Former Manville Police Chief Sentenced to 7 Years for Sexual Assault and Official Misconduct

In a significant ruling that underscores New Jersey's commitment to holding public officials accountable, former Manville Police Chief Thomas Herbst has been sentenced to seven years in state prison for sexually assaulting subordinates and abusing his position of power over a span of more than a decade. The sentence follows a lengthy investigation and trial that brought justice to at least three victims who endured persistent harassment and abuse while under his authority.

Sentencing Details and Parole Eligibility

On August 11, 2025, New Jersey Superior Court Judge Peter J. Tober, presiding in Somerset County, sentenced 57-year-old Herbst to seven years in New Jersey state prison. Under the ruling, Herbst is required to serve 85% of the sentence—approximately six years—before becoming eligible for parole on the sexual assault charge. He must also serve a minimum of five years related to the official misconduct charges. The terms will run concurrently.

In addition to prison time, Herbst will face lifetime parole supervision and is required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law. Following the hearing, Herbst was taken into immediate custody.

A Pattern of Abuse and Betrayal of Public Trust

Herbst’s criminal conduct, which spanned from 2008 through 2021, involved repeated abuse of women employed by or connected to the Manville Police Department. Prosecutors with the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office laid out a disturbing pattern of misconduct that escalated over time.

In the earliest instance, Herbst groped, exposed himself to, and sexually harassed a female department employee. Over the years, his behavior escalated into multiple acts of sexual assault, many of which occurred on-duty and inside police headquarters—a place meant to uphold the law and provide safety.

The jury also found that Herbst solicited sexual favors from the wife of a subordinate officer in exchange for favorable employment decisions, including demanding oral sex for a promotion. In a separate incident, Herbst requested sexually explicit images of another subordinate’s wife in return for modifying that officer’s work schedule.

Attorney General and OPIA Response

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin denounced the abuse of authority in a statement following the sentencing:

“The defendant’s abuse of power inflicted lasting damage to his victims’ lives. Today’s sentence brings some measure of justice to the victims and the community.”

Drew Skinner, Executive Director of the OPIA, emphasized that anyone who uses their office to commit sexual crimes will be prosecuted, convicted, and incarcerated:

“This case shows that public officials are not above the law.”

The case was prosecuted by OPIA Deputy Corruption Bureau Chief Marian Galietta, along with Deputy Attorneys General Niccole L. Sandora and Diana Bibb, under the leadership of Assistant Attorney General Andrew Wellbrock and the OPIA bureau directors.

The Path to Justice for Survivors of Abuse in New Jersey

The sentencing of Thomas Herbst is a stark reminder of the importance of believing victims, holding those in power accountable, and dismantling systems that enable abuse within institutions—especially law enforcement. This case sends a clear message: those who abuse their authority for sexual gratification will face the full force of the law.

At Survivors of Abuse NJ, led by Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq., we are committed to representing those who have suffered sexual abuse and misconduct at the hands of authority figures. Whether the abuser is a law enforcement officer, teacher, clergy member, or coach, survivors deserve justice and the opportunity to hold perpetrators accountable in both criminal and civil court.

Contact Us for Legal Help and Support

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse or misconduct—especially involving law enforcement or public officials—contact Survivors of Abuse NJ today. Our experienced and compassionate legal team is here to help you explore your legal rights and take the next step toward recovery.

Free and confidential consultations are available. Justice starts with a conversation. Reach out now.

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