A man from Union County, New Jersey, has been charged with serious crimes involving child pornography and the enticement of a minor. U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced the charges against 26-year-old Jack Wilder of Somerville, New Jersey. Wilder, a history teacher from Plainfield, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark after being charged with one count of possession of child pornography and two counts of enticement of a minor.
The charges stem from allegations that Wilder communicated with a minor via a mobile payment app, offering payment for sexual acts. The complaint alleges that Wilder received sexually explicit images from the minor. Furthermore, upon returning from an international trip in July 2024, law enforcement searched Wilder’s phone and discovered child sexual abuse material and explicit conversations with other alleged minors.
“These charges are the most recent example of this office’s dedication to protecting children in our community. We are tirelessly committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that individuals who victimize and prey on the vulnerable are brought to justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.
Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge at Homeland Security Investigations Newark, emphasized the impact on society's vulnerable members, saying, “Our children are the most innocent members of society and they should never be victimized by anyone, particularly by those in positions of trust such as teachers.”
Charges of possession of child pornography could result in a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Each count of enticement carries a statutory minimum of 10 years, the potential for a life sentence, and a $250,000 fine.
The case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation. The government’s investigation received support from Homeland Security Investigations Newark led by Ricky J. Patel, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey S. Smith.
It is important to note that the allegations are accusations at this stage, and Wilder, like any defendant, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Defense counsel for Wilder is Candace Hom, Esq.