New Jersey prosecutors are notorious for the aggressive prosecution of sex crimes, particularly sex crimes involving young children. Unfortunately, not everyone accused of a sex crime is guilty. Nevertheless, the mere allegation of child sexual abuse is enough to cause untold damage to an individual’s reputation. Furthermore, it is often those who devote their lives to helping children that are the most vulnerable to false accusations.
A New Jersey teacher’s aide is being accused of sex crimes following allegations that he molested a boy in his preschool class three years ago. According to officials at the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, the young boy allegedly told his mother that the man molested him several times while he attended School No. 17 in Passaic. The boy was reportedly between the ages of 3 and 5 and was a member of the man’s class when the alleged sexual assault occurred.
Since the allegations have been brought forward, prosecutors have charged the man with endangering the welfare of a child, sexual assault and official misconduct. According to authorities the 62-year-old teacher’s aide is currently without legal counsel and he is being held on $200,000 bail. If the man is convicted of the sexual assault charge he could face years behind bars, probation and registration as a sexual offender.
Individuals accused of sex crimes involving young children face an uphill battle in today’s society. Despite the presumption of innocence that is central to the U.S. legal system, over zealous prosecutors and media outlets obsessed with headlines can easily turn that presumption on its head. A criminal defense attorney, however, will help ensure that those accused of crimes receive the fair and impartial trial they are entitled to.
Source: NBC New York, “New Jersey Teacher’s Aide Accused of Molestation: Prosecutors,” Sept. 13, 2013