Jackson Township Mayor Jennifer Kuhn issued a strong statement Thursday following the reported arrest of township Planning Board attorney Robert Shea Jr., calling for his immediate removal and announcing plans to terminate the township’s relationship with his law firm.

“I am horrified to learn about the arrest and alleged crimes committed by Jackson Township’s planning board attorney, Robert Shea, Jr.,” Kuhn stated. “If true, he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The mayor formally called on the Planning Board to remove Shea from his position and said she is moving to terminate the township’s relationship with his law firm effective immediately.

Kuhn acknowledged that she has known Shea and his family for years, describing the accusations as a “complete and utter shock” to her and many others throughout Ocean County.

She concluded by expressing sympathy for Shea’s family, as well as the reported victims and their families, who she said are dealing with unimaginable pain.

The accusations remain unproven, and Shea is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.