The Manchester Township Police Department has announced the hiring of Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II Rachel Morris, who was sworn in during Monday’s Manchester Township Council meeting.

Morris took her oath of office before Mayor Joseph Hankins during the meeting, formally joining the department.

A native of Lakewood who was raised in Manchester, Morris graduated from Manchester High School in 2021. During her time there, she was actively involved in athletics, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in both track and soccer. She also served as captain of the soccer team and was named the team’s Most Valuable Player twice.

After high school, Morris attended Lock Haven University, where she earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice. While at the university, she was named to the Dean’s List and also played on the women’s soccer team during her freshman year.

Following her graduation in 2024, Morris began her law enforcement career with the Seaside Heights Police Department as a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class I. In 2025, she attended the Ocean County Police Academy while continuing her service with the department as a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II.

“It is always rewarding when we can welcome a Manchester resident, who grew up in our community, to serve in our police department and contribute to their hometown,” said Manchester Township Police Chief Antonio Ellis. “I would like to thank Mayor Hankins, members of the Township Council, and Township Administration for their continued support of our police department’s mission to provide our residents with the highest possible level of service. We all wish SLEO II Morris a safe and successful law enforcement career here in Manchester Township.”

Morris will now begin the Manchester Township Police Department’s Field Training and Evaluation Program, where she will receive instruction and mentorship from experienced officers as she prepares for her new role with the department.