A New Jersey police officer permanently destroyed her law enforcement career after using her duty baton to break into her ex-boyfriend’s home, physically assault his new girlfriend, and threaten to burn down the house in a jealousy-fueled rampage.
Story Highlights
- Former Toms River officer Rebecca Sayegh pleaded guilty to burglary, assault, and criminal mischief after violent home invasion
- Officer used official duty baton as weapon to break down door and attack victims in Berkeley Township
- Incident occurred weeks after her sexual harassment lawsuit against police department was dismissed
- Sayegh permanently barred from all law enforcement employment in New Jersey
Prosecutor seeking 180 days jail time at January 2026 sentencing hearing
Officer’s Career Destroyed by Criminal Rampage
Rebecca Sayegh, 32, threw away her eight-year law enforcement career on April 25, 2025, when she used her police-issued baton to forcibly enter her ex-boyfriend’s Berkeley Township residence at 11:20 p.m. The former Toms River Police Department officer physically assaulted his new girlfriend by poking her eye with her fingernail and threatened to burn down the house. Sayegh resisted arrest when officers arrived and was suspended without pay immediately following the incident.
NEW: New Jersey cop permanently barred from law enforcement after attacking ex-boyfriend and his new girlfriend in home invasion
Ex-Toms River Police Officer Rebecca Sayegh, 32, pleaded guilty to burglary, criminal mischief, and simple assault on Nov. 17
The charges stem from… pic.twitter.com/AhNx9yFnjc
— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) December 2, 2025
Workplace Harassment Claims Preceded Violence
The violent outburst occurred approximately two weeks after a Superior Court judge dismissed Sayegh’s sexual harassment lawsuit against her former captain, Shaun O’Keefe. She had alleged O’Keefe followed her into a women’s restroom at a 2022 police foundation event, exposed himself, and demanded she perform oral sex. The court ruled her complaint exceeded the two-year statute of limitations, though her broader lawsuit against the police department remained pending.
From Hero to Criminal in Four Years
Sayegh’s fall from grace is particularly striking given her previous commendations for bravery. In January 2021, the department formally recognized her “swift action, bravery, and lifesaving actions” after she entered a burning residence to rescue a woman and her pets. The contrast between her heroic service and criminal conduct demonstrates how personal grievances and workplace disputes can spiral into destructive behavior that undermines public trust in law enforcement.
Justice System Holds Officers Accountable
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced his office is seeking 180 days imprisonment when Sayegh appears for sentencing on January 26, 2026. She pleaded guilty November 17, 2025, to burglary, criminal mischief, and simple assault charges. The case resulted in approximately $2,500 in property damage and permanent forfeiture of her police position effective the same day as her guilty plea.
This case demonstrates that law enforcement officers receive no special treatment when they commit crimes against civilians. Sayegh’s permanent ban from New Jersey law enforcement employment sends a clear message that criminal conduct has severe consequences regardless of prior service record. The prosecutor’s recommended jail time and restitution requirements show the justice system applies equally to those who once served it, protecting victims and maintaining public confidence in police accountability.
Sources:
New Jersey cop ends career with home invasion targeting ex and new girlfriend
Rebecca Sayegh arrest story update
