Jim Murdoch

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Nov 27, 2023, 12:08 PM

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Updated

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A former South Toms River Borough Council member and now former head of the Recreation Commission is accused of sex crimes involving a child.

William Gleason appeared in court for his first hearing on Monday after being arrested Saturday by South Toms River police. The state asked for Gleason to remain jailed at least through his detention hearing later this week.

Gleason faces four total counts of sexual assault, including aggravated sexual assault with a victim under the age of 13, aggravated sexual assault with a victim between the ages of 13 and 16 and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

According to South Toms River police, these charges extend over a long period involving the alleged victim. Borough attorney Chris Dasti says Gleason would be "immediately removed from all appointed positions," including the recreation commission.

Gleason also heads the South Toms River Optimist Club, which, according to its website, focuses on service projects that benefit youth and the community.

A judge during Monday’s first appearance set a detention hearing date of this coming Thursday. The prosecutor's office declined any additional comment citing the nature of the case and the age of the alleged victim - which is standard.