BERKELEY, NJ – An off-duty police officer in Toms River was arrested after allegedly breaking into a home, assaulting two individuals, and threatening to set the house on fire, according to authorities.
Rebecca A. Sayegh, a Toms River Police Officer, reportedly smashed the front door of her ex-boyfriend’s house on Evernham Avenue in Berkeley on Friday, April 25, 2025, just before 11:30 p.m.. She used her baton to force entry into the residence, where she confronted both her ex-boyfriend and a woman who was at the home.
Court documents reveal that Sayegh became involved in a heated argument with the two, which quickly escalated into physical violence. She allegedly pushed and hit both individuals during the altercation. When the victims attempted to stop her, Sayegh reportedly destroyed personal items and damaged the wall pictures in the living room.
Authorities also claim that Sayegh damaged the hood of one of the victims’ vehicles parked outside the home before continuing her violent actions inside. As she walked away from the scene, she allegedly threatened to set the house on fire.
Sayegh, who had been previously involved in a sexual harassment lawsuit against her department, now faces a range of charges, including assault, burglary, terroristic threats, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest. The officer was suspended without pay from the Toms River Police Department following her arrest.
Her lawyer, Terrance Turnbach, stated that Sayegh understands the seriousness of the accusations and remains committed to cooperating throughout the legal process. “She has proudly served her community for nearly nine years,” Turnbach added, noting that Sayegh would take appropriate steps to resolve the issue.
Currently, Sayegh remains at Ocean County Jail and is scheduled for her first court appearance on Friday, May 2, 2025.
