By: Richard L. Smith
According to information released by Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago, a Neptune Township police officer is facing multiple charges for allegedly lying about his criminal history and previous termination from a law enforcement position in order to secure police employment in New Jersey.
Briant K. Nixon, 38, has been charged with second-degree Pattern of Official Misconduct, three counts of second-degree Official Misconduct, three counts of third-degree Tampering with Public Records, and one count each of fourth-degree False Swearing, Falsifying Records, and Unsworn Falsification to Authorities.
Investigators from the MCPO Professional Responsibility Unit determined that Nixon previously served with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) from 2012 until his 2017 termination for violating multiple departmental rules and regulations.
His firing was connected to a 2015 domestic violence arrest and a violation of a restraining order.
Authorities say Nixon later sought police work in three New Jersey municipalities. In 2022, he was hired by the West Wildwood Police Department.
He also submitted a résumé to Matawan, though no formal application followed. In 2023, he joined the Neptune Township Police Department. In all three cases, prosecutors allege, Nixon failed to disclose his NYPD employment or his criminal background.
His Neptune application reportedly included sworn, notarized statements attesting to the accuracy of the false information he provided.
Prosecutors also allege that earlier this year, while renewing his police license, Nixon again falsely stated that he had never been charged with a crime or been the subject of a restraining order.
Nixon was served with summonses earlier this week and is scheduled for a first appearance in Monmouth County Superior Court on Thursday, September 25.
Neptune Township Police Chief Anthony Gualario said the department holds its officers to the highest standards and that Nixon will remain suspended while the case proceeds.
“The actions of one officer do not represent the values of the men and women who serve in our department with integrity and professionalism every day,” Gualario stated, adding that the department remains committed to transparency, accountability, and public trust.