Officials originally believed the fugitive had fled to Mexico after jumping bail in 2002.
The following information is on file with the Burlington County Sheriff’s Department:
Burlington County Sheriff Jean E. Stanfield announced today that her department’s Fugitive Unit, in cooperation with the United States Marshall Service and the New Jersey State Police, has apprehended a fugitive in Suwanee, Ga. wanted for aggravated sexual assault of a minor. The male, age 44, was taken into custody and transported to the Burlington County Detention Center in Mt. Holly on Thursday, April 12.
“This was great work and wonderful interagency cooperation,” Stanfield said. “When law enforcement officials are able to work together, we can make our communities safer for everyone.”
On July 24, 2001, officials say the male was accused of committing aggravated sexual assault on his step-daughter in a hotel room while two other minors were present. One of the minors had managed to flee and alerted the New Jersey State Police. The male was subsequently arrested by State Police and convicted of the crime in the Burlington County Superior Court.
Before sentencing, the male fled and a warrant was issued for his arrest on July 2, 2002.
“It was originally believed that the fugitive had fled to Mexico,” Stanfield said. “However, thanks to the thorough investigating of Sheriff’s Det. Stephen Felder, intelligence was developed that the male was still located in the United States and further identified several persons of interest that could assist with the investigation.”
Upon confirming the current residence of the male, Felder, the United States Marshall Service and the New Jersey State Police traveled to Suwanee, Ga. to apprehend the fugitive.
The male will be additionally charged with bail jumping.
“I am proud that our department continues to demonstrate its effectiveness and ability to apprehend individuals who pose a threat to our communities. I extend my thanks to all parties involved in what was another successful fugitive apprehension,” Stanfield said.
