By David Kilby, Special Writer
Officer Allen Mantz, the newest patrolman for the township’s police department, was sworn in during the Plumsted Township Committee meeting Aug. 6, and many other officers, family members and friends came to show him their support.
Assemblyman Ron Dancer, who is also the business administrator for the township, swore in Officer Mantz, as family, friends and committee members joined him behind the dais in Township Hall.
Mayor David Leutwyler explained that according to New Jersey state law, new policemen must be sworn in by a state representative, so it is convenient that the township has Assemblyman Dancer present to do the honors.
Assemblyman Dancer then commented that the state is currently working on legislation that would allow municipalities to swear in their own police officers.
”I appreciate the opportunity you give me as a committee and as the Plumsted Township Police Department,” Officer Mantz said after taking his oath. “I’m excited to get started.”
Mayor Leutwyler said that he told Officer Mantz that Plumsted is a friendly town with a lot of good people.
”So let’s prove that to him,” the mayor said.
Officer Mantz, 26, completed his Class 1 and Class 2 training in Seaside Park, and has a bachelor’s degree from The College of New Jersey, Ewing. This is his first full-time assignment. He is originally from Toms River and now lives in Seaside Park. He went to Toms River North High School, where he played for the Mariners football and baseball teams, and also made the All-County and All-Shore football teams.
His entry into the Plumsted police force follows the resignation of Tyler Ragauckas, who transferred to the Lakewood Township Police Department. The committee accepted his resignation at the Aug. 6 meeting, “with regrets,” said the mayor.
Officer Mantz said he is grateful for the opportunity to serve Plumsted Township.
”I’m thankful to the whole community and looking forward to meeting everybody,” he said.

