Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on June 18, 2025, Manuel Fernandez, 40, of Jackson Township pled guilty to Burglary and Contempt of a Judicial or Protective Order before the Honorable Kenneth T. Palmer, J.S.C., in connection with an incident that occurred on May 31, 2024, in Jackson Township. At the time of his sentencing on August 8, 2025, the State will be seeking a term of five years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act as to the Burglary charge and 18 months NJSP as to the Contempt charge. The sentences would run concurrently.
On May 31, 2024, at approximately 1:40 a.m., the Jackson Township Police responded to a residence on Buttonwood Drive for a report of a male who had illegally entered a residence. Responding Officers found Fernandez in the residence. An investigation by the Officers determined that the female who resided at the residence was married to Fernandez and had obtained a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against him. Continuing investigation revealed that Fernandez illegally entered the residence, kicked down the female victim’s bedroom door and assaulted her. After a brief scuffle, the female was able to fight off Fernandez and call police. Fernandez was taken into custody at the scene without incident. Fernandez was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has been detained since that date.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Toscano who is handling the case on behalf of the State, and commends the Jackson Township Police Department for their assistance in connection with this investigation resulting in Fernandez’s guilty pleas, and soon his state prison sentence.