Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Brick Township Police Chief David Forrester announced the arrest of Daniel Santaniello, 46, of Brick, on charges of theft and uttering a forged instrument. Santaniello, the former Director of Recreation for the Township of Brick, allegedly stole cash payments from private organizations using the township’s recreational facilities and concealed his theft by issuing fraudulent permits.
A joint investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Brick Township Police Department, and other agencies revealed that Santaniello required some organizations to pay him directly in cash, rather than issuing checks to the township. He then kept the money for himself and provided fake permits to cover his tracks.
Santaniello was taken into custody on July 17, 2024, and charged via summons. He is scheduled to appear in Ocean County Superior Court. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with additional information is urged to contact Detective Joseph Mitchell or Lieutenant Paul Catalina.
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to holding public officials accountable for their actions,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. “We will continue to work together to ensure that those who violate the public’s trust are brought to justice.”