4 Police Officers Promoted In Brick

BRICK, NJ — Four Brick Township police officers took their oaths as they were promoted to new roles.

The promotions were part of the Brick Township Council meeting on June 9.

Acting Police Chief Henry Drew read each of the officer's biographies before Mayor Lisa Crate swore each into their new positions. Capt. Jason Matthews was promoted to deputy chief; Lt. Vincent Coburn was promoted to captain; Sgt. William Vendrell was promoted to lieutenant, and Officer Scott Mesmer was promoted to sergeant.

Matthews served as a member of the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) from 2007 to 2025 and was the SERT commander from 2021 to 2025. He also commanded the Marine Unit from 2015 to 2025. Over the course of his career Matthews has received four Meritorious Service Awards, two Grand Cordon Awards, the Patrolman Kris DeMarco Award, the Lieutenant McNelis Award, and numerous Chief’s Certificates. He will serves as the Operations Division commander.

Coburn served as a member of the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) from 1997 to 2020 and also held the position of SERT commander. Since December 2016, Coburn has served in the Administrative Services Division and the Professional Standards Unit. He has earned numerous honors, including Police Officer of the Year, the Meritorious Service Award, the Grand Cordon Award, the Life Saving Award, and multiple Chief’s Certificates.

Vendrell had served as a sergeant since 2018 and has made training and officer development a cornerstone of patrol operations. He recently assumed the role of Field Training coordinator for the department. Vendrell has received 17 departmental award citations, including the Thomas McNelis Leadership Award, the Valor Award, Meritorious Service Awards, and Life Saving Awards.

Mesmer has served in the Traffic Safety Unit, where he led investigations into numerous serious and fatal motor vehicle crashes within Brick Township. In addition to his patrol responsibilities, Mesmer has served as a Field Training Officer, drone operator, crisis negotiator, humane law enforcement officer, and police boat operator with the department’s Marine Unit. He has received a Meritorious Service Award, a Grand Cordon Award, numerous Chief’s Certificates, and many letters of commendation.

"The Brick Township Police Department congratulates all four officers on their well-earned promotions," the department said on its Facebook page. "We wish them continued success in their new supervisory roles and thank them for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the residents of Brick Township. Stay safe, and thank you for your service to our community."