Toms River police wished an 18-year veteran of the force the best in his retirement, while promoting another officer and swearing in two more Tuesday night.
Sgt. Timothy M. Sysol bid an emotional farewell to his fellow officers and thanked his family for their support over his career, which included prestigious posts on the department’s Emergency Services Unit, including his role as the leader of its sniper team. He also served as a field training officer and led the midnight shift.
Moments later, the department’s newest sergeant was sworn in – Sgt. Vincent Pedalino – who was formally promoted to the rank. Pedalino, a lifelong Toms River resident who was also a noted student athlete in high school and college, is following in his family’s footsteps, Chief Mitch Little said. His father was a deputy chief in the Dover Township (Toms River) department and his law enforcement roots go back to his grandfather, who was an Essex County officer.
The force also welcomes two new officers who were sworn in and will now begin work. Officers David A. Talty, a Manchester native, and Michael Rienstra, who grew up in Cherry Hill, received their badges and were joined by family members during the ceremony.