Manchester Brothers Sworn To Protect And Serve Their Hometown

MANCHESTER, NJ — Law enforcement is often a family profession, with sons and daughters following fathers or mothers into the line of duty.

It's rare, however, to have two brothers join the police force at the same time. On Monday, however, the Meaney brothers did just that.

Jonathan and Julian Meaney, who grew up in Manchester and have deep ties to the community, were sworn in by Mayor Kenneth Palmer as patrol officers.

"When two local kids, brothers, get hired, that's a great thing," Palmer said Monday night at the Township Council meeting. "They went through our schools. It's great to see them joining our police department."

"It is a rare and special event when two brothers, both highly qualified and recommended, find themselves hired by a law enforcement agency at the same time," Chief Lisa Parker said. "Officers Jonathan and Julian Meaney scored within one point of each other during our most recent hiring process, putting them next in line to join our ranks. Given their impressive resumes, which include years of service to Manchester Township beginning at a young age, I’m proud to welcome them to our department."

Jonathan Meaney, 22, graduated from Manchester Township High School in 2016 and earned a bachelor's degree in sports management from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 2020, graduating summa cum laude, in the top percentile of his class, and earned dean's list recognition every semester. He was inducted into three national honor societies. At the same time, Jonathan remained involved in the Manchester community, volunteering his time to Little League teams during winter workouts, and working for the Recreation Department as a wrestling instructor and lifeguard at Harry Wright Lake.

Julian Meaney, 30, graduated from Manchester Township High School in 2009 and completed his bachelor’s degree in biology from Elizabethtown College in 2014. An accomplished wrestler, Julian founded the Youth Wrestling Club for Manchester Township and coached varsity wrestling alongside his brother. Julian previously served as a corrections officer with the Garden State Youth Correctional Facility. Julian also has worked at the Harry Wright summer camp for 15 years.

"Because they grew up here, they already have a circle of friends who trust them," Palmer said, noting that connection to community is an important factor in being an effective police officer.

Parker led the swearing-in ceremony, explaining the department's hiring process began in June 2019, when approximately 125 individuals submitted their applications for employment. For the first phase, applicants participated in the physical agility examination held at Manchester Township High School. This grueling test consisted of pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1-mile run. Those applicants who achieved a passing score advanced to the boxing component.

About 70 applicants who completed all portions of the physical exam were invited to participate in the written examination phase. From there, the top scorers went before the Oral Board for extensive interviews. Those candidates considered for employment underwent a thorough background investigation and submitted to medical, psychological, and drug screenings.

"Only those individuals who are truly dedicated to excelling in the law enforcement profession and can meet the high standards of our pre-employment testing are considered to join the ranks of the Manchester Township Police Department," Parker said.

The brothers will enter the Ocean County Police Academy on Friday. Following the academy, they will begin the Manchester Township Police Department’s intensive 12-week Field Training and Evaluation Program, where they will be instructed and mentored by several highly trained officers.

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