NEW HAVEN, Conn. -- The former head of the New Haven police narcotics unit has admitted stealing thousands of dollars planted by the FBI during a sting operation.

Former Lt. William White has pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to conspiracy to commit bribery and theft of government property. He faces 37 to 46 months in prison under federal guidelines.

He admitted taking $14,000 planted by the FBI at investigation scenes. He also admitted taking $10,000 in bribes from bail bondsmen in return for capturing fugitives.

White was told the money belonged to a drug dealer. He took the cash from the trunk of a rental car and wrote "estupido" on the bag that contained the money.

"His hood is up and you can see him go to the trunk and get the money and again, he's a law enforcement officer, and to see him take the money out and go back a second time," said FBI special agent Kathy Mertz.

White was also ordered to return the stolen money and turn over another $10,000 he accepted in bribes.

The 63-year-old White was fired after his arrest.

"I think it's clearly because of greed and it's a pity because he had a highly respected career of all accounts -- more than 30 years of service, and now he's going to end his career in shame," said U.S. States Attorney Kevin O'Connor.

He will remain free on a $2 million bond until his sentencing in January.

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