Bound Brook man held on $50,000 cash bail
By:Charlie Olsen
A 21-year-old Bound Brook man was charged with sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child by having sexual relations with a 15-year-old Hillsborough girl.
Edicson Arias was taken into custody Friday following an interview with detectives from the Somerset County prosecutor’s office and Hillsborough police, said county Prosecutor Wayne Forrest.
According to Mr. Forrest, it was reported to Hillsborough police that the 15-year-old girl was pregnant by Mr. Arias.
The girl disclosed that she was dating Mr. Arias when she became pregnant by him, said Mr. Forrest, adding he couldn’t comment on when or how they met.
Mr. Arias was charged with second-degree sexual assault and third-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Mr. Forrest said that the maximum penalties for Mr. Aria’s charges were dependent on Mr. Aria’s background.
"If convicted of the charges, they’ll take into account his background if he’s a repeat offender," Mr. Forrest said. "The ordinary penalty for a second-degree crime is five to 10 years, and for a third degree, three to five."
Mr. Forrest wouldn’t comment on whether or not this was Mr. Arias’ first offense.
As of Wednesday, Mr. Arias was lodged in the Somerset County Jail and still had not posted the $50,000 cash bail.

