By BRIAN DONOHUE
Former Red Bank Police Chief James Clayton, who served as the borough’s top law enforcement official from 1995 to 2003, has died, the department announced Sunday.
Here is the statement released by Chief Michael Frazee:
The Red Bank Police Department is saddened to announce the passing of former Red Bank Police Chief James Clayton, a respected law enforcement officer, leader, veteran, husband, father, and grandfather who dedicated decades of his life to serving the Borough of Red Bank and its residents.Chief Clayton joined the Red Bank Police Department in 1970 following his honorable service in the United States Marine Corps, including his service in Vietnam. Upon joining the department, Chief Clayton embarked on a distinguished career in law enforcement, rising through the ranks and ultimately holding every rank within the Red Bank Police Department.
The Clayton family has a long and proud history within the ranks of the Red Bank Police Department. Chief Clayton’s career and commitment to the department represent an important part of that family legacy and the long tradition of service to the Borough of Red Bank.
Throughout his career, Chief Clayton demonstrated a strong commitment to police work and to the community he served. For a period of time, he oversaw the department’s Criminal Investigations Division, where he investigated and supervised major criminal investigations. His experience, knowledge, and leadership made him a respected member of the department and an important resource to the officers who served alongside him.
In 1995, James Clayton was appointed Chief of the Red Bank Police Department, a position he proudly held until his retirement in 2003. During his tenure as Chief, he continued to lead the department with professionalism, dedication, and a deep commitment to the Borough of Red Bank.
Chief Clayton’s service to Red Bank extended far beyond his years in uniform. To the members of the Red Bank Police Department, he will be remembered as a leader who dedicated his life to the profession and to the people he served. His legacy remains an important part of the history and tradition of the Red Bank Police Department.Most importantly, Chief Clayton was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Ellen Clayton, to whom he was married for 53 years, and his two daughters, Jennifer Clayton Belcuore and Kristine Clayton Kuhlthau. He was also a loving grandfather to 10 grandchildren, who meant the world to him.The members of the Red Bank Police Department extend their deepest condolences to the Clayton family during this difficult time. We ask the community to keep Ellen, Jennifer, Kristine, their families, and Chief Clayton’s grandchildren in their thoughts and prayers.Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family. A departmental funeral observance will be planned once arrangements have been finalized.Rest in peace, Chief Clayton. Thank you for your service and your dedication to the Red Bank Police Department and the community you proudly served.redbankgreen editor Brian Donohue may be reached via email at [email protected] or by calling or texting 848-331-8331.
