Ex DCF worker admits taking cash in scheme tied to confidential child welfare cases
Trenton, NJ – A former New Jersey Department of Children and Families employee admitted to posing as a caseworker and taking illegal payments from individuals seeking help with sensitive child welfare matters, according to state prosecutors.
Susaida Nazario, 44, of Trenton, pleaded guilty Monday in Mercer County Superior Court to third-degree theft by deception, the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office announced.
Investigators said Nazario falsely represented herself as a Department of Children and Families caseworker while employed as a technical assistant in the agency’s Information Technology Division.
Authorities alleged that between January and August 2021, Nazario solicited and accepted money from an individual connected to a case handled by the Division of Child Protection and Permanency.
According to prosecutors, Nazario claimed she could provide assistance with the case and offered to improperly disclose confidential information in exchange for payments.
State officials emphasized that DCF records are protected by law due to the sensitive nature of child welfare investigations and the need to safeguard children and families.
As part of a plea agreement, Nazario forfeited all public employment and will be permanently barred from holding any public office or government position in New Jersey.
Prosecutors are expected to recommend probation with a condition requiring Nazario to serve 180 days in county jail. She will also be required to pay restitution.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 17.
The case was prosecuted by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability’s Corruption Bureau.
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Key Points
- Former DCF employee pleaded guilty in illegal payment scheme
- Prosecutors say she falsely posed as a caseworker for cash
- Defendant permanently barred from future public employment in New Jersey