Chief Antonio Ellis is proud to announce the promotion of Christian Nazario to the rank of Lieutenant during a ceremony held on February 4, 2026. Mayor Joseph Hankins had the honor of administering the Oath of Office to Lt. Nazario in the presence of family, friends, police, and township personnel.
“As a proven leader who has supervised both the Narcotics Enforcement Team and Investigations Bureau as a Detective Sergeant, Lt. Nazario’s dedication to this agency and our residents remains unmatched,” said Chief Ellis. “I’m proud to welcome Lt. Nazario to our department’s command staff, where his exemplary leadership may continue to benefit all of our officers.”
Lt. Nazario, who grew up in Manchester and began his law enforcement career as a Police Explorer and Auxiliary Officer, holds a master’s degree in business administration and graduated second overall from the Ocean County Police Academy, Class No. 86. He joined the Manchester Township Police Department in 2007 and has served in numerous roles, including FTO, Police Explorer Advisor, and SWAT Team operator.
Lt. Nazario’s investigative experience includes assignments with our Narcotics Enforcement Team and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, where he was a team leader during the county’s largest drug investigation at the time. Promoted to Sergeant in 2021, he supervised the Narcotics Enforcement Team, leading the department’s first strict liability drug-induced death investigation and its largest drug seizure. In 2024, he returned to the Investigations Bureau, overseeing critical programs and serving as liaison to Manchester School District.
Lt. Nazario has completed advanced leadership training through the FBI LEEDA institutes and currently serves as Superior Officers Association Union President. He has received over 30 commendations recognizing his leadership, service, and commitment to excellence.
“This day would not have been possible without the continued support of Mayor Hankins, the Township Council, and the administration,” said Chief Ellis. “I join with the rest of our department in wishing Lt. Nazario well as he assumes this new leadership role within our department.”