New hire takes oath as Manchester brings on veteran officer

by Phil Stilton

Manchester Township, NJ – A veteran law enforcement officer stepped into a new chapter Monday as Manchester Township officials administered the oath to Patrolman Donald Miller during the Township Council meeting.

Ptl. Miller, 36, joins the department after nearly a decade of service across multiple New Jersey agencies.

The new officer enters Manchester’s Field Training and Evaluation Program under the guidance of senior personnel.


Key Points

  • Manchester Township hired Ptl. Donald Miller during Monday’s council meeting
  • Miller brings experience from Point Pleasant Beach and Jamesburg Borough police departments
  • The new patrolman begins intensive field training with ambitions for future instructional and tactical roles

Ptl. Miller grew up in Brick Township and graduated from Brick Memorial High School in 2008 before earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and psychology from Kean University.

Five years later, he entered the Ocean County Police Academy through the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, completing the program with the Physical Fitness Award.

He later joined the Jamesburg Borough Police Department full-time, where he spent eight years and served as a defensive tactics instructor, working closely with colleagues in training environments.

Officer brings instructional background

During his years in Jamesburg, Miller handled training responsibilities that strengthened his interest in preparing new recruits.

He now hopes to expand that experience in Manchester by pursuing additional certifications in defensive tactics and firearms instruction.

His long-term goals include returning to the Ocean County Police Academy as an instructor and seeking a position with the Ocean County S.W.A.T. team while representing the Manchester Township Police Department.

Department leaders welcome new addition

Chief Antonio Ellis praised the addition, noting Miller’s prior service and training background as assets to the agency and community.

He emphasized that the new officer’s experience will support department objectives as Miller moves through Manchester’s field training program.

Chief Ellis also acknowledged support from township leadership, citing the mayor and council while addressing the department’s commitment to serving residents.

Miller’s appointment marks the latest staffing move by Manchester Township Police as the department continues expanding training capabilities and operational readiness.