Elementary Teacher Arrested on Child Sex Abuse Pornography Charges 

A Branchburg elementary school teacher has been arrested for sharing child pornography on social media. Kenneth Vaughn, of Peapack, was charged with second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse materials and third-degree possession of child sexual abuse materials, following an investigation by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office (SCPO). 

The investigation leading to Vaughn’s identity and arrest was based on information from the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding files being shared on social media and messaging platforms depicting sexual abuse and/or the exploitation of a minor.

In August, SCPO Special Investigations Unit detectives and the Somerville Police Department searched Vaughn’s home and vehicle, where they seized his electronic devices. Vaughn was then taken into custody and held in the Somerset County Jail pending a detention hearing. He was later released pending a future court appearance.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit at 908-231-7100 or the Somerville Police Department at 908-725-0331 or via the STOPit app. The STOPit app allows users to anonymously report information, including photos and videos. STOPit can be downloaded to your smart phone through Google Play Store or Apple App Store and use access code: SOMERSETNJ.

Information can also be provided through the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477). All STOPit reports and Crime Stopper tips are anonymous and will be kept confidential.

Crimes involving the exploitation of children are among the most serious and devastating offenses, and often go undetected until someone has the courage to speak up. Survivors and their families often carry the weight of this harm for a lifetime. Law enforcement, schools, and families must all work together to protect children from these crimes, but community awareness and action are just as critical. If you know someone who has been harmed, or if you suspect a child may be at risk, report it immediately to law enforcement or the proper authorities. Speaking up could prevent further abuse and help protect others. 

At RAM Law, we are committed to helping survivors and their families navigate the challenges that follow these devastating crimes. Our legal team provides compassionate guidance and experienced legal support to ensure survivors have a voice and a path toward justice.

Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. is a full-service law firm. To learn more, call 732-247-3600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With office locations in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.