Elizabeth Middle School Teacher Busted in Undercover Child Luring Sting, Prosecutors Say

By The Garden State Gazette Staff
ELIZABETH, NJ — January 5

A middle school teacher employed by Elizabeth Public Schools has been arrested and charged in a disturbing undercover investigation targeting online child luring, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.

Prosecutors identified the teacher as Joseph Davicsin, 46, of East Brunswick. Authorities say Davicsin was charged with second-degree luring and third-degree criminal attempt to endanger sexual conduct with a child after allegedly communicating online with what he believed to be a minor.

Law enforcement officials say the “child” was, in reality, an undercover officer.

⚠️ LEGAL DISCLAIMER (READ FIRST)

Important Notice:
The individual named in this article has been arrested and charged, not convicted.
All allegations are based on statements released by law enforcement and court records.
Under New Jersey law, every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

What Authorities Say Happened

According to prosecutors, the arrest stemmed from a multi-agency undercover operation targeting individuals allegedly using social media and online messaging platforms to lure minors for sexual activity.

Authorities say Davicsin allegedly engaged in communications he believed were with a child and took steps consistent with attempting to meet that child. He was arrested without incident.

Prosecutors emphasized that:

• The alleged conduct did not involve any Elizabeth Public Schools students
• The alleged activity occurred outside Union County

School District Moves Quickly

In a letter sent to parents and guardians, Superintendent Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer confirmed the district was notified by the prosecutor’s office and acted immediately.

According to the district:

• Davicsin is no longer employed
• He has been barred from entering any school property
• There is no indication any students were involved

Elizabeth Public Schools said student safety remains its top priority.

A Broader Crackdown

Prosecutors say the arrest was part of a larger undercover sweep designed to expose individuals allegedly seeking sexual contact with minors through digital platforms.

Law enforcement agencies involved include county, local, state, and federal partners. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional charges or arrests have not been ruled out.

Anyone with information related to the case has been asked to contact the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.

Why This Case Is Raising Alarms

Cases involving educators often draw heightened concern because of the position of trust teachers hold within communities. Prosecutors stressed there is no evidence that school facilities were used or that students were targeted, but said aggressive enforcement remains necessary in online spaces.

What Happens Next

Davicsin will face the charges in court, where prosecutors must prove their case. Potential penalties, if convicted, include significant prison time under New Jersey law.

The Garden State Gazette will continue to monitor court filings and official updates.

GSG STANDARD DISCLAIMER

This report is based on information released by law enforcement and public officials.
Updates will be issued as new facts emerge or charges are modified.