Overview
- James Hadley, 66, of Barnegat, was arrested and charged with second-degree sexual assault of a child under 16, second-degree luring, third-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and fourth-degree criminal sexual contact.
- Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds said investigators seized control of the 13-year-old's phone after relatives found messages, then arranged a Pleasantville meeting where detectives arrested Hadley.
- An affidavit cited use of the Zangi Private Messenger app and said Hadley referenced prior paid encounters, with investigators noting he had $200 when he arrived at the residence.
- Prosecutors say the charges stem from at least three incidents in recent months, alleging Hadley previously met the child for sexual acts that he paid the victim to perform.
- Ocean County College suspended Hadley and appointed an interim dean, Kean University ended his adjunct contract, local youth groups cut ties, and authorities asked anyone with information to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office as a detention hearing is set for Wednesday.