MANCHESTER, NJ — The Manchester Township Police Department recently celebrated several important career milestones, recognizing the dedication and service of its officers through a promotion, departmental transfers and the addition of a new patrol officer.

The ceremony, held April 15 at the Manchester Township Municipal Complex, brought together family members, friends, fellow officers, Mayor Joseph Hankins and members of the Township Council to recognize the officers and their accomplishments.

One of the highlights was the promotion of Detective Michael Steffen to the rank of sergeant. Anthony Irizarry was also officially sworn in as a new patrol officer, while Sgt. Joseph Fastige and Patrolman Nicholas Greenwood transferred to the department’s Investigations Bureau. Fastige will serve as a detective sergeant.

Michael Steffen Promoted To Sergeant

Steffen began his law enforcement career with the Mercer County Park Rangers before joining the Manchester Township Police Department in 2013.

A graduate of Stockton University, he distinguished himself at the police academy, earning the High Overall Award.

Throughout his career, Steffen has served in both the Patrol and Investigations bureaus, taking on a variety of specialized assignments, including detective, SWAT operator and investigator specializing in arson and animal cruelty cases.

He also serves as a lead departmental instructor and committee member. His dedication and service have earned him more than 30 awards and commendations, including recognition for meritorious service and lifesaving efforts.

New Officer Anthony Irizarry Joins Manchester Police

Irizarry was officially sworn in as a Manchester Township patrol officer.

A summa cum laude graduate of Ocean County College with a degree in criminal justice, Irizarry brings previous law enforcement experience to the department.

He began his career as a special law enforcement officer in Point Pleasant Beach before becoming a full-time officer with the Galloway Township Police Department in 2022.

During his time in Galloway, he earned several honors, including two Life Saving Awards and Rookie of the Year recognition.

Irizarry also holds a New Jersey State Seal of Biliteracy certification and is expected to begin field training in Manchester.

Fastige And Greenwood Transfer To Investigations

Two experienced members of the department are also taking on new responsibilities within the Investigations Bureau.

Joseph Fastige began his law enforcement career with the Seaside Heights Police Department in 2008 before joining Manchester in 2011.

Over the years, he has served in the Patrol Bureau, Narcotics Enforcement and Investigations Bureau. His experience includes managing major investigations, serving as the department’s social media manager and instructing in the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Program.

Fastige holds a master’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and has received more than 20 departmental awards, along with three Chief’s Awards.

Nicholas Greenwood joined the Manchester Township Police Department in 2013 as a special law enforcement officer before becoming a full-time patrolman in 2015.

A graduate of East Stroudsburg University, Greenwood has served in both patrol and investigations, along with specialized assignments as a SWAT operator and firearms instructor.

His experience in tactical training and departmental safety has earned him more than 15 honors, including the Medal of Honor and Silver Medal of Valor.

Chief Thanks Township Officials For Their Support

Police Chief Antonio Ellis congratulated the officers and expressed appreciation to township leadership for its continued support of the department.

Ellis explained that the hiring, promotion and transfers were necessary to maintain appropriate staffing levels following recent retirements and promotions.

He also wished the officers continued success as they move forward in their law enforcement careers and continue serving Manchester Township residents.

The ceremony served as an opportunity to recognize not only individual accomplishments, but also the commitment and teamwork that help keep the Manchester Township Police Department moving forward.

Congratulations to all the officers on their well-deserved achievements and new assignments!