After more than four decades in law enforcement, William T. Sommeling, who currently serves as Ocean County Undersheriff is closing the books on his lengthy and distinguished career.

“This has been a great run,” Sommeling said about his time in law enforcement. “I would do it all over again.”

Sommeling is retiring from the post as Ocean County Undersheriff in the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office at the end of 2015. Combined, Sommeling has served in that position for about 15 years.

Sommeling started his career in public service in 1955 working for the Borough of Seaside Heights. He served in the Police Department there as patrolman, investigator, undercover agent and sergeant until 1967 when he moved to the larger Dover Township, now Toms River Township Police Department. He also rose to the rank of sergeant there after serving as a patrolman, detective, and investigator. He also was the department’s planning officer and project director for several programs that were funded through state and federal grants. In both towns, he did extensive undercover work on narcotics cases.

Coincidentally, Sommeling worked road patrols with now Ocean County Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy who worked for the Dover Township Police Department.

“I am happy I could work with him and for him,” Sommeling said.

Sommeling first served as Ocean County Undersheriff from 1989 to 2000 under the late Sheriff William L. Polhemus.

He returned to the position in 2011, following the sudden death of Undersheriff Wayne R. Rupert. During 2013, he served as acting sheriff following the death of Sheriff William L. Polhemus and continued on as undersheriff following the election of Mastronardy, who took office in 2014.

“I have worked with a lot of good people,” Sommeling said. “From Sheriff Polhemus and Sheriff Mastronardy, the Board of Chosen Freeholders, to the entire county family, all of these people are dedicated to helping the citizens of Ocean County.”

Sommeling was recognized by the Board of Freeholders during its Dec. 16 meeting.

“Bill has served the citizens of Ocean County well,” said Freeholder John P. Kelly, Director of Law and Public Safety. “He is dedicated to the profession of law enforcement. Whether his time served in Seaside Heights, Toms River, in the Prosecutor’s Office or any other rank he has held, he always put our residents first. He is the consummate professional and we wish him well in retirement.”

Brian Klimakowski, retired Manchester Township Police Chief, will be appointed to the position of Undersheriff and will be sworn in on Jan. 6.

“Brian will do a great job,” Sommeling said. “He is young, energetic and brings a great deal of law enforcement background to the office of Undersheriff. I know he will serve the citizens well.”

Mastronardy said Klimakowski’s duties include overseeing the Ocean County Police Academy, Lakewood, training and technology for the department.

“Undersheriff Sommeling served a key role in helping during my transition,” Mastronardy said. “Having him here provided me with the historical perspective of the office along with a good understanding of the day to day operations. I wish Bill and his wife Pat nothing but the best.”

Sommeling had also served as a Casino Control Commissioner for 11 years including two years as vice chairman prior to returning to the Sheriff’s Office. He was also assigned to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and served as the Deputy Director of the Ocean County Narcotics Bureau where he was in charge of all of its field operations.

Sommeling said that during his tenure in law enforcement, some of the greatest challenges came from weather related events.

Most recently, Sommeling served as the County’s emergency management coordinator during Superstorm Sandy which struck on his birthday – Oct. 29 in 2012.

“The velocity of Sandy was so intense and when it was over we were devastated,” Sommeling said of the storm that slammed the coast. “The work to put the County back together again was one of the greatest challenges we faced. And while that work continues it was many helping hands that got us back on our feet.”

Sommeling reflected on his time in law enforcement saying you are a police officer 24/7.

“It’s on your mind all the time,” Sommeling said.

He noted that the most satisfying times is when you know your actions have helped someone.

“We help people in all kinds of situations,” he said. “Whether working a patrol or helping collect toys at Christmas, we reach out to the less fortunate and we provide a sense of comfort and stability to all our residents.”

Sommeling’s philosophy about the job is simple – anytime you can help someone, do it.

“Police officers are a big part of the community,” Sommeling said. “Our actions make a difference.”

As he prepares to leave office Sommeling said he will spend his leisure time visiting friends and family and spending time with his children, his 14 grandchildren and his eight great-grandchildren.

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