Juveniles in New Jersey facing sexual assault accusations

Being charged with a juvenile sex offense in New Jersey is something that should be taken very seriously. If not properly defended against, a conviction could mean having to register as a sex offender, which is something that can negatively affect the rest of a young person’s life.

Right now, there are seven juveniles in Lower Township, New Jersey, who are certainly fearful for their future. This is due to the fact that all seven are facing charges related to an alleged sexual assault that took place at an outdoor gathering on March 15.

Aside from the seven juveniles, there is one adult who is also facing charges. The 18-year-old woman is facing child endangerment and conspiracy to endanger an injured victim charges.

For the juveniles, the charges range from conspiracy to aggravated sexual assault.

In looking at what happened, while the details are sparse, it was reported that some of the people involved had been drinking alcohol.

Overall, parents should remember that being charged with a sex offense as a juvenile is a very serious accusation. Not only could a conviction result in consequences, such as time in a detention center, but it is not always possible to be removed from a sex offender registry. This would mean that an adult would continue to be punished for a conviction that took place before turning 18.

Regardless of the charge, if it is related to an alleged sexual assault, even if it is just a conspiracy charge, parents should reach out to an attorney with experience handling juvenile sex offenses cases.

To learn more, visit our Atlantic County juvenile sex offenses page.

Source: nj.com, “Adult, 7 youths charged in alleged NJ sex assault,” March 23, 2013