Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice have announced charges against two senior corrections officers from the Juvenile Justice Commission. The officers are accused of sexually assaulting a female resident at the Female Secure Care and Intake Facility in Bordentown, New Jersey.

Gary Nieves, 53, from Burlington City, faces multiple charges including four counts of sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, witness tampering, and official misconduct. William Young, 35, from Marlton, is charged with sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, and official misconduct.

Attorney General Platkin stated: “We will not tolerate people in positions of power using their authority to abuse those in their care. The allegations facing these officers...warrant serious consequences.” He expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Division of Criminal Justice and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability.

J. Stephen Ferketic, Director of the Division of Criminal Justice added: “I am grateful to the team of DCJ detectives and prosecutors who swiftly and diligently investigated this deeply troubling conduct.”

The complaint alleges that on August 14, 2024, information was received about unlawful sexual contact by Nieves and Young with a resident at the facility known as the Hayes Unit. The victim confirmed these allegations. The incidents reportedly occurred in various locations within the facility.

If convicted, both Nieves and Young could face up to 10 years in state prison for each count related to sexual assault and official misconduct.

Deputy Attorney General Nicole Siano is prosecuting the case under Bureau Chief Laura Magnone's supervision along with DCJ Deputy Director Jillian Carpenter.

The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The investigation continues with authorities urging anyone with relevant information to contact Lieutenant Garrett Brown at (609) 273-8631.