New Jersey Officer Loses Job After Threatening Ex and Her New Partner
A police officer in New Jersey has lost his position following a serious incident involving threats of home invasion, physical violence, and arson directed at his ex-girlfriend.
Rebecca Sayegh, 32, a former officer with the Toms River Police Department, pleaded guilty on November 17 to charges including robbery, criminal mischief, and simple assault.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer disclosed the details, stating that prosecutors are recommending a six-month prison sentence when Sayegh is officially sentenced on January 26. They are also seeking a no-contact order with the victims and restitution as part of his probation terms.
Sayegh was suspended without pay since his arrest back in April and will be officially removed from the police force as of November 17. Notably, he is also barred from working in law enforcement in New Jersey in the future.
The charges against Sayegh arose from a violent confrontation at his ex-girlfriend’s home in Berkeley Township. Reports indicate that he used a baton to break down the front door around 11:20 PM on April 25.
The altercation escalated into physical violence after Sayegh confronted his ex-girlfriend and her new partner. Allegedly, he ended up injuring her when he poked her in the eye with his nails, as mentioned by Assistant Prosecutor Isabella Young.
During the chaos, Sayegh caused damage to the property, knocking pictures off the walls and damaging a vehicle parked outside. There was also mention of his new girlfriend calling 911 during the incident.
Sayegh was taken into custody at the scene after resisting arrest, although it was described as relatively peaceful. Body camera footage reveals him threatening to burn down his ex’s house, saying, “Next time I’m going to burn your house down, you son of a bitch.”
Damage estimates included $2,000 to the property and $500 to the car, according to reports.
Interestingly, only months before this incident, Sayegh had filed a lawsuit against the Toms River Police Department alleging sexual harassment and discrimination based on her gender. She claimed a toxic “boys club” culture existed within the department and alleged harassment and defamation by fellow officers.
Sayegh’s lawsuit also included claims about a former captain pursuing a sexual relationship with her, which led to a highly inappropriate encounter. This lawsuit, filed in October 2024, was ultimately dismissed for being filed late, although the case concerning the police department is still ongoing.
Previously, Sayegh had been recognized for her bravery, receiving an award in January 2021 for rescuing a woman and her pet from a burning building.
The Toms River Police Department and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office have not provided any immediate comments regarding this recent case.
