Many of our New Jersey readers may have heard about an alleged kidnapping case that recently made the news headlines. A 34-year-old man from Rockaway was arrested due to his alleged involvement in the case, and will now face a number of felony charges – including sex crimes charges.
According to the reports, the suspect will face three second degree crimes: one count each of attempted kidnapping, luring and sexual assault. He will face two third degree charges: one count of terroristic threats and one count of endangering the welfare of a child. Lastly, he will face one fourth degree charge, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
All of these charges stem from allegations that the 34-year-old suspect approached two different 5-year-old boys on two separate occasions. The first incident allegedly occurred on August 28, wherein the victim reportedly stated that the suspect made contact with his genitals while the boy was using the restroom at the Rockaway Mall. The second incident allegedly occurred on September 10, wherein the victim in that instance reportedly stated that the suspect had approached him and threatened to cut him if he did not go with the suspect. The second incident reportedly occurred at the Target in Rockaway Township.
A criminal conviction on any one of these charges will likely make life extremely difficult for the suspect going forward. The first step is to examine all of the evidence and statements that the law enforcement officials have gathered in this case to determine the best possible course for a criminal defense strategy. Evidence that was gathered improperly could be suppressed, and any proposed testimony from eyewitnesses could be subject to a rigorous cross-examination if the statements come from a witness whose credibility is shaky.