Lanuza joins Mindek in enforcement of Connecticut’s laws
From Staff Reports
Liquor Control Director Richard Mindek III and Deputy Director Jenel Lanuza, Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection during a November 2025 conference.
Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection announced the appointment of Jenel Lanuza as deputy director of the Liquor Control Division, which became effective Sept. 21, 2026.
As deputy director, Lanuza will oversee day-to-day operations for enforcement and application inspections. She will serve as a primary management contact for enforcement matters, working closely with supervising agents and staff.
Lanuza brings nearly 30 years of experience to the role, having served in enforcement, casino operations, application inspections, supervision and special investigations. She began her career with the division as a college intern and went on to serve as a liquor control casino agent and casino agent supervisor at Mohegan Sun. She later worked in the Hartford office across multiple units before becoming a special agent focused on out-of-state shippers and the state’s price-posting system.
“Jenel has dedicated nearly her entire professional career to the Liquor Control Division, and there are very few people who know our work, our staff, and our industry as well as she does,” Director Richard Mindek said. “I have had the opportunity to work with Jenel for many years, and I am very pleased to welcome her into this leadership role. Her experience, judgment, and commitment to the Division will be invaluable.”
Jenel Lanuza, Deputy Director, Liquor Control Division, Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
The department also confirmed Mindek as the permanent director of the Liquor Control Division. Mindek and Lanuza will lead the division jointly to regulate Connecticut’s liquor industry.
“Our goal is to continue building a strong relationship with the industry based on communication, consistency, and mutual respect,” Mindek said. “Jenel and I are committed to working together and to making sure the Division continues to be accessible and responsive to the businesses and professionals we regulate.”
Lanuza holds a Bachelor of Science degree in law enforcement administration from the University of New Haven. She has lived in Waterford for 25 years and has three children. ■
