HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — Hunterdon County Sheriff Fred Brown has honored Officer Raymond Scarpa III and Investigator Jarren Mann as the county’s 2025 Officers of the Year, citing their professionalism, vigilance and commitment to public safety.
The recognition highlights two separate incidents in which law enforcement actions prevented potentially dangerous situations from escalating and ensured the safety of county employees and the public, the sheriff’s office said.
Scarpa, a member of the Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office since 2018, was recognized for his actions at the Hunterdon County Justice Center shortly after returning from an extended military deployment. While assigned to a routine security post, Scarpa detected a firearm during X-ray screening at the courthouse entrance. His response led to the recovery of a .45-caliber handgun with a high-capacity magazine and the arrest of the individual involved.
“Officer Scarpa exemplifies the highest standard of public service. His awareness, calm demeanor, and quick action ensured the safety of everyone inside our Justice Center that day,” Brown said.
In a departure from tradition, Brown also recognized a second Officer of the Year. Investigator Mann was honored for his leadership and command presence during an incident involving reports of a firearm and an attempted carjacking near the county Human Services building.
Officials said Mann’s prompt and tactical control of the scene was instrumental in safely taking the suspect into custody without injury to officers or civilians.
“Investigator Mann’s actions were critical in preventing a potentially dangerous encounter from escalating,” Brown said. “This is exactly the type of professionalism and judgement we expect and are proud to recognize withing the Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office.”
Brown congratulated both officers and emphasized the importance of vigilance in law enforcement.
“These two officers remind us that even routine assignments can change in an instant. Because of their dedication and preparedness, our community was kept safe,” he said.
