Former toms river police pio suing township for damages, hired by ocean county with huge pay increase

Former Toms River Police PIO Suing Township for Damages, Hired by Ocean County with Huge Pay Increase

September 4, 2025
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TOMS RIVER, NJ – Jillian Messina, the former Public Information Officer for the Toms River Police Department is suing Toms River township for wrongful termination, but has landed on her feet with a lucrative new job as the Director of Public Affairs for Ocean County.

Messina, in her lawsuit claims that she was wrongfully terminated by the township during the township wide downsizing in 2024.

According to public records, Messina earned $57,000 per year working for Toms River before her position was eliminated in a cost-cutting measure by Mayor Daniel Rodrick.

Her new position replaces Donna Flynn, who retired from the job at a salary of $157,000 per year. County officials did not disclose Messina’s salary at Wednesday’s announcement at the public hearing.

Messina is suing the township and seeks payment for damages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, punitive damages, and legal fees.

Shore News Network

Shore News Network

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