Police Chief Robert Brice Sworn In

Police Chief Robert Brice took the oath of his new office at the Township Committee's regular meeting Wednesday.

With a meeting room swelled to standing room only with police officers from Wall Township, Manasquan and other towns, and ushered in by a pipe band, Brice was sworn in as the township's police chief.

Brice, a 15-year veteran of the Wall Police Department, following closed-door interviews for the post.

Flanked by his wife and two children, Brice took the oath of office, which was followed by an eruption of applause from the packed meeting room.

Brice, who spoke candidly and without a prepared statement, addressed the crowd of supporters.

"I'm truly humbled to be chosen to lead this department,'' Brice said. "It is -- and most chiefs say their department is the best -- mine is the best. And I really believe that. I'm proud to work with all these guys, all our EMTs, all our dispatchers and all our civilian staff and we're going to continue to offer Wall Township the best service avaialable."

Brice's father, Robert Sr., was a Wall Township police officer, reaching the rank of Detective Lieutenant. Brice Park on Allenwood Road is named for the senior Brice.

The younger Brice started with the Wall Township Police Department as a patrolman in 1996, having finished a 6-year stint in Manasquan. He made Sergeant in 2003 and Lieutenant in 2007.  

Brice holds a master's degree in Administrative Services from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He has an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from Seton Hall University. 

Brice also holds graduate certificates in Emergency Management Administration, Global Security & Terrorism Studies, Administrative Science and Criminal Justice.

During his time with the Department, Brice has received numerous commendations for his actions including performing a life-saving CPR in 2001, apprehension of two home invasion robbery suspects in 2003 and his performance after a mass casualty plane crash in 2010, among others.

The Police Department’s top spot had been open since . Morris, who ended a 26-year career with the department, was paid a $161,128 salary in 2009.

Police Capt. Tim Clayton took over as superior officer when Morris left the department.  He was paid $152,956 in 2009, according to state records.

Brice will be paid a salary of $165,000, township officials have said.