The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has officially assumed full command and control of the Pine Beach Police Department, effective Friday, July 17, 2026, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

According to Billhimer, the move comes after the retirement of Pine Beach Police Chief Keith Brown on December 31, 2025, which left the department without a permanent chief for more than six months.

“Pine Beach has been without a Chief of Police since Chief Keith Brown retired on December 31, 2025,” Billhimer said. “The departure of Chief Brown has left the Pine Beach Police Department without the appropriate level of leadership and supervision necessary to properly serve the residents of Pine Beach. It is imperative that we ensure the continuity of operations of the department to effectively maintain the safety and security of the borough’s residents.”

As part of the transition, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Casey M. Long has been appointed Officer-in-Charge of the Pine Beach Police Department. Day-to-day operations will be overseen by Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Lieutenant John Carroll, along with other senior members of the Prosecutor’s Office.

Billhimer praised the officers of the Pine Beach Police Department and recognized Acting Lt. Ryan Morris for his service leading the department since Chief Brown’s retirement.

The Prosecutor’s Office said it will conduct a comprehensive review of the department’s operations while implementing enhanced supervision, management, and accountability. Officials also plan to work with the Borough of Pine Beach to establish a long-term command structure and update departmental policies and procedures while ensuring uninterrupted public safety services throughout the summer and beyond.