An off-duty police officer from New Jersey has been arrested following a violent home invasion in which she allegedly forced her way into a house and assaulted two residents inside. The incident occurred late Friday night in Berkeley Township, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
Officer reportedly smashed through the glass door before attacking residents
Rebecca A. Sayegh, a 32-year-old officer with the Toms River Police Department, is accused of breaking the front glass door of a home on Evernhan Avenue around 11:30 p.m. before attacking and threatening the people inside. Prior to the break-in, prosecutors say she damaged the hood of one of the victim’s vehicles parked in the driveway.
Authorities have not confirmed any relationship between Sayegh and the victims.
Officer previously filed harassment lawsuit against department
Sayegh’s arrest follows a previous lawsuit she filed against her department, in which she alleged she was subjected to sexual harassment and denied promotions in what she described as a “boys club” workplace culture.
Despite her prior recognition, including being honored for rescuing a woman and pets from a burning home, she now faces multiple charges stemming from the recent incident.
Charges include assault, burglary, and resisting arrest
Police say Sayegh resisted arrest before being taken into custody at the scene. She has been charged with home invasion burglary, assault, criminal mischief, terroristic threats, and resisting arrest. She is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail awaiting a detention hearing.
When asked for comment, Toms River Police Lt. Ron Sermarini told the Asbury Park Press, “As per our chief of police, we do not have a comment on the matter and refer all inquiries to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.”
