2 Cops In Asbury Park Busted; One Fired, Another Suspended

Two Asbury Park police officers are facing multiple charges related to two separate incidents, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni announced on Wednesday.

Asbury Park Police Officer Stephen Martinsen, 29, and Special Law Enforcement Officer Thomas Dowling, 26, both of Asbury Park, were charged with two counts each of third-degree conspiracy and other charges connected to vandalizing cars, according to the MCPO.

Martinsen has been part of the department since 2013, starting as a special law enforcement officer in May 2013 and then becoming a full-time member of the force since July 2017. Dowling has been an officer since May 2015, according to the MCPO.

The charges stem from two separate incidents of vandalism involving two vehicles: one vehicle in Ocean Grove and one in Asbury Park, occurring between 3 and 4 a.m. on Tuesday, according to the MCPO.

Martinsen and Dowling purposely damaged both vehicles, both owned by the same person, the MCPO said. The vehicle owner had filed an administrative complaint against both officers several days before the vandalism incidents.

“The vast majority of law enforcement officers perform their duties with integrity and honor. However, when a police officer takes advantage of the very citizens they are sworn to protect, it erodes public confidence and violates the public’s trust. Such behavior will never be acceptable or tolerated. If these charges prove to be true, this is the quintessential definition of a breach of trust between law enforcement and the public,” said Gramiccioni.

As a result of these charges, Martinsen has been suspended without pay and Dowling’s employment with the city of Asbury Park has been terminated.

“The Asbury Park Police Department would like to thank the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office for their professionalism and swift action regarding the matter surrounding these two officers. Their behavior is not acceptable and does not represent the level of professionalism, community focus or resident safety that we expect of our officers. We will not let the actions of these officers overshadow the great work and dedication by the men and women of this department,” said Asbury Park Police Chief David Kelso.

The two officers were also charged with two counts each of third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose (knife), two counts each of fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon (knife) and two counts each of fourth-degree criminal mischief.

If convicted of third degree charges, Martinsen and Dowling face up to 20 years in New Jersey State Prison. If convicted of fourth degree charges, Martinsen and Dowling face 72 months in prison.