Trenton, NJ – Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, Lawrence Township Police Chief Christopher Longo, and Trenton Police Director Steve Wilson announced the arrest of Gerald Araya, a local restaurant owner, for multiple sexual assaults following a complex investigation.
Araya, 44, of Ewing, NJ, was arrested on Wednesday afternoon in Trenton. He faces charges including five counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, one count of first-degree sexual assault, two counts of second-degree sexual assault, one count of first-degree kidnapping, two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact, and one count of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child. A motion to detain Araya pending trial has been filed.
On June 19, 2024, search warrants were executed at Araya’s residence in Ewing Township and at three of his establishments in Trenton: El Catador Lounge Restaurant, Dubai Restaurant & Lounge, and Mill Hill Restaurant & Lounge. Araya was taken into custody outside Mill Hill Restaurant & Lounge without incident.
The investigation began last month when a young woman reported a sexual assault to Trenton police. During a job interview at Dubai Restaurant & Lounge, Araya asked the victim to visit his other establishments. At another bar, Araya made drinks for the victim, who later felt ill and wanted to go home. She later woke up naked and being sexually assaulted by Araya at a Lawrence Township motel.
Further investigation by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Trenton Police Department, and Lawrence Township Police Department identified three additional victims who previously worked for Araya.
Prosecutor Onofri praised the collaborative effort of law enforcement, stating, “This investigation was a cooperative effort demonstrating the success of law enforcement working together. The brave women who came forward played a crucial role in ensuring this predator was removed from the streets.”
Director Wilson emphasized the victims’ courage and the dedication of the detectives, particularly Trenton Police SVU Detective Lizmary Rivera and ABC Detective Cathiria Colon. He stated, “This collaborative effort could not have been achieved without the resources and assistance of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and the Lawrence Township Police Department.”
Chief Longo underscored the collective dedication to justice, stating, “The arrest of Gerald Araya highlights our commitment to bringing justice to victims of sexual assault through strong partnerships and collaboration.”
The investigation continues, and law enforcement encourages any other victims or individuals with information to come forward.
