Kearny, NJ - Caseworker for DCF Facing Charges of Possession of Child Pornography

DCF Caseworker Arrested For Child Porn Possession

According to Hudson County View, 55-year-old Trent Collier was arrested at the Newark Liberty International Airport located at 3 Brewster Rd, Newark, NJ 07114. 

On Tuesday, September 28, 2021, Collier, a caseworker at the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, was arrested attempting to board a flight to the Dominican Republic. Although the reason has not been released, Collier's luggage was searched by police. Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig reported that they found a cellphone and tablet that both contained images of "sexual abuse depicting prepubescent children."

Police are investigating the allegations and if there are any connections with his work with DCF. Collier has been released on bond. 

Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Misconduct by a Caseworker

Attorney contributor Brian Kent is a child sexual abuse lawyer who represents victims and their families in sexual abuse civil lawsuits. During an interview, Brian provided insight regarding the legal rights of victims sexually abused. 

"State agencies, such as the Department of Child Protective Services, have a legal duty to uphold the safety of the children under their supervision and care. Unfortunately, predators will gain positions within the agency. They often assume roles of power and trust in order to have access to their victims. It is up to the agency to ensure the protection and safety to the best of their ability in order to prevent these predators from being hired in the workplace. This could include extensive background checks prior to hiring and by utilizing a functional reporting system."

"Victims sexually abused by a caseworker or even abuse witnessed by the caseworker may be able to hold the agency liable. They are encouraged to seek the counsel of an experienced a child sexual abuse lawyer to explore their legal rights fully. It is critical to inquire if the agency did everything it could to prevent the abuse. Many times the abuse occurs as a result of negligence on behalf of the agency. If prior sexual misconduct reports were ignored and the caseworker was allowed to continue working, the agency could be found negligent. In certain cases of negligence, the victim and their family may have sufficient grounds for a civil lawsuit against the agency and may even receive compensation."

Sources:

Hudson County View