Freehold man convicted in gunpoint sexual assault attack on teen

Freehold man convicted in gunpoint sexual assault attack on teen

by
February 5, 2026
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FREEHOLD, NJ – A borough man has been convicted following a trial tied to a 2023 attempted sexual assault and armed robbery at a Manalapan park, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Thursday.

After a two-week trial before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Paul X. Escandon, 48-year-old Anthony Burke was found guilty of first-degree attempted aggravated sexual assault, first-degree armed robbery, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon.

The case stemmed from an incident on August 14, 2023, when Manalapan Township police responded at about 9:48 p.m. to Thompson Grove Park for a reported armed robbery. Investigators determined the suspect forced his way into a 19-year-old woman’s vehicle and attempted to sexually assault her at gunpoint.

Authorities said the victim was robbed of her phone, keys, and cash before managing to break free and run to a nearby home for help. Police said she was able to escape before the assault was completed.

An extensive investigation followed, incorporating witness statements, a composite sketch, surveillance review, cellular phone analysis, digital forensic work, and vehicle location data. Those efforts ultimately identified Burke as the suspect.

  • Defendant convicted on four felony counts following jury trial
  • Crime occurred at Thompson Grove Park in August 2023
  • Victim escaped and sought help after alleged attack

The investigation was led by the Manalapan Township Police Department with assistance from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes, Special Victims, and High Tech Bureaus, along with the Freehold Township and Freehold Borough police departments, the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, and the New Jersey State Police Forensic Imaging Unit.

Prosecutors said the jury determined Burke qualifies as a repeat violent offender based on prior convictions. As a result, he faces a mandatory sentence of 20 years to life in New Jersey State Prison when he is sentenced Monday, May 18, 2026.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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