Ex-Stafford Educator Indicted on Child Sex Abuse Charges, Prosecutor Says

Ocean County Grand Jury Expands Case as Investigation Continues

A former educator with prior ties to Stafford Township has been indicted by an Ocean County grand jury on child sex abuse–related charges, prosecutors announced.

The defendant, Darnell Williams, 34, of Manchester Township, is facing additional criminal counts as part of an ongoing, multi-county investigation, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

Grand Jury Indictment

Prosecutors said the Ocean County grand jury returned an indictment charging Williams with Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

According to authorities, the indicted conduct is alleged to have occurred between 2010 and 2013 and involved a minor female who was in Williams’ care in Manchester Township. Officials emphasized that an indictment represents a finding of probable cause, not a determination of guilt.

Prior Charges and Detention in Atlantic County

The Ocean County indictment follows separate criminal cases in Atlantic County, where prosecutors say Williams is already being held in custody.

Authorities have stated that Williams faces multiple counts in Atlantic County, including:

• Sexual Assault
• Endangering the Welfare of a Child
• Official Misconduct

Prosecutors said Williams was served with the Ocean County charges while detained at the Atlantic County Jail.

Additional Allegations Under Investigation

Prosecutors have also disclosed that separate charges were filed earlier alleging that between 2020 and 2023, Williams engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor female in Manchester Township and Stafford Township.

Officials have said the investigation remains active and ongoing, and that additional alleged victims may exist as detectives continue interviewing witnesses and reviewing evidence.

Prosecutor’s Statement

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward and contact investigators. Authorities stressed that cooperation from potential witnesses is critical to determining the full scope of the alleged conduct.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties

Williams remains in custody as the cases proceed through the court system. No public statement has been issued by his defense regarding the Ocean County indictment.

If convicted, Williams could face significant prison time, given the nature of the charges, the alleged age of the victims, and the existence of multiple cases across counties.

Broader Implications

The case has renewed attention on school safety, reporting mechanisms, and oversight involving educators. Prosecutors and child-advocacy groups continue to stress the importance of prompt reporting and thorough investigations when allegations of abuse surface.

Legal Disclaimer

All allegations described in this article are based on statements from prosecutors and court filings. An indictment is not a conviction. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.