Stafford Officers Sweep Top Spots At Ocean County Police Academy Graduation

STAFFORD, NJ — The Stafford Township Police Department celebrated the graduation of four new SLEO II Officers from the Ocean County Police Academy Basic Recruit Class #123 on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Officers John Hart, Christopher Cormann, Daniel Moran and Kevin Moran successfully completed six months of academic instruction, physical conditioning and practical training.

These officers will begin the next phase of their careers in the department's Field Training Program. This program involves about three months of structured field training, during which they will continue to refine their skills.

Cormann received both the High Overall Award and the High Physical Fitness Award for Class #123. The overall class rankings were determined by a comprehensive scoring system that included physical fitness performance, firearms proficiency and academic achievement.

Out of 64 total recruits in the class, Stafford Township’s four officers earned the top four overall positions, placing 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th overall.

"This remarkable accomplishment reflects not only their individual work ethic, but also the teamwork, preparation, and competitive drive that pushed each of them to excel in every measured category," police said.

Class #123 was coordinated by retired Lieutenant John Tate, whose recent passing has impacted the law enforcement community. The department said that Tate dedicated countless hours to shaping the next generation of officers.

The graduates are among the many who benefited from his leadership, mentorship and commitment to the profession. The department added that his legacy continues through the men and women he helped prepare for service.

The Stafford Township Police Department said the new officers will serve the residents of Stafford Township with professionalism, integrity and pride.