BRICK TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Deputy Chief Steven Gerling of the Brick Township Police Department has officially retired, closing out a 30-year law enforcement career that spanned from K9 handler to the department’s administrative services commander.
Hired in January 1995, Gerling began his career as a field training officer and worked alongside his K9 partner, Cody. He was promoted to sergeant in 2006 and became a supervisor of the department’s K9 unit.
In 2014, he rose to the rank of lieutenant, serving as operations division shift commander and later as professional standards unit commander. He continued his upward trajectory, becoming captain in December 2018 and leading the Operations Division.
Gerling was named deputy chief in December 2022, overseeing the Administrative Services Division during the final phase of his career.
“Your leadership, dedication, and service have made a lasting impact,” the department stated in its public retirement announcement.
The Brick Township Police Department thanked Gerling for his service and recognized the legacy he leaves behind.
Key Points
- Deputy Chief Steven Gerling retires after 30 years with the Brick Township Police Department.
- Gerling served in roles including K9 handler, shift commander, and operations division commander.
- He retired as head of the Administrative Services Division.
Steven Gerling caps a three-decade career in Brick Township policing with a celebrated retirement.
Brick Township’s Captain Terrence Covert retires after 27 years on the force
Captain Terrence Covert of the Brick Township Police Department has retired after 27 years of service, concluding a career marked by leadership roles across specialized units and national law enforcement training.
Covert joined the department in 1997, serving early on as a field training officer, school resource officer, and a member of the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT). In 2005, he was promoted to sergeant and took command of the department’s motorcycle and bicycle units.
In 2007, Covert joined the Detective Bureau and led the Drug Enforcement Unit. A year later, he completed the DEA Drug Unit Commanders Class #61 in Quantico, Va.
By 2012, Covert had been promoted to lieutenant and served as the deputy commander of SERT. He further distinguished himself by graduating from the FBI National Academy’s Class #263, also in Quantico.
Covert was elevated to the rank of captain in 2022 and remained a key figure in departmental leadership until his retirement.
The Brick Township Police Department extended their appreciation, stating, “We wish Captain Covert a safe and happy retirement.”