Little Sworn in As Toms River’s New Police Chief

Toms River's new Police Chief takes the oath of office. Captain Mitch Little signed formal documents and was sworn in during a ceremony at town hall Monday morning. Mayor Tom Kelaher said it was necessary to swear in Captain Little ahead of time "so that there is no interruption in leadership at the Township Police Department."

Kelaher explained, "The first of this year, Mitch Little will assume the duties of Toms River Police Chief, with a ceremonial swearing in on January 7th at the Council re-organization meeting."  Also during the re-organization meeting, Township Council members Maria Maruca, Jeff Carr, Al Manforti and Brian Kubiel are being sworn to new terms.

Little will immediately assume the post when outgoing Chief Mike Mastronardy's retirement becomes effective on December 31 at 11:59 p.m. Mastronardy will be stepping into his new role as Ocean County Sheriff on January 1st.

On Monday, Little told WOBM News Anchor Megan Madison that he was left with a department that's in very good condition and list his priorities as trying to hire more personnel, recruit residents to file police reports online and to complete its in-car camera project.

The oath becomes effective on January 1st following Chief Mike Mastronardy's retirement.