Manchester Officers Promoted, Honored For Service To Town

MANCHESTER, NJ — Manchester Township officials honored members of the police department at a ceremony that highlighted promotions and the longtime service of officers.

Detective Patrick Cervenak and Patrolman Jason Wiener both were promoted to sergeant, while Patrolman Robert Maccaquano attained the rank of corporal, officials said. Also honored was Patrolman Thomas Chant, who became a detective in the Investigations Bureau during the June 18 ceremony in the Municipal Complex Civic Center.

The officers were honored by Police Chief Antonio Ellis, Mayor Joseph Hankins, members of the Township Council and administration, as well as family, friends, and guests.

"These individuals have earned their roles and recognitions, as they have continually demonstrated their commitment to serving the Manchester Township community," Ellis said.

Cervenak began his law enforcement career in 2007 with the Manchester Township Police Department. He served in the Patrol Division until May 2023, when he was selected to join the Investigations Bureau, where he served as a detective. In 2020, he earned his master’s degree in criminal justice from California Coast University. Cervenak has received more than 20 awards and commendations, including the Chief’s Award, Valor Award, Meritorious Service awards, Exceptional Duty awards, citizen commendations, and positive performance notices over his career.

Wiener began his law enforcement career in 2011 with the Manchester Township Police Department and was assigned to the Patrol Division until his promotion. He has received two Honorable Service Awards, the Administrative Commendation Award, Chief’s Recognition Award, Lifesaving awards, the Kimberly Smith Ames DWI Award and MADD Award, and various Unit Citations. He earned his master’s degree in criminal justice from California Coast University in 2020.

Maccaquano, who earned the designation of corporal, was hired in 2005 was hired by the Manchester Township Police Department and assigned to the Patrol Division. In addition to his positions as a detective and patrol officer, he held several specialized assignments including: firearms instructor, in-service departmental instructor in the areas of use of force, active killer response, critical incidents, and range safety. He has received a Life Saving Award, two Meritorious Service Awards, two Honorable Service awards, Unit Citations, Education Award, and Pistol Distinguished Expert Award.

Chant, who had been a patrol officer, was hired by the Manchester Township Police Department in 2013. He previously was assigned to a part-time position in the Investigations Bureau and given a caseload in addition to his patrol responsibilities in 2021. Chant also has served as a firearms background investigator, field training officer, and as a member of the department’s Accreditation team.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mayor Hankins, members of the Township Council, and Township Administration for their continued support of our police department and our mission to serve our residents to the highest possible level," Ellis said. "We wish each officer success as they continue their law enforcement careers in service of Manchester Township and its residents."