Police Department honors retiring officers, promotes 3 officers and welcomes 2 new officers at February 3 Township Council Meeting
February 4, 2025It was a special evening for the North Brunswick Township Police Department at the February 3 Township Council Meeting as it recognized the service of retiring police officers, celebrated the promotion of dedicated members of the department and welcomed 2 new officers.
“We celebrate the legacy of those who have served, the bright future of those stepping into new leadership roles and the promise of the newest officers,” Police Chief Joseph Battaglia said.
The officers honored on their retirement are: Lieutenant Greg Gyumolcs, Sergeant David Incle, Officer Ashley Bryan and Sergeant Darren Carroll.
Officers for promotion are: Lieutenant Paul Pappas, Sergeant Jason Vallese and Sergeant Sean Egan
The department’s newest officers are Police Officer Thomas Kushnir and Police Officer Matthew Thibault
Police Officer Retirements
Mayor Francis ‘Mac’ Womack said the retiring officers are names that “we hear time and time again associated with the best of our department. We are very sorry to lose them but they have given us immense pride over the years.”
Lt. Gyumolcs began his career with the department in January 1995, promoted to Sergeant in 2010 and Lieutenant in 2016. He served in the Patrol Division and Traffic Safety Bureau. He has received multiple letters and commendation and appreciation, 3 unit citations and 2 life saving awards.
Sgt. Incle began his career in January 2005 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2019. He served in the Patrol Division and Traffic Safety Bureau. He is the recipient of multiple letters of commendation and appreciation, 1 unit citation and 2 life saving awards.
Chief Battaglia said Lt. Gyumolcs and Sgt. Incle’s “leadership, professionalism and unwavering dedication to duty have left a lasting impact on their fellow officers and community they serve. Their experience and guidance will truly be missed.”
Officer Bryan began her career in November 2015. She has received multiple letters of commendation and 1 life saving award.
While serving the community, she was seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by a reckless driver traveling over 90 miles per hour and ran a red light.
“Ashley, your strength and resilience in the face of this tragedy is inspiring,” Chief Battaglia said. “Though your career was cut short, your impact on this department and the people you served will never be forgotten.”
Chief Battaglia recognized Sergeant Carroll, who began his career in January 2013. He retired in March 2024 due to injuries sustained in the line of duty. He was seriously injured while pursuing a fleeing suspect. Sgt. Carroll was struck by an automobile as the suspect recklessly crossed 6 lanes of traffic on Route 1.
“Darren, your bravery and sacrifice exemplified the courage it takes to wear the badge and we honor your dedication to protecting our community,” Chief Battaglia said.
Police Officer Promotions
Lt. Pappas joined the police department in July 2006 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2020. He has earned multiple letters of commendation, 3 unit citations, an exceptional service award and one life saving award.
Sgt. Vallese has been member of the department since 2006. He has earned multiple letters of commendation, 3 unit citations, an exceptional service award and 2 life saving awards.
Sgt. Egan has been a member of the department since July 2015. He has earned multiple letters of commendation, 3 unit citations and an exceptional service award.
New Police Officers
Newest police officers Kushnir and Thibault recently completed a rigorous 6 month Police Academy course, graduating on January 10.
Kushnir was born and raised in North Brunswick. He is a graduate of North Brunswick Township High School and went to Middlesex County College. His father is a retired North Brunswick police officer.
Thibault also is a North Brunswick Township High School graduate. He attended Alvernia University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
