Repeat Child Sex Offender Sentenced to 18 Years in NJ

UPDATE: A 60-year-old man from Pleasantville, New Jersey, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for sexually assaulting multiple children. This urgent case highlights a shocking history of evading the state’s sex offender registry, raising serious concerns about public safety.

Jose Castro-Vega, previously convicted of sexual crimes against minors, was sentenced on October 30, 2023, by Superior Court Judge Donna Taylor. He pleaded guilty to serious charges, including first-degree aggravated sexual assault, second-degree sexual assault, and fourth-degree criminal sexual contact. Prosecutors confirmed he preyed on 11 victims, many of whom were under the age of 13.

Castro-Vega’s criminal history dates back to 1992, when he was placed on New Jersey’s Megan’s Law list. Following his release in 1998, he failed to register as a sex offender, moving out of state without fulfilling legal obligations. His latest arrest in 2023 came after new allegations surfaced, prompting a comprehensive investigation by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office’s Special Victims Unit.

The investigation, initiated on October 27, 2023, revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse, with Castro-Vega accused of drugging some of his victims to facilitate sexual acts. The case expanded rapidly, with authorities uncovering allegations from as far back as 2021. Within days of his arrest, three additional juvenile victims were identified, increasing the total known victims to 11.

During the plea agreement, Castro-Vega admitted to sexually assaulting seven victims and engaging in inappropriate contact with four others. If released after his sentence, he will be required to register under Megan’s Law and will be subject to lifetime parole supervision.

This case underscores a critical failure in the system that allowed Castro-Vega to evade justice for so long. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office aims to ensure that victims are heard and protected, as they continue to investigate any further allegations that may arise.

As this story develops, authorities encourage anyone with additional information to come forward. This case serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges in safeguarding vulnerable populations from repeat offenders.

Stay tuned for more updates on this case and its implications for community safety.