FREEHOLD, NJ – A former New Jersey cop who stalked and harassed a woman, even using police records and computer systems is now heading to prison.
Erich A. Bennett, a former Sea Bright police officer, received a five-year prison sentence for multiple crimes committed against a former girlfriend, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago reported. The sentence, handed down by Superior Court Judge Joseph W. Oxley, includes a permanent public office ban in New Jersey for Bennett.
In September, Bennett admitted to various offenses between October 2022 and January 2023. These included disabling security cameras, damaging the victim’s property, and making physical threats. Bennett acknowledged unauthorized law enforcement database searches while serving in the Sea Bright Police Department.
Bennett’s arrest occurred in late January 2023. His guilty plea covered third-degree computer theft, third-degree criminal mischief, fourth-degree hindering apprehension, and fourth-degree stalking.
The sentencing on Friday also mandated Bennett to relinquish all personal firearms, comply with a permanent restraining order, and pay nearly $4,800 in restitution.
The victim, present at the sentencing, delivered a statement about the incident and the impact it had on them at the hands of a police officer. She said she and her family lived in fear and even relocated their home because of Bennet’s acts.
Prosecutor Santiago lauded the victim’s bravery and condemned Bennett’s actions as a betrayal of public trust.