Former NYPD Detective Resigns After Champagne Theft at Electric Zoo Festival
In a surprising turn of events, former NYPD narcotics detective Wojciech Czech, 45, has resigned after pleading guilty to stealing champagne bottles worth thousands of dollars at the Electric Zoo Festival 2022. Czech was supposed to be patrolling for drugs at the festival, but instead, he found himself embroiled in a theft scandal.
The Theft Incident and Plea Deal
During a brief hearing in Manhattan Criminal Court, Czech pleaded guilty to one misdemeanor theft charge as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. In exchange for his resignation and completion of 15 days of community service, Czech can clear his criminal record. The incident took place in September 2022 while Czech was working with the Drug Enforcement Agency in northern Manhattan.
Repercussions and Resolution
Czech, along with two other detectives, was accused of stealing two bottles of Armand de Brignac champagne from the festival. The stolen champagne, worth $2,900 per bottle, was hidden in Czech’s backpack. The detectives were caught by a vigilant concertgoer, and the bottles were confiscated by festival security. Czech’s attorney, Oliver Storch, commended his client’s service but acknowledged the need for resolution in the case.
Following the incident, Czech’s plea deal closed the case against him, with the two other detectives facing demotion and disciplinary charges. The NYPD spokesperson confirmed that one of the officers involved has since retired, signaling the end of this unfortunate chapter.
Overall, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and integrity in law enforcement, and serves as a cautionary tale for those entrusted with upholding the law.
