Overview
- Prosecutors say the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit led the operation with local police, the FBI Newark office and Homeland Security Investigations.
- Arrests occurred between December 8 and 15 after online exchanges on social media and messaging apps led targets to the designated location.
- Most defendants face second-degree luring and third-degree attempted endangering charges, with several also accused of distributing obscene material to a minor.
- Those charged range in age from 23 to 65 and include an Elizabeth middle school teacher and a Youth Rise program coordinator at Passaic County Community College.
- Officials say the probe remains active and emphasize the presumption of innocence, while a defense attorney for one defendant says his client maintains his innocence.