HAZLET — The simple assault case against Keyport Patrolman Kenneth Marr has been reinstated by the court.
On April 12, Hazlet Municipal Court Judge Robert Blum reinstated the case, which will allow the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office to proceed with the charge. The case has been transferred to Middletown and will be heard on May 9 at 9 a.m.
Marr was arrested on Feb. 17 in a domestic incident in Hazlet and was given a Feb. 22 court date. The case was dismissed by the Hazlet prosecutor, but the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office moved to reinstate the charge after receiving an anonymous tip.
On Monday Marr’s attorney, Michael Pappa, Hazlet, said that Marr will plead not guilty to the charge.
Marr is currently suspended without pay from the Keyport Police Department where he has been an officer for 14 years. Marr is also the chief of the Keyport Fire Department and a former Board of Education member.
Police Chief Theodore Gajewski said Marr will have to remain suspended without pay until the Prosecutor’s Office says that he is able to carry his gun again. Prosecutor John Kaye had determined that Marr is not allowed to possess any firearms on or off duty.
"I certainly expect that if Ken is found not guilty, the town would give whatever back pay that he is due and whatever benefits he is entitled to, so that he would not be affected by the charges," Pappa said.
Assistant Prosecutor Barry Serebnick, who will be trying the case, said the maximum penalty, if Marr is found guilty, would be six months in jail and a $500 fine.
Serebnick said that it will be a regular trial with no jury.
Marr could not be reached for comment.