An Ocean County man admitted in court today he stole over $10,000 in cash from the Howell Township municipal office where he served as director, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Christian Jackson, 45, of Jackson, pleaded guilty Thursday to one count of third degree Theft by Unlawful Taking in front of Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Richard W. English. Jackson admitted he stole $10,639 in cash receipts between February 2014 and June 2016, while serving as the Director of Land Use for Howell Township. The stolen cash was money the township received for permit applications from residents and businesses.

As part of his plea agreement with the State, this Office will recommend a term of probation at the time of sentencing. Jackson will also be prohibited from holding any public office, position or employment in the future. Jackson will forfeit his retirement benefits under the state’s Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and pay restitution in the amount of $10,639. Sentencing is scheduled for May 26, 2017 before Judge English.

The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Lawrence Nelsen.

Jackson is represented by Mitchell J. Ansell, Esq., of Ocean Township.

In November 2012, the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the leadership of Prosecutor Gramiccioni, launched a Corruption Tip Line designed to solicit the public’s assistance in identifying and targeting corruption, fraud and misconduct occurring in local governmental agencies.

Citizens may report concerns via the following: Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Corruption Tip Line – 855-7-UNJUST (855 786-5878); or E-mail at: corruption@co.monmouth.nj.us write “Corruption/Misconduct Tip” in the subject line.

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