The above photo depicts (from left to right) Officer Irving Excel #3, Chief Patrick J. Geraghty #1 (Retired), John “Herb” Zahn, Captain Albert Chick #5 (Retired), Sergeant John C. Parker #2 (Retired), Officer Elmer J. Brown #4 (July 1961).
The Lacey Township Police Department regrets to announce the passing of former Lacey Township Special Police Officer Elmer J. Brown, #4, who passed away on January 25, 2021 at the age of 94. Officer Brown began his service with Lacey Twp. Police in 1959, as he was one of five originating members, who were appointed at the establishment of our agency. The original five members of Lacey Police were hired, part time, as Special Police Officers. This continued until approximately 1961, when Chief Patrick J. Geraghty, badge #1, established a full time Police Department. The title of, “Special Officer,” differs from the current Special Officer title, which we utilize today.
Officer Brown was born in Milltown, NJ, prior to moving to Ocean County, and was a well respected, long time, Lacey Twp. Resident. In addition to his service with Lacey Police, Officer Brown was employed by the State of New Jersey at the Forked River State Marina, where he worked as a Maintenance Worker and Boat Operator. Officer Brown often enjoyed gardening, and crafting in his workshop.
We thank Officer Brown for his dedicated commitment and service to our community, and extend our sincere condolences to his family.
Special Police Officer Elmer J. Brown, #4
1927 – 2021
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Officer Brown’s memory can be made to the Ocean County Animal Shelter at 360 Haywood Road, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.
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I would like to thank Lacey Township Police Officer Michael Hutman for providing this information and photo.
-Chief Michael C. DiBella