By Lakewood Alerts
Published May 7, 2026

             Rep. Chris Smith joined local officials this week to formally unveil a new fleet of vehicles for the Manchester Township Police Department, marking a significant investment in public safety funded through federal appropriations.

             The ceremony featured nine new police SUVs and an animal control van, purchased with $1.148 million secured by Smith during the congressional appropriations process. The funding was aimed at replacing aging vehicles and strengthening the department’s operational capabilities.

             Police Chief Antonio Ellis said the upgrades go beyond equipment, emphasizing their impact on officer safety and community service.

            “Today is about more than new vehicles. It’s about commitment, partnership, and delivering for the residents of Manchester Township,” Ellis said. “At the end of the day, this is about people. It’s about our officers having the equipment they need to respond safely and ensuring they return home safely to their families.”

             Smith credited a coordinated local effort for bringing the project to fruition, highlighting the roles of township leadership and law enforcement officials in advocating for the funding.

             “Today is an amazing example of what good local governance can lead to,” Smith said. “Their remarkable advocacy has reaped tangible benefits for the people of Manchester Township—the nine brand-new Chevy Tahoe SUVs and animal control van that stand before us will actively make Manchester safer and better equipped to fulfill the needs of its residents.”

             Also in attendance were Ocean County Commissioners Robert Arace and Jennifer Bacchione, and Manchester Mayor Joseph Hankins, along with other local officials.

             Township leaders said the new vehicles will immediately be deployed to support patrol operations and enhance response capabilities across the community.