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NJ corrections officers sexually assaulted teen detainee, prosecutors say
By
Catalina Gonella
Published Oct 29, 2024
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Mandel Ngan / Getty Images
By
Catalina Gonella
Published Oct 29, 2024
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Two New Jersey corrections officers have been charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl who was under their supervision.
Gary Nieves, 53, and William Young, 35, were arrested on charges of sexual assault, criminal sexual contact and official misconduct, the state attorney general’s office said on Tuesday.
Prosecutors said the two men repeatedly abused their positions of trust while the detainee, who is currently 18 years old, was at the Female Secure Care and Intake Facility in Burlington County. Nieves was also charged with witness tampering.
Attorney General Matthew Platkin said the system failed the teen, and that she was abused by the same people who were supposed to be protecting her and providing her with care.
“While these alleged acts would be deeply troubling under any circumstances, they're made even more heartbreaking because we know that almost every young person placed in the youth justice system has already endured trauma and pain,” Platkin said. “It is our job, using the evidence-based approaches and treatments and programs as well as the years of rehabilitative experience that we've developed, to build these young people up.”
The criminal complaint alleges Nieves sexually assaulted the victim multiple times in the bathroom under the guise that she was cleaning it. Prosecutors say he brought a mop with him to serve as a prop.
“Upon learning that he was being investigated, Nieves is also alleged to have written a note to the victim telling her to tell investigators that Nieves was like a father figure to her, and that Nieves gives good advice,” said Stephen Ferketic, director of the Division of Criminal Justice.
Young is accused of sexually assaulting the victim in her cell, pretending he was supervising her as she cleaned her room.
“Individuals who guard correctional facilities have the important and difficult responsibility of ensuring those spaces remain safe and secure. This is of particular importance in facilities that are occupied by juveniles and young offenders,” Ferketic said. “The allegations in today's complaint constitute a complete violation of the duties of these positions of trust.”
If convicted, the two corrections officers could each face 10 years in prison.
Platkin said he ordered all other allegations of misconduct that could result in criminal charges to be referred to the Division of Criminal Justice. He urged anyone else who was harmed by the officers or has additional information to come forward.
Authorities have not yet released attorney information for Nieves and Young.
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public safety
new jersey
Catalina Gonella
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