In July 2024, Bergen County law enforcement charged a Demarest man with aggravated sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child after an investigation by the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P). The DCP&P contacted law enforcement because of allegations of the sexual assault of a minor under 13. Allegations made to the DCP&P may result in criminal charges, as they must report these concerns to law enforcement. NJ law requires aggressive reporting and legal responses when allegations of sexual crimes are made, and law enforcement is required to report to the local prosecutor quickly. For these reasons, charges of sex crimes can happen very quickly in NJ during a DCP&P investigation.

If you are charged with a sex crime in NJ, particularly if it involves alleged abuse of a child or family member, you need immediate legal representation. The Lento Law Firm Team can represent you both criminally and in a DCP&P investigation should any charges result. Call 888-535-3686 or leave your details online, and we will contact you.

DCP&P Investigations and Subsequent Charges

The DCP&P is responsible for protecting children in NJ, which is important. However, when allegations are made during an investigation, even when the allegations are groundless, they must take a “better safe than sorry” approach. This aggressive approach means that you can find yourself facing allegations of abuse, including sex crimes, very quickly.

Common Sex Crimes in NJ

Sex crimes are some of the most damaging allegations that can be made against a person. Sex crimes under NJ law include both misdemeanor and felony charges, and the consequences are severe. Some of the most serious of these crimes are:

• Rape, which is a second-degree sexual assault.
• Aggravated sexual assault, which involves penetration of a victim under 13 or someone 13-16 with whom the defendant has a familial relationship or disciplinary power.
• Endangerment of a child may involve allowing a child to participate in unlawful sexual activity and is a first-degree offense if the person charged is a parent or guardian.
• Indecent exposure, a fourth-degree offense that involves exposing intimate parts to a child or a person lacking the mental capacity to understand.

NJ law recognizes several defenses to sex crimes, including objective innocence and insufficient evidence.

Sex Offender Registration

The consequences of a sex crime conviction in NJ can be severe, including a lifetime requirement to register as a sexual offender. The registry displays the offender's name and address, a description of the crime, and a recent photograph. All this information is available online. Failure to register or report status changes (such as employment or housing) can lead to serious penalties.

How the Lento Law Firm Can Help

A DCP&P investigation can be a daunting and life-altering experience, especially if it leads to allegations of abuse of a child. The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team understands your challenges and will guide you through the DCP&P process and legal defense if abuse allegations arise. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or contact us online, and we will promptly contact you.