New York-based First Niagara’s profits fell in the second quarter following the acquisition of New Haven’s NewAlliance Bank. Net income decreased to $13.6 million compared to the $20 million reported during the same time last year.

The decrease in second quarter net income reflects acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, according to a statement.

"While our New England team successfully completed the NewAlliance conversion, seamlessly converting 350,000 customer accounts in Connecticut and Massachusetts, our continuing focus on our customers and all of the markets we serve again resulted in very strong loan and deposit growth," said First Niagara President and CEO John R. Koelmel. "Even as we expect economic and regulatory headwinds to continue to buffet the industry at large, we are confident in continuing to deliver strong results by executing effectively and with discipline."

While net income was down, First Niagara’s operating earnings improved during the second quarter. First Niagara reported operating earnings of $71.2 million, an increase compared to $44.9 million reported during the second quarter of 2010.