A senior college official is accused of targeting a minor in a case spanning multiple incidents this month.
TOMS RIVER, NJ – He was named Dean at Ocean County College just two months ago, now, he’s sitting in an Atlantic County jail. A 66-year-old Ocean County man who recently served as a college dean was arrested Friday after traveling to Atlantic County to meet a juvenile for a sexual encounter, authorities said. The arrest followed an investigation into multiple alleged incidents involving a victim under the age of 16, culminating in charges that include sexual assault and luring.
Key Points
- Ocean County man arrested Friday in Pleasantville during planned meeting with a minor
- Prosecutors allege at least three incidents involving a victim under 16 this month
- Suspect, identified as a college dean, has been suspended and barred from campus
James Hadley, of Barnegat, was taken into custody on Friday after arriving at a predetermined location in Pleasantville, where detectives were waiting, according to the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities said the meeting had been arranged as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged sexual contact with a minor.
Prosecutors charged Hadley with second-degree sexual assault of a victim under 16, second-degree luring, third-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and fourth-degree criminal sexual contact. The charges stem from at least three alleged encounters reported earlier this month.
Investigation details prior encounters with juvenile
According to investigators, Hadley had previously met the juvenile on at least two occasions, during which he allegedly engaged in sexual acts and paid the minor. Those prior incidents led to increased scrutiny and coordination between local police and the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit.
Authorities said the arrest was made before any additional contact could occur during Friday’s planned meeting.
College responds with suspension and restrictions
Ocean County College confirmed that Hadley had recently been appointed dean of the School of Business and Social Sciences. In a statement issued Monday, the college said it was notified by law enforcement Friday afternoon and took immediate administrative action.
The institution said Hadley has been suspended and is no longer permitted on campus. An interim dean has been appointed while the investigation continues. College officials also stated there had been no prior complaints or reports regarding his conduct during his employment.
The case remains under investigation. Prosecutors have filed a motion seeking pre-trial detention. After the arrest, Ocean County College removed Hadely’s profile page and biography from the college website.
