Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Morristown Police Department Chief Darnell Richardson announce the filing of additional charges against Ruben Gonzalez, 19, of Morristown.
According to officials, Mr. Gonzalez was charged with Leader of an Explicit Images of Minors Network, Possession of Explicit Images of Minors with Intent to Distribute, Distribution of Explicit Images of Minors, Endangering the Welfare of a Minor, Invasion of Privacy, and Computer Criminal Activity.
The defendant was arrested on the above charges on June 27, 2022, following an examination of the defendant’s cell phone.
Officials stated that it is alleged that on or between December 2, 2020, and November 5, 2021, the defendant conspired with others to lead an explicit images of minors network, using the Telegram Application to communicate and coordinate the distribution of explicit images of minors.
It is also alleged that the defendant would use the “Screen Record” option on his cell phone to secretly record and save the explicit activity of the victims without their knowledge or consent.
According to officials, some of the victims of the defendant’s conduct were minors.
The defendant is currently detained at the Morris County Correctional Facility on the above charges and three separate Morris County Indictments charging him with Aggravated Explicit Assault, Endangering the Welfare of a Minor, Criminal Explicit Contact and Invasion of Privacy.
His next court appearance is scheduled for July 12, 2022.