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New Jersey man thought he was setting up date with child, but it was a cop and he got arrested, police say

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1 min read
April 30, 2026

Closter, NJ — A 58-year-old Bergen County man faces criminal charges following an undercover investigation into alleged online communications with someone he believed to be a minor, authorities announced Thursday. The case stems from a multi-agency operation targeting online exploitation.

Kenneth G. Belhumer Jr., of Closter, was arrested Wednesday and charged with third-degree attempted child endangerment, according to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office.

Investigation began with undercover operation

The investigation started in November 2025, when the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office worked with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Northeast Field Office on a case involving online interactions with a purported minor.

Authorities say that between May and July 2025, an undercover agent posed as a 14-year-old online. During that time, the suspect allegedly engaged in inappropriate communications and made unlawful requests involving the individual he believed to be a minor.

Investigators later identified a suspect believed to be located in Bergen County.

Search warrant and arrest

On Wednesday, April 29, members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes Unit, along with NCIS agents, executed a search warrant at Belhumer’s residence.

Officials say evidence gathered during the investigation led to his arrest and the filing of the charge.

He was taken into custody and lodged in the Bergen County Jail pending a court appearance in Hackensack.

Key Points
• Closter man charged after alleged online contact with undercover agent posing as minor
• Multi-agency investigation included NCIS and Bergen County cyber crimes detectives
• Suspect remains jailed pending first court appearance

Multi-agency effort

The case involved coordination between several law enforcement agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations and local departments participating in the Bergen County Cyber Crimes Task Force.

Officials credited the joint effort for identifying the suspect and building the case over several months.

Legal status

Belhumer is charged with attempted child endangerment under New Jersey law. Prosecutors emphasized that the charge is an accusation.

He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

What happens next

Belhumer remains in custody awaiting his initial court appearance in Bergen County Superior Court.

Authorities say the case remains active as it proceeds through the legal process.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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