JACKSON, N.J. — The Jackson Township Police Department welcomed two new officers during a ceremonial swearing-in Tuesday evening, as township officials celebrated a proactive approach to law enforcement hiring and honored the officers’ families and professional backgrounds.

Officers Mason Kinland and Jonathan Pascillo were formally sworn into duty by Jackson’s Public Safety Director Joe Candido, who praised the township’s leadership for accelerating hiring efforts to keep pace with upcoming retirements. The hires are part of a larger initiative to bring on eight new officers in 2025.

Mason Kinland, a Jackson native and Jackson Memorial High School graduate, was hired following his recent graduation from the Ocean County Police Academy. He previously served as a Class II officer in Seaside Park and Jackson Township. His law enforcement career is rooted in a strong family tradition: his mother, Mary Nelson, is a police captain in Jackson; his father, James Kinland, is a retired sergeant first class from the Ocean Township Police Department in Waretown; and his brother, Marshall, also joined in the ceremony.

Mason, who enjoys restoring his 1990 Jeep Cherokee in his spare time, was presented with badge number 355—symbolically following his mother’s badge number, 255.

Jonathan Pascillo, a seasoned officer most recently serving with the Hopewell Township Police Department, brings nearly a decade of law enforcement experience. A graduate of Toms River North High School, Pascillo has served with the Pennington Borough and Point Pleasant Beach Police Departments, as well as the Mercer County Motor Vehicle Task Force.

He holds an associate’s degree from Ocean County College and is pursuing a bachelor’s in public administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is also a certified instructor in defensive tactics, baton use, and OC spray, and has nine years of experience as a Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor.

Pascillo was joined at the podium by his wife and three daughters during his oath of office.

Council President Jennifer Kuhn and Director Candido both highlighted the significance of filling positions ahead of scheduled retirements. “This is actually the first time that we’ve been ahead of the curve in hiring,” said Candido, who added that having both officers already trained will save Jackson an estimated $60,000 in academy expenses.

“Your commitment and bravery are vital to the safety and security of our community,” Kuhn said, addressing the new hires. “We sincerely believe you are joining one of the finest police departments around.”

Councilmen Giuseppe Palmeri, and Scott Sargent thanked the police department and congratulated the two new officers.

Council President Mordechai Burnstein thanked the Jackson Police Department and commended the officers on their dedication to serving the community.

With strong family ties, deep experience, and community support, Jackson’s newest officers are ready to serve—and save taxpayer dollars while doing it.