The Jackson Township Police Department celebrated the retirement of Captain John Giovanetti with a walkout ceremony at Town Hall attended by fellow officers, family, and friends.
Captain Giovanetti, who began his law enforcement career with the department in June 1999, retires after 25 years of exemplary service. Over the years, he has risen through the ranks, serving as a police officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and ultimately as captain, a promotion he earned in 2020.
Throughout his tenure, Captain Giovanetti played a critical role in supervising officers, overseeing the police radio system, and managing the communications center. His contributions extended beyond daily operations—he was a key operator on the Special Response Team and the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team. Additionally, he served as the department’s Municipal Counter Terrorism Coordinator and as the liaison to the Monmouth and Ocean County Criminal Intelligence Bureau, where he held the position of executive officer.
Captain Giovanetti’s career is marked by numerous accolades and commendations, underscoring his dedication and impact, including:
- Good Conduct Ribbon
- Educational Achievement Ribbon
- Achievement Ribbons for assisting in New York City following the 9/11 attacks and developing the department’s mission statement
- Three-time Police Officer of the Year (2004, 2005, and 2007)
- Excellent Police Duty Ribbon (twice), recognizing his response to a drive-by shooting and efforts to improve police radio communications
- Police Unit Citations for assisting Lakewood PD after the murder of Officer Christopher Matlosz, responding during Hurricane Irene, and handling a barricaded suspect situation
One of the most notable highlights of Captain Giovanetti’s career was receiving the Walter Witt Award for his leadership in the Senior Burglary Task Force. This multi-agency operation led to the arrest and prosecution of an individual responsible for over 200 burglaries targeting senior communities across multiple counties.
Colleagues describe Captain Giovanetti as a reliable and organized leader, known for his diligence and professionalism. His humility and gratitude for the opportunities afforded to him by Jackson Township have not gone unnoticed, though his peers are quick to remind him that each achievement was well earned.
