TOMS RIVER – A Ocean County Commissioners meeting drew one of its largest audiences in recent memory. Every seat was filled long before the meeting began, and additional attendees stood along the back wall and between the aisles. Detectives in suits, county employees, and local officials created a notable presence, underscoring the significance of the occasion. The family of Chief of Detectives Anthony “Tony” Carrington also attended, adding a personal touch to a ceremony honoring his retirement after more than thirty years with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
The commissioners opened the recognition ceremony by reading a proclamation that detailed Carrington’s three-decade ascent through the ranks of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. His journey began in 1994 when he joined the agency as an investigator assigned to the grand jury unit shortly after completing his Rutgers University degree.
His earliest work focused on narcotics investigations across Ocean County and throughout New Jersey. He completed the rigorous Division of Criminal Justice Academy and soon after added specialized credentials as an arson investigator and National Fire Prevention Agency Firefighter Levels One and Two. These certifications demonstrated a commitment to advanced training that helped define his approach to the profession.
In 2000, Carrington transferred to the Major Crime Unit. His responsibilities expanded to the county’s most serious and high-stakes investigations, including homicides, workplace fatalities, suspicious deaths, and missing persons cases. His leadership style – calm, methodical, and deeply respectful of victims and their families – became widely recognized within the agency.
His promotions came steadily. He became a senior investigator in 2004, a sergeant of detectives in 2006, a lieutenant in 2017, and then a captain in 2019. Carrington supervised a spectrum of units that reflected the complexity of modern law enforcement. His oversight included internal affairs, homeland intelligence, high-tech crime, economic crime, and senior scam investigations. Each area required a specialized understanding of both investigative techniques and community needs.
In November 2021, Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer appointed Carrington Chief of Detectives, the highest investigative position in the office. As chief, he directed all investigative operations and served as a steady presence for detectives navigating difficult cases and rapidly evolving criminal trends.
Praise And Celebration
“It’s been my honor to walk and serve and drive around this county and this state with Tony by my side,” said Billhimer. “Giving me advice always, not just about law enforcement, but about our families.”
Billhimer closed his remarks by saying he valued Carrington not only as a chief, but as a friend and a brother. Their strong working relationship was evident in moments such as a candid public discussion they led in 2023 following the death of Tyre Nichols, the Memphis man who died after being severely beaten during a police stop. During that forum, Billhimer and Carrington spoke openly about differing approaches to policing and the importance of accountability, professionalism, and community trust.
The commissioners offered remarks that shed light on Carrington’s influence beyond his job title. Their comments revealed a leader who built trust not only among his investigative staff, but within county government as well.
Commissioner Virginia “Ginny” Haines reflected on her longtime interactions with Carrington, many of which touched on his devotion to family.
“Your father always talked so well of you,” she said while looking toward his daughter. She added, “I cannot thank you enough for everything you have done for the people of Ocean County and for the prosecutor’s office. I have gained a friend, and I respect you so much for the dedication and love you put into your job.”
Her comments captured both warmth and admiration, highlighting qualities that colleagues often cited when describing Carrington’s leadership.
Commissioner Robert Arace shared a memory that blended humor with appreciation. He recalled a scorching summer enforcement visit on the boardwalk where he, the only person in a full suit, learned quickly that overdressing in such heat was a rookie mistake.
“These two come over to me and say, ‘First time, right?’ That will be the last time I wear a suit,” he recalled to laughter before adding, “You always showed me great respect. Always a friendly face. You’ve done tremendous work.”
Carrington Reflects
Carrington offered heartfelt remarks that underscored the professional relationships and personal bonds formed throughout his decades of service. He expressed deep gratitude to Billhimer for entrusting him with the role of Chief of Detectives, and he extended thanks to the detectives, support staff, and prosecutors who worked alongside him on countless cases.
“We in Ocean County have the best law enforcement officers in the whole state. We could not do this without all of you,” he said, offering praise to the investigators standing throughout the room.
Carrington also reflected on how long-term service creates lasting connections. “It is always good to have people who stay for a while. You get to know their families. You get to know who they are as people, their characters.”
However, it was Carrington’s words about his own family that revealed the heart of his career. He spoke with affection about each of his children and added humor that lightened the solemnity of the occasion.
“She watches over me,” he said of his daughter Selena before teasing, “Somebody has to change my Pampers one day.”
He then turned to his wife, Bivia, whom he acknowledged as the support system that made his demanding career possible.
“If I did not talk about Bivia, she is the matriarch of the house. She holds everything down,” he said. “It is not an easy job being the spouse of a police officer. She worked full time, had a warm meal ready, took care of the kids, and taught them values. Without Bivia, I would not be here.”
His words reflected a genuine appreciation for the sacrifices made behind the scenes, the kind rarely highlighted in official proclamations.
A Legacy
Carrington’s retirement signifies both the end of a career and the continuation of a legacy that shaped investigative work in Ocean County. His guidance helped modernize units, stabilize complex investigations, and mentor younger detectives who will carry forward the standards he set.
“Thank you again for your years of service, “ said Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione. “You’re going to be missed, with tough two shoes to fill, and enjoy your retirement with your family.”
