By: Richard L. Smith
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone reported that a New Brunswick man is facing charges in connection with a series of unsettling incidents involving sexual contact and attempted sexual contact targeting women near the Rutgers University College Avenue Campus.
These alarming occurrences occurred in the evening hours of October 30 and October 31, 2023, in the areas of Bishop Place, Sicard Street, and the intersection of Hamilton Street and Easton Avenue.
Police say the incidents occurred after two female Rutgers students independently reported on October 30, 2023, that they had been inappropriately touched on October 30 by an unknown male.
The following day, on Halloween, another female Rutgers student came forward, October 31, that the same unknown male had attempted to inappropriately touch her, though she managed to escape his advances.
The investigation into these disturbing events was led by Detective Ryan Stolte of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office, Detective Jeff Monticello of the New Brunswick Police Department, and Sergeant Matthew Oblad of the Rutgers University Police Department.
Through their diligent efforts, the previously unidentified male was identified as Jose Paulino II, a 32-year-old resident of New Brunswick.
On October 31, 2023, Jose Paulino II was taken into custody and charged with fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact, fourth-degree Attempted Criminal Sexual Contact, Harassment, and Simple Assault.
Police said on November 1, 2023, an additional charge of fourth-degree Criminal contact was brought against him.
This investigation remains active and ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward and assist in the efforts to ensure justice.
Detectives can be reached at the following contact numbers: Detective Jeff Monticello of the New Brunswick Police Department, 732-745-5217; Sergeant Donovan Robinson of the Rutgers Police Department, 848-932-4845; or Detective Ryan Stolte of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office Special Victims Unit, 732-745-4045.
The community, particularly Rutgers students and residents of the affected areas, are encouraged to report any information that is pertinent to this ongoing investigation.