One of the three NYPD detectives accused of stealing champagne from JAY-Z has admitted guilt and will resign from the police force. Detective Wojciech Czech, along with Jonathan Gonzalez and Warren Golden, is alleged to have stolen two bottles of champagne valued at $2,900 while patrolling for drugs at the Electric Zoo Music Festival on Randall’s Island.
Czech’s admission has resulted in a plea deal where he will face a misdemeanor petty larceny charge and perform 15 days of community service. He will also resign from the NYPD. Gonzalez and Czech face charges of grand larceny and criminal possession of stolen property. Golden and Gonzalez are additionally charged with official misconduct for failing to intervene during the theft.
District Attorney Bragg emphasized the importance of integrity within law enforcement, stating, “In addition to the alleged theft that occurred, none of these Officers stepped up and stopped this activity. Public confidence in the criminal justice system depends on members of law enforcement acting with the utmost integrity while on duty and following the same rules that apply to everyone else.”
In May 2023, Bragg initially indicted the detectives. At that time, Czech and his attorney were vocal about his innocence. Attorney Oliver Storch commented, “(My client) is shocked and saddened by these allegations. He has pleaded not guilty and asks the public to withhold judgment until the charges can be fully addressed in the appropriate forum. Detective Czech loves being in the business of protecting and saving lives.”
Before Czech’s recent admission, Gonzalez had also confessed to his involvement in the theft and resigned from the NYPD.