Police Present A Fond Farewell To Retiring Officer

Lt. James Sharkey prepares for another day at work. (Photo courtesy Manchester Police)

  MANCHESTER – A township police officer got a fond farewell as officers of the department gave him a proper sendoff prior to his retirement.

  Police Chief Lisa Parker and the entire Manchester Township Police Department joined in to honor and celebrate the varied career and distinguished and honorable accomplishments of Lt. James Sharkey who retired on February 18.

  Lt. Sharkey started his law enforcement career with the Township Police Department on July 15, 1996. Prior to joining the department, he served honorably in the United States Marine Corps.

  He graduated from the Ocean County Police Academy in 1994 having enrolled in Class No. 62. Following his service as a patrolman, he was promoted to sergeant in 2007, and earned his current rank of lieutenant in 2015.

  Sharkey received many honors during his career. Among them were the 9/11 Recognition Award for responding to the World Trade Center with SWAT in 2001; five Exceptional Service Awards; two Meritorious Service Awards; two Distinguished Recognition Awards and the Military Expeditionary Award.

Manchester Police Lt. James Sharkey looks over with pride at a plaque that shows his police patches and presents a snapshot of his varied career with the township police department. (Photo courtesy Manchester Police)

  He also received the New Jersey State PBA Valor Award and he was twice presented with the highly esteemed Chief’s Award, and once with the Chief’s Recognition Award.

  In addition to serving Manchester Township, Lt. Sharkey brought his leadership and expertise to the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, where he served as Commander from 2015 until his retirement.

  The officer was also a member of the Manchester Township Regional Emergency Response Team from 1998 to 2006, and the Ocean County Regional Sniper Team from 1998 to 2008 where he has won many awards and competitions.

  “Lt. Sharkey exemplifies the best qualities of a law enforcement officer: hard work, dedication, and self-sacrificing commitment to serve others. Lt. Sharkey has always taken great pride in serving our community and the residents,” Chief Parker said.

  “Lt. Sharkey always led by example, guiding and mentoring those under his supervision. We are grateful for Lt. Sharkey’s years of exceptional service and wish him all the best as he begins the next chapter of his life,” the chief added.