Red Bank Mourns Passing Of Former Police Chief

RED BANK, NJ — The Red Bank community is mourning the passing of former Police Chief James Clayton, a law enforcement officer, leader, veteran, husband, father, and grandfather who dedicated decades of his life to serving the borough and its residents.

Chief Clayton first joined the Red Bank Police Department in 1970 following his honorable service in the U.S. Marine Corps, including his service in Vietnam.

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Upon joining the department, Clayton embarked on a distinguished career in law enforcement, current Chief Michael Frazee said, rising through the ranks and ultimately holding every rank within the Red Bank Police Department.

"The Clayton family has a long and proud history within the ranks of the Red Bank Police Department," Frazee said. "Chief Clayton's career and commitment to the department represent an important part of that family legacy and the long tradition of service to the Borough of Red Bank."

Throughout his career, Clayton demonstrated "a strong commitment" to police work and to the community he served, the department said.

For a period of time, he oversaw the department's Criminal Investigations Division, where he investigated and supervised major criminal investigations.

His experience, knowledge, and leadership made him a respected member of the department and an important resource to the officers who served alongside him, Frazee said.

In 1995, Clayton was appointed Chief of the Red Bank Police Department, a position he proudly held until his retirement in 2003.

During his tenure as Chief, he continued to lead the department with "professionalism, dedication, and a deep commitment to the Borough of Red Bank."

"Chief Clayton's service to Red Bank extended far beyond his years in uniform," Frazee said. "To the members of the Red Bank Police Department, he will be remembered as a leader who dedicated his life to the profession and to the people he served."

"His legacy remains an important part of the history and tradition of the Red Bank Police Department."

Most importantly, Clayton was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen Clayton, to whom he was married for 53 years, and his two daughters, Jennifer Clayton Belcuore and Kristine Clayton Kuhlthau.

He was also a loving grandfather to 10 grandchildren, who meant the world to him, Frazee said.

In a statement, the members of the Red Bank Police Department extended their deepest condolences to the Clayton family during this difficult time.

"We ask the community to keep Ellen, Jennifer, Kristine, their families, and Chief Clayton's grandchildren in their thoughts and prayers," the department said.

Funeral arrangements for Clayton will be announced by the family.

A departmental funeral observance will be planned once arrangements have been finalized.

"Rest in peace, Chief Clayton," Frazee said. "Thank you for your service and your dedication to the Red Bank Police Department and the community you proudly served."