Jackson Township, NJ – The Jackson Township Police Department gathered in full force to celebrate the careers and retirement of Sergeant Michael Grochowski and Lieutenant Fred Meabe, two longtime officers whose decades of service left a lasting impact on both the department and the community they served.
The ceremony opened with remarks recognizing the officers’ years of dedication, as colleagues, officials, and family members filled the room.
Both men were honored by Chief of Police Matthew Kunz for their years of dedication and involvement in charitable endeavors in the township.
Chief Kunz described Sergeant Grochowski as one the greatest ambassadors of the Jackson Police Department of all time.
Sergeant Grochowski, who joined the department in 1998 after earning the high overall award at the police academy, was celebrated for his broad service history.
“I didn’t grow up in Jackson, but Jackson is my home,” Sgt. Grochowski said, thanking the town for the opportunity to serve and thanking his co-workers and fellow officers. “I love working in Jackson Township and I love being a resident here.”
His career spanned roles as a field training officer, special response team member, and volunteer in 9/11 search-and-rescue efforts. Grochowski’s contributions extended beyond policing—he was known for his work in community affairs, annual toy drives, and the “Jake’s Got This” charity. He also gained recognition for acts of kindness, including assisting disabled residents and supporting cancer awareness initiatives.
Reflecting on his 28-year career, Grochowski expressed gratitude to his fellow officers and residents, saying he was proud to have built his life in Jackson. He received an honorable discharge certificate recognizing him as one of the department’s most dedicated ambassadors.
Lieutenant Meabe, a Jackson Memorial High School graduate, began his law enforcement journey in 1996 as a Class Two Special Police Officer before becoming a full-time officer in 2001.
Over the years, he served in numerous specialized assignments, including as field training officer, special response team member, and liaison to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Group.
Meabe was thanked by Chief Kunz as being the key organizer in the annual PBA 168 Pig Roast.
“If you know, you know,” Meabe said, joking about his public speaking skills. He thanked the township and other fellow officers for organizing the ceremony at town hall.
Promoted to sergeant in 2015 and later to lieutenant, Meabe became known for his work as public information officer and for expanding the department’s online presence.
During his retirement remarks, Meabe spoke candidly about the honor of serving his hometown and the influence of his family, particularly his father’s pride in his chosen career. He urged younger officers to support one another, address the emotional challenges of police work, and check in on retired colleagues.
“It’s been an honor doing this job, protecting and serving this town, being a kid from Brooklyn,” Meabe said, crediting his father, who raise him after his mother passed for his values, holding back tears. “He was there for my promotion to Sgt. and would have been so proud to be here today.”
Lieutenant Rodriguez, speaking on behalf of the union, praised both retirees for their lasting impact, highlighting Meabe’s decade-long leadership of the Jackson PBA’s annual Pig Roast fundraiser and Grochowski’s compassionate outreach to local families.