Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Barnegat Police Chief Chief Richard Dugan announced the arrest of Jesse Christiansen, 35, of Barnegat, for Attempted Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
According to authorities, just after 9 p.m. on September 13th, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Radio Room received a call of an attempted sexual assault involving an 11-year-old female.
The subsequent investigation by Barnegat Police Det. William Hetrick and Ocean County Prosecutor Special Victims Det. Stephanie Bayha alleges Christiansen offered the victim candy and a wine cooler if she would lift her shirt and allow him to touch her in an inappropriate manner.
Police said the victim did not comply and reported the defendant’s actions to her mother.
Senior Assistant Prosecutor Christine Lento reviewed the investigation and approved the above charges and arrested Christiansen on September 14th.
He is being held on the above charges and on an outstanding warrant for shoplifting.
The public is reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.