Long Island police officer charged with stealing 0,000 from colleague, using funds for OnlyFans, gambling, and dining expenses.

A police officer from Long Island has been arrested following allegations of embezzling 0,000 from a fellow officer. The accused, Leonardo Cagno, a member of the Nassau County Police Department, reportedly misled a Suffolk County officer into investing in his business, BW Media Consulting. According to information provided by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, the funds were intended for business purposes but were instead used for personal expenditures, including payments for a vehicle, credit card debts, dining experiences, gambling, and subscriptions to adult content platforms.

The alleged fraudulent activities began in early 2022 when Cagno’s victim was recuperating from a serious illness. Prosecutors contend that Cagno exploited the victim’s vulnerability and trust, taking advantage of their relationship in what has been characterized as a serious breach of the ethical standards expected within the law enforcement community. Suffolk District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney described the allegations as a significant violation of trust, emphasizing the sacred bond between police officers, which is meant to foster safety and integrity in the community.

On Wednesday, Cagno, 39, a resident of Oakdale, was charged with second-degree grand larceny, a felony offense. He was arraigned before Acting County Court Judge Jennifer and entered a plea of not guilty, according to online court records. Notably, Cagno was released without bail, as the charge does not carry bail eligibility under New York law. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 22.

The investigation surrounding this case highlights the ongoing concerns regarding transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office is urging any individuals who believe they may have been victimized by Cagno to come forward and report their experiences.

The fallout from such incidents raises important questions about the oversight of police officers and the measures in place to protect the integrity of law enforcement within the community. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for abuse of trust among those sworn to serve and protect their fellow citizens.

For those seeking further information or wishing to report misconduct related to this case, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office can be contacted at (631) 853-4626.