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Two Asbury Park police officers are facing multiple charges relating to two separate vandalism incidents, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni announced Wednesday.

Officer Stephen Martinsen, 29, of Asbury Park, and Class II Special Officer Thomas Dowling, 26, of Asbury Park, are charged with two counts each of third-degree conspiracy, two counts each of third-degree possession of a weapon [knife] for an unlawful purpose, two counts each of fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon [knife], and two counts each of fourth-degree criminal mischief, officials said in a written statement.

Officer Martinsen joined the local police department in May 2013, serving as a Class I Special Officer prior to his May 2014 promotion to Class II designation. He became a full-time member of the police force in July 2017. Dowling has been a Class 2 officer since May of 2015, county officials said.

The charges stem from two separate vehicular vandalism incidents, one vehicle in Ocean Grove and one in Asbury Park occurring between 3 to 4 a.m. on or about Tuesday, September 3, 2019, officials said.

Officer Martinsen and Special Law Officer Dowling allegedly damaged the vehicles, which are owned by the same person, officials said. The vehicle owner had filed an administrative complaint against both officers several days before the vandalism incidents.

“The vast majority of law enforcement officers perform their duties with integrity and honor,” Gramiccioni said. “However, when a police officer takes advantage of the very citizens they are sworn to protect, it erodes public confidence and violates the public’s trust.  Such behavior will never be acceptable or tolerated. If these charges prove to be true, this is the quintessential definition of a breach of trust between law enforcement and the public.”

As a result of these charges, Martinsen has been suspended without pay and Dowling’s employment with the city of Asbury Park has been terminated.

“The Asbury Park Police Department would like to thank the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office for their professionalism and swift action regarding the matter surrounding these two officers,” Chief David Kelso said. “Their behavior is not acceptable and does not represent the level of professionalism, community focus or resident safety that we expect of our officers. We will not let the actions of these officers overshadow the great work and dedication by the men and women of this department.”

If convicted of the third-degree charges, Martinsen and Dowling face up to a 20-year sentence. If convicted of the fourth-degree charges, Martinsen and Dowling face up to 72 months in prison.

The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Falco, Director of the Office’s Professional Responsibility and Bias Crime Unit.

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