The Manchester Township Police Department has welcomed two new patrol officers, Michael Batullo Jr. and Casey Jacoby, who were officially sworn in during the Township Council meeting on July 27.

Officer Batullo brings several years of law enforcement and emergency medical experience to the department. He began his policing career with the Beachwood Police Department in 2018, where he served in a number of specialized assignments, including Traffic Safety Officer, Drug Recognition Expert, and Field Training Officer. He also worked with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Fatal Accident Support Team and Narcotics Strike Force. In addition, Batullo serves as Captain of the Beachwood First Aid Squad.

Officer Jacoby, a Toms River native, began his public safety career as an ocean lifeguard in 2019 before entering law enforcement in 2024 with the Seaside Park Police Department as a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II. In 2025, he joined the Old Bridge Township Police Department as a full-time patrol officer. Jacoby also holds certifications in radar operation, emergency medical response, CPR/AED, advanced first aid, and ocean lifeguarding.

Manchester Township Police Chief Antonio Ellis welcomed the new officers, saying their experience and training will allow them to immediately contribute to serving the township’s residents. He also thanked Mayor Joseph Hankins, the Township Council, and township administration for their continued support of the department.

Both officers will now begin the Manchester Township Police Department’s Field Training and Evaluation Program, where they will receive additional hands-on instruction and mentorship before beginning full patrol duties.