New jersey family services case worker indicted for sexual assault

Trenton, NJ – An ex-caseworker for the New Jersey Department of Children and Family Services’ Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) faces indictment due to alleged sexual abuse of two minors. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) announced the charges.

Trent L. Collier, 58, formerly from Newark, New Jersey, and now residing in Savannah, Georgia, has been indicted on charges such as sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual contact, attempted aggravated sexual assault, and official misconduct. The allegations include abusive conduct toward two children under his supervision as a DCPP caseworker.

Investigations by the NJSP Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and Homeland Security Investigations revealed that Collier allegedly threatened the first victim with family removal to prevent disclosure of the abuse.

Several abuses reportedly occurred within DCPP facilities and vehicles. The second victim was reportedly exploited through Collier’s professional position and alleged use of his DCPP vehicle in the assault. He also supposedly attempted to bribe the second victim to prevent disclosure.

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the trust violations regarding vulnerable children, saying his office is committed to prosecuting offenders.

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