LONG BRANCH – A 12-year veteran of the Long Branch Police Department is facing serious charges after allegedly touching a woman at a private party earlier this month.
The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office said 35-year-old Patrick D. Joyce, Jr. of West Long Branch is charged with fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact and Harassment, a petty disorderly persons offense.
Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni said the alleged incident took place at a police promotions party at Jack’s Goal Line Stand, a city bar, on February 1.
The party was to celebrate the promotion of four city police officer. Authorities said Joyce inappropriately touched a 21-year-old woman without her consent for his own sexual arousal or gratification.
As a result of these charges, Joyce has been suspended by the Long Branch Police Department and is scheduled to make his first appearance in Monmouth County Superior Court on March 15.
If convicted of Criminal Sexual Contact, Joyce faces up to 18 months in state prison. If convicted of Harassment, Joyce faces up to 30 days in the county jail.
