Ride-share driver charged with sexually assaulting young passenger – NorthJersey.com

An active military member and ride-share driver was arrested Thursday and charged with sexually assaulting a juvenile passenger, according to authorities.

Julio Mejia, 39, of Wharton, is accused of assaulting the girl between Aug. 18, 2019 and Sept. 24, 2019 while providing her with a ride in Prospect Park, said Camelia Valdes, Passaic County Prosecutor.

Mejia is charged with two counts of sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child and two counts of criminal sexual contact.

A pretrial detention hearing is scheduled for Tuesday before Judge Donna Gallucio. If convicted, Mejia could face up to 16 years in prison.

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Kaitlyn Kanzler covers Essex County for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: kanzler@northjersey.com Twitter: @KaitlynKanzler8

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