Fairfield Police Arrest Detective After Probe Into Missing Evidence

Fairfield police said they have reviewed their policy and have implemented stricter guidelines regarding evidence.

March 27, 2017

A police detective has been arrested after an investigation into missing drug evidence, police said.

Detective Stephen Rilling, 40, was charged with possession of narcotics, forgery and tampering with evidence, among other charges. Rilling, who had been placed on administrative leave, was released after posting $5,000 bail.

Fairfield police said they first became aware of Rilling's actions on April 12, although the allegations stem from conduct between June 2016 and February 2017. Police did not elaborate on the allegations.

Police Chief Gary MacNamara ordered an audit of the evidence room and found that other than the cases involving Rilling, all other evidence was accounted for, police said. Police also noted Rilling's access to the evidence room was through the property officer, who thought the removal of evidence was for valid purposes, police said.

The Connecticut Post reported that Rilling is the son of Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling.

"This incident has troubled all of us within the organization, as we know it will the community as well," the release by Fairfield Police Department said. "It was our responsibility to ensure that this incident was immediately addressed and investigated."

Fairfield police said they have reviewed their policy and have implemented stricter guidelines regarding evidence.