By: Richard L. Smith
A police officer from South Brunswick has admitted to stealing more than $75,000 from his Policemen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) chapter, according to an announcement from Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago.
Abraham “Jason” Gassman, 53, pleaded guilty to second-degree theft during a hearing before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Henry Butehorn.
An investigation conducted by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Professional Responsibility Unit found that Gassman, who served as treasurer of his local PBA chapter since 2009, had exclusive control over its finances and stole more than $75,000 over a period of more than six years.
Authorities said the funds were misused in several ways, including personal purchases made with a PBA credit card and the theft of cash proceeds from charity fundraisers and events.
The purchases included a range of household and personal items such as patio furniture, televisions, a home gym kit, luggage, and food.
Investigators also revealed that Gassman submitted falsified documents to the PBA’s accountant to make it appear as though he had reimbursed the organization.
When questioned by PBA leadership, he allegedly changed the credit card password, effectively preventing others from accessing the account.
The investigation further uncovered that in early 2025, Gassman shoplifted approximately $100 worth of bedding items from a Target and left the scene in his police vehicle.
On another occasion, authorities said Gassman used the PBA credit card to pay for lodging, parking, gas, and food during a trip, then submitted a reimbursement request to his police department.
Gassman turned himself in to authorities in July 2025.