January 8, 2008: On January 8, 2008, a Morris County Grand Jury returned a six count indictment charging Eric C. Rangel, age 20, of Lake Hiawatha, with:

• one count of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault
• one count of Second Degree Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault
• one count of Second Degree Sexual Assault
• one count of Second Degree Aggravated Assault
• one count of Third Degree Criminal Restraint
• one count of Fourth Degree Obstructing Administration of Law

The charges stem from an incident which occurred on April 22, 2007 in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township. The victim, an 18 year old female, was walking home from a party when she was allegedly chased and assaulted by the defendant. Neighbors allegedly observed the victim being chased and called 911. The defendant allegedly caught up to the victim and then allegedly physically and sexually assaulted her. The defendant was apprehended by police at the scene.

The defendant is currently lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $500,000.00 bail.

If convicted of the charges, the defendant faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately 20 years, subject to the No Early Release Act, Parole Supervision for Life and Megan's Law.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Meg Rodriguez, Esq. The defendant is represented by Neil Q. Hamilton, Esq., of Morristown.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio