On behalf of the entire Toms River Police Department Family, we’d like to wish Corporal Chris Leighton a wonderful retirement!

Dates of Service: September 6, 1994 – February 1, 2021

Corporal Leighton graduated from Lacey High School and later Ocean County College before attending Stockton State College and the Ocean County Police Academy.  He began his law enforcement career with the then Dover Township Police Department on Sept. 6, 1994.  During his tenure with the police department he was a Field Training Officer, one of the first 4 members of the Motorcycle Unit, on the Dive Team, Under Water Response Team, Marine Unit, Bicycle Officer Unit, and an Evidence Tech.  He was heavily involved in the “PAL” Ride for the Child event raising tens of thousands of dollars to support various department youth programs.

Cpl. Leighton was promoted to Corporal Sept. 6, 2014.  He received numerous awards including a Life Saving Award for saving a 67 yr old heart attack victim.  A Merit Award for an Armed Robbery/Att. Murder investigation and weapon recovery where he spent over 4 hours in 40 degree water.  He responded to the World Trade Center Attack aftermath to assist with crisis management.  Cpl. Leighton assisted in an investigation of an armed robbery suspect apprehension with Manchester PD resulting in the recovery of a handgun.  He is the police department spokesperson for the Captain Buscio Program advocating for the officers health and well-being.

Corporal Leighton would like to thank his entire family and co-workers for all of their support throughout his entire career.

Congratulations Corporal Leighton!