The Manchester Township Police Department is pleased to announce the hiring of Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II Rachel Morris, who took her oath of office before Mayor Joseph Hankins during the March 9, 2026, Manchester Township Council meeting.
SLEO II Morris was born in Lakewood and grew up in Manchester Township. She graduated from Manchester Township High School in 2021, where she was highly involved in athletics, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year in both track and soccer, serving as soccer team captain, and being named soccer MVP twice.
SLEO II Morris then attended Lock Haven University, where she earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice and was named to the Dean’s List. She also played on the university’s women’s soccer team during her freshman year. After graduating in 2024, SLEO II Morris was hired by the Seaside Heights Police Department as a SLEO I Officer. In 2025, she attended the Ocean County Police Academy while continuing her service with the department as a SLEO II Officer.
“It is always rewarding when we can welcome a Manchester resident, who grew up in our community, to serve in our police department and contribute to their hometown,” said Chief Antonio Ellis. “I would like to thank Mayor Hankins, members of the Township Council, and Township Administration for their continued support of our police department’s mission to provide our residents with the highest possible level of service. We all wish SLEO II Morris a safe and successful law enforcement career here in Manchester Township.”
SLEO II Morris will now begin the Manchester Township Police Department’s intensive Field Training and Evaluation Program, where she will be instructed and mentored by several highly trained officers.