By: Richard L. Smith
Three New Jersey men are facing a series of serious criminal charges stemming from an investigation into the explicit exploitation and abuse of a minor, according to a statement released by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport, along with the Division of Criminal Justice, announced that the charges include human trafficking, aggravated explicit assault, and promoting the prostitution of a child.
Authorities allege the crimes involved the exploitation of a 13-year-old victim.
Mickael Derius, 30, of Newark, is charged with first-degree human trafficking of a minor, first-degree aggravated sexual assault of a minor by aiding and abetting, first-degree promoting the prostitution of a minor, two counts of second-degree explicit assault, and third-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Terry D. Nero, 44, of Elizabeth, has been charged with first-degree aggravated sexual assault of a minor by aiding and abetting, four counts of second-degree explicit assault, second-degree promoting the prostitution of a minor, and third-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Jonathan O. Ramirez, 29, of East Orange, is charged with four counts of first-degree manufacturing and filming the explicit assault of a minor, second-degree sexual assault of a minor, and third-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, investigators allege that the defendants played different roles in targeting and exploiting the young victim, actions prosecutors say have long-lasting and devastating consequences.
State officials emphasized that cases involving the explicit contact and trafficking of children remain a top enforcement priority. 
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and additional details may be released as the case proceeds through the court system.