Eight Arrested in Mercer County Internet Crimes Against Children Investigation

The Mercer County Prosecutor's Office announced the arrests of eight individuals following a months-long investigation targeting alleged online exploitation of children.

The operation, named "Operation Guardian Angel," was conducted by the Mercer County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and focused on identifying individuals accused of using social media platforms to engage in unlawful communications and activities involving minors.

Officials say the investigation began in March 2026 ahead of increased travel and activity expected in New Jersey surrounding the FIFA World Cup, with law enforcement working proactively to identify potential threats to children online.

The following individuals were arrested and charged:

Jose Adolfo Samayoa Ortiz, 51, of Plainfield, NJ Kenneth Davis, 66, of East Haven, CT Erik Gerstenacker, 36, of Hamilton, NJ Joseph Nicosia, 72, of Philadelphia, PA Connor O’Leary, 30, of Moorestown, NJ Brandon Lambert, 40, of Temple, PA Joseph Nesci, 55, of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ Richard Dickenson, 48, of Philadelphia, PA

Charges include allegations of attempted endangering the welfare of a child, attempted luring, attempted sexual assault, and other related offenses.

The investigation was led by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office ICAC Task Force with assistance from the FBI Newark Division, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, New Jersey State Police, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit, and Hamilton Police Division.

Authorities continue to encourage anyone who suspects inappropriate online contact involving children or possible exploitation to report it to law enforcement.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Mercer County, NJ