Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Prospect Park Police Chief Charlie Atie announce that Julio Mejia, 39, currently of Wharton was arrested for the sexual assault of a juvenile whom he encountered as a passenger during the course of his part-time employment as a ride-share driver.
Official say the alleged sexual conduct occurred between August 18, 2019 and September 24, 2019.
At the time of his arrest, Julio Mejia was an active member of the armed services according to officials.
After investigation, Julio Mejia was charged with two counts of Sexual Assault, second degree, one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, third degree, and two counts of Criminal Sexual Contact, fourth degree, for sexually assaulting the juvenile female.
Sexual Assault, second degree, carries a maximum term of ten years in New Jersey State Prison, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, third degree, carries a maximum term of five years in New Jersey State Prison and Criminal Sexual Contact, fourth degree, carries a maximum term of 18 months in New Jersey State Prison.
The State has filed a motion for the pretrial detention of Mr. Mejia, which is scheduled to be heard on Tuesday, February 4, before the Honorable Donna Gallucio, a Judge of the Superior Court.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.