MORRISTOWN, N.J. — A U.S. Border Patrol agent from Michigan is facing multiple charges in New Jersey after an investigation found he allegedly communicated online with an undercover officer he believed to be a minor, prosecutors announced Friday.
Harry Peless, 51, of Newport, Michigan, was charged July 25 following an investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Officials say the investigation began in September 2024.
Authorities allege that Peless exchanged messages with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, who was in fact an undercover law enforcement officer. He is also accused of sending videos and other material during those communications.
Peless is currently employed as a Border Patrol agent with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
He has been charged with one count of second-degree attempted sexual assault, one count of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child involving distribution of prohibited material, one count of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child, one count of third-degree obscenity, and one count of fourth-degree attempted criminal sexual conduct.
Officials did not release additional details regarding his detention status or employment situation.
