By: Richard L. Smith
Thomas G. Rutledge, 37, of Green Lane, PA, has been arrested on charges of luring and endangering the welfare of a minor after an investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and Teaneck Police Department.
Authorities allege that Rutledge contacted a minor under 16 through Snapchat and engaged in explicit conversations before arranging transportation to meet at a Teaneck hotel.
After a months-long investigation, Rutledge was identified and arrested at his Pennsylvania residence by state police, with assistance from Homeland Security.
He is currently being held at the Bucks County Correctional Facility, awaiting extradition to Bergen County.
The investigation began on February 19, 2024, when Teaneck police alerted the Special Victims Unit about the incident.
Authorities were able to trace the Snapchat user to Rutledge, who now faces serious charges, including second-degree luring and third-degree endangering the welfare of a minor.
Prosecutor Mark Musella commended the work of law enforcement agencies involved in the case and emphasized the importance of monitoring and regulating online interactions to protect minors from potential harm.
The case highlights the dangers that social media platforms can pose, especially when used to exploit young individuals.
Rutledge’s arrest and pending extradition to New Jersey reflect a coordinated effort between local and federal authorities to address the issue of child exploitation and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Authorities urge parents and guardians to be vigilant about their children’s online activities and to report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately.