What began as a seemingly routine online exchange between a public official and a minor has evolved into one of northern New Jersey’s most alarming criminal cases, leaving residents shaken and authorities demanding accountability. Andrew LaBruno, 44, a former Dumont mayor and current Jersey City police
sergeant, is now at the center of a disturbing investigation after prosecutors say he orchestrated and carried out a chemically-assisted sexual assault on a juvenile in Englewood.According to investigators, the communication between LaBruno and the minor originated on social media, where conversations allegedly intensified at a rapid pace.
Detectives report that LaBruno arranged to visit the juvenile’s home at a time he knew the child would be unsupervised. Prosecutors say this deliberate planning suggests a calculated effort to exploit the victim’s vulnerability.Once inside the residence, authorities say LaBruno produced a chemical spray, dispensing the substance
into his hand before pressing it against the juvenile’s mouth. The act reportedly incapacitated the young victim long enough for LaBruno to commit multiple sexual acts. Officials describe the assault as both violent and premeditated, emphasizing the grave power imbalance between an elected leader-turned-police sergeant and a child unable to defend themselves.
The allegations have sent shockwaves through both Dumont and Jersey City, where residents are struggling to reconcile LaBruno’s public roles with the severity of the charges. As a former mayor and current law enforcement officer, he once served as a figure of trust—making the accusations even more devastating for the community.LaBruno was taken into custody following a swift investigation that included
