The Incident: A Night of Alleged Violence

On April 25, 2025, at approximately 11:20 p.m., Berkeley Township police responded to a domestic disturbance call at a home on Evernhan Avenue in the Bayville section. According to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, officers found that Rebecca Sayegh, an off-duty Toms River police officer, had allegedly used her baton to shatter the front glass door of the residence. Once inside, she is accused of assaulting her ex-boyfriend and another woman, causing physical harm, including eye swelling to one victim. Reports also indicate that Sayegh threatened to burn down the house, a statement that contributed to her terroristic threats charge. Additionally, she allegedly scratched the hood of a vehicle parked in the driveway before entering the home.

Sayegh resisted arrest at the scene, complicating efforts by responding officers to take her into custody. She was initially charged via summons and released, but due to the severity of the allegations, she was re-arrested on a warrant on April 28, 2025, and is now detained in Ocean County Jail. Her first court appearance is scheduled for May 2, 2025, in Ocean County Superior Court, where a detention hearing will determine whether she remains in custody or is released pending trial.

Charges Against Rebecca Sayegh

Sayegh faces a range of serious charges, as outlined by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office:

• Home Invasion Burglary: A first-degree charge with a potential prison term of 10 to 20 years if convicted.

• Two Counts of Assault: For the alleged physical attacks on the two victims, one of whom sustained visible injuries.

• Two Counts of Criminal Mischief: Related to the damage to the front glass door and the vehicle hood.

• Terroristic Threats: Stemming from the alleged threat to burn down the residence.

• Resisting Arrest: Due to her resistance during the arrest process.

The state has filed a motion to keep Sayegh detained without bail pending trial, a decision that will be addressed at her detention hearing on May 2, 2025, as reported by APP.com. Her attorney, Terrance Turnbach, stated that Sayegh “understands the significance of the charges” and “will remain cooperative throughout the pending legal proceedings,” according to NJ.com.

Who Is Rebecca Sayegh?

Rebecca Sayegh has been a Toms River police officer since June 2017, with a reported salary of $85,685, according to pension records cited by NJ.com. She gained recognition in February 2021 for her heroic actions in rescuing a homeowner and their pets from a burning house, an act that earned her praise as a community hero, as reported by Montclair State University. However, her career has also been marked by controversy.

In 2024, Sayegh filed a lawsuit against the Toms River Police Department and the township, alleging sexual harassment by former Police Chief Mitch Little and other superiors, as well as gender-based discrimination that hindered her promotions. She claimed a “boys club” culture within the department, according to Patch.com. The claims against former Captain Shaun O’Keefe were dismissed on April 11, 2025, but the lawsuit against the department remains pending, adding context to her professional challenges. Sayegh is currently suspended with pay pending the outcome of her criminal case.

The Broader Implications

The allegations against Sayegh are particularly significant because of her role as a law enforcement officer, a position that carries substantial public trust. The incident raises critical questions about accountability within police departments, especially when officers are involved in alleged criminal behavior. The fact that the incident is described as a domestic disturbance highlights the complexities of personal conflicts, particularly when they involve individuals in positions of authority.

Domestic violence and related disputes are prevalent issues, with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reporting that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Sayegh’s alleged actions, if proven, represent a breach of the trust placed in law enforcement officers to uphold the law both on and off duty. The case also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and transparent legal processes to ensure justice for all parties involved.

Moreover, Sayegh’s prior lawsuit points to potential systemic issues within the Toms River Police Department, such as workplace culture and gender dynamics. While the dismissal of some claims suggests that the court did not find sufficient evidence to support all allegations, the pending lawsuit indicates ongoing tensions. This context does not excuse the alleged actions but provides a broader lens through which to view the incident, as noted in Daily Mail.

What’s Next for Rebecca Sayegh?

As of May 1, 2025, Sayegh remains in custody at Ocean County Jail, with a detention hearing scheduled for May 2, 2025. This hearing will determine whether she will be released on bail or remain detained pending trial. The outcome will depend on the evidence presented, including statements from the victims, Sayegh, and her legal representatives. Given the recency of the incident, additional details may emerge in the coming weeks, potentially shedding light on the motivations and circumstances surrounding the alleged actions.

The Toms River Police Department has suspended Sayegh with pay, and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office continues to investigate. The community awaits further developments, with many hoping for a fair and transparent legal process. Sayegh’s attorney has indicated her cooperation, but the severity of the charges suggests a challenging legal battle ahead.

Addressing Domestic Violence: A Call to Action

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and supporting those involved. Community resources, such as counseling services and advocacy groups, are vital for preventing escalation and aiding recovery. Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline provide critical support for individuals experiencing domestic violence. As Berkeley Township and Toms River grapple with this incident, the focus remains on ensuring justice and fostering a culture of accountability.

The allegations against Sayegh highlight the need for robust support systems within law enforcement to address personal and professional stressors that may contribute to such incidents. By raising awareness and providing resources, communities can work toward preventing similar situations in the future.

Conclusion

Rebecca Sayegh’s arrest for an alleged home invasion on April 25, 2025, has sent shockwaves through Toms River, NJ. Accused of breaking into her ex-boyfriend’s home, assaulting two individuals, and threatening to burn down the residence, Sayegh faces serious charges that could lead to significant prison time if convicted. Her prior lawsuit against the Toms River Police Department for alleged sexual harassment adds complexity to the narrative, pointing to potential professional tensions. As Sayegh awaits her detention hearing on May 2, 2025, the case underscores the challenges of maintaining public trust in law enforcement and the importance of addressing domestic violence. The coming weeks will likely bring more clarity, but for now, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities at the intersection of personal conflict and public duty.