PBA Addresses Community Trust After South Brunswick Cop Charged With Stealing Union Money

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ – The president of South Brunswick PBA Local 166 addressed the community following criminal charges against the union's treasurer, emphasizing that one officer's alleged actions do not reflect the values of the organization or its members.

Abraham "Jason" Gassman, who served as treasurer since 2009, has been charged with stealing more than $75,000 from the police union over six years, according to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago. The investigation began after Gassman was caught shoplifting bedding from an Ocean Township store and fled in his police vehicle.

Gerald Sarno, President of South Brunswick PBA Local 166, directly addressed the impact of the charges on public trust in a statement to the community, acknowledging the serious nature of the allegations while defending the integrity of his organization.

"Our mission has always been to serve, protect, and support our members and the South Brunswick community with the highest standards of professionalism and accountability," Sarno said. "The alleged behavior at the center of this investigation stands in direct contradiction to everything we embody as police officers and as a Benevolent Association."

Sarno emphasized that the union remains committed to transparency and ethical practices despite the charges against Gassman. He stressed the importance of the relationships built with community members and the responsibility that comes with serving as police officers.

"We are proud to serve every individual in our vibrant South Brunswick community. It is a privilege that we do not take lightly, and it deserves our deepest respect and unwavering dedication," he said. "The strong relationships we've built, along with the continued support of our residents, have empowered us to drive meaningful, lasting change both within our organization and throughout the community we are honored to protect."

While unable to comment on specific details of the active legal matter, Sarno made clear that the union's commitment to accountability remains unwavering.

Read More Here: Shoplifting Investigation Reveals South Brunswick Cop Stole $75K From Own Union: Prosecutor

The charges against Gassman stem from his role as treasurer, where he had exclusive control over the PBA chapter's finances. Prosecutors allege he exploited this position through unauthorized personal purchases on the PBA credit card and theft of cash from charity fundraisers and union events over six years.

According to investigators, Gassman's personal purchases included home improvement items such as patio furniture, storage containers, and vacuums, as well as propane gas, a leaf blower, televisions, a home gym kit, a microwave, luggage, and food. In one instance, he allegedly used the PBA credit card for business trip expenses, then sought reimbursement from the Police Department for the same costs.

When questioned by PBA leadership, Gassman allegedly submitted false documents claiming he had repaid personal purchases and changed the PBA credit card password, locking out other union leaders from the account.

Gassman surrendered to authorities on Wednesday and is being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution pending court proceedings.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com