FREEHOLD – A former Long Branch police officer was placed on probation for one year and must permanently forfeit public employment after pleading guilty in April to a petty disorderly persons offense of harassment by offensive touching.
Patrick Joyce, 35, of West Long Branch, must also complete alcohol rehabilitation treatment.
He was sentenced Friday by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Paul X. Escandon.
Joyce admitted to touching the backside a 21-year-old family friend back in February at a police function. He said he had upwards of 10 drinks that evening and doesn’t remember the incident.
He resigned from the department in April.
Joyce was originally charged with criminal sexual contact as well as the petty disorderly offense. The state agreed to dismiss the criminal sexual contact offense as part of a plea deal.
