Sgt. Donald Robinson was taken into custody early Thursday morning after state police served an arrest warrant connected to an ongoing criminal investigation. Robinson now faces two criminal charges, and department officials say the matter is being handled with full cooperation between local and state law enforcement agencies.
Charges Filed Against Veteran Officer
According to officials, the Waterbury Police Department was formally notified by the Connecticut State Police Eastern District Major Crimes Division that an arrest warrant had been issued for Robinson.
The warrant lists the following charges:
- Interfering with an investigation
- Fifth-degree computer crime
State police served the warrant Thursday morning. Robinson was later released on a promise to appear, meaning he was not required to post bond at the time of release.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed details regarding the underlying conduct that led to the charges.
“An arrest warrant was issued and served by state police,” officials confirmed, noting that additional case details remain restricted.
Administrative Leave and Internal Affairs Probe
Following the arrest, the Waterbury Police Department announced that Robinson has been placed on administrative leave, effective immediately.
Department leadership also confirmed that an internal affairs investigation has been launched to review the matter independently from the criminal case.
“The Waterbury Police Department has initiated an internal affairs investigation and is working in cooperation with the Connecticut State Police,” officials said in a statement.
Administrative leave is a standard procedure in cases involving criminal allegations against sworn officers and does not imply guilt. During this period, officers are typically relieved of duty pending the outcome of investigations.
Limited Information Released
At this time, law enforcement officials have declined to release specifics about:
- The nature of the alleged interference
- The computer systems involved
- Whether the case is linked to an active or prior investigation
Officials cited the ongoing nature of the investigation as the reason for limiting public disclosures.
“Additional details about the investigation are not available at this time,” authorities said.
Cases involving alleged interference and computer-related crimes often require extensive forensic review, which can delay the release of information while evidence is examined.
Role of State Police Major Crimes Division
The involvement of the Eastern District Major Crimes Division indicates that the case was considered serious enough to warrant oversight beyond local authorities.
State police typically handle investigations involving:
- Allegations against public officials
- Potential conflicts of interest
- Complex or sensitive criminal matters
The Waterbury Police Department emphasized that it is fully cooperating with state investigators throughout the process.
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Impact on Department and Community
The arrest of a supervisory officer has drawn attention within the department and the broader Waterbury community, where police accountability remains a topic of ongoing discussion.
Law enforcement officials stressed that the actions taken demonstrate procedural transparency rather than conclusions.
“Administrative action ensures the integrity of the department while the legal process moves forward,”
a law enforcement source familiar with departmental policy explained.
No information has been released regarding Robinson’s length of service or prior disciplinary history.
What Happens Next
Robinson is expected to appear in court on a future date, where prosecutors will formally proceed with the case. Meanwhile:
- The criminal investigation remains active
- The internal affairs review continues separately
- Further administrative decisions will depend on the outcome of both processes
Officials noted that disciplinary action, if any, would only follow the conclusion of investigations and legal proceedings.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not indicated whether additional arrests or charges are anticipated. State police continue to handle the criminal portion of the case, while the Waterbury Police Department evaluates potential policy or conduct violations internally.
Residents are encouraged to rely on official updates as more information becomes available.
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