FREEHOLD, N.J. – A Monmouth County Grand Jury has returned a 22-count indictment against a former Middletown Township Police Department sergeant accused of abusing his authority, aiding criminal activities, and possessing illegal narcotics, Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Thursday.
David Ringkamp, 43, formerly of Union Beach, faces charges including second-degree engaging in a pattern of official misconduct, multiple counts of official misconduct, drug offenses, computer criminal activity, hindering apprehension, tampering with evidence, and obstruction of justice.
The investigation began in December 2021 when New York State Police alerted authorities to ghost gun kits transported to a vape shop in Millstone by Nicholas D’Ambrosio, 33. Surveillance revealed Ringkamp assisting D’Ambrosio in attempting to conceal the illegal firearm parts. A search of Ringkamp’s vehicle uncovered the kits, cocaine, methamphetamine pills, and a stolen ghost gun.
Further searches of Ringkamp’s home revealed additional narcotics, including anabolic steroids, while a search of the vape shop uncovered over 25 pounds of marijuana, edible products, and evidence of illegal marijuana sales. Authorities also allege Ringkamp used law enforcement databases without authorization for personal purposes over several years.
Prosecutor Santiago called the case a “complex cooperative investigation,” thanking multiple agencies for their efforts, including the New Jersey Office of Public Integrity & Accountability, the Official Corruption Bureau of the New Jersey State Police, and New York State Police.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and Colonel Patrick J. Callahan of the New Jersey State Police emphasized the seriousness of the charges, highlighting Ringkamp’s violation of public trust. Middletown Township Police Chief R. Craig Weber condemned the former officer’s actions, noting Ringkamp’s immediate suspension and subsequent termination in April 2022.
Ringkamp’s case is pending a Monmouth County Superior Court hearing. His co-defendant, D’Ambrosio, was sentenced to eight years in prison in August 2024 after pleading guilty to drug and firearm-related charges.