By: Richard L. Smith
A Colts Neck Police Department sergeant is facing a theft charge after investigators alleged he spent significant portions of his scheduled shifts at home instead of patrolling the township and responding to calls for service.
Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced that Sgt. Daniel J. Mazzucola, 40, has been charged with third-degree Theft by Unlawful Taking.
An investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Professional Responsibility Unit found that between December 2025 and May 2026, Mazzucola allegedly remained at his Colts Neck home for extended periods while assigned to regular and overtime shifts.
Investigators also allege that on two occasions, Mazzucola entered information into a law enforcement database indicating that he had responded to calls for service when he had actually never left his residence.
Prosecutors estimated that approximately $16,500 in salary was paid to Mazzucola in connection with the alleged conduct.
Mazzucola surrendered to authorities Tuesday, September 1, and was released on a summons pending future proceedings in Monmouth County Superior Court.
The charge is an accusation, and Mazzucola is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.