Long Branch Cop Charged With Sexual Misconduct: Prosecutor

A Long Branch cop was charged with sexual contact and harassment stemming from an incident Feb. 1, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni announced.

The charges stem from actions at Jack's Goal Line Stand, where a private party occurred after the Long Branch police promotion ceremony, Gramiccioni said.

Patrick D. Joyce allegedly touched a 21-year-old woman without her consent for his own sexual arousal or gratification, Gramiccioni said. Joyce, 35, was charged with fourth-degree criminal sexual contact and harassment, a petty disorderly persons offense, Gramiccioni said.

Joyce, if convicted, faces up to 18 months in state prison for criminal sexual contact and up to 30 days in county jail for harassment, Gramiccioni said. Joyce is scheduled to make his first appearance in Monmouth County Superior Court on March 15, according to the prosecutor.

Long Branch Police Department has suspended Joyce, Gramiccioni said. He has been with the department for 12 years, according to the prosecutor.

Photo: Shutterstock