Manchester Welcomes New Patrol Officer

MANCHESTER, NJ — The Manchester Township Police Department welcomed a new police officer on Monday when Patrolman Conner Ferino was sworn into the force.

Ferino, who grew up in Manchester, was accompanied by his parents as he took the oath of office administered by Mayor Robert Arace.

He is studying criminal justice at Rutgers University and started his law enforcement career in 2022 as a Class I special officer in Point Pleasant Beach. He graduated in the recent class at the Ocean County Police Academy, where he achieved the High Overall award in recognition of his outstanding performance in firearms proficiency, physical fitness, and academics.

"When a new patrolman joins the Manchester Township Police Department, our residents can rest assured that top-tier candidates like Patrolman Ferino are selected to represent our agency," Chief Robert Dolan said. "Only those individuals who are truly dedicated to excelling in the service of their community can successfully navigate our department’s intensive hiring process."

That process, which for this position started in July 2023, included the department's physical agility exam at Manchester Township High School. It consisted of pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and a one-mile run. Those who passed advanced to the boxing component. Applicants who completed all portions of the physical exam then participated in the written examination, the department said.

From there, the top scorers went before the oral board for extensive interviews. The select candidates considered for employment underwent a thorough background investigation and submitted to medical, psychological, and drug screenings.

Ferino will begin the Manchester Police Department’s intensive 12-week Field Training and Evaluation Program, during which time he will be instructed and mentored by several highly trained officers.

"I’m confident that Patrolman Ferino will serve the residents of our community with honor and integrity," Dolan said.

Image 1: Conner Ferino taking the oath of office, administered by Mayor Robert Arace, accompanied by his mother and father.

Image 2: L to R : Captain Vincent Manco, Chief Robert Dolan, Patrolman Conner Ferino, Mayor Robert Arace, Councilman Joseph Hankins.