A local official in Brick was arrested at his home on Wednesday and charged with taking cash payments to use the township’s recreation facilities and then pocketing the money.
Daniel Santaniello, 46, allegedly issued fake permits to private organizations for use of the softball fields, kept the money, and issued fake permits, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said.
He is accused of forcing some of the cash payments.
“This investigation remains active and ongoing,” Billhimer said.
Santaniello became Brick’s recreation director in 2015 and was named Professional of the Year by the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association in 2016. He grew up in Brick. His annual salary is $135,409.
He is charged with theft and forgery.