Raritan NJ
8-11-2025 3:43pm

Former Manville Police Chief Thomas Herbst was sentenced on August 11

On Monday morning, August 11, a long-running case in Somerset County Superior Court came to a close as former Manville Police Chief Thomas Herbst was sentenced. Proceedings began at approximately 9:47 a.m., marking the end of a legal process that has stretched across months of hearings, motions, and delays.

Herbst, found guilty by a jury back in February, faced multiple charges. The final sentencing included:

  • Three counts of official misconduct, second degree – 7 years each

  • One count of pattern of official misconduct, second degree – 7 years

  • One count of sexual assault, second degree – 7 years

  • One count of criminal sexual contact, fourth degree – 1 year

While the charges add up to 36 years, the judge ruled that the sentences will run concurrently, meaning Herbst will serve 7 years in prison. He will receive 2 days of time-served credit and must complete 85% of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Once released, he will remain under lifetime parole supervision.

A request from the defense for “Bail Pending Appeal” was denied. Herbst was immediately taken into custody from the courtroom—without being handcuffed in front of those present. He has 45 days to file an appeal, with the option of requesting an additional 30 days if necessary.

The case has been closely watched in the community. Originally scheduled for sentencing in April, the process was delayed multiple times as defense motions—including one for a Judgment of Acquittal—were considered and ultimately denied. The final sentencing date was shifted from Tuesday, August 12, to Monday, August 11.

Herbst’s conviction was unanimous by the jury. The community will now watch as the case moves into the appeals stage.

Raritan Neighbors will continue following developments in this case.

More News from Raritan
I'm interested
I disagree with this
This is unverified
Spam
Offensive